KR102940407B1 - Camera module and electronic device including the same - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device comprises: a housing; and a camera module configured to receive external light through at least a portion of the surface of the housing; wherein the camera module may comprise: a camera housing; a camera assembly comprising a lens and a first magnet, at least a portion of which is received inside the camera housing, wherein the lens is aligned with the image sensor and the optical axis direction of the lens; a first coil disposed in the camera housing and at least partially facing the first magnet; a sliding structure comprising a fixed projection protruding in the sliding direction and sliding between the camera housing and the camera assembly; and a driving unit for slidingly driving the sliding structure.

Description

Camera module and electronic device including the same

The embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a camera module and an electronic device including the same.

The electronic device may include one or more camera modules. The camera module may provide an autofocus (AF) function that adjusts focus by moving an assembly containing a lens along the optical axis. The autofocus function may be performed automatically using a sensor or by user selection. Additionally, the camera module may provide an optical image stabilization (OIS) function by moving (e.g., rotating) the assembly containing the lens to compensate for camera module shake. For example, the image stabilization function may compensate for image shake caused by external mechanical noise (e.g., vibration).

When the electronic device and/or camera module is unpowered, the assembly including the lens may fail to maintain a fixed position and move within the camera housing. Such movement of the assembly may increase the risk of lens breakage and cause a degradation of image quality.

Camera modules that provide focus adjustment functions are susceptible to relatively large disturbances (e.g., vibration), which may result in image quality degradation compared to fixed-focus camera modules.

According to the embodiments disclosed in this document, there is to provide a camera module and an electronic device including the same that restrict the movement of an assembly including a lens when the camera module and/or electronic device is in a power-free state, and provide a variable focus mode and a fixed focus mode according to the user's selection.

The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document comprises: a housing; and a camera module configured to receive external light through at least a portion of the surface of the housing; wherein the camera module comprises: a camera housing disposed inside the housing, an image sensor disposed on the bottom surface of the camera housing; a camera assembly comprising a lens and a first magnet located on a first side, at least a portion of which is received inside the camera housing, and wherein the lens is aligned with the image sensor and the lens in the direction of the optical axis; a first coil disposed on a first inner wall of the camera housing and at least partially facing the first magnet; a sliding structure comprising a fixed projection protruding in the sliding direction and sliding between a second inner wall of the camera housing and the camera assembly; and a driving unit for sliding the sliding structure. The camera module may be configured to move the camera assembly in the direction of the optical axis of the lens using the first coil, and to slide the sliding structure using the driving unit so that at least a portion of the fixed projection is received in a fixed groove formed in the camera assembly.

A camera module according to embodiments disclosed in this document comprises: a camera housing including an image sensor and a circuit board electrically connected to the image sensor; a camera assembly including a lens that is at least partially accommodated inside the camera housing and aligned with the image sensor in the direction of the optical axis, and configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis of the lens; a first coil and a second coil disposed on the side wall of the camera housing; and a sliding structure including a second magnet that is configured to slide in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis between the camera assembly and the side wall of the camera housing and faces at least partially with the second coil; wherein the sliding structure includes a second coupling part that is detachably coupled to a first coupling part of the camera assembly, and the camera assembly may be restricted from moving in the direction of the optical axis when the first coupling part and the second coupling part are coupled.

According to the embodiments disclosed in this document, when the camera module is not in operation, the movement of the assembly including the lens can be prevented to prevent damage to the camera module.

According to the embodiments disclosed in this document, a separate cushioning member to prevent damage to the moving part is omitted, so a more compact camera module can be provided.

A camera module according to the embodiments disclosed in this document is configured to operate in a fixed focus mode in which the moving part is fixed when performing post-processing of video, thereby providing improved image quality.

In addition, various effects that can be identified directly or indirectly through this document may be provided.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a camera module according to various embodiments.
FIG. 3a is a front perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3c is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIGS. 5A and FIGS. 5B are exploded perspective views of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of coils and magnets of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating the arrangement of coils and magnets of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the operation related to the focus adjustment function of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a fixed module for each of the first state and the second state of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a sliding structure of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a second side wall of a camera housing of a camera module according to one embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a camera module according to another embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a first state and a second state of a camera module according to another embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a fixed focus mode of a camera module according to another embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating a camera module according to another embodiment.
In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) in a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., a program (140)), and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence is performed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-networks, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for realizing URLLC.

An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199). The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram (200) illustrating a camera module (180) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 2, the camera module (180) may include a lens assembly (210), a flash (220), an image sensor (230), an image stabilizer (240), a memory (250) (e.g., a buffer memory), or an image signal processor (260). In one embodiment, at least one of the components included in the camera module (180) (e.g., a lens assembly (210), a flash (220), an image sensor (230), an image stabilizer (240), and a memory (250)) may be operated by the control of a control circuit (e.g., a processor (120) of FIG. 1) of an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1). For example, the control circuit (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may include a main processor (e.g., main processor (121) of FIG. 1) and/or an auxiliary processor (e.g., auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1 or image signal processor (260)).

In one embodiment, the lens assembly (210) can collect light emitted from a subject that is the subject of image capture. The lens assembly (210) may include one or more lenses. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include a plurality of lens assemblies (210). In this case, the camera module (180) may form, for example, a dual camera, a 360-degree camera, or a spherical camera. Some of the plurality of lens assemblies (210) may have the same lens properties (e.g., angle of view, focal length, autofocus, f-number, or optical zoom), or at least one lens assembly may have one or more lens properties different from the lens properties of the other lens assemblies. The lens assembly (210) may include, for example, a wide-angle lens or a telephoto lens.

In one embodiment, the flash (220) may emit light used to enhance light emitted or reflected from a subject. According to one embodiment, the flash (220) may include one or more light-emitting diodes (e.g., RGB (red-green-blue) LED (light-emitting diode), white LED, infrared LED, or ultraviolet LED), or a xenon lamp.

In one embodiment, the image sensor (230) can acquire an image corresponding to the subject by converting light emitted or reflected from the subject and transmitted through the lens assembly (210) into an electrical signal. According to one embodiment, the image sensor (230) may include, for example, one image sensor selected from image sensors with different attributes such as an RGB sensor, a BW (black and white) sensor, an IR sensor, or a UV sensor, a plurality of image sensors having the same attribute, or a plurality of image sensors having different attributes. Each image sensor included in the image sensor (230) may be implemented using, for example, a CCD (charged coupled device) sensor or a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensor.

In one embodiment, the image stabilizer (240) may move at least one lens or image sensor (230) included in the lens assembly (210) in a specific direction in response to the movement of the camera module (180) or the electronic device including it (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) or control the operational characteristics of the image sensor (230) (e.g., adjusting read-out timing). This may allow at least some of the negative effects caused by the movement on the image being captured to be compensated. According to one embodiment, the image stabilizer (240) may detect the movement of the camera module (180) or the electronic device (101) using a gyroscope sensor (not shown) or an accelerometer sensor (not shown) placed inside or outside the camera module (180). According to one embodiment, the image stabilizer (240) may be implemented, for example, as an optical image stabilizer.

In one embodiment, the memory (250) may temporarily store at least a portion of an image acquired through the image sensor (230) for the next image processing operation. For example, when image acquisition by the shutter is delayed or multiple images are acquired at high speed, the acquired original image (e.g., a Bayer-patterned image or a high-resolution image) is stored in the memory (250), and the corresponding copy image (e.g., a low-resolution image) can be previewed through the display module (160). Subsequently, when a specified condition is satisfied (e.g., user input or system command), at least a portion of the original image stored in the memory (250) may be acquired and processed, for example, by an image signal processor (260). According to one embodiment, the memory (250) may be configured as at least a portion of the memory (130) or as a separate memory that operates independently thereof.

In one embodiment, the image signal processor (260) can perform one or more image processing operations on an image obtained through the image sensor (230) or an image stored in memory (250). The above one or more image processing methods may include, for example, depth map generation, 3D modeling, panorama generation, feature point extraction, image synthesis, or image compensation (e.g., noise reduction, resolution adjustment, brightness adjustment, blurring, sharpening, or softing). Additionally or generally, the image signal processor (260) may perform control (e.g., exposure time control, or readout timing control, etc.) over at least one of the components included in the camera module (180) (e.g., image sensor (230)). The image processed by the image signal processor (260) may be stored back in memory (250) for further processing or provided to an external component of the camera module (180) (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1, display module (160), electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)).

According to one embodiment, the image signal processor (260) may be composed of at least a part of a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) (e.g., auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1) or may be composed of a separate processor that operates independently of the processor (120). If the image signal processor (260) is composed of a separate processor from the processor (120), at least one image processed by the image signal processor (260) may be displayed through the display module (160) as is or after additional image processing by the processor (120).

According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a plurality of camera modules (180) each having different attributes or functions. For example, a plurality of camera modules (180) may be configured, each including a lens (e.g., lens assembly (210)) having a different angle of view, and the electronic device (101) may be controlled to use the angle of view of the camera module (180) associated with the user selection based on the user's selection. For example, at least one of the plurality of camera modules (180) may be a wide-angle camera and at least another may be a telephoto camera. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of camera modules (180) may be a front camera and at least another may be a rear camera. Additionally, the plurality of camera modules (180) may include at least one of a wide-angle camera, a telephoto camera, a color camera, a monochrome camera, or an IR (infrared) camera (e.g., a TOF (time of flight) camera, a structured light camera). According to one embodiment, an IR camera may be operated as at least part of a sensor module (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1). For example, a TOF camera (e.g., camera module (312) of FIG. 3b) may be operated as at least part of a sensor module (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) for detecting the distance to a subject.

FIG. 3a is a front perspective view of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment. FIG. 3b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment. FIG. 3c is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, the electronic device (300) may include a housing (310) comprising a first surface (or front) (310A), a second surface (or rear) (310B), and a side (310C) surrounding the space between the first surface (310A) and the second surface (310B).

In another embodiment (not shown), the housing (310) may refer to a structure forming some of the first surface (310A), the second surface (310B), and the side (310C).

In one embodiment, the first surface (310A) may be formed by a front plate (320) in which at least a portion is substantially transparent (e.g., a glass plate containing various coating layers, or a polymer plate). In one embodiment, the second surface (310B) may be formed by a rear plate (380) that is substantially opaque. The rear plate (380) may be formed by, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the materials. The side surface (310C) may be formed by a side bezel structure (318) comprising metal and/or polymer, which is combined with the front plate (320) and the rear plate (380).

