CN117784497A

CN117784497A - Camera module and camera module assembly including the same

Info

Publication number: CN117784497A
Application number: CN202311240570.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 金敏旭; 赵庸植; 权钟勋; 睦镇明; 李承学; 郑泳奎
Original assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd
Current assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd
Priority date: 2022-09-27
Filing date: 2023-09-25
Publication date: 2024-03-29

Abstract

A camera module and a camera module assembly are provided. The camera module includes: a first reflective member including a first reflective surface; a tele lens spaced apart from the first reflective surface in a first direction; a second reflecting member spaced apart from the first reflecting surface in a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction; and a sensor support member configured to support the image sensor. The second reflective member includes a second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the first reflective surface toward the sensor support member, and the sensor support member is spaced apart from the second reflective surface in a third direction that intersects each of the first and second directions.

Description

Camera module and camera module assembly including the same

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority from korean patent application No. 10-2022-012861 filed at the korean intellectual property office on month 27 of 2022 and korean patent application No.10-2023-0028729 filed at the korean intellectual property office on month 3 of 2023, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

Some example embodiments of the inventive concepts relate to a camera module and/or a camera module assembly including the same, and more particularly, to a reduced-volume camera module and/or a camera module assembly including the same.

Background

With the development of electronic devices, various electronic devices are applied to different fields closely related to our lives. These electronic devices are distributed in various sizes according to functions and user preferences. For example, the electronic device may include a large-sized touch display screen to ensure wide visibility and ease of operation. The electronic device may include at least one camera module. For example, the electronic device may include at least one camera module located on or around the display.

Disclosure of Invention

Some example embodiments of the inventive concepts provide a camera module and/or a camera module assembly including the same that can reduce an overall thickness.

Some example embodiments of the inventive concepts provide a camera module and/or a camera module assembly including the same that can ensure a Back Focal Length (BFL) greater than a particular value while reducing the overall volume.

Some example embodiments of the inventive concepts provide a camera module capable of stabilizing an image and/or a camera module assembly including the same.

The inventive concept is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, and other objects not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

According to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, a camera module includes: a first reflective member including a first reflective surface; a tele lens spaced apart from the first reflective surface in a first direction; a second reflecting member spaced apart from the first reflecting surface in a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction; and a sensor support member configured to support the image sensor. The second reflective member includes a second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the first reflective surface toward the sensor support member, and the sensor support member is spaced apart from the second reflective surface in a third direction that intersects each of the first and second directions.

According to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, a camera module includes: a first reflection member configured to reflect light received from outside the camera module; a second reflecting member configured to reflect light reflected from the first reflecting member; and a sensor support member configured to support an image sensor configured to receive light reflected from the second reflective member. The first reflective member includes a first reflective surface configured to reflect light to the second reflective member. The second reflecting member includes: a third reflective surface configured to reflect light reflected from the first reflective surface; and a second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the third reflective surface toward the sensor support member. The first reflective surface has a first normal, wherein the second reflective surface has a second normal, wherein the third reflective surface has a third normal, and the second normal and the third normal intersect at a point, and the first normal intersects a plane at a point, the plane being defined by the second normal and the third normal.

According to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, a camera module assembly includes: a first reflecting member including a first reflecting surface; a second reflecting member including a second reflecting surface spaced apart from the first reflecting surface; a sensor support member spaced apart from the second reflective surface; an image sensor coupled to the sensor support member, a front surface of the image sensor configured to receive light reflected from the second reflective member. The normal of the first reflective surface is parallel to the front surface of the image sensor.

According to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, a camera module includes: a first reflecting member; a second reflecting member configured to reflect light reflected from the first reflecting member; and a sensor support member configured to support an image sensor configured to receive light reflected from the second reflective member. The first reflecting member includes: a first reflecting surface facing the second reflecting member to reflect light; a support surface opposite the first reflective surface, the support surface being parallel to the first reflective surface; and a connecting surface connecting the first reflective surface to the support surface. The second reflective member includes a second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the first reflective surface toward the sensor support member. An obtuse angle is formed between the connecting surface and the supporting surface.

