Patent Publication Number: US-2023146983-A1

Title: Camera module and electronic device including the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/KR2022/016444 designating the United States, filed on Oct. 26, 2022, and claiming priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0154099, filed on Nov. 10, 2021, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Embodiments of the disclosure described herein relate to a camera module and an electronic device including the same. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     A recent mobile electronic device is desired to be equipped with a high-specification camera module. The high-specification camera module may include a large-sized lens and a large-sized image sensor, and an overall size of the camera module may be increased. A thickness of the camera module may be closely related to a thickness of the mobile electronic device. A recent mobile electronic device equipped with the high-specification camera module may include a camera area protruding from a rear surface thereof. 
     DISCLOSURE 
     Technical Problem 
     Embodiments of the disclosure provide a camera module including an image sensor mounting structure for reducing or preventing cracks in an image sensor that are likely to occur in an assembly process. 
     Technical Solution 
     An electronic device in an embodiment of the disclosure includes a housing and a camera module in the housing. The camera module includes a camera housing, a lens assembly disposed in the camera housing, an image sensor disposed in the camera housing and at least partially aligned with an optical axis of the lens, a metal plate including a first area that overlaps the image sensor when viewed in a direction of the optical axis and a second area around the first area, and a circuit board at least partially attached to the metal plate and electrically connected with the image sensor. A slit that penetrates the metal plate or a recess concavely defined in a surface of the metal plate is defined in the second area of the metal plate. 
     Advantageous Effects 
     The camera module in the embodiments of the disclosure may reduce bending stress applied to the image sensor during assembly or use. 
     Furthermore, the camera module in the embodiments of the disclosure may include the metal plate having a relatively small thickness, and thus the camera module and the electronic device may have a relatively small thickness. 
     In addition, the disclosure may provide various effects that are directly or indirectly recognized. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a block diagram of an embodiment of an electronic device in a network environment. 
         FIG.  2    is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a camera module. 
         FIG.  3 A  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  3 B  is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the electronic device. 
         FIG.  3 C  is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the electronic device. 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of an embodiment of a camera module. 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of the camera module. 
         FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the camera module. 
         FIG.  7    is a view illustrating an embodiment of a circuit board and a metal plate of the camera module. 
         FIG.  8    is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the circuit board and the metal plate of the camera module when an external force acts on the metal plate. 
         FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a camera module. 
         FIG.  10    is a view illustrating an embodiment of a circuit board and a metal plate of the camera module. 
         FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the circuit board and the metal plate of the camera module when an external force acts on the metal plate. 
         FIGS.  12 A and  12 B  are views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. 
         FIGS.  13 A and  13 B  are views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. 
         FIGS.  14 A and  14 B  are views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. 
         FIGS.  15 A and  15 B  are cross-sectional views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. 
         FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  are cross-sectional views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. 
     
    
    
     With regard to description of the drawings, identical or similar reference numerals may be used to refer to identical or similar components. 
     MODE FOR INVENTION 
     Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure may be described with reference to accompanying drawings. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that modification, equivalent, and/or alternative on the various embodiments described herein can be variously made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. 
       FIG.  1    is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an electronic device in a network environment. 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , the electronic device  101  in the network environment  100  may communicate with an electronic device  102  via a first network  198  (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device  104  or a server  108  via a second network  199  (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In an embodiment, the electronic device  101  may communicate with the electronic device  104  via the server  108 . In an embodiment, the electronic device  101  may include a processor  120 , a memory  130 , an input module  150 , a sound output module  155 , a display module  160 , an audio module  170 , a sensor module  176 , an interface  177 , a connecting terminal  178 , a haptic module  179 , a camera module  180 , a power management module  188 , a battery  189 , a communication module  190 , a subscriber identification module (“SIM”)  196 , or an antenna module  197 . In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal  178 ) may be omitted from the electronic device  101 , or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device  101 . In some embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module  176 , the camera module  180 , or the antenna module  197 ) may be implemented as a single component (e.g., the display module  160 ). 
     The processor  120  may execute software (e.g., a program  140 ) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device  101  coupled with the processor  120 , and may perform various data processing or computation, for example. In an embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or computation, the processor  120  may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module  176  or the communication module  190 ) in a volatile memory  132 , process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory  132 , and store resulting data in a non-volatile memory  134 . In an embodiment, the processor  120  may include a main processor  121  (e.g., a central processing unit (“CPU”) or an application processor (“AP”)), or an auxiliary processor  123  (e.g., a graphics processing unit (“GPU”), a neural processing unit (“NPU”), an image signal processor (“ISP”), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (“CP”)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor  121 . In an embodiment, when the electronic device  101  includes the main processor  121  and the auxiliary processor  123 , the auxiliary processor  123  may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor  121 , or to be specific to a specified function, for example. The auxiliary processor  123  may be implemented as separate from, or as a part of the main processor  121 . 
     The auxiliary processor  123  may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display module  160 , the sensor module  176 , or the communication module  190 ) among the components of the electronic device  101 , instead 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 state (e.g., executing an application). In an embodiment, the auxiliary processor  123  (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another component (e.g., the camera module  180  or the communication module  190 ) functionally related to the auxiliary processor  123 . In an embodiment, the auxiliary processor  123  (e.g., the neural processing unit) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence model processing. An artificial intelligence model may be generated by machine learning. Such machine learning may be performed, e.g., by the electronic device  101  where the artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., the server  108 ). Machine learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, e.g., supervised machine learning, unsupervised machine learning, semi-supervised machine learning, or reinforcement machine learning. 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-network or a combination of two or more thereof but is not limited thereto. The artificial intelligence model may, additionally or alternatively, include a software structure other than the hardware structure. 
     The memory  130  may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor  120  or the sensor module  176 ) of the electronic device  101 . The various data may include software (e.g., the program  140 ) and input data or output data for a command related thereto, for example. The memory  130  may include the volatile memory  132  or the non-volatile memory  134 . 