In another embodiment, the rear plate (380) and the side bezel structure (318) may be formed integrally and may include the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum).

In the illustrated embodiment, the front plate (320) may include two first regions (310D) that are curved and seamlessly extended from a portion of the first surface (310A) toward the rear plate (380). The first regions (310D) may be located at both ends of the long edge of the front plate (320).

In the illustrated embodiment, the rear plate (380) may include two second regions (310E) that are curved and seamlessly extended from a portion of the second surface (310B) toward the front plate (320). The second regions (310E) may be included at both ends of the long edge of the rear plate (380).

In another embodiment, the front plate (320) (or rear plate (380)) may include only one of the first regions (310D) (or second regions (310E)). Also, in another embodiment, the front plate (320) (or rear plate (380)) may not include some of the first regions (310D) (or second regions (310E)).

In one embodiment, the side bezel structure (318) may have a first thickness (or width) in a side direction (e.g., short side) that does not include the first regions (310D) or second regions (310E) as described above when viewed from the side of the electronic device (300), and may have a second thickness that is thinner than the first thickness in a side direction (e.g., long side) that includes the first regions (310D) or second regions (310E).

In one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include at least one of a display (301) (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1), an audio module (303, 304, 307) (e.g., audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor module (not shown) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), a camera module (305, 312) (e.g., camera module (180) of FIG. 1, camera module (300) of FIG. 4, camera module (500) of FIG. 13), a key input device (317) (e.g., input module (150) of FIG. 1), a light-emitting element (not shown), and a connector hole (308) (e.g., connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1). In another embodiment, the electronic device (300) may omit at least one of the above components (e.g., a key input device (317) or a light-emitting element (not shown)) or additionally include other components.

In one embodiment, the display (301) may be exposed through at least a portion of the front plate (320). For example, at least a portion of the display (301) may be exposed through the front plate (320), which includes the first surface (310A) and the first area (310D) of the side (310C).

In one embodiment, the shape of the display (301) may be formed substantially identical to the adjacent outer shape of the front plate (320). In another embodiment (not shown), in order to expand the exposed area of the display (301), the gap between the outer edge of the display (301) and the outer edge of the front plate (320) may be formed generally identical.

In one embodiment, the surface of the housing (310) (or the front plate (320)) may include a display area in which the display (301) is visually exposed and content is displayed through pixels. For example, the display area may include a first surface (310A) and a first area (310D) on the side.

In another embodiment (not shown), the display area (310A, 310D) may include a sensing area (not shown) configured to acquire the user's biometric information. Here, the meaning of "the display area (310A, 310D) includes a sensing area" can be understood as at least a portion of the sensing area being overlapped with the display area (310A, 310D). For example, the sensing area (not shown) may mean an area that can display content by the display (301) just like other areas of the display area (310A, 310D) and additionally acquire the user's biometric information (e.g., fingerprint).

In one embodiment, the screen display area (310A, 310D) of the display (301) may include an area where a first camera module (305) (e.g., a punch-hole camera) can be visually exposed. For example, at least a portion of the edge of the area where the first camera module (305) is exposed may be surrounded by the screen display area (310A, 310D). In one embodiment, the first camera module (305) may include a plurality of camera modules (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1).

In one embodiment, the display (301) may include at least one of an audio module (303, 304, 307), a sensor module (not shown), a camera module (e.g., a first camera module (305)), and a light-emitting element (not shown) on the back surface of a screen display area (310A, 310D). For example, the electronic device (300) may be positioned such that a camera module (e.g., a first camera module (305)) faces the first surface (310A) and/or the side (310C) (e.g., at least one surface of the first area (310D)) on the back surface (e.g., a surface facing the -z-axis direction). For example, the first camera module (305) may not be visually exposed to the screen display area (310A, 310D) and may include a hidden under-display camera (UDC).

In another embodiment (not shown), the display (301) may include a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of the touch, and/or a digitizer for detecting a magnetic field type stylus pen, or may be disposed adjacently.

In one embodiment, the audio module (303, 304, 307) may include a microphone hole (303, 304) and a speaker hole (307).

In one embodiment, the microphone holes (303, 304) may include a first microphone hole (303) formed in a part of the side (310C) and a microphone hole (304) formed in a part of the second surface (310B). The microphone holes (303, 304) may have a microphone placed inside the housing (310) to acquire external sound. The microphone may include a plurality of microphones to detect the direction of the sound. In one embodiment, the second microphone hole (304) formed in a part of the second surface (310B) may be placed adjacent to the camera module (305, 312). For example, the second microphone hole (304) may acquire sound when the camera module (305, 312) is running or when other functions are running.

In one embodiment, the speaker hole (307) may include a call receiver hole (not shown). The speaker hole (307) may be formed in a part of the side (310C) of the electronic device (300). In another embodiment, the speaker hole (307) may be implemented as a single hole with the microphone hole (303). Although not shown, the call receiver hole (not shown) may be formed in another part of the side (310C). For example, the call receiver hole (not shown) may be formed in another part of the side (310C) facing the part of the side (310C) where the speaker hole (307) is formed (e.g., the part facing the -Y-axis direction) (e.g., the part facing the +Y-axis direction).

In one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a speaker that is fluidly connected to a speaker hole (307). In another embodiment, the speaker may include a piezo speaker in which the speaker hole (307) is omitted.

In one embodiment, a sensor module (not shown) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (300) or an external environmental state. In one embodiment, the sensor module (not shown) may be placed on at least a portion of the first surface (310A), second surface (310B), or side (310C) of the housing (310) (e.g., first regions (310D) and/or the second regions (310E)), and may be placed on the back surface of the display (301) (e.g., fingerprint sensor). For example, the sensor module (not shown) may be placed at least a portion below the screen display area (310A, 310D) so as not to be visually exposed, and may form a sensing area (not shown) on at least a portion of the screen display area (310A, 310D). For example, the sensor module (not shown) may include an optical fingerprint sensor. In some embodiments (not shown), the fingerprint sensor may be placed on the first surface (310A) (e.g., screen display area (310A, 310D)) as well as the second surface (310B) of the housing (310). For example, the sensor module may include at least one of a proximity sensor, an HRM sensor, a fingerprint sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

In one embodiment, the key input device (317) may be placed on the side (310C) of the housing (310) (e.g., first areas (310D) and/or second areas (310E)). In another embodiment, the electronic device (300) may not include some or all of the key input device (317), and the key input device (317) not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (301). In another embodiment, the key input device may include a sensor module (not shown) forming a sensing area (not shown) included in the display area (310A, 310D).

In one embodiment, the connector hole (308) may accommodate a connector. The connector hole (308) may be positioned on the side (310C) of the housing (310). For example, the connector hole (308) may be positioned on the side (310C) adjacent to at least a portion of an audio module (e.g., microphone hole (303) and speaker hole (307)). In another embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a first connector hole (308) capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., USB connector) for transmitting/receiving power and/or data to/from an external electronic device, and/or a second connector hole (not shown) capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., earphone jack) for transmitting/receiving audio signals to/from an external electronic device.

In one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a light-emitting element (not shown). For example, the light-emitting element (not shown) may be placed on a first surface (310A) of the housing (310). The light-emitting element (not shown) may provide state information of the electronic device (300) in the form of light. In another embodiment, the light-emitting element (not shown) may provide a light source that is linked to the operation of the first camera module (305). For example, the light-emitting element (not shown) may include an LED, an IR LED, and/or a xenon lamp.

In one embodiment, a camera module (305, 312) (e.g., camera module (300) of FIG. 4, camera module (500) of FIG. 13) may include a first camera module (305) (e.g., under-display camera) configured to receive light through a camera area of a first surface (310A) of the electronic device (300), a second camera module (312) exposed to a second surface (310B), and/or a flash (313).

In one embodiment, the first camera module (305) may be exposed through a portion of the screen display area (310A, 310D) of the display (301). For example, the first camera module (305) may be exposed to a portion of the screen display area (310A, 310D) through an opening formed in a portion of the display (301).

In various embodiments (not shown), the first camera module (305) may include an under-display camera (UDC) positioned on the back surface of the display (330). For example, the first camera module (305) may be positioned on a part of the display (330), or the optical axis of the lens (e.g., the optical axis (L) in FIG. 4) may pass through the display area (310A, 310D) of the display. In various embodiments, the first camera module (305) may be configured to receive light through a camera area included in the display area (310A, 310D). For example, the camera area may be configured to display content like other areas of the display area when the first camera module (305) is not operating. For example, the camera area may be an area through which light incident on the first camera module (305) passes without displaying content when the first camera module (305) is operating.

In one embodiment, the second camera module (312) may include a plurality of camera modules (e.g., dual camera, triple camera, or quad camera). However, the second camera module (312) is not necessarily limited to including a plurality of camera modules and may include a single camera module.

In one embodiment, the first camera module (305) and/or the second camera module (312) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor (e.g., the image sensor (230) of FIG. 2), and/or an image signal processor (e.g., the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2). The flash (313) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In another embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be arranged inside the housing so as to face the direction in which one side of the electronic device (300) (e.g., the second side (310B)) faces.

Referring to FIG. 3c, the electronic device (300) may include a side bezel structure (318), a first support member (340), a front plate (320), a display (330), a printed circuit board (350) (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible PCB (FPCB), or a rigid-flexible PCB (RFPCB)), a battery (352), a second support member (360) (e.g., a rear case), an antenna (370), and a rear plate (380). In some embodiments, the electronic device (300) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the first support member (340), or the second support member (360)) or additionally include other components. At least one of the components of the electronic device (300) may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (300) of FIG. 3a or FIG. 3b, and redundant descriptions are omitted below.

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the front plate (320), rear plate (380), and side bezel structure (318) may form a housing (e.g., the housing (310) of FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b).

In one embodiment, the first support member (340) may be disposed inside the electronic device (300) and connected to the side bezel structure (318), or may be formed integrally with the side bezel structure (318). The first support member (340) may be formed, for example, from a metal material and/or a non-metal (e.g., polymer) material. The first support member (340) may have a display (330) attached to one side and a printed circuit board (350) attached to the other side.

In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (350) may be equipped with a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), memory, and/or an interface. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor (e.g., image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor.

In one embodiment, the memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory.

In one embodiment, the interface may include, for example, an HDMI (high definition multimedia interface), a USB (universal serial bus) interface, an SD card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may, for example, electrically or physically connect the electronic device (300) to an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/MMC connector, or an audio connector.