The details of other example embodiments are included in the description and drawings.

Drawings

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 2 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 3 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view partially showing a camera module assembly according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts.

Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view showing a first reflecting member and a stabilizer according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 7 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing a first reflecting member and a stabilizer according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 8 illustrates a perspective view showing a second reflecting member and a prism housing according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing a second reflecting member and a prism housing according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view showing an image sensor and a sensor support member according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts.

Fig. 11 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing an image sensor and a sensor support member according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts.

Fig. 12 illustrates a flowchart showing a camera module driving method according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view showing a method of driving a camera module according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 14 illustrates a plan view showing a method of driving a camera module according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 15 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view showing a method of driving a camera module according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 16 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view showing a method of driving a camera module according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 17 illustrates a diagram showing a use state of a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Fig. 18 illustrates a side view showing a first reflection member of a camera module according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts.

Detailed Description

Now, some example embodiments of the inventive concepts will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals may refer to like components throughout the specification.

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept. Fig. 2 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept. Fig. 3 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

In this specification, the symbol D1 may refer to a first direction, the symbol D2 may refer to a second direction crossing the first direction D1, and the symbol D3 may refer to a third direction crossing each of the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The first direction D1 may be referred to as a vertical direction. Each of the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 may be referred to as a horizontal direction. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 may be, for example, perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to each other. The first direction D1 and the third direction D3 may be, for example, perpendicular to each other or nearly perpendicular to each other. The second direction D2 and the third direction D3 may be, for example, perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to each other.

Referring to fig. 1 to 3, a camera module assembly a may be provided. The camera module assembly a may receive external light to generate an electrical signal. The camera module assembly a may include a camera module (not indicated by a reference numeral) and an image sensor 6. The camera module may refer to components other than the image sensor 6 of the camera module assembly a. The image sensor 6 may be combined with a camera module. The image sensor 6 may convert an optical signal received through the camera module into an electrical signal. The image sensor 6 may include a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) or a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor (CIS), but the inventive concept is not limited thereto. The camera module assembly a may be used in an electronic device. For example, camera module assembly a may be used with a smart phone and/or a tablet (e.g., a tablet computing device). The camera module assembly a may include a first reflecting member 2, a tele lens assembly 8, a stabilizer 1, a second reflecting member 4, a prism housing 3, a sensor supporting member 5, a connection substrate 7, a connection terminal 9, and a housing H.

The first reflecting member 2 may reflect light. For example, the first reflecting member 2 may reflect light that has passed through the tele lens assembly 8. The first reflecting member 2 may include a first reflecting surface (see, for example, 21 of fig. 5). The first reflecting member 2 may comprise, for example, a mirror. However, the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the first reflecting member 2 may include a prism. Light traveling in parallel or substantially parallel to the first direction D1 may be reflected by the first reflection member 2 to travel in the horizontal direction. The light reflected from the first reflecting member 2 may travel to the second reflecting member 4. For example, light having passed through the tele lens assembly 8 may be reflected by the first reflecting member 2 to advance toward the second reflecting member 4. The detailed description thereof will be further discussed below.

The tele lens assembly 8 may be located on the first reflective member 2. For example, the tele lens assembly 8 may be disposed spaced apart from the first reflective member 2 in the first direction D1. External light may be introduced into the camera module assembly a through the tele lens assembly 8. The external light may travel in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the first direction D1 to pass through the tele lens assembly 8. For example, external light may pass through the tele lens assembly in a substantially vertical direction. The detailed description thereof will be further discussed below.

The stabilizer 1 may support the first reflecting member 2. The stabilizer 1 may drive the first reflecting member 2 to move. For example, the stabilizer 1 may drive the first reflecting member 2 to move and/or rotate in the parallel direction. Thus, light incident on the image sensor 6 can be corrected. For example, the stabilizer 1 may be an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) device. The stabilizer 1 will be discussed further below.

The second reflecting member 4 may reflect the light reflected from the first reflecting member 2. The second reflecting member 4 may reflect light in a horizontal direction toward the image sensor 6. The second reflecting member 4 may be provided to be spaced apart from the first reflecting member 2 in the second direction D2. The second reflecting member 4 will be further discussed below.