     The program  140  may be stored in the memory  130  as software, and may include an operating system (“OS”)  142 , middleware  144 , or an application  146 , for example. 
     The input module  150  may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor  120 ) of the electronic device  101 , from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device  101 . The input module  150  may include a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital instrument such as a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen), for example. 
     The sound output module  155  may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device  101 . The sound output module  155  may include a speaker or a receiver, for example. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record. The receiver may be used for receiving incoming calls. In an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as a part of the speaker. 
     The display module  160  may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device  101 . The display module  160  may include a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector, for example. In an embodiment, the display module  160  may include a touch sensor adapted to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch. 
     The audio module  170  may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. In an embodiment, the audio module  170  may obtain the sound via the input module  150 , or output the sound via the sound output module  155  or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device  102 ) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device  101 . 
     The sensor module  176  may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device  101  or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device  101 , and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. In an embodiment, the sensor module  176  may include a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (“IR”) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor, for example. 
     The interface  177  may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device  101  to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device  102 ) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. In an embodiment, the interface  177  may include a high-definition multimedia interface (“HDMI”), a universal serial bus (“USB”) interface, a secure digital (“SD”) card interface, or an audio interface, for example. 
     A connecting terminal  178  may include a connector via which the electronic device  101  may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device  102 ). In an embodiment, the connecting terminal  178  may include a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector), for example. 
     The haptic module  179  may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. In an embodiment, the haptic module  179  may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator, for example. 
     The camera module  180  may capture a still image or moving images. In an embodiment, the camera module  180  may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes. 
     The power management module  188  may manage power supplied to the electronic device  101 . In an embodiment, the power management module  188  may be implemented as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (“PMIC”), for example. 
     The battery  189  may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device  101 . In an embodiment, the battery  189  may include a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell, for example. 
     The communication module  190  may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device  101  and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device  102 , the electronic device  104 , or the server  108 ) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module  190  may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor  120  (e.g., the application processor (“AP”)) and may support a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. In an embodiment, the communication module  190  may include a wireless communication module  192  (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (“GNSS”) communication module) or a wired communication module  194  (e.g., a local area network (“LAN”) communication module or a power line communication (“PLC”) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network  198  (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (“Wi-Fi”) direct, or IR data association (“IrDA”)) or the second network  199  (e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (“WAN”)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module  192  may identify and authenticate the electronic device  101  in a communication network, such as the first network  198  or the second network  199 , using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (“IMSI”)) stored in the SIM  196 . 
     The wireless communication module  192  may support a 5G network, after a 4G network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (“NR”) access technology. The NR access technology may support enhanced mobile broadband (“eMBB”), massive machine type communications (“mMTC”), or ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (“URLLC”). The wireless communication module  192  may support a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module  192  may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (“massive MIMO”), full dimensional MIMO (“FD-MIMO”), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module  192  may support various requirements specified in the electronic device  101 , an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device  104 ), or a network system (e.g., the second network  199 ). In an embodiment, the wireless communication module  192  may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 gigabits per second (Gbps) or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 decibels (dB) or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 millisecond (ms) or less for each of downlink (“DL”) and uplink (“UL”), or a round trip of 1 ms or less) for implementing URLLC. 
     The antenna module  197  may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device  101 . In an embodiment, the antenna module  197  may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (“PCB”)). In an embodiment, the antenna module  197  may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network  198  or the second network  199 , may be selected by the communication module  190  (e.g., the wireless communication module  192 ) from the plurality of antennas, for example. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module  190  and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (“RFIC”)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module  197 . 
     In an embodiment, the antenna module  197  may form a mmWave antenna module. In an embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a PCB, a RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the PCB, or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., the top or a side surface) of the PCB, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of the designated high-frequency band. 
     At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, general purpose input and output (“GPIO”), serial peripheral interface (“SPI”), or mobile industry processor interface (“MIPI”)). 
     In an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device  101  and the external electronic device  104  via the server  108  coupled with the second network  199 . Each of the electronic devices  102  or  104  may be a device of a same type as or a different type from the electronic device  101 . In an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device  101  may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices  102  or  104 , or the server  108 . In an embodiment, when the electronic device  101  should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device  101 , instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least a part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device  101 . The electronic device  101  may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least a part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (“MEC”), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device  101  may provide ultra-low-latency services using, e.g., distributed computing or MEC. 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 a neural network. In an embodiment, the external electronic device  104  or the server  108  may be included in the second network  199 . The electronic device  101  may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technology. 
       FIG.  2    is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the camera module. 
     Referring to  FIG.  2   , the camera module  180  (e.g., the camera module  305 ,  312  of  FIGS.  3 A,  3 B and  3 C , or the camera module  400  of  FIG.  4   ) may include a lens assembly  210  (e.g., the lens assembly  410  of  FIG.  4   ), a flash  220 , an image sensor  230 , an image stabilizer  240 , a memory  250  (e.g., buffer memory), or an image signal processor  260 . 
     The lens assembly  210  may collect light emitted or reflected from an object whose image is to be taken. The lens assembly  210  may include one or more lenses. In an embodiment, the camera module  180  may include a plurality of lens assemblies  210 . In such a case, the camera module  180  may form, e.g., a dual camera, a 360-degree camera, or a spherical camera. Some of the plurality of lens assemblies  210  may have the same lens attribute (e.g., view angle, focal length, auto-focusing, f number, or optical zoom) as each other, or at least one lens assembly may have one or more lens attributes different from those of another lens assembly. The lens assembly  210  may include a wide-angle lens or a telephoto lens, for example. 
     The flash  220  may emit light that is used to reinforce light reflected from an object. In an embodiment, the flash  220  may include one or more light-emitting diodes (“LEDs”) (e.g., a red-green-blue (“RGB”) LED, a white LED, an IR LED, or an ultraviolet (“UV”) LED) or a xenon lamp. 
