JP2007310166A - Camera module and portable terminal equipped therewith - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a camera module having a zoom function capable of consecutive zooming and an autofocus (AF) function, made small in size and light in weight, and constituted so that projection area in an optical axis direction may be small, and a portable terminal equipped with the camera module. <P>SOLUTION: In the camera module 1, an autofocus optical lens group 241 and zoom optical lens groups 211 and 231 are driven in an optical axis direction by driving sources 61 and 41 provided corresponding to the respective lens groups, so that a subject image is formed on the imaging device, and the driving sources 61 and 41 are arranged on a reverse side to the optical lens groups with respect to the imaging device 25, and the driving shaft of the driving source 41 for driving the zoom optical lens groups 211 and 231 is provided to be perpendicular to an optical axis, and the zoom optical lens groups 211 and 231 are driven through a driving force transmission mechanism. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a camera module and a mobile terminal including the camera module, and more particularly to a camera module configured to be small and light and having a small projection area in the optical axis direction and a mobile terminal including the camera module.

  Camera modules used in portable terminals such as recent mobile phones are equipped with high-speed, high-precision autofocus (similar to normal electronic cameras (digital cameras)) as the image sensor (CCD, CMOS, etc.) increases. AF) function and focal length change (zoom) function are required, and in addition to miniaturization and weight reduction of the mobile terminal itself, in addition to miniaturization and weight reduction, the projection area in the optical axis direction is inevitably reduced. It is desired to make it smaller.

  As a prior art regarding such a miniaturized camera module, there is Patent Document 1 filed by the present applicant. The camera module disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a fixed lens group provided on the subject side, two lens groups for changing the focal length and a focus that are movable in the optical axis direction, and the two lens groups. It is comprised with the single cam for moving this to an optical axis direction, and the motor for driving this cam.

  The cam and motor are arranged in parallel with the optical lens group so that the respective rotation axes and drive shafts are parallel to the optical axis of the optical lens group. Further, the focal length changing lens group is scaled on the cam. A focus area is provided so that the focal length changing lens group is not moved in the direction of the optical axis even if it is further rotated after being moved for a certain distance. By moving in the direction of the optical axis, the camera can be brought into focus, and two types of focal length switching of tele and wide and auto focus are possible.

  However, the current general digital cameras usually change the focal length continuously (zoom), and the camera module mounted on the mobile terminal also changes the focal length continuously (zoom). It is desired that a focused image can be obtained while maintaining the image quality. For that purpose, the continuous movement mechanism of the focal length changing lens group and the movement of the focal length changing lens group are independent of the focal length changing lens group. A focusing mechanism that can focus even at a distance is required.

  As a camera in which the moving mechanism for the focal length changing lens group and the moving mechanism for the focusing lens group are separately provided as described above, for example, there is Patent Document 2 filed by the present applicant. In the camera disclosed in Patent Document 2, a zoom lens moving cam and a lead screw are arranged in a side space of an optical system, and two motors for driving the cam and the lead screw are arranged at both ends in the axial direction of the cam. Arranged on the side.

JP 2005-215538 A JP 2005-17782 A

  However, as described above, the camera module disclosed in Patent Document 1 can only switch between two types of focal lengths, tele and wide, and cannot continuously change the focal length. Further, since the optical lens group, the cam, and the motor are arranged in parallel, the projection area in the optical axis direction inevitably increases.

  On the other hand, the camera shown in Patent Document 2 is a small digital camera called a so-called compact digital camera, and is not large enough to be incorporated into a portable terminal or the like. Moreover, even if the mechanism shown in Patent Document 2 is downsized as it is, the cam arranged on the side of the optical system needs to have a certain diameter, and the lead screw is arranged on the side of the optical system. In addition, since the motor for driving each lens moving mechanism is also arranged on the side of the optical system, the projection area in the optical axis direction including the optical system and its driving mechanism becomes large.

  That is, a camera module used for a portable terminal such as a mobile phone includes a cam that moves a lens group in the optical axis direction, a motor that drives the cam, and a lens that contains a gear and a lens group that transmits the driving force from the motor to the cam. What is important is how to arrange and configure the shaft for guiding the frame, the shutter, the aperture, and the like.

  Therefore, in the present invention, a camera module having a zoom function and an autofocus (AF) function that enable continuous zooming, a small size, a light weight, and a small projected area in the optical axis direction, and the camera module thereof It is a problem to provide a mobile terminal equipped with the above.

In order to solve the above problems, the camera module according to the present invention is:
In a camera module in which an autofocus optical lens group and a zoom optical lens group are driven in the optical axis direction by drive sources provided in correspondence with each other, and a subject image is formed on an image sensor.
The drive source is disposed on the opposite side of the optical lens group with respect to the imaging device, and the drive source for driving the zoom optical lens group is provided such that the drive axis is perpendicular to the optical axis. The zoom optical lens group is driven through a driving force transmission mechanism.