The prism housing 3 may support the second reflecting member 4. The prism housing 3 may be combined with each of the stabilizer 1 and the sensor support member 5. The prism housing 3 may fix the second reflecting member 4 to a specific position. For example, the same relative distance may be provided between the stabilizer 1 and the second reflecting member 4 combined with the prism housing 3 and/or between the sensor support member 5 and the second reflecting member 4 combined with the prism housing 3. The prism housing 3 will be described in further detail below.

The sensor support member 5 may support the image sensor 6. The sensor support member 5 can drive the image sensor 6 to move. For example, the sensor support member 5 may drive the image sensor 6 to move in the third direction D3. Thus, the focal length of the image formed on the image sensor 6 can be adjusted. For example, the sensor support member 5 may include an Autofocus (AF) device. The sensor support member 5 may be combined with the prism housing 3. The sensor support member 5 may be provided to be spaced apart from the second reflecting member 4 in the third direction D3. The detailed description thereof will be further discussed below.

One side of the connection substrate 7 may be combined with the sensor support member 5. Alternatively, or in addition, one side of the connection substrate 7 may be combined with the image sensor 6. The connection substrate 7 may be electrically connected to the image sensor 6. The connection substrate 7 may electrically connect the image sensor 6 to an external device. The connection substrate 7 may include a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). For example, the connection substrate 7 may include a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB).

The connection terminals 9 may be combined with the connection substrate 7. The electrical signal generated by the image sensor 6 can be transferred outwards through the connection terminal 9.

The housing H may cover one or more of the first reflecting member 2, the stabilizer 1, the second reflecting member 4, the prism housing 3, the sensor support member 5, the connection substrate 7, the connection terminal 9, and the image sensor 6. The housing H may protect the image sensor 6 from external impact.

Fig. 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing a camera module assembly according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept. Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view partially showing a camera module assembly according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts.

Referring to fig. 4 and 5, the tele lens assembly 8 may include a lens housing 81 and a tele lens 83. The lens housing 81 may provide a through hole (no reference numeral indication) extending in the first direction D1. The lens housing 81 may be aligned with the through hole Ht of the housing H. The lens housing 81 may support a tele lens 83. The tele lens 83 may be disposed in the lens housing 81. The tele lens 83 may be disposed spaced apart from the first reflective surface 21 in the first direction D1. The tele lens 83 may have an axis (not shown) parallel or substantially parallel to the first direction D1. The external light may reach the first reflecting member 2 through the tele lens 83 in the first direction D1. The tele lens 83 may include a convex lens and/or a concave lens. The tele lens 83 may be provided in plural. The plurality of tele lenses 83 may be arranged in the first direction D1. The external light may be amplified while passing through the plurality of tele lenses 83. For convenience, the following description will focus on a single tele lens 83.

The first reflecting member 2 may include a first reflecting surface 21. The first reflecting surface 21 may have a first normal N1. The first normal N1 may lie on an imaginary plane defined by the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. For example, the first normal N1 may be substantially perpendicular to the third direction D3. The first normal N1 may form a first angle (see, e.g., a of fig. 7) with respect to the second direction D2. Accordingly, the first reflecting surface 21 may face the second reflecting member 4 and the tele lens 83. The light passing through the tele lens 83 may be reflected by the first reflecting surface 21 to enter the second reflecting member 4.

The second reflecting member 4 may include a second reflecting surface 41 and a third reflecting surface 43.

The third reflective surface 43 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the first reflective surface 21 in the second direction D2. The third reflecting surface 43 may reflect the light reflected from the first reflecting surface 21. For example, light reflected from the first reflective surface 21 may be reflected by the third reflective surface 43 to travel toward the second reflective surface 41. The third reflective surface 43 may have a third normal N3. The third normal N3 may lie on an imaginary plane defined by the second direction D2 and the third direction D3. For example, the third normal N3 may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1.