     The image sensor  230  may obtain an image corresponding to an object by converting light emitted or reflected from the object and transmitted via the lens assembly  210  into an electrical signal. In an embodiment, the image sensor  230  may include one selected from image sensors having different attributes, such as a RGB sensor, a black-and-white (“BW”) 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 a charged coupled device (“CCD”) sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (“CMOS”) sensor, for example. 
     The image stabilizer  240  may move the image sensor  230  or at least one lens included in the lens assembly  210  in a particular direction, or control an operational attribute (e.g., adjust the read-out timing) of the image sensor  230  in response to the movement of the camera module  180  or the electronic device  101  including the camera module  180 . This allows compensating for at least a part of a negative effect (e.g., image blurring) by the movement on an image being captured. In an embodiment, the image stabilizer  240  may sense such a movement by the camera module  180  or the electronic device  101  using a gyro sensor (not shown) or an acceleration sensor (not shown) disposed inside or outside the camera module  180 . In an embodiment, the image stabilizer  240  may be implemented as an optical image stabilizer, for example. 
     The memory  250  may store, at least temporarily, at least a part of an image obtained via the image sensor  230  for a subsequent image processing task. In an embodiment, when image capturing is delayed due to shutter lag or multiple images are quickly captured, a raw image obtained (e.g., a Bayer-patterned image, a high-resolution image) may be stored in the memory  250 , and its corresponding copy image (e.g., a low-resolution image) may be previewed via the display module  160 . Thereafter, when a specified condition is met (e.g., by a user&#39;s input or system command), at least a part of the raw image stored in the memory  250  may be obtained and processed by the image signal processor  260 , for example. In an embodiment, the memory  250  may be configured as at least a part of the memory  130  or as a separate memory that is operated independently from the memory  130 . 
     The image signal processor  260  may perform one or more image processing with respect to an image obtained via the image sensor  230  or an image stored in the memory  250 . The one or more image processing may include depth map generation, three-dimensional (“3D”) modeling, panorama generation, feature point extraction, image synthesizing, or image compensation (e.g., noise reduction, resolution adjustment, brightness adjustment, blurring, sharpening, or softening), for example. Additionally or alternatively, the image signal processor  260  may perform control (e.g., exposure time control or read-out timing control) with respect to at least one (e.g., the image sensor  230 ) of the components included in the camera module  180 . An image processed by the image signal processor  260  may be stored back in the memory  250  for further processing, or may be provided to an external component (e.g., the memory  130 , the display module  160 , the electronic device  102 , the electronic device  104 , or the server  108 ) outside the camera module  180 . 
     In an embodiment, the image signal processor  260  may be configured as at least a part of the processor  120 , or as a separate processor that is operated independently from the processor  120 . When the image signal processor  260  is configured as a separate processor from the processor  120 , at least one image processed by the image signal processor  260  may be displayed, by the processor  120 , via the display module  160  as it is or after being further processed. 
     In an embodiment, the electronic device  101  may include a plurality of camera modules  180  having different attributes or functions. In such a case, at least one of the plurality of camera modules  180  may form a wide-angle camera and at least another of the plurality of camera modules  180  may form a telephoto camera, for example. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of camera modules  180  may form a front camera and at least another of the plurality of camera modules  180  may form a rear camera, for example. 
       FIG.  3 A  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic device  300 .  FIG.  3 B  is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the electronic device  300 .  FIG.  3 C  is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of electronic device  300 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  3 A and  3 B , the electronic device  300  may include a housing  310  that includes a first surface (or, a front surface)  310 A, a second surface (or, a rear surface)  310 B, and a side surface  310 C surrounding a space between the first surface  310 A and the second surface  310 B. 
     In another embodiment (not illustrated), the housing  310  may refer to a structure that forms some of the first surface  310 A, the second surface  310 B, and the side surface  310 C. 
     In an embodiment, the first surface  310 A may be formed by a front plate  302  (e.g., a front plate  320  of  FIG.  3 C ), at least a portion of which is substantially transparent. The front plate  302  may include a glass plate including various coating layers or a polymer plate. In an embodiment, the second surface  310 B may be formed by a back plate  311  (e.g., a back plate  380  of  FIG.  3 C ) that is substantially opaque. The back plate  311  may include coated or colored glass, ceramic, a polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (“STS”), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the aforementioned materials, for example. The side surface  310 C may be formed by a side bezel structure  318  that is coupled with the front plate  302  and the back plate  311  and that includes metal and/or a polymer. 
     In another embodiment, the back plate  311  and the side bezel structure  318  may be unitary with each other and may include the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the front plate  302  may include two first areas  310 D that curvedly and seamlessly extend from partial areas of the first surface  310 A toward the back plate  311 . The first areas  310 D may be located at opposite long edges of the front plate  302 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the back plate  311  may include two second areas  310 E that curvedly and seamlessly extend from partial areas of the second surface  310 B toward the front plate  302 . The second areas  310 E may be located at opposite long edges of the back plate  311 . 
     In another embodiment, the front plate  302  (or the back plate  311 ) may include only one of the first areas  310 D (or the second areas  310 E). Furthermore, in another embodiment, the front plate  302  (or the back plate  311 ) may not include a part of the first areas  310 D (or the second areas  310 E). 
     In an embodiment, when viewed from a side of the electronic device  300 , the side bezel structure  318  may have a first thickness (or, width) at sides (e.g., short sides) not including the first areas  310 D or the second areas  310 E and may have a second thickness at sides (e.g., long sides) including the first areas  310 D or the second areas  310 E. In an embodiment, the second thickness may be smaller than the first thickness. 