In addition, portable terminals using this camera module are
An autofocus optical lens group and a zoom optical lens group are driven in the optical axis direction by drive sources provided correspondingly to form an object image on the image sensor, and the drive source is applied to the image sensor. On the other hand, the drive source that is disposed on the opposite side of the optical lens group and drives the zoom optical lens group is provided so that its drive axis is in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, via a drive force transmission mechanism, A camera module for driving the optical lens group for zooming;
A case body mounted with the camera module;
And an operation unit that is provided in the case body and operates the lens driving mechanism of the camera module.

  Thus, by arranging the drive source on the opposite side of the optical lens group with respect to the image sensor, the projected area of the camera module in the optical axis direction can be reduced as compared with the case where the drive source is arranged beside the optical lens group. it can. In addition, by setting the drive axis of the drive source that drives the optical lens group for zooming to a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, a drive force transmission mechanism such as a gear can be disposed on the side surface of the camera module. In addition to preventing the camera module from further increasing the length of the optical axis in the optical axis due to the presence of the gear, the zoom lens often has to move a plurality of lens groups for a long distance. By using this, a sufficient driving force can be obtained.

  The zoom optical lens group is driven by a zoom optical axis direction driving means provided on one end side of the camera module, and a drive source for driving the zoom optical lens group is on the one end side of the camera module. Is provided at the opposite end, and a reduction gear train is arranged between the zoom optical axis direction driving means and the distance between the zoom optical axis direction driving means and the zoom drive source is sufficient. In the meantime, a reduction gear for increasing the driving force described above can be provided in a state in which the degree of freedom of the gear arrangement is ensured.

  The zoom optical axis direction drive means has a flat plate cam provided parallel to the optical axis, and the flat lens cam moves a lens group having a large moving range that constitutes the zoom optical lens group in the optical axis direction. By doing so, the zoom optical lens group is driven by a cam that can be made very thin, which is a flat plate cam, so that the projection area in the optical axis direction can be made smaller than when a cylindrical cam is used.

  Further, the zoom optical axis direction drive means has an eccentric cam driven by the flat plate cam, and the eccentric cam moves a lens group having a small moving range that constitutes the zoom optical lens group in the optical axis direction. Thus, similarly, the optical lens group for zooming is driven by a very thin configuration such as an eccentric cam without using a cam that increases the projected area in the optical axis direction, such as a cylindrical cam. The direction projection area can be reduced.

  The lens group having a large moving range in the optical lens group for zooming has its holding frame attached to the flat plate cam, and the engaging frame driven by the eccentric cam is attached to the holding frame of the lens group having a small moving range. Since each lens group can be reliably moved in the optical axis direction, and the flat plate cam is attached to the holding frame of the lens group having a large moving range, the flat plate cam holding mechanism is provided. Therefore, the projection area in the optical axis direction of the camera module can be reduced accordingly.

  The optical lens group is supported by a guide shaft provided in parallel with the optical axis so as to be movable in the optical axis direction. At least one lens group having a large moving range is used as a guide shaft of another optical lens group. By using a separate axis, a lens group having a large moving range can sufficiently secure the moving range.

  Furthermore, the drive source for driving the autofocus optical lens group is arranged so that the drive axis thereof is parallel to the optical axis, and is a lead screw screwed into a holding frame that holds the autofocus optical lens group The driving mechanism of the autofocus optical lens group also contributes to reducing the projection area in the optical axis direction, and the autofocus drive source includes the zoom optical axis direction drive means. By installing the zoom drive source near the zoom optical axis direction drive means, it is possible to provide a drive mechanism for the autofocus optical lens group without affecting the projection area in the optical axis direction.

  Then, the camera module is provided in a mechanism unit that opens and closes the case body of the mobile terminal, or is provided at the opening / closing mechanism side end of the case body so as to be rotatable with respect to the case body. Even if the length in the optical axis direction is increased by reducing the projected area, it can be accommodated in the portable terminal.

  According to the present invention, a camera module that incorporates an autofocus (AF) function and a continuous focal length change function (zoom function), is small and lightweight, and has a small projection area in the optical axis direction, and the camera module. Can be provided.

  Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, and the like of the components described in this embodiment are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention unless otherwise specified, but are merely illustrative examples. Not too much.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the internal structure through the exterior cover 11 of the camera module 1 of the embodiment, viewed from the side where the flat cam 51 and the eccentric cam 52 are provided, and FIG. 2 is the camera of the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a six-sided view showing the arrangement of the optical system and its driving members except for the housing in the module 1, (A) is a top view seen from the subject side, and (B) is a side view seen from the eccentric cam 52 side. , (C) is a front view, (D) is a side view seen from the opposite side of the eccentric cam 52, (E) is a rear view, (F) is a bottom view, and FIG. 3 constitutes the camera module 1 of the embodiment. 4A and 4B are diagrams showing lens holding frames and shutters, and guide shafts 31, 32, and 33 for guiding their movement in the optical axis direction. FIG. 5A is a perspective view seen from the subject side, and FIG. (C) is a side view seen from the first and second guide shafts 31 and 32. 4D is a front view, FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view showing the lenses and the image sensor 252 that constitute each of the optical lens groups of the camera module 1 of the embodiment, and FIG. 4B is a wide-angle (Wide) optical lens group. FIG. 5C is a diagram showing the positional relationship when the optical lens group is in the telephoto (Tele) state, and FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the positional relationship when the optical lens group is in the telephoto state. It is the figure which showed the flat plate cam 51, the eccentric cam 52, and the pinion 523 which are moved to an axial direction, (A) is a perspective view, (B) is a side view, (C) is a front view.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the camera module 1 according to the embodiment seen through the exterior cover 11. As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. The first optical lens group unit 21 that accommodates the optical lens group and the second optical lens group unit 23 that accommodates the second optical lens group move in the optical axis direction, so that the focal length is continuously changed (zooming). The third optical lens group unit 24 that houses the third optical lens group moves in the optical axis direction so that focusing (autofocus) can be performed.