The second reflective surface 41 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the first reflective surface 21 in the second direction D2. The second reflective surface 41 may reflect light reflected from the third reflective surface 43. For example, light reflected from the third reflecting surface 43 may be reflected by the second reflecting surface 41 to travel toward the image sensor 6. The second reflective surface 41 may have a second normal N2. The second normal N2 may lie on an imaginary plane defined by the second direction D2 and the third direction D3. For example, the second normal N2 may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1.

The second reflecting member 4 may include a pentagonal prism. In some example embodiments, each of the second and third reflective surfaces 41 and 43 may be one of a plurality of side surfaces of a pentagonal prism. However, the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the second reflecting member 4 may include a mirror. The light reflected from the first reflecting member 2 is described as being reflected twice by the second reflecting member 4, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, the light reflected from the first reflecting member 2 may be reflected once by the second reflecting member 4 to enter the image sensor 6. For another example, the light reflected from the first reflecting member 2 may be reflected three or more times by the second reflecting member 4 to enter the image sensor 6.

The image sensor 6 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the second reflective surface 41 in the third direction D3. The front surface 61 of the image sensor 6 may face the second reflective surface 41. The light reflected from the second reflective surface 41 may reach the front surface 61 of the image sensor 6.

The imaginary plane may be defined by the second normal N2 and the third normal N3 meeting at a point (e.g., intersecting at a single point). The first normal N1 may meet (e.g., intersect) at a point with an imaginary plane defined by the second normal N2 and the third normal N3. The first normal N1 may be located at a position crossing each of the second normal N2 and the third normal N3. The first normal N1 may be parallel or substantially parallel to the front surface 61 of the image sensor 6.

The external light may travel in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the first direction D1 to pass through the tele lens 83. For example, external light may vertically pass through the tele lens 83. The light having passed through the tele lens 83 may be reflected by the first reflecting surface 21 to travel in the horizontal direction. The light reflected from the first reflecting surface 21 may be reflected in the horizontal direction by the third reflecting surface 43 and/or the second reflecting surface 41. Light reflected in the horizontal direction by the third reflective surface 43 and/or the second reflective surface 41 may be incident on the front surface 61 of the image sensor 6.

The undescribed components of fig. 4 will be discussed below with reference to fig. 6-11.

Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view showing a first reflecting member and a stabilizer according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept. Fig. 7 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing a first reflecting member and a stabilizer according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Referring to fig. 4, 6 and 7, the first normal N1 may form a first angle α with respect to the second direction D2. The first angle α may be about 45 °, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

The stabilizer 1 may include a reflective retainer 13, an intermediate retainer 15, a stabilizer housing 11, a first coil support member 12, a first actuator 17, and a second actuator 19.

The reflective holder 13 may support the first reflective member 2. For example, the reflective holder 13 may support the first reflective member 2 to allow the first normal N1 to form a first angle α with respect to the second direction D2. The reflective retainer 13 may include a bearing surface 13s. The support surface 13s may be substantially parallel to the first reflective surface 21, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

The intermediate holder 15 may be combined with the rear surface of the reflecting holder 13. The intermediate holder 15 may be located between the stabilizer housing 11 and the reflective holder 13.

The stabilizer housing 11 may provide an inner space 11h, a post-exposure hole 11b, and a side-exposure hole 11s. The inner space 11h may accommodate the reflective holder 13 and/or the intermediate holder 15. The reflective holder 13 and/or the intermediate holder 15 in the inner space 11h may be exposed to the first coil support member 12 through the rear exposure hole 11b and the side exposure hole 11s.

The first coil support member 12 may be combined with the stabilizer housing 11. The first coil support member 12 may be fixed to the stabilizer housing 11. The first coil support member 12 may surround a side surface of the stabilizer housing 11. The first coil support member 12 may include a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB), but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

The first actuator 17 may drive the reflective retainer 13 to move relative to the stabilizer housing 11. For example, the first actuator 17 may drive the reflective retainer 13 to move in the second direction D2 relative to the stabilizer housing 11. The first actuator 17 may include a first magnet 171 and a first coil 173. For example, the first actuator 17 may be a Voice Coil Motor (VCM). The first magnet 171 may be combined with the rear surface of the intermediate holder 15. The first coil 173 may be fixed to the stabilizer housing 11. The first coil 173 may be fixedly combined with the front surface of the first coil support member 12 so as to be fixed to the stabilizer housing 11. The first coil 173 may be provided in plurality. For example, two first coils 173 may be provided. The two first coils 173 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction D1. Unless otherwise indicated, a single first coil 173 will be discussed. The first actuator 17 is shown and described as being a Voice Coil Motor (VCM), but the inventive concept is not so limited. For example, the first actuator 17 may comprise any other type of actuator.