     In an embodiment, the electronic device  300  may include at least one of a display  301  (e.g., the display module  160  of  FIG.  1   ), audio modules  303 ,  304 , and  307  (e.g., the audio module  170  of  FIG.  1   ), a sensor module (not illustrated) (e.g., the sensor module  176  of  FIG.  1   ), camera modules  305  and  312  (e.g., the camera module  180  of  FIG.  1    or a camera module  400  of  FIG.  4   ), key input devices  317  (e.g., the input module  150  of  FIG.  1   ), or a light-emitting element (not illustrated). In an embodiment, a connector hole  308  (e.g., the connecting terminal  178  of  FIG.  1   ) may be defined in the electronic device  300 . In another embodiment, at least one component (e.g., the key input devices  317  or the light-emitting element (not illustrated)) among the aforementioned components may be omitted from the electronic device  300 , or other component(s) may be additionally included in the electronic device  300 . 
     In an embodiment, the display  301  may be exposed through at least a portion of the front plate  302 . In an embodiment, at least a portion of the display  301  may be exposed through the front plate  302  that includes the first surface  310 A and the first areas  310 D of the side surface  310 C, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the shape of the display  301  may be substantially the same as the shape of the adjacent outside edge of the front plate  302 . In another embodiment (not illustrated), to expand the area by which the display  301  is exposed, the gap between the periphery of the display  301  and the periphery of the front plate  302  may be substantially constant. 
     In an embodiment, a surface of the housing  310  (or the front plate  302 ) may include a display area through which the display  301  is visually exposed and on which contents are displayed through pixels. In an embodiment, the display area may include the first surface  310 A and the first areas  310 D of the side surface, for example. 
     In another embodiment (not illustrated), the display area  310 A and  310 D may include a sensing area (not illustrated) that obtains biometric information of a user. When the display area  310 A and  310 D includes the sensing area, this may mean that at least a portion of the sensing area overlaps the display area  310 A and  310 D. In an embodiment, the sensing area (not illustrated) may refer to an area capable of displaying contents by the display  301  like the other areas of the display area  310 A and  310 D and additionally obtaining biometric information (e.g., a fingerprint) of the user, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the display area  310 A and  310 D of the display  301  may include a camera area  306 . In an embodiment, the camera area  306  may be an area through which light reflected from an object is received by the first camera module  305 , for example. In an embodiment, the camera area  306  may include an area through which an optical axis of the first camera module  305  (e.g., an optical axis OA of  FIG.  4   ) passes, for example. When the display area  310 A and  310 D includes the camera area  306 , this may mean that at least a portion of the camera area  306  overlaps the display area  310 A and  310 D. In an embodiment, likewise to the other areas of the display area  310 A and  310 D, the camera area  306  may display contents by the display  301 , for example. 
     In various embodiments (not illustrated), the screen display area  310 A and  310 D of the display  301  may include an area through which the first camera module  305  (e.g., a punch hole camera) is visually exposed. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the periphery of the area through which the first camera module  305  is exposed may be surrounded by the screen display area  310 A and  310 D, for example. In an embodiment, the first camera module  305  may include a plurality of camera modules (e.g., the camera module  180  of  FIG.  1    and the camera module  400  of  FIG.  4   ). 
     In an embodiment, the display  301  may include, on the rear surface of the screen display area  310 A and  310 D, at least one of the audio modules  303 ,  304 , and  307 , the sensor module (not illustrated), a camera module (e.g., the first camera module  305 ), or the light-emitting element (not illustrated). In an embodiment, the electronic device  300  may include the camera module (e.g., the first camera module  305 ) disposed on the rear side (e.g., the side facing the −Z-axis direction) of the first surface  310 A (e.g., the front surface) and/or the side surface  310 C (e.g., at least one surface of the first areas  310 D) to face toward the first surface  310 A and/or the side surface  310 C, for example. In an embodiment, the first camera module  305  may include an under-display camera (“UDC”) that is hidden without being visually exposed on the screen display area  310 A and  310 D, for example. 
     In another embodiment (not illustrated), the display  301  may include, or may be disposed adjacent to, touch detection circuitry, a pressure sensor for measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and/or a digitizer for detecting a stylus pen of a magnetic field type. 
     In an embodiment, the audio modules  303 ,  304 , and  307  may include the microphone holes  303  and  304  and the speaker hole  307 . 
     In an embodiment, the microphone holes  303  and  304  may include the first microphone hole  303  defined in a partial area of the side surface  310 C and the microphone hole  304  defined in a partial area of the second surface  310 B. Microphones for obtaining external sounds may be disposed in the housing  310  to correspond to the microphone holes  303  and  304 . The microphones may each include a plurality of microphones to detect the direction of sound. In an embodiment, the second microphone hole  304  defined in the partial area of the second surface  310 B may be disposed adjacent to the camera modules  305  and  312 . In an embodiment, the second microphone hole  304  may obtain sounds when the camera modules  305  and  312  are executed, or may obtain sounds when other functions are executed, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the speaker hole  307  may include a receiver hole for telephone call (not illustrated). The speaker hole  307  may be defined in a portion of the side surface  310 C of the electronic device  300 . In another embodiment, the speaker hole  307 , together with the microphone hole  303 , may be implemented as a single hole. One or more slits  450  or a recess and the receiver hole for telephone call (not illustrated) may be defined in another portion of the side surface  310 C. In an embodiment, the receiver hole for telephone call (not illustrated) may be defined in another portion (e.g., a portion facing the +Y-axis direction) of the side surface  310 C that faces the portion (e.g., a portion facing the −Y-axis direction) of the side surface  310 C in which the speaker hole  307  is defined, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the electronic device  300  may include a speaker fluidly connected with the speaker hole  307 . In another embodiment, the speaker may include a piezoelectric speaker in which the speaker hole  307  is not defined. 