  Then, by these lens groups, a subject image is formed on an image sensor using, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) mounted on the image sensor unit 25 to obtain an image signal. At the time of shooting, the shutter in the shutter unit 22 provided integrally with the second optical lens group unit 23 is turned off so that an image at a timing desired by the photographer can be sent to the memory as a signal. .

  Each of the optical lens group units 21, 23, and 24 and the shutter unit 22 is supported by the first guide shaft 31, the second guide shaft 32, and the third guide shaft 33 and is movable in the optical axis direction. The zoom motor 41 for driving the first optical lens group unit 21 and the second optical lens group unit 23 for performing autofocusing is used for autofocusing for driving the third optical lens group unit 24 for autofocusing. The motors 61 are respectively disposed on the opposite side of the optical lens group with respect to the image sensor unit 25. The zoom motor 41 is provided so that its drive axis is perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical lens group, and the autofocus motor 61 has its drive axis parallel to the optical axis of the optical lens group. It is provided as follows.

  Among these, the zoom motor 41 is provided on one end side of the camera module 1, and is placed close to the first guide shaft 31 and the second guide shaft 32 at the end opposite to the one end side, and the optical axis direction is the longitudinal direction. A flat plate cam 51 serving as a zoom optical axis direction driving means is provided, and a reduction gear group 42 serving as a driving force transmission mechanism for transmitting the driving force to the flat plate cam 51 is disposed therebetween. Then, the pinion 421 provided in the final stage of the reduction gear group 42 meshes with the first rack 511 provided in the flat cam 51 to drive the flat cam 51 in the optical axis direction, as described later. The optical lens group unit 23 is driven in the optical axis direction. Further, a second rack 512 is provided on the subject side of the flat plate cam 51, and the second rack 512 is engaged with a pinion 523 attached to an eccentric cam 52 provided on the casing side of the flat plate cam 51. The cam 52 is rotated to drive the first optical lens group unit 21 in the optical axis direction.

  On the other hand, the autofocus motor 61 is provided between the zoom motor 41 and the flat plate cam 51 which is the optical axis direction drive means for zooming, and a lead screw 62 is provided on the drive shaft. The three optical lens unit 24 is driven in the optical axis direction. A spring 63 absorbs the batch crash by moving the third optical lens unit 24 in one direction.

  In this way, by disposing the zoom motor 41 and the autofocus motor 61 for driving the optical lens group on the opposite side of the optical lens group with respect to the image sensor unit 25, the drive motors 41 and 61 are arranged to be optical lenses. Compared with the case where the camera module is arranged beside the group, the projection area of the camera module in the optical axis direction can be reduced. Further, by setting the drive axis of the drive source for driving the optical lens group for zooming to a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the gear group 42 as a drive force transmission mechanism can be arranged on the side surface of the camera module 1. It is possible to prevent the camera module 1 from being further lengthened in the optical axis direction due to the presence of the gear group 42, and the zoom lens often has to move a plurality of lens groups for a long distance. Even in this case, a sufficient driving force can be obtained by using the reduction gear 42 or the like.

  Further, an autofocus motor 61 for driving the third optical lens group unit 24 for autofocus is provided between the zoom motor 41 and the flat plate cam 51 serving as the zoom optical axis direction driving means, and the drive shaft thereof. However, a lead screw 62 is provided in parallel with the optical axis, and the third optical lens group unit 24 is driven in the optical axis direction, whereby the drive mechanism of the third optical lens group unit 24 for autofocusing is changed to the optical axis. This can be provided without affecting the direction projection area, which also contributes to reducing the projection area of the camera module 1 in the optical axis direction.

  FIG. 3 shows the relationship between the lens holding frame that houses each optical lens group constituting the camera module 1, the shutter, and the guide shaft that guides the movement in the optical axis direction thereof. 3, (A) is a perspective view seen from the subject side, (B) is a top view seen from the subject side, (C) is a side view seen from the first and second guide axis directions, (D). Is a front view.

  As briefly mentioned in FIG. 1, the optical system of the camera module 1 according to the embodiment includes the first optical lens group unit 21 including the first lens holding frame 212 that houses the first optical lens group 211, and the first optical system. A second optical lens group unit 23 constituted by a second lens holding frame 232 containing two optical lens groups, and a third optical lens group unit 24 constituted by a third lens holding frame 242 containing a third optical lens group. A second optical lens group unit 23 integrated with the first optical lens group unit 21 and the shutter unit 22, and a shutter unit 22 integrated with the second optical lens group unit 23. The third optical lens group unit 24 includes a first bearing portion 213, 233, 243 and a second bearing portion 216, 234, 244 provided in parallel to the optical axis. Id shaft 31, the second guide shaft 32, which is inserted through the third guide shaft 33 to be movable in the optical axis direction.