The second actuator 19 may drive the reflective retainer 13 to move relative to the stabilizer housing 11. For example, the second actuator 19 may drive the reflective retainer 13 to move in the third direction D3 relative to the stabilizer housing 11. The second actuator 19 may include a second magnet 191 and a second coil 193. For example, the second actuator 19 may be a Voice Coil Motor (VCM). The second magnet 191 may be combined with a side surface of the reflection holder 13. The second coil 193 may be fixed to the stabilizer housing 11. For example, the second coil 193 may be fixedly combined with the inner surface of the first coil support member 12 so as to be fixed to the stabilizer housing 11.

Fig. 8 illustrates a perspective view showing a second reflecting member and a prism housing according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept. Fig. 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing a second reflecting member and a prism housing according to some exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept.

Referring to fig. 4, 8 and 9, the prism housing 3 may provide a prism arrangement space 3h, a first side exposure hole 3s and a second side exposure hole 3b. The second reflecting member 4 may be disposed in the prism arrangement space 3 h. At least a portion of the side surface of the second reflecting member 4 may be exposed through the first side exposing hole 3s and the second side exposing hole 3b.

Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view showing an image sensor and a sensor support member according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts. Fig. 11 illustrates an exploded perspective view showing an image sensor and a sensor support member according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts.

Referring to fig. 4, 10 and 11, the front surface 61 of the image sensor 6 may have a fourth normal N4. The fourth normal N4 may for example be parallel or substantially parallel to the third direction D3.

The sensor support member 5 may include an Autofocus (AF) housing 51, an AF coil support member 52, an AF carrier 53, an AF actuator 55, an AF cover 57, and a guide ball 59.

The AF housing 51 can provide an AF interior space 51h, a pre-AF exposure hole 51f, an AF bottom exposure hole 51b, and a hole groove 51g. The AF carrier 53 may be disposed in the AF internal space 51 h. The AF internal space 51h may be exposed outward through the pre-AF exposure holes 51f and the AF bottom exposure holes 51 b. The guide ball 59 may be disposed in the ball groove 51g.

The AF coil supporting member 52 may be combined with the AF housing 51. The AF coil supporting member 52 may be fixed to the AF housing 51. The AF coil supporting member 52 may include a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB), but the inventive concept is not limited thereto. The AF coil supporting member 52 may further include a yoke.

The AF carrier 53 may support the image sensor 6. For example, the image sensor 6 may be fixedly combined with the AF carrier 53. The AF carrier 53 can be inserted into the AF internal space 51 h. The AF carrier 53 inserted into the AF internal space 51h may have a front surface exposed outward through the AF front exposure hole 51 f. The AF carrier 53 inserted into the AF internal space 51h may have a bottom surface exposed outward through the AF bottom exposure hole 51 b.

The AF actuator 55 may be located between the AF carrier 53 and the AF housing 51. The AF actuator 55 can drive the AF carrier 53 to move relative to the AF housing 51. For example, the AF actuator 55 may drive the AF carrier 53 to move in the third direction D3 with respect to the AF housing 51. The AF actuator 55 may include an AF magnet 551 and an AF coil 553. For example, the AF actuator 55 can be a Voice Coil Motor (VCM). The AF magnet 551 may be fixedly combined with the AF carrier 53. For example, the AF magnet 551 may be inserted into the AF carrier 53. The AF coil 553 may be fixed to the AF housing 51. For example, the AF coil 553 may be combined with the AF coil supporting member 52 and fixed with respect to the AF housing 51. The AF actuator 55 is shown and described as being a Voice Coil Motor (VCM), but the inventive concept is not so limited. For example, the AF actuator 55 may comprise any other type of actuator.