     In an embodiment, the sensor module (not illustrated) (e.g., the sensor module  176  of  FIG.  1   ) may generate an electrical signal or a data value that corresponds to an operational state inside the electronic device  300  or an environmental state external to the electronic device  300 . In an embodiment, the sensor module (not illustrated) may be disposed on at least a part of the first surface  310 A, the second surface  310 B, or the side surface  310 C (e.g., the first areas  310 D and/or the second areas  310 E) of the housing  310  and may be disposed on the rear surface of the display  301  (e.g., a fingerprint sensor). In an embodiment, at least a portion of the sensor module (not illustrated) may be disposed under the display area  310 A and  310 D and may not be visually exposed, and the sensing area (not illustrated) may be formed in at least a portion of the display area  310 A and  310 D, for example. In an embodiment, the sensor module (not illustrated) may include an optical fingerprint sensor, for example. In some embodiments (not illustrated), the fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the second surface  310 B as well as the first surface  310 A of the housing  310  (e.g., the screen display area  310 A and  310 D). In an embodiment, the sensor module may include at least one of a proximity sensor, a heart rate monitor (“HRM”) sensor, a fingerprint sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the key input devices  317  may be disposed on the side surface  310 C of the housing  310  (e.g., the first areas  310 D and/or the second areas  310 E). In another embodiment, the electronic device  300  may not include all or some of the key input devices  317 , and the key input devices  317  not included may be implemented in a different form, such as a soft key, on the display  301 . In another embodiment, the key input devices may include a sensor module (not illustrated) that forms the sensing area (not illustrated) that is included in the display area  310 A and  310 D. 
     In an embodiment, the connector hole  308  may accommodate a connector. The connector hole  308  may be defined in the side surface  310 C of the housing  310 . In an embodiment, the connector hole  308  may be defined in the side surface  310 C so as to be adjacent to at least a part of the audio modules (e.g., the microphone hole  303  and the speaker hole  307 ), for example. In another embodiment, the first connector hole  308  capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting/receiving power and/or data with an external electronic device, and/or a second connector hole (not illustrated) capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., an earphone jack) for transmitting/receiving audio signals with an external electronic device may be defined in the electronic device  300 . 
     In an embodiment, the electronic device  300  may include the light-emitting element (not illustrated). In an embodiment, the light-emitting element (not illustrated) may be disposed on the first surface  310 A of the housing  310 , for example. The light-emitting element (not illustrated) may provide state information of the electronic device  300  in the form of light. In another embodiment, the light-emitting element (not illustrated) may provide a light source that operates in conjunction with operation of the first camera module  305 . In an embodiment, the light-emitting element (not illustrated) may include an LED, an IR LED, and/or a xenon lamp, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the camera modules  305  and  312  (e.g., the camera module  180  of  FIG.  1    and the camera module  400  of  FIG.  4   ) may include the first camera module  305  (e.g., a UDC) which receives light through the camera area  306  in the first surface  310 A of the electronic device  300 , the second camera module  312  which receives light through a partial area of the second surface  310 B (e.g., a rear camera area (also referred to as a second camera area)  384  of  FIG.  3 C ), and/or a flash  313 . 
     In an embodiment, the first camera module  305  may include a UDC disposed on the rear surface of the display  301 . In an embodiment, the first camera module  305  may be disposed in some layers of the display  301 , or may be disposed such that an optical axis of a lens (e.g., the optical axis OA of  FIG.  4   ) passes through the display area  310 A and  310 D of the display, for example. In various embodiments, the first camera module  305  may receive light through the camera area  306  included in the display area  310 A and  310 D. In an embodiment, the camera area  306  may display contents like the other areas of the display area  310 A and  310 D when the first camera module  305  does not operate, for example. In an embodiment, when the first camera module  305  operates, the camera area  306  may not display contents, and the first camera module  305  may receive light through the camera area  306 , for example. 
     In various embodiments (not illustrated), the first camera module  305  (e.g., a punch hole camera) may be exposed through a portion of the display area  310 A and  310 D of the display  301 . In an embodiment, the first camera module  305  may be exposed on a partial area of the screen display area  310 A and  310 D through an opening defined in a portion of the display  301 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the second camera module  312  may include a plurality of camera modules (e.g., a dual camera, a triple camera, or a quad camera). However, the second camera module  312  is not necessarily limited to including the plurality of camera modules and may include one camera module. 
     In an 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 a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp, for example. In another embodiment, two or more lenses (an IR camera lens, a wide-angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed in the housing to face a direction that one surface (e.g., the second surface  310 B) of the electronic device  300  faces. 
     Referring to  FIG.  3 C , the electronic device  300  may include the side bezel structure  318 , a first support member  340  (e.g., a bracket), the front plate  320  (e.g., the front plate  302  of  FIG.  3 A ), a display  330  (e.g., the display  301  of  FIG.  3 A ), a PCB  350  (e.g., 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 the back plate  380  (e.g., the back plate  311  of  FIG.  3 B ). In some embodiments, the electronic device  300  may not include at least one component (e.g., the first support member  340  or the second support member  360 ) among the aforementioned components, or may additionally include other component(s). 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.  3 A or  3 B , and repetitive descriptions will hereinafter be omitted. 
     In an embodiment, the first support member  340  may be disposed inside the electronic device  300  and may be connected with the side bezel structure  318 , or may be unitary with the side bezel structure  318 . The first support member  340  may include a metallic material and/or a nonmetallic (e.g., polymer) material, for example. The display  330  may be coupled to, or disposed on, one surface of the first support member  340 , and the PCB  350  may be coupled to, or disposed on, an opposite surface of the first support member  140 . 
     In an embodiment, a processor, a memory, and/or an interface may be disposed on the PCB  350 . The processor may include one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the memory may include a volatile memory or a nonvolatile memory, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the interface may include a HDMI, a USB interface, an SD card interface, and/or an audio interface, for example. In an embodiment, the interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device  300  with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/MMC connector, or an audio connector, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the battery  352 , which is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device  300 , may include a primary cell that is not rechargeable, a secondary cell that is rechargeable, or a fuel cell, for example. At least a portion of the battery  352 , e.g., may be disposed on substantially the same plane as the PCB  350 . The battery  352  may be integrally disposed inside the electronic device  300 , or may be detachable from the electronic device  300 . 