  The first optical lens group unit 21 includes a first lens holding frame bearing 213 through which the first guide shaft 31 is inserted into a first lens holding frame 212 that houses the first optical lens group 211, and a rotation stop. A first lens holding frame second bearing portion 216 for inserting the third guide shaft 33 is provided across the optical axis. Further, the first optical lens group unit 21 is provided with an arm portion 215 so as to bypass the second guide shaft 32 from the first lens holding frame 212, and the first optical lens group unit 21 is arranged in the optical axis direction. A first lens holding frame cam follower 214 is provided to be engaged with a zoom optical axis direction driving means described later for movement.

  In the configuration shown in the figure, the shutter unit 22 is integrated with the second optical lens group unit 23 on the subject side, and the first guide shaft 31 and the second lens holding frame 232 that houses the second optical lens group are provided. The second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 for inserting the second guide shaft 32, which is a separate axis, and the second lens holding frame second bearing portion 234 for inserting the third guide shaft 33 for preventing rotation are light. It is provided across the shaft. Further, the third optical lens group unit 24 includes a third lens holding frame bearing portion 243 that allows the first guide shaft 31 to be inserted into the third lens holding frame 242 that houses the third optical lens group 241, and a rotation-preventing member. Therefore, a third lens holding frame second bearing portion 244 for inserting the third guide shaft 33 is provided across the optical axis, and further, a lead screw provided on the drive shaft of the autofocus motor 61 to be described later A female screw (not shown) that is screwed onto 62 is provided.

  As can be seen from the top view of FIG. 3B, the third guide shaft 33 is different from the first guide shaft 31 and the second guide shaft 32 so that each lens holding frame can move stably in the optical axis direction. The first lens holding frame bearing portion 213 and the third lens holding frame bearing portion 243 are inserted into the first guide shaft 31 as described above, at a position that is substantially opposite to the optical axis of the optical system. The second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 is inserted into the second guide shaft 32 that is a separate shaft from the first guide shaft 31. The first lens holding frame bearing portion 213, the third lens holding frame bearing portion 243, and the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 are aligned so that the lengths in the optical axis direction are substantially the same, and each lens Consideration is made so that the inclination of the holding frame with respect to the guide shaft is the same.

  FIG. 4 shows a schematic configuration of the optical system used in the camera module 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4A shows the first optical lens group 211 in the first optical lens group unit 21, the second optical lens group 231 in the second optical lens group unit 23, and the third optical lens group in the third optical lens group unit 24. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the lens configuration of each of the image sensors 241, an example of the configuration of the shutter unit 22, and the image sensor unit substrate 251 and the image sensor 252 that constitute the image sensor unit 25. FIG. FIG. 6C is a diagram showing the positional relationship of the optical lens group when it is in the (Wide) state, and FIG. 9C is a diagram showing the positional relationship of the optical lens group when it is in the telephoto state (Tele).

  The optical system in the camera module 1 according to the embodiment includes a first optical lens group 211 and a second optical lens group unit 23 housed in a first lens holding frame 212 that constitutes the first optical lens group unit 21. A second optical lens group 231 housed in a two-lens holding frame 232, a third optical lens group 241 housed in a third lens holding frame 242 constituting the third optical lens group unit 24, and a second The optical lens group unit 23 is integrated with a shutter unit 22 including a diaphragm 221 and a shutter 222.

  As described above, the first optical lens group unit 21 and the second optical lens group unit 23 move in the optical axis direction, and these lens groups change the focal length continuously (zooming). The third optical lens group unit 24 accommodating the group moves in the optical axis direction to perform focusing (autofocus), and a subject image is applied to the image sensor 252 using a CCD, CMOS, or the like mounted on the image sensor unit substrate 251. Is imaged to obtain an image signal. At the time of shooting, the shutter 222 in the shutter unit 22 provided integrally with the second optical lens group unit 23 is cut, so that an image at a timing desired by the photographer can be sent as a signal to a memory (not shown). ing.

  In this optical system, for example, the first optical lens group 211 is a plurality of plastic lens groups having negative power (diffuse light), and the second optical lens group 231 is a plurality of glass lenses having positive power (condensation). The third optical lens group 241 is composed of a single plastic lens so that the length from the first surface of the lens to the focal point can be shortened, and the first optical lens group 211 and the third optical lens group 241 are arranged. The moving range in the optical axis direction of the second optical lens group 231 sandwiched between the first optical lens group 211 and the third optical lens group 241 is designed to be larger than the moving range in the optical axis direction.