The AF cover 57 may be combined with the AF housing 51 and/or the AF carrier 53. The AF cover 57 can suppress or prevent the AF carrier 53 inserted into the AF housing 51 from being detached from the AF housing 51.

The guide ball 59 may be located between the AF housing 51 and the AF carrier 53. The guide ball 59 may be disposed in the ball groove 51g. The AF carrier 53 may be supported by a guide ball 59. The guide ball 59 can guide the movement of the AF carrier 53. The guide balls 59 may be provided in plurality. For convenience, the following description will focus on a single guide ball 59.

Referring to fig. 12, a camera module driving method S may be provided. The camera module driving method S may be an image capturing method using the camera module assembly a discussed with reference to fig. 1 to 11. The camera module driving method S may include: allowing light to pass vertically through the tele lens (S1); allowing light passing through the tele lens to be reflected by the first reflecting member to travel in a horizontal direction (S2); allowing the second reflecting member to reflect the light reflected from the first reflecting member (S3); and allowing the image sensor to receive the light reflected from the second reflecting member (S4).

The camera module driving method S of fig. 12 will be described in further detail below with reference to fig. 13 to 16.

Referring to fig. 12 and 13, step S1 may include: the light LG is allowed to pass through the tele lens 83 in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the first direction D1. The light LG may be amplified while passing through the tele lens 83.

Step S2 may include causing the first reflecting member 2 to reflect the light LG. For example, the first reflection surface 21 may reflect the light LG to the horizontal direction. The vertically incident light LG may be reflected in the horizontal direction by the first reflecting surface 21. The light LG reflected from the first reflecting surface 21 may travel toward the second reflecting member 4.

Referring to fig. 12 and 14, step S3 may include causing the third reflective surface 43 to reflect the light LG. The light LG reflected from the third reflective surface 43 can reach the second reflective surface 41. The second reflecting surface 41 may reflect the light LG again.

Step S4 may include causing the front surface 61 of the image sensor 6 to receive the light LG reflected from the second reflecting surface 41. The light LG may travel in the horizontal direction to reach the image sensor 6. When the light LG is incident on the image sensor 6, the image sensor 6 may convert the light LG into an electrical signal.

Referring to fig. 15, the first actuator 17 may drive the first reflecting member 2 to move. For example, different signals may be applied to the two first coils 173 to force the first actuator 17 to rotate the reflective holder 13 and the first reflective member 2. The first reflective member 2 is rotatable about an axis parallel or substantially parallel to the third direction D3.

Although not shown, a second actuator (see, for example, 19 of fig. 7) may drive the first reflecting member 2 to move in the third direction D3.

The first actuator 17 and/or the second actuator 19 may drive the first reflective surface 21 to move. Thus, the path of light incident on the first reflecting surface 21 after passing through the tele lens (see 83 of fig. 5, for example) can be changed.

Referring to fig. 16, the af actuator 55 may drive the image sensor 6 to move. For example, the AF actuator 55 may drive the AF carrier 53 to move in the third direction D3 to adjust the position of the image sensor 6. Thus, the focal length of the image formed on the image sensor 6 can be adjusted.

According to a camera module and a camera module assembly including the same according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, light passing through a tele lens may be reflected in a horizontal direction. The light reflected from the first reflecting member may be reflected again by the second reflecting member in the horizontal direction, and then may be incident on the image sensor. For example, the path of the light may be in a horizontal direction after being reflected from the first reflective member and before being incident on the image sensor. The first reflecting member, the second reflecting member, and the image sensor may be disposed in a horizontal direction. Accordingly, the overall thickness of the camera module may be reduced.

According to a camera module and a camera module assembly including the same according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, light may pass through a tele lens before being reflected from a first reflecting member. Light passing through the afocal lens may have an increased path before being incident on the image sensor. Accordingly, the Back Focal Length (BFL) may be increased. For example, sufficient BFL may be obtained while reducing the length of the camera module in the horizontal direction.