In one embodiment, the battery (352) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (300) and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery (352) may be disposed substantially coplanar with, for example, the printed circuit board (350). The battery (352) may be disposed integrally inside the electronic device (300) or may be disposed detachably from the electronic device (300).

In one embodiment, the antenna (370) may be positioned between the rear plate (380) and the battery (352). The antenna (370) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna (370) may, for example, communicate near-field with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging. In another embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a side bezel structure (318) and/or a part or combination thereof of the first support member (340).

In one embodiment, the first camera module (305) may be placed on at least a portion of the first support member (340) so that the lens is visually exposed to a portion of the front plate (320) (e.g., the front (310A) of FIG. 1) of the electronic device (300).

In one embodiment (not shown), the second camera module (312) may be positioned so that the lens is exposed to the camera area (382) of the rear plate (380) of the electronic device (300) (e.g., rear (310B) of FIG. 2). In another embodiment (not shown), the second camera module (312) may be positioned in at least a portion of the internal space formed in the housing (310) of the electronic device (300) (e.g., the space formed by the first support member (340)) and may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (350) through a connecting member (e.g., a connector).

In one embodiment, the camera area (382) may be formed on the surface of the rear plate (380) (e.g., the rear (310B) of FIG. 2). In one embodiment, the camera area (382) may be formed at least partially transparent so that external light is incident on the lens of the second camera module (312). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the camera area (not shown) may protrude to a certain height from the surface of the rear plate (380). However, it is not necessarily limited thereto, and the camera area (382) may form a plane substantially identical to the surface of the rear plate (380).

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment.

A camera module (400) according to one embodiment may include a camera housing (410) and a camera assembly (430) in which at least a portion is accommodated inside the camera housing (410).

In one embodiment, the camera housing (410) may include a base (411) and a cover (412) coupled to the base (411). Together with the cover (412), the base (411) may form an internal space of the camera housing (410) in which a camera assembly (430) is accommodated. For example, the base (411) may form a lower surface (e.g., a plane facing the -z axis) of the camera module (400), and the cover (412) may form an upper surface (e.g., a plane facing the +z axis) of the camera module (400) and a side surface surrounding the upper and lower surfaces. An opening (4121) may be formed in the cover (412) to expose at least a portion of the lens (431) and the lens barrel (432).

In various embodiments, an image sensor (e.g., image sensor (230) of FIG. 2) and a circuit board (e.g., printed circuit board (350) of FIG. 3c) electrically connected to the image sensor may be disposed on the base (411) of the camera housing (410). In various embodiments, the image sensor may be disposed inside the camera housing (410) so as to be at least partially aligned with the optical axis (L) of the lens (431). For example, the image sensor may convert an optical signal received through the lens (431) into an electrical signal.

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the camera assembly (430) may be accommodated inside the camera housing (410). The camera assembly (430) may be configured to move within the camera housing (410) in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens. For example, when viewed in an orthogonal coordinate system, the camera assembly (430) may move linearly in the z-axis direction (e.g., +z/-z-axis direction) within the camera housing (410). In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may adjust the distance between the image sensor (e.g., image sensor (230) of FIG. 2) fixedly placed inside the camera housing (410) and the lens (431) included in the camera assembly (430) by moving the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L).

In one embodiment, the camera assembly (430) may include one or more lenses (431) and a lens barrel (432) surrounding one or more lenses (431). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (430) may be positioned so that at least a portion of the lenses (431) and the lens barrel (432) is exposed through an opening (4121) formed in the cover (412) of the camera housing (410). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (402) may be configured so that the lenses (431) receive light from outside the electronic device (300) through a portion of the surface of the housing of the electronic device (e.g., the rear plate (380) in FIG. 3c). For example, the area where the lens (431) is exposed (e.g., the camera area (382) in FIG. 3b and FIG. 3c) may include a transparent area of the housing of the electronic device (300) (e.g., the housing (310) in FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b). In some embodiments, the camera assembly (430) may include a lens assembly (e.g., the lens assembly (210) in FIG. 2) comprising one or more lenses (431) and a lens barrel (432).

FIGS. 5A and FIGS. 5B are exploded perspective views of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may include a camera housing (410), a camera assembly (430) disposed inside the camera housing (410), a flexible circuit board (470) surrounding at least a part (e.g., a side wall (420)) of the camera housing (410), and a fixing module (403) that restricts the movement of the camera assembly (430).

In one embodiment, the camera housing (410) may include a cover (412), a base (411), and a side wall (420) surrounding the base (411). The cover (412) may be coupled to the side wall (420) and may form a space in which a part of the camera assembly (430) is accommodated together with the side wall (420). An opening (4121) may be formed in the cover (412) to which the lens (431) of the camera assembly (430) is exposed. An image sensor (415) may be placed in the base (411). The image sensor (415) may be aligned with the lens (431) in the direction of the optical axis (L).

In one embodiment, a first coil (471), a second coil (472), a third coil (473), and a fourth coil (474) may be disposed on the side wall. For example, the first coil, the third coil, and the fourth coil may be disposed on a flexible circuit board (470) surrounding the side wall. In one embodiment, a first opening area (4211) in which the first coil (471) is located may be formed on the first side wall (421). Through the first opening area (4211), the first coil (471) may be located on the inner surface of the camera housing (410). In one embodiment, a second opening area (4221) in which the second coil (472) is located may be formed on the second side wall (422). Through the second opening area (4221), the second coil (472) may be located on the inner surface of the camera housing (410). In one embodiment, a third opening region (4231) in which a third coil (473) is located may be formed in the third side wall (423). Through the third opening region (4231), the third coil (473) may be located on the inner surface of the camera housing (410). In one embodiment, a fourth opening region (4241) in which a fourth coil (474) is located may be formed in the fourth side wall (424). Through the fourth opening region (4241), the fourth coil (474) may be located on the inner surface of the camera housing (410).

In one embodiment, a second yoke member (476) may be disposed on the side wall of the camera housing (410). For example, the second yoke member (476) may be disposed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). The second yoke member (476) may form an attractive force with the second magnet (482) of the sliding structure (450). Thus, the sliding structure (450) can slide in close contact with the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410) by the attractive force.

In one embodiment, the flexible circuit board (470) may include a first coil (471), a third coil (473), and a fourth coil (474). In one embodiment, the flexible circuit board (470) may surround at least a portion of the camera housing (410) such that the first coil (471) is positioned on the first sidewall (421), the third coil (473) is positioned on the third sidewall (423), and the fourth coil (474) is positioned on the fourth sidewall (424). In various embodiments, the flexible circuit board (470) may further include a second coil (472). In this case, the flexible circuit board (470) may be formed to surround the sidewalls (420) of the camera housing (410).

In one embodiment, the camera assembly (430) may include a lens (431), a lens barrel (432), a first magnet (481), a third magnet (483), and a fourth magnet (484). In various embodiments, the camera assembly (430) may include a lens assembly (e.g., the lens assembly (210) of FIG. 2), and the lens assembly may include a lens (431) and a lens barrel (432).

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the camera assembly (430) may be accommodated inside the camera housing (410). For example, the sides (441, 442, 443, 444) of the camera assembly (430) may be surrounded by the side walls (420) of the camera housing (410). For example, a portion of the lens (431) and a portion of the lens barrel (432) of the camera assembly (430) may protrude further in the z-axis direction through the opening (4121) of the cover (412). In one embodiment, magnets (481, 483, 484) may be disposed on the sides of the camera assembly (430). For example, a first magnet (481) may be disposed on the first side (441). The first magnet (481) may at least partially face the first coil (471) placed on the first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410). For example, a third magnet (483) may be placed on the third side (443). The third magnet (483) may at least partially face the third coil (473) placed on the third side wall (423) of the camera housing (410). A fourth magnet (484) may be placed on the fourth side (444). The fourth magnet (484) may at least partially face the fourth coil (474) placed on the fourth side wall (424) of the camera housing (410).

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) can provide an autofocus adjustment function.

The camera module (400) can perform an autofocus function by moving the camera assembly (430) with respect to the optical axis (L) of the lens (431) (e.g., L/-L direction). The camera module (400) can control the position of the camera assembly (430) in the optical axis (L) direction by controlling the current flowing through the first coil (471). For example, the first magnet (481) and the first coil (471) can interact electromagnetically with each other. For example, the first coil (471) can be located inside the magnetic field formed by the first magnet (481). In one embodiment, a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 and/or the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) can control the direction and/or strength of the current passing through the first coil (471). An electromagnetic force (e.g., Lorentz force) can be applied to the first magnet (481). Due to the above electromagnetic force, the camera assembly (430) can move in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431). In one embodiment, the image sensor (415) is fixedly positioned on the base (411) of the camera housing (410), and the lens (431) can move together with the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L) (e.g., L/-L direction). By doing so, the distance between the lens (431) and the image sensor (415) changes, and the focal length of the camera module (400) can change. For example, the camera module (400) and the electronic device (300) can automatically adjust the focal length according to the distance of the subject or by the user's selection.

In one embodiment, regarding the autofocus adjustment function, the camera module (400) may include a fixed module (403) configured to restrict movement of the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L). For example, the fixed module (403) may fix the camera assembly (430) so that it does not move in the direction of the optical axis when power is not applied to the electronic device (300) and/or the camera module (400). For example, the fixed module (403) may restrict the focus adjustment function. In various embodiments, the fixed module (403) may fix the camera assembly (430) so that the camera module (400) can provide a fixed focus mode (FF).

In one embodiment, the fixed module (403) may include a sliding structure (450) comprising a second magnet (482) and a second coil (472) for driving the sliding structure (450). For example, the sliding structure (450) may be positioned between the second side (442) of the camera assembly (430) and the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). For example, the second magnet (482) may be formed or positioned on the sliding structure (450) to move together with the sliding structure (450). For example, the second coil (472) may be positioned within the magnetic field formed by the second magnet (482). In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may be configured to slide in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (L) (e.g., in the +y/-y axis direction). For example, the camera module (400) and/or electronic device (300) can move the sliding structure (450) in a sliding direction (e.g., the sliding direction (S) of FIG. 9) by controlling the current flowing through the second coil (472). For example, the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) can be received at least partially in the fixed groove (435) of the camera assembly (430). According to one embodiment, when the fixed projection (451) is inserted into the fixed groove (435), the camera assembly (430) can be fixed and unable to move in the direction of the optical axis (L) (e.g., L/-L direction). This prevents the camera assembly (430) from moving when power is not supplied to the camera module (400) or when the camera module (400) is in a fixed focus mode.