  Therefore, as can be seen from FIGS. 4B and 4C, the light beam incident on the second optical lens group 231 is in the most constricted state in both the wide angle (Wide) and the telephoto (Tele). . The second optical lens group 231 has the largest movement range among the three lens groups. As described above, the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 includes the first lens holding frame bearing portion 213 and the third lens holding portion. Since it is inserted through the second guide shaft 32 which is a separate axis from the frame bearing portion 243, there is no inconvenience even if the moving range is large, and a certain amount of space on both the subject side and the image sensor side. Can be secured. Therefore, by installing the diaphragm 221 and the shutter 222 so as to be integrated with the second optical lens group 231, the shutter 222 can be installed without increasing the maximum aperture of the diaphragm 221 and the shutter 222. Therefore, compared to the case where the shutter unit 22 is further provided on the subject side of the first optical lens group 211, the height of the optical system in the optical axis direction can be lowered by the amount of the shutter unit 22, and the camera module 1 can be made smaller accordingly. In addition, it is possible to reduce the driving force for opening and closing the shutter 222 and the aperture 221.

  The second lens holding frame 232 that houses the second optical lens group 231 is configured to have a small diameter on the subject side of the second optical lens group 231, and the shutter unit 22 conversely has the small diameter on the second lens holding frame 232 side. An outer peripheral wall formed as a recess is formed on the second optical lens group 231 side so as to be engaged with the second optical lens group 231 side peripheral wall that is configured and convex toward the subject side. Therefore, the shutter unit 22 can be engaged with and fixed to the second lens holding frame 232 so as not to be eccentric. As the shutter unit 22, a conventionally used shutter unit 22 can be used as long as it has a structure in which a plurality of blades are opened and closed using an actuator or the like. In the above description, the subject of the second lens holding frame 232 is used. Although the case where it is provided on the side has been described as an example, it goes without saying that the image sensor unit 25 side of the second lens holding frame 232 may be similarly configured and provided.

  The first optical lens group 211, the second optical lens group 231, and the third optical lens group 241 are the same as the first optical lens group 211 and the third optical lens in the wide angle state shown in FIG. The lens group 241 is closer to the subject side, and the second optical lens group 231 is closer to the image sensor 252 side. Further, in the telephoto state shown in FIG. 4C, the first optical lens group 211 is slightly in the image pickup element as shown by d in the wide-angle state shown in FIG. 4B. If the third optical lens group 241 moves to the image pickup element 252 side as compared with the movement amount of the first optical lens group 211, the second optical lens group 231 moves largely to the subject side. Yes.

  Note that the thickness in the optical axis direction of the second optical lens group unit 23 and the shutter unit 22 substantially defines a range in which the second optical lens group 231 can move, and thus is provided in the second lens holding frame 232. The length in the optical axis direction of the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 through which the second guide shaft 32 is inserted is substantially the same as the length in the optical axis direction of the second optical lens group unit 23 and the shutter unit 22. Thus, the bearing can be substantially the maximum length, and the tilt of the second lens holding frame 232 with respect to the second guide shaft 32 can be reduced accordingly.

  FIG. 5 shows a flat plate cam 51 and an eccentric cam 52 which are optical axis direction driving means for zooming, which drive the first optical lens group unit 21 and the second optical lens group unit 23 in which the shutter unit 22 is integrated in the optical axis direction. , And pinion 523, (A) is a perspective view, (B) is a side view, (C) is a front view.

  As described above, in the camera module 1 of the embodiment, the driving force from the zoom motor 41 provided on one end side of the camera module 1 is opposite to the zoom motor 41 by the reduction gear group 42 that is a driving force transmission mechanism. The second optical lens group unit 23 is driven in the optical axis direction by being transmitted to a flat plate cam 51 which is provided at the end and serves as a zoom optical axis direction driving means. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the flat cam 51 is provided with a first rack 511 on the image sensor unit 25 side, and a pinion that becomes the final gear in the reduction gear group 42 (see FIG. 2 described later). 421), and is driven in the optical axis direction.

  Further, a second rack 512 is provided on the subject side of the flat cam 51, and the flat cam 51 is driven in the optical axis direction, whereby an eccentric cam 52 for driving the first optical lens group unit 21 is provided. The attached pinion 523 is rotated. The eccentric cam 52 is provided with a cam groove 521 that is decentered by the amount of movement of the first optical lens group unit 21 around the pinion shaft 524. The cam groove 521 described with reference to FIG. The first lens holding frame cam follower 214 provided on the arm 215 engages with the cam groove 521 and moves by the amount of eccentricity, thereby driving the first optical lens group unit 21 in the optical axis direction. The eccentric cam 51 has been described by way of example in the case where it is provided on the housing side of the flat plate cam 51, but conversely, it may be provided on the optical system side of the flat plate cam 51. Since nothing is left on the body side, the camera module 1 can be further downsized.

  The above is the individual outline of the optical system and its driving mechanism in the camera module 1 of the embodiment. FIG. 2 shows the optical system including the guide shaft of FIG. 3 described above and the optical axis direction for zooming of FIG. It is the 6th page figure which showed the arrangement | positioning state of the component of the camera module 1 including a drive means and drive mechanisms, such as a motor and a gear. 2A is a top view seen from the subject side, FIG. 2B is a side view seen from the eccentric cam side, FIG. 2C is a front view, and FIG. 2D is a side view seen from the opposite side of the eccentric cam. E) is a rear view, and (F) is a bottom view.