According to a camera module and a camera module assembly including the same according to some example embodiments of the inventive concepts, a stabilizer may be used to move the first reflecting member. Thus, the image can be stabilized. As the first reflective member moves to stabilize the image, it may be undesirable or necessary to move the image sensor for image stabilization. Accordingly, other components for moving the image sensor may be omitted, thereby reducing the volume of the camera module.

Referring to fig. 17, the camera module assembly a may be applied to an electronic device SP. The electronic device SP may be, for example, a smart phone. In some example embodiments, the camera module assembly a may be exposed on the rear surface BS of the electronic device SP. However, the inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the camera module assembly a may be applied to other electronic devices.

Descriptions substantially the same as or similar to those described with reference to fig. 1 to 17 will be omitted below.

Referring to fig. 18, a first reflecting member 2a may be provided. The first reflecting member 2a may include a first reflecting surface 21a, a supporting surface 23a, and a connecting surface 25a.

The first reflective surface 21a may be substantially the same or similar to the first reflective surface 21 discussed with reference to fig. 7.

The support surface 23a may be opposite to the first reflective surface 21a. The support surface 23a may be substantially parallel to the first reflective surface 21a.

The connection surface 25a may connect the first reflective surface 21a to the support surface 23a. An obtuse angle beta may be formed between the connecting surface 25a and the supporting surface 23a. In addition, an acute angle γ may be formed between the connection surface 25a and the first reflection surface 21a. For example, the first reflecting member 2a may have a wedge (chamfer) structure. The first reflecting member 2a may have a height h1 in a range from about 4.0mm to about 6.50 mm. For example, the height h1 of the first reflecting member 2a may be equal to or less than about 5.61mm. However, the inventive concept is not limited to the above-described values.

According to the camera module and the camera module assembly including the same according to some embodiments of the inventive concept, since the first reflection member has a wedge structure, the height and/or width of the first reflection member may be reduced in a horizontal direction. Thus, the total volume of the camera module assembly may be reduced.

According to the camera module and the camera module assembly including the same of the present inventive concept, the total thickness may be reduced.

According to the camera module and the camera module assembly including the same of the present inventive concept, a Back Focal Length (BFL) equal to or greater than a specific value can be reliably obtained while reducing the total thickness.

According to the camera module and the camera module assembly including the same of the present inventive concept, an image can be stabilized.

The effects of the inventive concept are not limited to the above examples.

It will be understood that elements and/or properties thereof that are described herein as "substantially" identical and/or identical encompass elements and/or properties thereof that have a relative difference in size of equal to or less than 10%. Furthermore, whether or not the elements and/or properties thereof are modified by "substantially", it is understood that such elements and/or features thereof should be understood to include manufacturing or operating tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the listed elements and/or features thereof.

One or more of the elements disclosed above may comprise, or be implemented in, one or more processing circuitry, such as hardware comprising logic circuitry, hardware/software combinations, such as a processor executing software, or a combination thereof. For example, the processing circuitry may more particularly include, but is not limited to, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), an Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FGPA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and the like.

Although the present inventive concept has been described in connection with some exemplary embodiments thereof shown in the drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the inventive concept. Accordingly, it should be understood that the above-described example embodiments are illustrative only in all respects, and not restrictive.

Claims

1.A camera module, comprising:

a first reflective member including a first reflective surface;

a tele lens spaced apart from the first reflective surface in a first direction;

a second reflective member spaced apart from the first reflective surface in a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction; and

a sensor support member configured to support an image sensor,

wherein the second reflective member includes a second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the first reflective surface toward the sensor support member, an

Wherein the sensor support member is spaced apart from the second reflective surface in a third direction that intersects each of the first direction and the second direction.

2. The camera module of claim 1, wherein the second reflective member further comprises a third reflective surface configured to reflect light from the first reflective surface toward the second reflective surface.

3. The camera module of claim 2, wherein the second reflective member comprises a pentagonal prism.

4. The camera module of claim 1, further comprising a stabilizer configured to drive movement of the first reflective member, wherein the stabilizer comprises:

a reflective holder configured to support the first reflective member;

a stabilizer housing; and

a first actuator configured to drive movement of the reflective retainer relative to the stabilizer housing.