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may provide an image stabilization function (OIS). With respect to the image stabilization function, in one embodiment, the camera module (400) may move the camera assembly (430) in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (L) by controlling the current flowing through the third coil (473) and the fourth coil (474). For example, the camera assembly (430) may move in the x-axis (+x/-x) or y-axis (+y/-y) direction on the x-y plane relative to the drawing. For example, the third coil (473) may electromagnetically interact with the third magnet (483) to form an electromagnetic force acting on the third magnet (483) and the camera assembly (430) in either the x-axis direction or the y-axis direction. For example, the fourth coil (474) can electromagnetically interact with the fourth magnet (484) to form an electromagnetic force acting on the fourth magnet (484) and the camera assembly (430) in either the x-axis direction or the y-axis direction. Through this, the camera module (400) can move the camera assembly (430) to stabilize the image in response to disturbances (e.g., vibrations) acting on the electronic device (300) and/or the camera module (400).

FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating the arrangement of coils (471, 472, 473, 474) and magnets (481, 482, 483, 484) of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating the arrangement of coils (471, 472, 473, 474) and magnets (481, 482, 483, 484) of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may provide a focus adjustment function that moves the camera assembly (430) in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis (L), an image stabilization function that moves the lens carrier (433) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis (L), and/or a fixing function that fixes the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L).

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may include a plurality of magnets (481, 482, 483, 484) and a plurality of coils (471, 472, 473, 474) in relation to the functions. Each magnet (481, 482, 483, 484) may be configured to interact one-to-one with each coil (471, 472, 473, 474).

In one embodiment, the camera housing (410) includes a first side wall (421), a third side wall (423) facing the first side wall (421), and a second side wall (422) and a fourth side wall (424) connecting the first side wall (421) and the third side wall (423), and the fourth side wall (424) and the second side wall (422) may face each other. For example, the first side wall (421) may be located substantially in the y-axis direction with respect to the lens (431), the second side wall (422) may be located substantially in the x-axis direction with respect to the lens (431), the third side wall (423) may be located substantially in the -y-axis direction with respect to the lens (431), and the fourth side wall (424) may be located substantially in the -x-axis direction with respect to the lens (431). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (430) may include a first side (441) facing a first side wall (421), a second side (442) facing a second side wall (422), a third side wall (423) facing a third side wall (423), and a fourth side (444) facing a fourth side wall (424). For example, at least a portion of the third side (443) and the fourth side (444) may be formed by a lens carrier (433) included in the camera assembly (430).

In one embodiment, regarding the focus adjustment function of the camera module (400), the camera module (400) may include a first coil (471) and a first magnet (481). The first coil (471) may be placed on a first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410), and the first magnet (481) may be placed on a first side (441) of the camera assembly (430) facing the first side wall (421). The first coil (471) and the first magnet (481) may partially face each other, and the first coil (471) may be placed within the magnetic field formed by the first magnet (481). In one embodiment, the control circuit of the camera module (400) (e.g., the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) and/or the processor of the electronic device (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) can move the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L) (e.g., L/-L direction) by controlling the current flowing through the first coil (471).

In one embodiment, regarding the fixing function of the camera module (400), the camera module may include a second coil (472) and a second magnet (482). The second coil (472) may be placed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410), and the second magnet (482) may be placed on the sliding structure (450). For example, the sliding structure (450) and the second magnet (482) may be placed between the second side (442) of the camera assembly (430) and the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). The second coil (472) and the second magnet (482) may partially face each other, and the second coil (472) may be placed within the magnetic field formed by the second magnet (482). In one embodiment, the control circuit of the camera module (400) (e.g., image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) and/or the processor of the electronic device (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) can insert and/or remove the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) into and/or remove the fixed groove (435) of the camera assembly (430) by controlling the current flowing through the second coil (472).

In various embodiments, the fixed projection (451) and the fixed groove (435) are examples, and the connection of the sliding structure (450) and the camera assembly (430) is not limited to that shown in the drawings. For example, a first connection part may be formed in the camera assembly (430), and a second connection part may be formed in the sliding structure (450). The first connection part and the second connection part may include various shapes and/or structures in which the focus adjustment function of the camera assembly (430) is limited when connected to each other.

In various embodiments, the fixed groove (435) may be formed by a first protrusion (4351) and a second protrusion (4352) protruding from the second side (442) of the camera assembly (430). The first protrusion (4351) and the second protrusion (4352) may be formed at positions spaced apart from each other when viewed in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431) (e.g., positions spaced apart in the z-axis direction). For example, the fixed groove (435) may include a space between the first protrusion (4351) and the second protrusion (4352). In various embodiments, the fixed groove (435) is not limited to as shown in the drawings and may be formed in various structures in which the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) can be received.

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) may include a variable focus mode in which a first coupling part (e.g., a fixed groove (435)) and a second coupling part (e.g., a fixed projection (451)) are separated, and a fixed focus mode in which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are combined. In the variable focus mode, the camera module (400) may be configured to move the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis using the first coil (471), and to move the sliding structure (450) so that the second coupling part is coupled to the first coupling part using the second coil (472) to provide the fixed focus mode.

In one embodiment, regarding the image stabilization function of the camera module (400), the camera module (400) may include a third coil (473) and a third magnet (483). The third coil (473) may be placed on a third side wall (423) of the camera housing (410), and the third magnet (483) may be placed on a third side (443) of the camera assembly (430) facing the third side wall (423). For example, the third side (443) and the third magnet (483) may be included in a lens carrier (433) included in the camera assembly (430). For example, the lens carrier (433) is included in the camera assembly (430) and can move along the optical axis (L) together with other parts of the camera assembly (430) when the focus adjustment function is performed, and can also move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis (L) (e.g., +y/-y axis direction) independently of other parts of the camera assembly (430) when the image stabilization function is performed. The third coil (473) and the third magnet (483) are partially facing each other, and the third coil (473) can be placed within the magnetic field formed by the third magnet (483). In one embodiment, the control circuit of the camera module (400) (e.g., the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) and/or the processor of the electronic device (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) can move the camera assembly (430) in the +y/-y axis direction by controlling the current flowing through the third coil (473).

In one embodiment, regarding the image stabilization function of the camera module (400), the camera module (400) may include a fourth coil (474) and a fourth magnet (484). The fourth coil may be placed on a fourth side wall (424) of the camera housing (410), and the fourth magnet (484) may be placed on a fourth side (444) of the camera assembly (430) facing the fourth side wall (424). For example, a portion of the fourth side (444) and the fourth magnet (484) may be included in a lens carrier (433) included in the camera assembly (430). For example, the lens carrier (433) is included in the camera assembly (430) and can move along the optical axis (L) together with other parts of the camera assembly (430) when the focus adjustment function is performed, and can also move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis (L) (e.g., +x/-x axis direction) independently of other parts of the camera assembly (430) when the image stabilization function is performed. The fourth coil (474) and the fourth magnet (484) are partially facing each other, and the fourth coil (474) can be placed within the magnetic field formed by the fourth magnet (484). In one embodiment, the control circuit of the camera module (400) (e.g., the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) and/or the processor of the electronic device (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) can move the camera assembly (430) in the +x/-x axis direction by controlling the current flowing through the fourth coil (474).

In one embodiment, a first yoke member (475) may be disposed on the first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410). The first yoke member (475) may form an attractive force with the first magnet (481). A force may be applied to the camera assembly (430) to bring it closer to the first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410) by the attractive force between the first magnet (481) and the first yoke member (475). Thus, a plurality of first balls (434) disposed on both sides of the first magnet (481) may roll in close contact with the first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410). In various embodiments, the first yoke member (475) may shield the magnetic field of the first magnet (481) and the first coil (471).

In one embodiment, a second yoke member (476) may be disposed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). The second yoke member (476) may form an attractive force with the second magnet (482) of the sliding structure (450). A force may be applied to the sliding structure (450) to bring it closer to the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410) by the attractive force between the second magnet (482) and the second yoke member (476). For example, a plurality of second balls (464) included in the sliding structure (450) may roll in close contact with the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). In various embodiments, the second yoke member (476) may shield the magnetic field of the second magnet (482) and the second coil (472).

In one embodiment, the first coil (471) and the second coil (472) may be positioned on adjacent first sidewalls (421) and second sidewalls (422). For example, the camera assembly (430) and the sliding structure (450) may be pressed in a direction toward the first sidewall (421) and the second sidewall (422), respectively, by the first yoke member (475) and the second yoke member (476). Thus, it may be advantageous for the first coil (471) and the second coil (472) to be positioned on adjacent sidewalls rather than on sidewalls facing each other.

In one embodiment, the third coil (473) and the fourth coil (474) may be positioned on adjacent third and fourth side walls to drive the lens carrier (433) in the y-axis direction and the x-axis direction, respectively.

The coils (471, 472, 473, 474) and magnets (481, 482, 483, 484) of the camera module (400) according to one embodiment are not necessarily limited to the arrangement shown in the drawing. In various embodiments, the first coil (471) and the second coil (472) may face each other, and the third coil (473) and the fourth coil (474) may face each other. For example, either the third coil (473) or the fourth coil (474) may be configured to be driven by a solenoid type with a corresponding magnet, and the other may be configured to be driven by a Lorentz type. In this case, even if the third coil (473) and the fourth coil (474) are arranged to face each other, the lens carrier (433) can be driven in two directions perpendicular to each other.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the third coil (473) and the third magnet (483) may be arranged in a solenoid type such that an attractive or repulsive force is formed between the third coil (473) and the third magnet (483).

In another embodiment, the third coil (473) and the third magnet (483) may be arranged in a Lorentz type. For example, the third coil (473) may be associated with the movement of the lens carrier (433) in the x-axis direction. In this case, the third magnet (483) may be formed such that the N pole and the S pole are arranged in the driving direction. For example, the N pole and the S pole may be arranged in the x-axis direction.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the fourth coil (474) and the fourth magnet (484) may be arranged in a solenoid type such that an attractive or repulsive force is formed between the fourth coil (474) and the fourth magnet (484).

In another embodiment, the fourth coil (474) and the fourth magnet (484) may be arranged in a Lorentz type. For example, the fourth coil (474) may be associated with the movement of the lens carrier (433) in the y-axis direction. In this case, the fourth magnet (484) may be formed so that the N pole and the S pole are arranged in the driving direction. For example, the N pole and the S pole may be arranged in the y-axis direction.

In various embodiments, the lens carrier (433) can move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (L) according to the shape of the magnet formed on the lens carrier (433). For example, the lens carrier (433) can move in a direction in which the N-pole and S-pole portions of the magnets (483, 484) are arranged.