     In an embodiment, the antenna  370  may be disposed between the back plate  380  and the battery  352 . The antenna  370  may include a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna, for example. In an embodiment, the antenna  370  may perform short-range communication with an external device, or may wirelessly transmit and receive power desired for charging, for example. In another embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion of the side bezel structure  318  and/or a portion of the first support member  340 , or any combinations thereof. 
     In an embodiment, the first camera module  305  may be coupled to the rear surface of the display  330  to receive light through the camera area  306  of the front plate  320 . In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first camera module  305  may be disposed on the first support member  340 , for example. In an embodiment, the image sensor of the first camera module  305  (e.g., the image sensor  230  of  FIG.  2   ) may receive light passing through the camera area  306  and a pixel array included in the display  330 , for example. In an embodiment, the camera area  306  may at least partially overlap the display area on which contents are displayed, for example. In an embodiment, the optical axis OA of the first camera module  305  may pass through a partial area of the display  330  and the camera area  306  of the front plate  320 , for example. In an embodiment, the partial area may include a pixel array including a plurality of light-emitting elements, for example. In an embodiment, a partial area of the display  330  that faces the first camera module  305  may be a transmissive area that has a specified transmittance as a portion of the display area on which contents are displayed. In an embodiment, the transmissive area may have a transmittance of about 5% to about 25%. In an embodiment, the transmissive area may have a transmittance of about 25% to about 50%. In an embodiment, the transmissive area may have a transmittance of about 50% or more. The transmissive area may include an area through which light focused on the image sensor (e.g., the image sensor  230  of  FIG.  2   ) to generate an image passes and that overlaps an effective area (e.g., a field of view (FOV)) of the first camera module  305 . In an embodiment, the transmissive area of the display  330  may include an area having a lower pixel density and/or wiring density than a surrounding area, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the second camera module  312  may be disposed such that a lens is exposed through the rear camera area  384  of the back plate  380  of the electronic device  300  (e.g., the rear surface  310 B of  FIG.  2   ). The rear camera area  384  may be formed in at least a portion of a surface of the back plate  380  (e.g., the rear surface  310 B of  FIG.  2   ). In an embodiment, the second camera area  384  may be at least partially transparent such that the second camera module  312  receives external light through the second camera area  384 . 
     In an embodiment, at least a portion of the rear camera area  384  may protrude to a predetermined height from the surface of the back plate  380 . However, without being necessarily limited thereto, the rear camera area  384  may form substantially the same plane as the surface of the back plate  380 . 
       FIG.  4    is a perspective view of an embodiment of a camera module.  FIG.  5    is a perspective view of an embodiment of the camera module. 
     The illustrated camera module  400  may be also referred to as the camera module  180  of  FIG.  1   , the first camera module  305  of  FIG.  3 A , and the second camera module  312  of  FIG.  3 B . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  4  and  5   , the camera module  400  in an embodiment may include a camera housing  401 , a lens assembly  410  (e.g., the lens assembly  210  of  FIG.  2   ), at least a portion of which is accommodated in the camera housing  401 , a circuit board  420 , and a metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the camera module  400  may receive external light through a partial area (e.g., the camera area  306  or the rear camera area  384  of  FIG.  3 C ) of a surface of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device  300  of  FIGS.  3 A to  3 C ). 
     In an embodiment, the camera housing  401  may include a cover  402 . The cover  402  may be also referred to as a shield can. The cover  402  may form an upper surface  401   a  and a side surface  401   b  of the camera module  400 . The cover  402  may at least partially surround the lens assembly  410 , the circuit board  420 , and an image sensor  421 . An opening  405  in which the lens assembly  410  is at least partially disposed may be defined in a partial area of the cover  402  (e.g., the upper surface  401   a  of the camera module  400 ). The opening  405  may be at least partially aligned with the optical axis OA of a lens  411 . In an embodiment, the lens  411  and a portion of a lens barrel  412  may be exposed, or may protrude, through the opening  405 , for example. The lens  411  may receive external light through the opening  405 . In various embodiments, the camera housing  401  may refer to the cover  402  and the metal plate  430  forming a lower surface  401   c  of the camera module  400 . 
     In an embodiment, the lens assembly  410  may include one or more lenses  411  and the lens barrel  412  surrounding the one or more lenses  411 . The lenses  411  and a portion of the lens barrel  412  may be exposed, or may protrude outside the camera housing  401 , through the opening  405  of the cover  402 . 
     In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be at least partially disposed on the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be attached to the metal plate  430 , for example. In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may have the image sensor  421  disposed thereon, or may be electrically connected to the image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be at least partially flexible. In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may include a FPCB, for example. In various embodiments, the circuit board  420  may be unitary with a connecting member  429 . 
     In an embodiment, the connecting member  429  may extend outside the camera housing  401  from the circuit board  420 . The connecting member  429  may include a connector  428 . In an embodiment, the connector  428  may be coupled to a PCB of the electronic device  300  (e.g., the PCB  350  of  FIG.  3 C ), for example. 
     In an embodiment, the metal plate  430  may include an area to which the circuit board  420  is attached. In an embodiment, the metal plate  430  may overlap the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis), for example. In various embodiments, the circuit board  420  and/or the image sensor  421  may be disposed on the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the metal plate  430  may form the lower surface  401   c  of the camera module  400 . In an embodiment, the metal plate  430 , together with the cover  402 , may form the camera housing  401 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the metal plate  430  may include a first surface (e.g., a first surface  430   a  of  FIG.  6   ) to which the circuit board  420  is attached and a second surface (e.g., a second surface  430   b  of  FIG.  6   ) that forms the lower surface  401   c  of the camera module  400 . In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be attached to the circuit board  420 , or may be attached to the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 . 