  As described with reference to FIG. 1, the optical lens group units 21, 23, and 24 and the shutter unit 22 are supported by the first guide shaft 31, the second guide shaft 32, and the third guide shaft 33, and are in the optical axis direction. A zoom motor 41 for driving the first optical lens group unit 21 and the second optical lens group unit 23 for zooming, and a third optical lens group unit for auto-focusing. In order to drive 24, autofocus motors 61 are respectively arranged on the opposite side of the optical lens group with respect to the image sensor unit 25.

  As is apparent from FIGS. 2C, 2E, and 2F, the zoom motor 41 is used in the camera module 1 so that its drive axis is perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical lens group. Provided on one end side, a flat cam 51 serving as a zoom optical axis direction driving means is provided at the end opposite to the one end side with the optical axis direction as the longitudinal direction. The flat cam 51 is attached to and held by the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233, and is finally provided in a reduction gear group 42 that is a driving force transmission mechanism provided between the flat cam 51 and the zoom motor 41. The pinion 421 provided in the step meshes with the first rack 511 and drives the flat cam 51 to move the second optical lens group unit 23 in the optical axis direction.

  As described with reference to FIG. 5, the second rack 512 is provided on the object side of the flat cam 51, and the pinion 523 is integrated with the eccentric cam 52 provided with the cam groove 521 by the pinion shaft 524. Rotate. As the eccentric cam 52 rotates, the first lens holding frame cam follower 214 provided in the arm portion 215 of the first optical lens group unit 21 engaged with the cam groove 521 is moved in the optical axis direction. The first optical lens unit 21 is moved.

  Further, as is clear from FIGS. 2C, 2E, and 2F, the autofocus motor 61 has a lead screw 62 attached to its drive shaft so as to be parallel to the optical axis of the optical lens group. The flat plate cam 51 is provided between the zoom motor 41 and the flat plate cam 51 serving as a zoom optical axis direction driving means. The lead screw 62 is screwed into a female screw (not shown) provided on the third lens holding frame 242 of the third optical lens group unit 24 so that the third optical lens group unit 24 is moved in the optical axis direction. A spring 63 is provided between the autofocus motor 61 and the third optical lens unit 24 in order to move and absorb backlash.

  The first lens holding frame bearing portion 213 provided on the first lens holding frame 212 having a small moving range and the third lens holding frame bearing portion 243 provided on the third lens holding frame 242 are the first guide shaft. 31, the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 provided on the second lens holding frame 232 having a large moving range has a second guide shaft 32 that is a separate axis from the first guide shaft 31 so that the moving range can be increased. And are driven in the optical axis direction by a zoom motor 41 and an autofocus motor 61.

  In each of the bearing portions, the first lens holding frame bearing portion 213 is shown in FIGS. 2C, 2D, and 2E, the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2E, the frame bearing portion 243 has substantially the same length in the optical axis direction, and consideration is given so that the inclination of each lens holding frame with respect to the guide axis is the same.

  Therefore, the second guide shaft 32 that guides the second optical lens group 231 having a large moving range is different from the first guide shaft 31 that is the guide shaft of the first optical lens group 211 and the third optical lens group 241. Therefore, the lens can be operated without interfering with other lens groups, the degree of freedom in lens design can be greatly improved, and the guide shaft bearing can be configured to be longer. The fall of the group can be reduced. As described above, the second optical lens group 231 is integrated with the shutter unit 22, but the length of the second lens holding frame bearing portion 233 is set to the thickness of the second optical lens group 231 and the shutter unit 22. By setting the thickness to the same level as the combined thickness, the maximum length of the bearing can be obtained, and the tilting of the lens holding portion can be reduced accordingly.

  In the camera module 1 according to the embodiment configured as described above, when a zooming instruction is received, a control circuit (not shown) drives the zoom motor 41 and drives the flat cam 51 via the reduction gear group 42. The first optical lens group 211 and the second optical lens group 231 are moved in the optical axis direction so that the designated zoom ratio is obtained. Then, the auto focus motor 61 is driven, and the third optical lens group 241 moves in the optical axis direction in order to correct the focus position moved by the changed focal length, and the focus position corresponding to the changed focal length. Stop at. The same applies to the case where the camera module 1 is directed in another direction without giving a zooming instruction. The autofocus motor 61 is driven according to the changed focal length, and the third optical lens group 241 is moved along the optical axis. The camera moves in the direction and the focus position is corrected.

  6 and 7 are diagrams showing an example of a mobile phone as a mobile terminal in which the camera module 1 described above is incorporated. FIG. 6 shows the camera module 1 in a mechanism for opening and closing the case body in the mobile terminal. When assembled, FIG. 7 shows a case where the camera module 1 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the case body at the end of the portable terminal on the side where the case body is opened and closed.

  6A is a perspective view in a state in which a display device of a mobile terminal incorporating the camera module 1 of the embodiment is closed, FIG. 6B is a perspective view in a state in which the display device is opened, and FIG. It is the perspective view seen from the back side so that the assembly state of the camera module of an embodiment can be understood in the closed state.