5. The camera module of claim 4, wherein,

the stabilizer further includes an intermediate holder on a rear surface of the reflective holder, and

the first actuator includes a first coil fixed relative to the stabilizer housing and a first magnet combined with a rear surface of the intermediate holder.

6. The camera module of claim 5, further comprising a second coil,

wherein the first coil is spaced apart from the second coil in the first direction.

7. The camera module of claim 4, wherein,

the stabilizer further includes a second actuator configured to drive the reflective retainer to move relative to the stabilizer housing, and

the second actuator includes a second coil fixed relative to the stabilizer housing and a second magnet on a side surface of the reflective retainer.

8. The camera module of claim 1, wherein an axis of the tele lens is parallel to the first direction.

9. A camera module, comprising:

a first reflecting member configured to reflect light received from outside the camera module;

a second reflecting member configured to reflect light reflected from the first reflecting member; and

a sensor support member configured to support an image sensor configured to receive light reflected from the second reflective member,

wherein the first reflective member comprises a first reflective surface configured to reflect light to the second reflective member,

wherein the second reflecting member includes:

a third reflective surface configured to reflect light reflected from the first reflective surface, an

A second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the third reflective surface toward the sensor support member,

wherein the first reflective surface has a first normal,

wherein the second reflective surface has a second normal,

wherein the third reflecting surface has a third normal line, and the second normal line and the third normal line intersect at a point, and

wherein the first normal intersects a plane at a point, the plane being defined by the second normal and the third normal.

10. The camera module of claim 9, further comprising: a tele lens on the first reflective member, the tele lens configured to allow light outside the camera module to pass through the tele lens before reaching the first reflective member.

11. The camera module of claim 9, wherein,

the second reflecting member includes a pentagonal prism, and

each of the second reflective surface and the third reflective surface is one of a plurality of side surfaces of the pentagonal prism.

12. The camera module of claim 9, wherein the first reflective member comprises a mirror.

13. The camera module of claim 12, wherein the first reflective member further comprises:

a support surface opposite the first reflective surface; and

a connection surface connecting the first reflective surface to the support surface,

wherein an acute angle is between the connection surface and the first reflective surface.

14. A camera module assembly, comprising:

a first reflecting member including a first reflecting surface;

a second reflective member comprising a second reflective surface spaced apart from the first reflective surface;

a sensor support member spaced apart from the second reflective surface; and

an image sensor combined with the sensor support member, a front surface of the image sensor configured to receive light reflected from the second reflective member,

wherein a normal of the first reflective surface is parallel to a front surface of the image sensor.

15. The camera module assembly of claim 14, wherein the image sensor comprises a charge coupled device or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor image sensor.

16. The camera module assembly according to claim 14, wherein the sensor support member includes an autofocus device configured to drive the image sensor to move in a direction toward the second reflective surface.

17. The camera module assembly of claim 16, wherein the autofocus device comprises:

an autofocus housing;

an autofocus carrier fixedly combined with the image sensor; and

an autofocus actuator between the autofocus housing and the autofocus carrier, the autofocus actuator configured to drive the autofocus carrier to move relative to the autofocus housing.

18. The camera module assembly of claim 17, wherein the autofocus actuator comprises:

an autofocus coil fixed relative to the autofocus housing; and

an autofocus magnet fixedly combined with the autofocus carrier.

19. A camera module, comprising:

a first reflecting member;

wherein the first reflecting member includes:

a first reflecting surface facing the second reflecting member to reflect light;

a support surface opposite to the first reflective surface, the support surface being parallel to the first reflective surface, an

A connection surface connecting the first reflective surface to the support surface, wherein the second reflective member comprises a second reflective surface configured to reflect light from the first reflective surface toward the sensor support member, an

Wherein an obtuse angle is formed between the connecting surface and the supporting surface.

20. The camera module according to claim 19, wherein the height of the first reflective member is equal to or less than 5.61mm.