     In an embodiment, an image sensor (e.g., the image sensor  230  of  FIG.  2    or the image sensor  421  of  FIG.  6   ) may convert an optical signal condensed through the lenses  411  into an electrical signal. The image sensor  421  may be electrically connected to the processor of the electronic device  101  or  300  (e.g., the processor  120  of  FIG.  1    or the image signal processor  260  of  FIG.  2   ) through the circuit board  420 . In an embodiment, the electrical signal generated by the image sensor  421  may be transmitted to the processor  120  or  260  of the electronic device  101  or  300  through the circuit board  420 , the connecting member  429 , and the connector  428 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , an external force P may be applied to the lower surface  401   c  of the camera module  400 . The external force P may act in a direction toward an inner space of the camera housing  401 . In an embodiment, the external force P may include an external force generated in a process of assembling the camera module  400  into the electronic device  300 . In an embodiment, bending stress caused by the external force may act on the metal plate  430 . The bending stress may act to partially bend the metal plate  430 , for example. 
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , the metal plate  430  may include a first area  431  (e.g., an area illustrated by a dotted line in the drawing) that corresponds to the image sensor  421  and a second area  432  that surrounds the first area  431 . In an embodiment, the second area  432  may be defined as an area around the first area  431 , for example. In an embodiment, the first area  431  may be defined as an area that overlaps the image sensor  421  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis). In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be disposed on the first surface included in the first area  431  of the metal plate  430 , for example. In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the circuit board  420  attached to the first area  431  of the metal plate  430 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, one or more slits  450  or a recess may be defined in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . The one or more slits  450  may pass through the first surface from the second surface of the metal plate  430 . The recess (e.g., a recess  470  of  FIG.  14 A ) may be defined in the second surface of the metal plate  430 . In various embodiments, the one or more slits  450  or the recess may be defined in an area outside the area corresponding to the image sensor  421 . Referring to  FIG.  5   , a plurality of slits  450  or a recess (e.g., the recess  470  of  FIG.  14 A ) extending in directions parallel to the edges of the first area  431  or the image sensor  421  may be defined in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . 
     In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess may reduce or prevent damage applied to the image sensor  421  by the external force P acting on the metal plate  430  or the bending stress acting on the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the second area  432  may be easily bent by the one or more slits  450  or the recess when the external force or the bending stress acts, for example. Accordingly, the image sensor  421  may be protected by reducing the bending stress acting on the first area  431 , which corresponds to the image sensor  421 , and the image sensor  421 . 
       FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the camera module.  FIG.  7    is a view illustrating an embodiment of the circuit board and the metal plate of the camera module.  FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  6  and  7   , the camera module  400  may include the cover  402 , the metal plate  430 , the lens assembly  410 , the circuit board  420 , and the image sensor  421 . The cover, together with the metal plate  430 , may define the inner space of the camera module  400 . In an embodiment, the lens assembly  410  may be at least partially disposed in the inner space of the camera module  400 . The lens assembly  410  may include the lens barrel  412  and the plurality of lenses  411  surrounded by the lens barrel  412 . In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be disposed on the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430  and may be at least partially aligned with the optical axis OA. The image sensor  421  may be electrically connected with the circuit board  420 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  6  and  7   , in an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may include an opening area  423  and a peripheral area  422  surrounding the opening area  423 . The side portion of the cover  402  may be connected to the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420 . In an embodiment, the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be attached to the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 , and a partial area of the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430  may be visible through the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may surround the image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be disposed in the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 , for example. In an embodiment, the height of the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be greater than the height of the image sensor  421 , for example. In an embodiment, the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  and the image sensor  421  may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined gap g. In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be connected with the image sensor  421  through wire bonding. In an embodiment, when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction), the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  may be located in the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 . In an embodiment, the peripheral area  422  may surround a portion of the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  and the first area  431  thereof. In an embodiment, the connecting member  429  may extend from the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  6  and  7   , the metal plate  430  may include the first surface  430   a  to which the image sensor  421  and the circuit board  420  are attached and the second surface  430   b  opposite to the first surface  430   a . The second surface  430   b  may form the lower surface of the camera module  400  (e.g., the lower surface  401   c  of  FIG.  4   ). In an embodiment, the metal plate  430  may include the first area  431  on which the image sensor  421  is disposed and the second area  432  around the first area  431 . Referring to  FIG.  6   , the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  may include an area to which the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  is attached and an area exposed through the gap g between the image sensor  421  and the circuit board  420 . The image sensor  421  may be attached to the first surface  430   a  included in the first area  431 , and the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be attached to the first surface  430   a  included in the second area  432 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   , the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  may be defined to have the same area as the image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the first area  431  may be smaller than the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 , for example. In an embodiment, when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction), the first area  431  may be located in the opening area  423 , for example. When viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA, the first area  431  may be surrounded by the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420 . 
     In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be attached to the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be attached to the first surface  430   a  included in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 , for example. A conductive material may be disposed between the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  and the circuit board  420 . In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430  using surface mount tech (“SMT”). 
     In various embodiments, the image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the first surface  430   a  included in the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  using SMT. In an embodiment, a conductive material may be disposed between the metal plate  430  and the image sensor  421 , for example. 
       FIG.  8    is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the circuit board and the metal plate of the camera module when an external force acts on the metal plate.  FIG.  8    is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of  FIG.  7   . 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , the metal plate  430  may include the first area  431  on which the image sensor  421  is disposed and the second area  432  around the first area  431 . The peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be attached to a portion of the second area  432 . The first area  431  may correspond to the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 . In an embodiment, when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction), the metal plate  430  may be configured such that the first area  431  and the image sensor  421  are located in the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420  and at least a portion of the second area  432  overlaps the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420 , for example. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , the one or more slits  450  may be defined in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . Although not illustrated in the drawing, the one or more slits  450  may be replaced with a recess (e.g., the recess  470  of  FIG.  14 A ) defined in the second surface  430   b  and recessed in the +z-axis direction. 