For example, if the N-pole and S-pole portions of the third magnet (483) are arranged in the y-axis direction and the opposing surface of the third magnet (483) facing the third coil (473) has one polarity, the lens carrier (433) can move in the y-axis direction by the third coil (473).

For example, if the N-pole and S-pole portions of the fourth magnet (484) are arranged in the x-axis direction and the opposing surface of the fourth magnet (484) facing the fourth coil (474) has one polarity, the lens carrier (433) can move in the x-axis direction by the fourth coil (474).

For example, if the N-pole and S-pole portions of the third magnet (483) are arranged in the x-axis direction and the opposing surface of the third magnet (483) facing the third coil (473) has two polarities, the lens carrier (433) can move in the x-axis direction by the third coil (473).

For example, if the N-pole and S-pole portions of the fourth magnet (484) are arranged in the y-axis direction and the opposing surface of the fourth magnet (484) facing the fourth coil (474) has two polarities, the lens carrier (433) can move in the y-axis direction by the fourth coil (474).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) may include various driving units that drive the sliding structure (450). The driving units may include a second coil (472) and a second magnet (482) as illustrated in the drawings. The second coil (472) may be located in the camera housing (410) or in the sliding structure (450). The second magnet (482) may be located in the camera housing (410) or in the sliding structure (450).

In various embodiments, the drive unit may include a stepper motor. For example, the drive unit may include a rack-pinion gear connecting the sliding structure (450) and the stepper motor.

In various embodiments, the sliding structure (450) may include a shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy may each remember a state in which the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) is received in the fixed groove (435) (e.g., a first state, a locked state) and a state in which it is detached from the fixed groove (435) (e.g., a second state, an unlocked state).

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the operation related to the focus adjustment function of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the camera assembly (430) may be configured to move in the direction of the optical axis (L) within the camera housing (410). The camera module (400) may include a first magnet (481) disposed in the camera assembly (430) and a first coil (471) disposed in at least a part of the camera housing (410). The camera module (400) may include a first Hall sensor (491) configured to detect the magnetic field of the first magnet (481) and a control circuit that detects the position of the first magnet (481) and the camera assembly (430) based on a signal detected from the first Hall sensor (491). The control circuit may control the position of the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L) by controlling the strength and/or direction of the current flowing through the first coil (471).

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) can adjust the focus by adjusting the distance between the image sensor (415) and the lens (431) by moving the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L). For example, the image sensor (415) may be located on the base (411) of the camera housing (410), and the lens (431) may move together with the camera assembly (430). For example, a circuit board (414) electrically connected to the image sensor (415) may be located on the base (411) of the camera housing (410). Referring to the drawings, the gap (g) between the camera assembly (430) and the image sensor (415) may vary.

According to one embodiment, a plurality of first balls (e.g., the first balls (434) of FIG. 7) are disposed between the camera assembly (430) and the camera housing (410), and the plurality of first balls can provide rolling friction to the moving camera assembly (430). Additionally, a first yoke member (e.g., the first yoke member (475) of FIG. 6) is disposed on the first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410), so that an attractive force can be formed between the first yoke member and the first magnet (481) of the camera assembly (430). By the attractive force, the camera assembly (430) can be pressed toward the first side wall (421). For example, when the camera assembly (430) moves, the plurality of first balls (434) can roll in closer contact with the first side wall (421) of the camera housing (410) and the first side (441) of the camera assembly (430).

FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a fixed module for each of the first state and the second state of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a camera module (400) according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9(a) illustrates a fixed module in a first state (e.g., locked state), and FIG. 9(b) illustrates a fixed module in a second state (e.g., unlocked state).

In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may be positioned between the second side wall of the camera housing (410) (e.g., the second side wall (422) of FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b) and the second side (442) of the camera assembly (430). The sliding structure (450) may slide in a sliding direction (S). For example, the sliding direction (S) may be a direction substantially parallel to the y-axis and substantially perpendicular to the optical axis (L) of the lens (431).

In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may include a fixed projection (451) protruding in a first sliding direction (①) and a second magnet (482). The second magnet (482) may be coupled to and/or positioned on the sliding structure (450) to slide together with the sliding structure (450). In one embodiment, the second magnet (482) may electromagnetically interact with a second coil (472) positioned on a second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). For example, the second coil (472) may be positioned within the magnetic field formed by the second magnet (482).

In one embodiment, a fixing groove (435) receiving a fixing projection (451) may be formed on the side of the camera assembly (430). For example, the fixing groove (435) may be formed by a first protrusion (4351) and a second protrusion (4352) protruding from the second side (442) of the camera assembly (430). The first protrusion (4351) and the second protrusion (4352) may be formed at positions spaced apart from each other when viewed in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431) (e.g., positions spaced apart in the z-axis direction). For example, the fixing groove (435) may include a space between the first protrusion (4351) and the second protrusion (4352).

In various embodiments, the fixed groove (435) is not limited to the shape shown in the drawing and may include various shapes in which the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) can be inserted in the first sliding direction (①) and the fixed projection (451) can be restrained in the optical axis (L) direction.

Referring to FIG. 9(a), in a first state (e.g., a locked state), the fixed projection (451) can be received between the first protruding part (4351) and the second protruding part (4352). With respect to the fixed projection (451), the first protruding part (4351) may be located on one side of the optical axis (L) direction (+z-axis direction) and the second protruding part (4352) may be located on the other side of the optical axis (L) direction (-z-axis direction). In the locked state, the camera assembly (430) can be constrained in the optical axis (L) direction. For example, the camera assembly (430) may be restricted from moving in the positive optical axis direction (e.g., +z-axis direction) by the first protruding part (4351) contacting the fixed projection (451). For example, the camera assembly (430) may be restricted from moving in the negative optical axis direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) by the second protrusion (4352) contacting the fixed projection (451). For example, in the locked state, the camera assembly (430) may be fixed in the optical axis (L) direction. The distance between the camera assembly (430) and the image sensor (415) may be maintained constant. For example, the camera module (400) may provide a fixed focus mode in which the distance between the lens (431) and the image sensor (415) is fixed in the locked state. For example, in the locked state, the camera module (400) may have a fixed focus.

Referring to FIG. 9(b), in a second state (e.g., unlocked state), the fixed projection (451) may not be received between the first protruding part (4351) and the second protruding part (4352). In the unlocked state, the fixed projection (451) may be disengaged from the fixed groove (435). In the unlocked state, the camera assembly (430) may move in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431). The camera module (400) may control the distance between the lens (431) and the image sensor (415) by moving the camera module (400) in the direction of the optical axis (L) in the unlocked state. For example, the control circuit of the camera module (400) may move the camera assembly (430) by controlling the first coil (471). For example, the camera module (400) may provide a variable focus mode that provides various focal lengths.

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) can move to a first state (e.g., locked state) or a second state (e.g., unlocked state) using the second coil (472). For example, the camera module (400) can move the sliding structure (450) in a sliding direction (S). For example, the control circuit of the camera module (400) (e.g., the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) can move the sliding structure (450) so that the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) is received into or released from the fixed groove (435) of the camera assembly (430) by controlling the direction and/or strength of the current applied to the second coil (472).

For example, when the camera module (400) moves from a second state (e.g., unlocked state) to a first state (e.g., locked state), the sliding structure (450) can be controlled in a first sliding direction (①) (e.g., -y-axis direction) so that the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) is received in the fixed groove (435) of the camera assembly (430).

For example, when the camera module (400) moves from a first state (e.g., locked state) to a second state (e.g., unlocked state), the sliding structure (450) can be controlled in a second sliding direction (②) (e.g., y-axis direction) so that the fixed projection (451) of the sliding structure (450) is disengaged from the fixed groove (435) of the camera assembly (430).

Referring to FIG. 10, the fixed module (403) may include a sliding structure (450), a second coil (472), a second yoke member (476), and a guide structure (405).

In one embodiment, the fixed module (403) may include a sliding structure (450), a second coil (472), and a second yoke member (476). In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may be located on the second side (442) of the camera assembly (430). For example, a second magnet (482), a guide rail (455), and a fixed projection (451) may be formed on the sliding structure (450).

In one embodiment, the second magnet (482) may include a first region (482a) having a first polarity (e.g., N pole) and a second region (482b) having a second polarity (e.g., S pole). The first region (482a) and the second region (482b) may be arranged adjacent to each other in a sliding direction.

In one embodiment, the second coil (472) may be placed within the magnetic field formed by the second magnet (482). The second coil (472) may face at least partially the second magnet (482). For example, when current is applied to the second coil (472), an electromagnetic force acting in a sliding direction may be applied to the second magnet (482) and the sliding structure (450). The electromagnetic force may cause the second magnet (482) and the sliding structure (450) to move in a sliding direction (S) relative to the second coil (472) fixed to the camera housing (410).

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may include a second Hall sensor (492) for detecting the magnetic field of the second magnet (482) and a control circuit for controlling the second coil (472). In one embodiment, the control circuit may detect the position of the second magnet (482) based on a signal detected from the second Hall sensor (492). For example, the signal detected from the second Hall sensor (492) may be a feedback signal. Based on the detected position of the second magnet (482), the control circuit may control the current flowing through the second coil (472) so that the second magnet (482) moves to a designated position. For example, the control circuit may control the direction and/or strength of the current flowing through the second coil (472).

In one embodiment, the second yoke member (476) may be disposed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). The second yoke member (476) may shield the magnetic field formed from the second coil (472) and/or the second magnet (482). The second coil (472) may be disposed between the second yoke member (476) and the second magnet (482). In one embodiment, an attractive force may be formed between the second yoke member (476) and the second magnet (482). By this attractive force, the sliding structure (450) may be pressed in a direction toward the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). For example, when the sliding structure (450) moves, a plurality of second balls (464) can roll in close contact with at least a part of the guide rail (455) and the side wall (e.g., second side wall (422)) of the camera housing (410).

In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may include a fixed projection (451) protruding in a sliding direction (S). For example, the fixed projection (451) protrudes in a first sliding direction (①), and the fixed groove (435) of the camera assembly (430) may be located in the first sliding direction (①) from the sliding structure (450) when viewed in a second state (e.g., unlocked state). In one embodiment, the fixed projection (451) may be configured to be received in the fixed groove (435) formed in the camera assembly (430). For example, in a first state (e.g., locked state), at least a portion of the fixed projection (451) may be received in the fixed groove (435). For example, in a locked state, at least a portion of the fixed projection (451) may be received between a first protruding portion (4351) and a second protruding portion (4352).