  In the figure, 70 is a mobile phone as a mobile terminal, 71 is an operation unit having various keys, 72 is a display (display member) for displaying various information and images taken by the camera module 1, and 73 is an operation unit 71. A first case body having 74, a second case body having a display 72, 75 a hinge mechanism for opening and closing the second case body 74 with respect to the first case body 73, and 76 a hinge mechanism 75. A camera holding unit for holding the camera module 1 so that its optical axis is in the thickness direction of the mobile phone 70, 77 is an opening for exposing the subject-side lens of the camera module 1, and 78 is a first one. 2 is a camera holding portion opening provided so that the camera holding portion 76 is inserted when the second case body 74 is closed.

  In the mobile phone 70, a first case body 73 on which an operation unit 71 is mounted and a second case body 74 on which a display 72 is mounted are connected by a hinge mechanism 75, and the first and second case bodies are connected. One of 73 and 74 can be opened and closed with respect to the other by a hinge mechanism 75.

  As shown in FIG. 6C, the camera module 1 has an opening 87 through which the subject side lens of the camera module 1 is exposed to the camera holding portion 76 of the first case body 73 where the operation portion 71 of the mobile phone 70 is located. It is installed so that you can shoot from. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6B, the second case body 74 is opened with respect to the first case body 73 so that the display (display member) 72 can be seen, and the opening 77 is directed toward the subject. When a predetermined button of the operation unit 71 is operated, an image is taken by the camera module 1, and the obtained image is displayed on the display 72, for example.

  Although not shown, the first case body 73 houses a battery, a communication unit, and the like, and the thickness dimension of the camera holding unit 76 is substantially regulated by the height of the camera module 1. . In the above description, as shown in FIG. 6C, the camera module 1 is housed so that the thickness direction of the mobile phone 70 is the optical axis direction. Can be photographed from an opening 77 provided on the back surface of the mobile phone 70, with the optical path bent at a right angle by a prism or a reflecting mirror. It may be configured.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of a mobile phone as a mobile terminal in which the camera module 1 of the embodiment is incorporated. The camera module 1 is attached to an end of the mobile phone on the side where the case body is opened and closed. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a state in which the display device is closed, and FIG. 7B is a camera in the state in which the display device is also closed. The perspective view which showed the state which rotated the camera part 86 incorporating the module, (C) is the perspective view which showed the state which opened the display apparatus.

  In the figure, 80 is a mobile phone as a mobile terminal, 81 is an operation unit having various keys, 82 is a display (display member) for displaying various information and images taken by the camera module 1, and 83 is an operation unit 81. A first case body 84, a second case body 84 having a display 82, a hinge mechanism 85 for opening and closing the second case body 84 with respect to the first case body 83, and a case 86 for a cellular phone. A camera unit 87 is provided in the end portion on the side where the body is opened and closed so that the camera module 1 is accommodated therein and is rotatable, and 87 is an opening portion of the camera unit that exposes the subject side lens of the camera module 1.

  In the cellular phone 80, a first case body 83 on which an operation unit 81 is mounted and a second case body 84 on which a display 82 is mounted are connected by a hinge mechanism 85, so that the first and second case bodies are connected. One of 83 and 84 can be opened and closed with respect to the other by a hinge mechanism 85. The camera unit 86 is rotatably attached to the hinge mechanism 85 as shown in FIG. 7B, and a shutter button (not shown) for operating the camera module 1 is, for example, a first case. By providing the body 83 on the side surface opposite to the opening portion 87 of the camera section 86 shown in FIG. 7A, photographing can be performed while the first case body 83 and the second case body 84 are closed. However, the operation unit 81 may be provided.

  When shooting, the opening 87 of the camera unit 86 containing the camera module 1 is directed toward the subject while the first case body 83 and the second case body 84 are closed as shown in FIG. By operating a shutter button (not shown) provided on the side surface of the case body 83, the camera module 1 can take an image. Further, in this photographing, the camera case 86 is rotated as shown in FIG. 7B, or the second case body 84 provided with the display 82 is not rotated as shown in FIG. 7C. The camera unit 86 is opened with respect to the first case body 83 while looking at the display 82, or in a state where the second case body 84 of FIG. 7C is opened with respect to the first case body 83. You may rotate to take a picture.

  When the first case body 83 and the second case body 84 remain closed as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the captured image is sent to the memory and stored as it is. 7C, when the second case body 84 provided with the display 82 is opened with respect to the first case body 83, it is possible to take a picture while viewing the image displayed on the display 82. The shutter button may be operated in the scene.

  Although not shown, the first case body 83 stores a battery, a communication unit, and the like, and the width of the camera unit 86 that stores the camera module 1 as shown in FIG. The first case body 83 and the second case body 84 are regulated so as to have substantially the same thickness dimension.

  According to the present invention, a camera module incorporating an autofocus (AF) function or a continuous zoom function can be configured to be small and light, and to have a small projection area in the optical axis direction. It is optimal as a camera module in a terminal.