In one embodiment, the peripheral area of the fixed projection (451) can perform a stopper function that restricts the sliding movement of the sliding structure (450). For example, when the camera module (400) moves from a second state (e.g., unlocked state) to a first state (e.g., locked state), the sliding structure (450) can slide until the peripheral area of the fixed projection (451) comes into contact with the first protrusion (4351) and/or the second protrusion (4352).

In one embodiment, a guide rail (455) may be formed in the sliding structure (450). In one embodiment, the guide rail (455) may guide the sliding direction (S) of the sliding structure together with a guide member (e.g., guide member (460) of FIG. 12). In one embodiment, a plurality of second balls (464) may be disposed in the guide rail (455). At least some of the plurality of second balls (464) may be located inside the guide rail (455) and may be formed to roll while in contact with a portion of the guide rail (455). For example, the guide rail (455) may be extended in the sliding direction.

In various embodiments, the fixed projection (451) and/or fixed groove (435) are examples, and the connection of the sliding structure (450) and/or camera assembly (430) is not limited to that shown in the drawings. For example, a first connection part may be formed in the camera assembly (430), and a second connection part may be formed in the sliding structure (450). The first connection part and the second connection part may include various shapes and/or structures in which the focus adjustment function of the camera assembly (430) is limited when connected to each other.

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) may include a variable focus mode in which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are separated, and a fixed focus mode in which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are combined. In the variable focus mode, the camera module (400) may be configured to move the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis using the first coil (471), and to move to the fixed focus mode, the sliding structure (450) may be configured to move the second coupling part to be coupled to the first coupling part using the second coil (472).

FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a sliding structure (450) of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a second side wall (422) of a camera housing (410) of a camera module (400) according to one embodiment.

In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may include a second magnet (482) that electromagnetically interacts with the second coil (472), a fixed projection (451) including a portion protruding in the sliding direction (S), and a guide rail (455).

In one embodiment, the sliding structure (450) may include a facing surface (450a) that faces at least a portion of the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). A second magnet (482) and a guide rail (455) may be formed on the facing surface (450a). The second magnet (482) may have a first region (482a) with a first polarity and a second region (482b) with a second polarity arranged adjacent to each other in the sliding direction (S). For example, the second magnet (482) may be arranged so that the first region (482a) and the second region (482b) face the second coil (472). In one embodiment, the guide rail (455) may be formed to include a position corresponding to a guide member (460) formed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). For example, a guide member (460) may be accommodated in the guide rail (455). The sliding structure (450) may slide while the guide member (460) is accommodated in the guide rail (455). The guide rail (455) may be extended in the sliding direction (S).

In one embodiment, a guide member (460) may be formed on a second side wall (422) of a camera housing (410). A recess may be formed in the guide member (460) to accommodate a plurality of second balls (464). The plurality of second balls (464) may be configured to be received in at least a portion of the recess and to roll within the recess. The plurality of second balls (464) may roll while maintaining contact with a portion of the guide rail (455) when the sliding structure (450) is slid. In this way, the plurality of second balls (464) may provide rolling friction to the sliding structure (450).

In one embodiment, the guide rail (455) may include a first guide rail (456) open to one side of the first sliding direction (①), a second guide rail (457) open to the second sliding direction (②), and a third guide rail (458) open to the -z axis direction. The first guide rail (456), the second guide rail (457), and the third guide rail (458) may each extend in the sliding direction. In one embodiment, the first guide rail (456) and the second guide rail (457) may each extend in the first sliding direction (①) and the second sliding direction (②), respectively, with the second magnet (482) in between.

In one embodiment, the guide member (460) may include a first guide member (461) received in a first guide rail (456), a second guide member (462) received in a second guide rail (457), and a third guide member (463) received in a third guide rail (458). In one embodiment, one or more second balls (464) may be disposed in each of the first guide member (461), the second guide member (462), and the third guide member (463).

In one embodiment, the first wall (4561) of the first guide rail (456) can function as a stopper that restricts the movement of the sliding structure (450) in the first sliding direction (①). For example, the sliding structure (450) can move in the first sliding direction (①) until the first wall (4561) of the first guide rail (456) comes into contact with the first guide member (461).

In one embodiment, the second wall (4571) of the second guide rail (457) can function as a stopper that restricts the movement of the sliding structure (450) in the second sliding direction (②). For example, the sliding structure (450) can move in the second sliding direction (②) until the second wall (4571) of the second guide rail (457) contacts the second guide member (462).

In one embodiment, the third wall (4581) of the third guide rail (458) and the fourth wall (4582) facing it may function as a stopper that limits the range of movement in the sliding direction (S) of the sliding structure (450). For example, the sliding structure (450) may slide in a range where the third guide member (463) is located between the third wall (4581) and the fourth wall (4582).

In various embodiments, a first fixed magnet (4562) may be formed on the first wall (4561) of the first guide rail (456), and a first corresponding fixed magnet (4611) may be formed on the first guide member (461) facing the first fixed magnet (4562) in a sliding direction (S). The first fixed magnet (4562) and the first corresponding fixed magnet (4611) may form an attractive force with each other.

In one embodiment, when moving from a second state (e.g., unlocked state) to a first state (e.g., locked state), the sliding structure moves in a first sliding direction, and the fixed projection (451) can be inserted into the fixed groove (435). In the locked state, the first guide member (461) can maintain contact with the first wall (4561) of the first guide rail (456) by the attractive force between the first fixed magnet (4562) and the first corresponding fixed magnet (4611).

In one embodiment, when moving from a first state (e.g., locked state) to a second state (e.g., unlocked state), the sliding structure (450) moves in the second sliding direction (②), and the fixed projection (451) can be disengaged from the fixed groove (435). In the unlocked state, the second guide member (462) can maintain contact with the second wall (4571) of the second guide rail (457) by the attractive force between the second fixed magnet (4572) and the second corresponding fixed magnet (4621).

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may include a lock state in which a fixing projection (451) of a sliding structure (450) is inserted into a fixing groove (435) of the camera assembly (430) to prevent the camera assembly (430) from moving in the direction of the optical axis (L).

For example, a first state of the camera module (e.g., a lock state) may include a state in which power is cut off to the electronic device (300) and the camera module (400), a state in which power is supplied to the electronic device (300) but power is cut off to the camera module (400), or a state in a fixed focus mode.

When power is cut off to each of the electronic device (300) and the camera module (400), current is not applied to the second coil (472), so the sliding structure (450) may not be able to maintain a locked state. For example, the camera module (400) may be in an unlocked state when current is not applied to the second coil (472).

A camera module (400) according to one embodiment may be configured to maintain a first state (e.g., a locked state) even when the power is cut off, by including a first fixed magnet (4562) disposed on a sliding structure (450) and a first corresponding fixed magnet (4611) disposed on a camera housing (410). Through this, the camera module (400) can maintain the locked state even when the power to the electronic device (300) or the camera module (400) is cut off. For example, to move to a second state (e.g., an unlocked state), a current may be required in the second coil (472) that can form an electromagnetic force greater than the attractive force of the first fixed magnet (4562) and the first corresponding fixed magnet (4611).

In various embodiments, a second fixed magnet (4572) may be formed on the second wall (4571) of the second guide rail (457), and a second corresponding fixed magnet (4621) may be formed on the second guide member (462) facing the second fixed magnet (4572) in the sliding direction (S).

In various embodiments, an attractive force may be formed between the second fixed magnet (4572) and the second corresponding fixed magnet (4621). For example, the second fixed magnet (4572) and the second corresponding fixed magnet (4621) may keep the sliding structure (450) in an unlocked state.

For example, the first fixed magnet (4562) and the first corresponding fixed magnet (4611) can maintain a first state (e.g., locked state) of the sliding structure (450), and the second fixed magnet (4572) and the second corresponding fixed magnet (4621) can maintain a second state (e.g., unlocked state) of the sliding structure (450). For example, at least a part of the camera housing (410) can provide a detent function that fixes the position of the sliding structure (450).

In various embodiments, a repulsive force may be formed between the second fixed magnet (4572) and the second corresponding fixed magnet (4621). For example, the sliding structure (450) may move in the first sliding direction (①) by the repulsive force when no current is applied to the second coil (472). For example, the camera module (400) may be configured to be in a first state (e.g., locked state) when no current is applied to the second coil (472), and in a second state (e.g., unlocked state) when current is applied. For example, the first state (e.g., locked state) may be maintained even when the power to the camera module (400) and/or the electronic device (300) is cut off. Additionally, when power is supplied to the camera module (400), current is applied to the second coil (472), so that the camera module (400) is in a second state (e.g., unlocked state) and the focus adjustment function of the camera assembly (430) can be operated.

In one embodiment, the camera module (400) may be in a first state (e.g., locked state) or a second state (e.g., unlocked state) in which no current is applied to the second coil (472). In each case, the camera housing (410) may include a first fixed magnet (4562), a first corresponding fixed magnet (4611), a second fixed magnet (4572), and a second corresponding fixed magnet (4621) to provide a suitable detent of the sliding structure (450).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) can maintain a first state (e.g., locked state) or a second state (e.g., unlocked state) even when the power is cut off by detenting the sliding structure (450).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) may include a second Hall sensor (492) configured to detect the position of the second magnet (482). For example, the second Hall sensor (492) may be placed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). The camera module (400) and/or the electronic device (300) may detect the position of the sliding structure (450) and perform feedback control based on the signal received from the second Hall sensor (492). For example, if the sliding structure (450) deviates from a designated position due to a disturbance (e.g., a drop impact), the second coil (472) may be controlled to move the sliding structure (450) to a designated position.

In various embodiments, the detent method of the sliding structure (450) is not limited to using the magnet shown in the drawing. In various embodiments, the camera module (400) may include various structures for detenting the sliding structure (450).

For example, the camera module (400) may include a holding yoke (not shown) that forms a connection with the second magnet and is positioned on the first guide rail (456) and/or the second guide rail (457). The holding yoke (not shown) may be positioned in pairs with the second magnet (482) in between when viewed in the sliding direction. One of the pair of holding yokes contacts the second magnet (482) in a first state (e.g., locked state), and the sliding structure (450) may be fixed in the first state. The other of the pair of holding yokes contacts the second magnet (482) in a second state (e.g., unlocked state), and the sliding structure (450) may be fixed in the second state.

For example, the camera module (400) may include a locking projection formed on the first guide rail (456) and/or the second guide rail (457), and a corresponding locking projection formed on the first guide member (461) and the second guide member (462). Alternatively, the corresponding locking projection may be formed on the second side wall (422) of the camera housing (410). In the above embodiment, the locking projection and the corresponding locking projection may be formed to be coupled in shape as the sliding structure (450) moves. For example, when the sliding structure (450) moves in the first sliding direction (①), the locking projection and the corresponding locking projection are formed coupled so that the sliding structure (450) is detented and the camera module (400) can maintain a locked state. For example, unless a sufficient force (electromagnetic force) is applied to the sliding structure (450) to release the connection between the locking projection and the corresponding locking projection, the sliding structure (450) may be detented in a locked state without moving in the second sliding direction (②).

FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a camera module (500) according to another embodiment. FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a first state and a second state of a camera module (500) according to another embodiment.

The camera module (500) illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 16 may be a camera module (500) in which the third magnet (483), the fourth magnet (484), the third coil (473), and the fourth coil (474) related to the image stabilization function are omitted from the camera module (400) illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 12. Hereinafter, in describing FIGS. 13 to 16, content that overlaps with FIGS. 4 to 12 is omitted.

In one embodiment, the camera module (500) may include a camera housing (510), a camera assembly (530), a fixed structure (550), a first coil (571), a second coil (572), a plurality of balls (534), a first yoke member (575), and a second yoke member (576).

In one embodiment, the camera housing (510) may include a base (511) on which an image sensor (515) is placed, a side wall (513) surrounding the base (511), and a cover (512) coupled to the base (511) and the side wall (513). In various embodiments, the base (511) may be electrically connected to the image sensor (515) or may include a circuit board on which the image sensor (515) is placed. An opening (5121) may be formed in the cover (512) to expose at least a portion of the lens (531) and lens barrel (532) of the camera assembly (530). The base (511), the side wall (513), and the cover (512) may form a space in which at least a portion of the camera assembly (530) is accommodated. In one embodiment, a first coil (571) associated with a focus adjustment function may be placed in the first side wall (521) of the camera housing (510). A first yoke member (575) may be disposed on the first side wall (521). In one embodiment, a second coil (572) associated with a fixing function may be disposed on the second side wall (522) of the camera housing (510). A second yoke member (576) may be disposed on the second side wall (522).

In one embodiment, the camera assembly (530) may include a lens (531), a lens barrel (532) surrounding the lens (531), a first magnet (581) associated with a focus adjustment function, and a plurality of balls (534). The camera assembly (530) may be positioned so that at least a portion is accommodated in the internal space of the camera housing (510). For example, a portion of the lens barrel (532) and the lens (531) may be exposed to the outside of the camera housing (510) through an opening (5121) of the cover (512). In one embodiment, the first magnet (581) may face at least partially the first coil (571) to interact electromagnetically with the first coil (571). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (530) may move linearly in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (531). As the camera assembly (530) moves in the direction of the optical axis (L), the distance between the lens (531) and the image sensor (515) may change. For example, the focus adjustment function of the camera module (500) may be performed. In one embodiment, a plurality of balls (534) may be configured to roll between the camera housing (510) and the camera assembly (530). The plurality of balls (534) may provide rolling friction to the camera assembly (530) when the camera assembly (530) moves. For example, the plurality of balls (534) may be accommodated between a first rail (527) formed on the first side wall (521) and a second rail (537) formed on the camera assembly (530). In one embodiment, an attractive force may be formed between the first yoke member (575) and the first magnet (581). The camera assembly (530) can be pressed by the aforementioned force in a direction toward the first side wall (521). As a result, a plurality of balls (534) can roll while in close contact with the first rail (527) and the second rail (537).

In one embodiment, the fixed structure (550) may be located inside the camera housing (510). The fixed structure (550) may be formed in a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the camera assembly (530). The fixed structure (550) may include a second magnet (582) that faces at least partially the second coil (572). In one embodiment, the fixed structure (550) may move toward the camera assembly (530) or away from the camera assembly (530) by the electromagnetic interaction between the second coil (572) and the second magnet (582). For example, if a repulsive force is formed between the second magnet (582) and the second coil (572), the fixed structure (550) may move in the -x-axis direction (e.g., towards the first side wall), and if an attractive force is formed between the second magnet (582) and the second coil (572), the fixed structure (550) may move in the +x-axis direction (e.g., towards the second side wall (522)). In one embodiment, a control circuit (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1, the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2) included in the camera module (500) and/or electronic device (300) may control the direction of movement of the fixed structure (550) by changing the direction of the current flowing through the second coil (572). In one embodiment, when the fixed structure (550) moves in the -x axis direction, the fixed structure (550) comes into at least partial contact with the camera assembly (530), and the focus adjustment function of the camera module (500) may be limited. For example, as the fixed structure (550) presses the camera assembly (530) in the -x axis direction, the frictional force between the first side wall (521) of the camera housing (510) and the fixed structure (550) may increase. The increased frictional force may limit the movement of the camera assembly (530) in the optical axis (L) direction. In one embodiment, the second yoke member (576) may shield the magnetic field formed from the second magnet (582) of the fixed structure (550) and/or the second coil (572) of the camera housing (510).

FIG. 14(a) illustrates a camera module (500) in a second state, and FIG. 14(b) illustrates a camera module (500) in a first state.

In one embodiment, the second state (e.g., unlocked state) may include a state in which the focus adjustment function of the camera module (500) is operated. For example, the focus adjustment function may be performed when the fixed structure (550) and the camera assembly (530) are not in contact, or when the contact area between the fixed structure (550) and the camera assembly (530) is relatively small compared to the first state (e.g., locked state). In the unlocked state, the camera assembly (530) may maintain a designated position or move to a designated position in response to the current applied to the first coil (571). For example, the camera module (500) may perform a focus adjustment function.

In one embodiment, the first state (e.g., a lock state) may include a state in which the camera module (500) does not operate the focus adjustment function of the camera module (500). For example, the lock state may include a state in which the power to the camera module (500) is cut off, a state in which the camera module (500) is not in shooting mode, and/or a state in which the focus adjustment function is disabled. For example, the lock state may include a state in which the camera assembly (530) moves freely because no current is applied to the first coil (571).

In one embodiment, the camera module (500) may be configured to be in a locked state to prevent damage to the camera assembly (530) and the camera housing (510) when the focus adjustment function is not operating. For example, when the focus adjustment function is not operating, the camera assembly (530) may move freely in the direction of the optical axis inside the camera housing (510). In this case, due to external shocks or vibrations applied to the electronic device (300), the camera housing (510) and the camera assembly (530) may continuously collide, and the risk of damage to the camera housing (510) and the camera assembly (530) may increase. The camera module (500) according to one embodiment may be configured to restrict the movement of the camera assembly (530) using a fixed structure (550) when the focus adjustment function is not operating. For example, the camera module (500) can move the fixed structure (550) so that the fixed structure (550) and the camera assembly (530) come into at least partial contact by controlling the current flowing through the second coil (572). In this case, no current is applied to the first coil (571), but current can be applied to the second coil (572).

FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a fixed focus mode of a camera module (500) according to another embodiment.

The fixed focus mode illustrated in FIG. 15 may include a first state (e.g., a locked state) illustrated in FIG. 14. For example, the camera module (500) may provide a fixed focus mode in a locked state where the movement of the camera assembly (530) is restricted by a fixed structure (550). For example, if disturbances caused by the surrounding environment (e.g., vibration, shaking) are relatively large, the camera module (500) may provide a fixed focus mode in which the camera assembly (530) is fixed. For example, in a variable focus mode, if relatively large disturbances are acting, the camera assembly (530) may not be able to move fast enough to adequately correct the disturbances. For example, if the frequency of vibration or shaking is high, the fixed focus mode may provide better image quality compared to the variable focus mode.

A camera module (500) according to one embodiment may be configured to perform a focus adjustment function to form a designated focus and to fix the designated focus using a fixed structure (550). For example, the camera module (500) may move the camera assembly (530) to form an appropriate focal distance according to the distance to the subject using a first coil (571), and move the fixed structure (550) to contact the camera assembly (530) using a second coil (572) to restrict the movement of the camera assembly (530).

For example, referring to FIG. 15(a), the camera module (500) may separate the camera assembly (530) from the image sensor by a first distance (g1) so as to have a relatively long focal length, and then fix the camera assembly (530) using a fixing structure (550). For example, a long focal length may mean a state in which a macro mode and/or a zoom-in operation is performed.

For example, referring to FIG. 15(b), the camera module (500) may have the camera assembly (530) separated from the image sensor (515) by a second distance (g2) so as to have a relatively small focal length, and then fix the camera assembly (530) using a fixing structure (550). For example, a small focal length may mean an infinity distance or a state in which a zoom-out operation has been performed.

For example, the camera module (500) can move to a variable focus mode by moving the fixed structure (550) away from the camera assembly (530) in a direction (e.g., toward the second side wall (522)) to change the focal length in the fixed focus mode. After forming a different focal length through the focus adjustment function in the variable focus mode, the fixed structure (550) can be moved toward the camera assembly (530) to return to the fixed focus mode.

According to one embodiment, the camera module (500) may move to a second state (e.g., FIG. 14(a)) to provide a variable focus mode and to a first state (e.g., FIG. 14(b)) to provide a fixed focus mode.

FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating a camera module (500) according to another embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 16, the fixed structure (550) is not limited to the form shown in FIG. 13, FIG. 14, and FIG. 15 and can be formed in various forms.

For example, referring to FIG. 16(a), the fixed structure (550) may include an extension portion (559) that extends toward a first side wall (e.g., the first side wall (521) of FIG. 13) to surround the camera assembly (530) more than the fixed structure (550) shown in FIG. 14. By the extension portion (559), the contact area between the fixed structure (550) and the camera assembly (530) is increased, thereby allowing the camera assembly (530) to be fixed more securely.

For example, referring to FIG. 16(b), the fixed structure (550) may not surround the camera assembly (530). For example, the fixed structure (550) may include a contact surface (558) formed to contact a portion of the side of the camera assembly. The portion of the camera assembly (530) that the contact surface (558) contacts may be a surface facing the surface on which the first magnet (582) of the fixed structure (550) is formed.