It is the perspective view which showed through the exterior cover 11 of the camera module 1 of embodiment, and showed the internal structure, and is the figure seen from the side in which the flat cam 51 and the eccentric cam 52 were provided. FIG. 6 is a six-sided view illustrating an arrangement state of the optical system and its driving member except for the casing in the camera module of the embodiment, where (A) is a top view seen from the subject side, and (B) is seen from the eccentric cam side. (C) is a front view, (D) is a side view seen from the opposite side of the eccentric cam, (E) is a rear view, and (F) is a bottom view. It is the figure which showed each lens holding frame and shutter which comprise the camera module of embodiment, and the guide shaft which guides those optical-axis direction movement, (A) is the perspective view seen from the to-be-photographed object side, (B) Is a top view seen from the subject side, (C) is a side view seen from the first and second guide axis directions, and (D) is a front view. (A) is sectional drawing which showed the lens and imaging device which comprise each of the optical lens group of the camera module of embodiment, (B) is the positional relationship of the optical lens group when it will be in a wide angle (Wide) state. The figure shown, (C) is the figure which showed the positional relationship of the optical lens group when it will be in the state of telephoto (Tele). It is the figure which showed only the flat plate cam and eccentric cam which move an optical lens group to an optical axis direction, (A) is a perspective view, (B) is a side view, (C) is a front view. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure which shows schematically an example of the mobile telephone as a portable terminal incorporating the camera module of embodiment, (A) is a perspective view of the state which closed the display apparatus, (B) is the state of opening the display apparatus A perspective view and (C) are perspective views as seen from the back side so that the assembled state of the camera module of the embodiment can be seen with the display device closed. 4A and 4B are diagrams schematically illustrating another example of a mobile phone as a mobile terminal in which the camera module of the embodiment is incorporated, in which FIG. 5A is a perspective view in a state in which the display device is closed, and FIG. The perspective view which showed the state which rotated the part which incorporated the camera module in the state which was in the state, (C) is the perspective view which showed the state which opened the display apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Camera module 11 Exterior cover 21 1st optical lens group unit 22 Shutter unit 23 2nd optical lens group unit 24 3rd optical lens group unit 25 Image pick-up element unit 31 1st guide shaft 32 2nd guide shaft 33 3rd guide shaft 41 Zoom motor 42 Reduction gear group 51 Flat cam 52 Eccentric cam 61 Autofocus motor 62 Lead screw 63 Spring

Claims (11)

In a camera module in which an autofocus optical lens group and a zoom optical lens group are driven in the optical axis direction by drive sources provided in correspondence with each other, and a subject image is formed on an image sensor.
The drive source is disposed on the opposite side of the optical lens group with respect to the imaging device, and the drive source for driving the zoom optical lens group is provided such that the drive axis is perpendicular to the optical axis. And driving the zoom optical lens group.   The zoom optical lens group is driven by a zoom optical axis direction driving means provided on one end side of the camera module, and a drive source for driving the zoom optical lens group is opposite to the one end side of the camera module. 2. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein a reduction gear train is disposed between the zoom optical axis direction driving means and the zoom optical axis driving means.   The zoom optical axis direction drive means has a flat plate cam provided in parallel with the optical axis, and the flat plate cam moves a lens group having a large moving range constituting the zoom optical lens group in the optical axis direction. The camera module according to claim 2.   The zoom optical axis direction drive means has an eccentric cam driven by the flat plate cam, and the eccentric cam moves a lens group having a small moving range constituting the zoom optical lens group in the optical axis direction. The camera module according to claim 3.   The lens group having a large moving range in the optical lens group for zooming has its holding frame attached to the flat plate cam, and the holding frame of the lens group having a small moving range has an engaging portion driven by the eccentric cam. The camera module according to claim 4, wherein the camera module is provided.   The optical lens group is supported by a guide shaft provided in parallel with the optical axis so as to be movable in the optical axis direction. At least one lens group having a large moving range is separate from the guide axes of other optical lens groups. 6. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein the camera module is an axis.   The drive source for driving the autofocus optical lens group is provided with a lead screw that is disposed so that its drive axis is parallel to the optical axis and screwed into a holding frame that holds the autofocus optical lens group. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein the camera module is provided.   7. The autofocus drive source is disposed near the zoom optical axis direction drive unit between the zoom optical axis direction drive unit and the zoom drive source. The camera module described. An autofocus optical lens group and a zoom optical lens group are driven in the optical axis direction by drive sources provided correspondingly to form an object image on the image sensor, and the drive source is applied to the image sensor. On the other hand, a drive source disposed on the opposite side of the optical lens group and driving the zoom optical lens group is provided so that its drive axis is perpendicular to the optical axis. A driving camera module;
A case body mounted with the camera module;
A portable terminal comprising: an operation unit provided on the case body and operating the lens driving mechanism of the camera module.   The portable terminal according to claim 9, wherein the camera module is provided in a mechanism unit that opens and closes the case body.   The mobile terminal according to claim 9, wherein the camera module is provided at an end of the case body on an opening / closing mechanism side so as to be rotatable with respect to the case body.

Images