An electronic device (300) according to one embodiment disclosed in this document comprises: a housing (110); and a camera module (400) configured to receive external light through at least a portion of the surface of the housing (110); wherein the camera module (400) comprises a camera housing (410) disposed inside the housing (110), an image sensor (415) disposed on the bottom surface of the camera housing (410); a camera assembly comprising at least a portion of which is received inside the camera housing (410) and a lens (431) and a first magnet (481) located on a first side (441), wherein the lens (431) is aligned with the image sensor (415) and the lens (431) in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431); and a first coil (471) disposed on a first inner wall (421) of the camera housing (410) and at least partially facing the first magnet (481). A sliding structure (450) comprising a fixed projection (451) protruding in the sliding direction, which slides between the second inner wall (422) of the camera housing (410) and the camera assembly (430); and a driving unit for sliding the sliding structure (450); wherein the camera module (400) may be configured to move the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431) using the first coil (471), and to slide the sliding structure (450) using the driving unit so that at least a portion of the fixed projection (451) is received in a fixed groove (435) formed in the camera assembly (430).

In various embodiments, the driving unit may include a second magnet (482) disposed on either the sliding structure (450) or the second inner wall (422) of the camera housing (410), and a second coil (472) disposed on the other and electromagnetically interacting with the second magnet (482).

In various embodiments, the sliding structure (450) may include a shape-memory alloy so that it can be deformed into a state in which the fixed projection (451) is received in the fixed groove (435) and a state in which the fixed projection (451) is detached from the fixed groove (435), respectively.

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) can control the sliding structure (450) so that the fixed projection (451) is received in the fixed groove (435) when the power supply to the camera module (400) is cut off.

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) may be configured such that when power is supplied to the second coil (472), the fixing projection (451) is disengaged from the fixing groove (435), and when power is cut off to the second coil (472), at least a portion of the fixing projection (451) is received in the fixing groove (435).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) can provide a fixed focus mode in which the fixed projection (451) is received in the fixed groove (435) and an auto focus mode in which the fixed projection is disengaged from the fixed groove (435) by moving the sliding structure (450) using the driving unit.

In various embodiments, the fixing groove (435) is formed between a first protrusion (4351) and a second protrusion (4352) that protrude from the side of the camera assembly (430) toward the camera housing (410), and the fixing projection (451) may be configured to be insertable into the space between the first protrusion (4351) and the second protrusion (4352).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) includes a guide structure for guiding the sliding direction of the sliding structure (450), and the guide structure may include a guide rail (455) formed on either the sliding structure (450) or the camera housing (410), and a guide member (460) formed on the other and having at least a portion located on the guide rail (455).

In various embodiments, the guide rail (455) may be extended in the sliding direction.

In various embodiments, the guide structure further includes a second ball (464) disposed on the guide member (460), and the second ball (464) may be configured to roll while contacting a portion of the guide rail (455) when the sliding structure (450) slides.

In various embodiments, the camera housing (410) may further include a second yoke member (476) disposed on the second inner wall (422) so as to face at least partially with the sliding structure (450).

In various embodiments, the camera assembly (430) further includes a first ball (434) for providing rolling friction to the camera assembly (430) when the camera assembly (430) moves in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431), and the first ball (434) may be positioned between the first inner wall (421) of the camera housing (410) and the first side (441) of the camera assembly (430) facing the first inner wall (421).

In various embodiments, the first magnet (481) is disposed on the first side (441) of the camera assembly (430), and the first ball (434) can be received in a recess formed on the first side (441) of the camera assembly (430) and extending in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) further includes a flexible circuit board (470) surrounding the camera housing (410), and the first coil (471) and/or the second coil (472) may be placed on the flexible circuit board (470).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) further includes a third coil (473) disposed on a third inner wall (423) of the camera housing (410) and a fourth coil (474) disposed on a fourth inner wall (424) of the camera housing (410), and the camera module (400) can perform an image stabilization function by moving the camera assembly (430) in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (L) of the lens (431) using the third coil (473) and the fourth coil (474).

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) further includes a flexible circuit board (470) surrounding the camera housing (410), and the flexible circuit board (470) may include the first coil (471), the third coil (473), and the fourth coil (474).

A camera module (400) according to embodiments disclosed in this document comprises: a camera housing (410) including an image sensor (415) and a circuit board (414) electrically connected to the image sensor (415); a camera assembly (430) including a lens (431) that is at least partially accommodated inside the camera housing (410) and aligned with the image sensor (415) in the direction of the optical axis (L), and configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis (L) of the lens (431); a first coil (471) and a second coil (472) disposed on the side wall of the camera housing (410); and a sliding structure (450) including a second magnet (482) configured to slide in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (L) between the camera assembly (430) and the side wall of the camera housing (410), and at least partially facing the second coil (472). The sliding structure (450) includes a second coupling portion that is detachably coupled to a first coupling portion of the camera assembly (430), and the camera assembly (430) may be restricted from moving in the direction of the optical axis (L) when the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are coupled.

In various embodiments, the camera module (400) includes a variable focus mode in which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are separated, and a fixed focus mode in which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are combined, and the camera module (400) is configured to move the camera assembly (430) in the direction of the optical axis using the first coil (471) in the variable focus mode, and the camera module (400) may be configured to move the sliding structure (450) so that the second coupling part is coupled to the first coupling part using the second coil (472) in order to move to the fixed focus mode.

In various embodiments, a guide structure for guiding the sliding direction of the sliding structure (450) is included, the guide structure includes a guide rail (455) formed on either the sliding structure (450) or the camera housing (410), and a guide member (460) formed on the other and having at least a portion located on the guide rail (455), and the guide member (460) may include a ball (464) configured to roll while in contact with at least a portion of the guide rail (455).

The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technology described in this document to specific embodiments and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and/or substitutions of such embodiments. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components. A singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, expressions such as "A or B," "at least one of A and/or B," "A, B or C," or "at least one of A, B and/or C" may include all possible combinations of items listed together. Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" may modify the components, regardless of order or importance, and are used only to distinguish one component from another and do not limit the components. When it is mentioned that a certain (e.g., first) component is "(functionally or telecommunicationally) connected" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) component, said certain component may be directly connected to said other component or connected through another component (e.g., third component).

In this document, "adapted to or configured to" may be used interchangeably with, depending on the context, for example, hardware- or software-wise, "suitable for," "capable of," "modified to," "made to," "capable of," or "designed to." In some cases, the expression "device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" in conjunction with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "processor configured to perform A, B, and C" may refer to a dedicated processor for performing those operations (e.g., an embedded processor), or a general-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or AP) capable of performing those operations by executing one or more programs stored in a memory device (e.g., memory).

As used in this document, the term “module” includes a unit composed of hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A “module” may be a component formed as a whole or a minimum unit or part thereof that performs one or more functions. A “module” may be implemented mechanically or electronically and may include, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or programmable logic device, known or under development, that performs certain operations.

At least a portion of the device (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or method (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be implemented as instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory) in the form of program modules. When said instructions are executed by a processor (e.g., a processor), the processor may perform a function corresponding to said instructions. Computer-readable recording media may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic medium (e.g., magnetic tape), an optical recording medium (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD), a magneto-optical medium (e.g., floptical disk), built-in memory, etc. Instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter.

Each component (e.g., module or program module) according to various embodiments may be composed of a singular or multiple entities, and some of the aforementioned sub-components may be omitted or additional sub-components may be included. Generally or additionally, some components (e.g., module or program module) may be integrated into a single entity to perform the functions performed by each of the respective components prior to integration in the same or similar manner. The operations performed by the module, program module, or other components according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or additional operations may be added.

Claims (20)

In electronic devices,
Housing; and
A camera module configured to receive external light through at least a portion of the surface of the housing; comprising
The above camera module is
A camera housing disposed inside the above housing, and an image sensor disposed on the bottom surface of the above camera housing;
A camera assembly comprising at least a portion thereof accommodated inside the camera housing and including a lens and a first magnet located on a first side;
A first coil disposed on the first inner wall of the camera housing and facing at least partially the first magnet;
A sliding structure that slides between the second inner wall of the camera housing and the camera assembly and includes a fixed projection protruding in the sliding direction; and
A driving unit for sliding the above sliding structure; including
An electronic device configured such that the camera module moves the camera assembly in the direction of the optical axis of the lens using the first coil, and slides the sliding structure using the driving unit so that at least a portion of the fixed projection is received in a fixed groove formed in the camera assembly. In claim 1,
The above driving unit is an electronic device comprising a second magnet disposed on either of the sliding structure and the second inner wall of the camera housing, and a second coil disposed on the other and electromagnetically interacting with the second magnet. In claim 1,
The above sliding structure is an electronic device comprising a shape-memory alloy that allows the fixed projection to be deformed into a state in which it is received in the fixed groove and a state in which it is detached from the fixed groove, respectively. In claim 1,
The above camera module is an electronic device that controls the sliding structure so that the fixed projection is received in the fixed groove when the power supply to the above camera module is cut off. delete In claim 1,
The above camera module is an electronic device that provides a fixed focus mode in which the fixed projection is received in the fixed groove and an auto focus mode in which the fixed projection is disengaged from the fixed groove by moving the sliding structure using the driving unit. In claim 1,
The above fixed projection includes a portion protruding in the sliding direction of the sliding structure, and
The above fixed projection is an electronic device formed to be accommodated in the above fixed groove. In claim 1,
The above fixing groove is formed between a first protruding part and a second protruding part protruding from the side of the camera assembly toward the camera housing, and
The above fixed projection is configured to be insertable into the space between the first protruding part and the second protruding part. In claim 1,
The camera module includes a guide structure for guiding the sliding direction of the sliding structure, and
The above guide structure is an electronic device comprising a guide rail formed in either the sliding structure or the camera housing, and a guide member formed in the other and having at least a portion located on the guide rail. delete delete delete In claim 1,
The camera assembly further includes a first ball for providing rolling friction to the camera assembly when it moves in the direction of the optical axis of the lens, and
The first ball is an electronic device disposed between the first inner wall of the camera housing and the first side of the camera assembly facing the first inner wall. delete delete delete delete In camera modules,
A camera housing comprising an image sensor and a circuit board electrically connected to the image sensor;
A camera assembly comprising a lens, at least a portion of which is accommodated inside the camera housing, and configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis of the lens;
A coil disposed on the side wall of the camera housing; and
A sliding structure configured to slide in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis between the side wall of the camera assembly and the camera housing, and comprising a magnet that at least partially faces the coil;
The camera assembly includes a first coupling portion formed toward the sliding structure, and
The above sliding structure includes a second coupling part that is detachably coupled to the first coupling part, and
The above camera assembly is a camera module in which movement in the optical axis direction is restricted when the first coupling part and the second coupling part are coupled. delete delete