     In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess may be defined in the metal plate  430  and may be located in the outward direction of the image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the outward direction of the image sensor  421  may be defined as a direction away from the point through which the optical axis OA passes, in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA (e.g., the x-axis or the y-axis), for example. 
     In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess may overlap the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis). In an embodiment, when the metal plate  430  forms the camera housing  401 , infiltration of foreign matter into the camera housing  401  through the slits  450  may be prevented, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be disposed on the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  and may be electrically connected with the circuit board  420 , which is disposed on the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 , through wire bonding. In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may include wires W extending from the image sensor  421  to the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420 , for example. The wires W may extend to partially cross the one or more slits  450  or the recess when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis). 
     In an embodiment, the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  may remain substantially flat even when the external force P acts. In an embodiment, the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  and/or the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be deformed to be flat or curved. In an embodiment, when the external force P acts, the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  may be at least partially deformed to be curved, for example. In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess defined in the second area  432  may be defined in the metal plate  430 , and the metal plate  430  may be configured such that the second area  432  corresponding to the peripheral area  422  around the image sensor  421  is bent prior to the first area  431  on which the image sensor  421  is disposed, for example. In an embodiment, the boundary line between the curved area and the flat area of the metal plate  430  may be formed adjacent to the one or more slits  450  or the recess, for example. In an embodiment, when the one or more slits  450  or the recess is not defined in the metal plate  430 , the image sensor  421  or the first area  431  may be bent by the external force P or the bending stress caused by the external force P, which may lead to damage to the image sensor  421  or deterioration in the performance of the image sensor  421 , for example. 
       FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a camera module.  FIG.  10    is a view illustrating an embodiment of a circuit board and a metal plate of the camera module.  FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment of the circuit board and the metal plate of the camera module when an external force acts on the metal plate. 
       FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of  FIG.  4   .  FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of  FIG.  10   . In describing  FIGS.  9 ,  10 , and  11   , repetitive descriptions identical to ones given with regard to the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    will be omitted. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  9  and  10   , in an embodiment, the circuit board may be disposed on a first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, a second surface  430   b  of the metal plate  430  may form the lower surface of the camera module  400  (e.g., the lower surface  401   c  of  FIG.  4   ). In an embodiment, the metal plate  430  may include a first area  431  corresponding to an image sensor  421  and a second area  432  surrounding the first area  431 . In an embodiment, the first area  431  may be defined as an area overlapping the area on which the image sensor  421  is disposed (e.g., mounted), when the metal plate  430  is viewed in the direction of an optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis), for example. The second area  432  may be defined as the remaining area other than the first area  431 . In an embodiment, the second area  432  may be defined as an area around the first area  431 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be disposed on the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 . The image sensor  421  may be disposed on the circuit board  420 . In an embodiment, the image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on a third surface  420   a  of the circuit board  420  using SMT. 
     Referring to the camera module  400  illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10 , and  11   , unlike in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8   , the opening area  423  may not be defined in the circuit board  420 , and the image sensor  421  may be attached to the circuit board  420  rather than the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the circuit board  420  may be disposed between the image sensor  421  and the first area  431  of the metal plate  430 , for example. 
     Referring to  FIG.  11   , one or more slits  450  may be defined in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . Although not illustrated in the drawing, the one or more slits  450  may be replaced with a recess (e.g., the recess  470  of  FIG.  14 A ) defined in the second surface  430   b  of the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  and recessed in the +z-axis direction. 
     In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess may be defined in the metal plate  430  and may be located in the outward direction of the image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the outward direction of the image sensor  421  may be defined as a direction away from the point through which the optical axis OA passes, in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA (e.g., the x-axis or the y-axis), for example. 
     In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess may overlap the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis). In an embodiment, when the metal plate  430  forms a camera housing  401 , infiltration of foreign matter into the camera housing  401  through the slits  450  may be prevented, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  may remain substantially flat even when an external force P acts. In an embodiment, the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  and/or a portion of the circuit board  420  around the image sensor  421  may be deformed to be flat or curved. In an embodiment, when the external force acts, the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  may be deformed to be curved, for example. In an embodiment, the one or more slits  450  or the recess defined in the second area  432  may be defined in the metal plate  430 , and the metal plate  430  may be configured such that the second area  432  is bent prior to the first area  431  corresponding to the image sensor  421 , for example. In an embodiment, the boundary line between the curved area and the flat area of the metal plate  430  may be formed adjacent to the one or more slits  450  or the recess, for example. In an embodiment, when the one or more slits  450  or the recess is not defined in the metal plate  430 , the image sensor  421  or the first area  431  may be bent by the external force P or the bending stress caused by the external force P, which may lead to damage to the image sensor  421  or deterioration in the performance of the image sensor  421 , for example. 
     Hereinafter, various forms of the slits  450  (or, the recess) of the camera module  400  will be described with reference to  FIGS.  12 A,  12 B,  13 A,  13 B,  14 A , and  14 B. 
       FIGS.  12 A and  12 B  are views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module.  FIG.  12 B  is a plan view of a second surface of the metal plate as viewed from above. 
     The circuit board  420  illustrated in  FIGS.  12 A and  12 B  may include the circuit board illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    in which the opening area  423  is defined or the circuit board illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10 , and  11    in which the opening area  423  is not defined. 
     In an embodiment, a first area  431  of the metal plate  430  illustrated by a dotted line may be defined as an area in physical contact with an image sensor  421  as illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    or an area overlapping the image sensor  421  in physical contact with the circuit board  420  as illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10   , and  11 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, slits  450  may be defined in a second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . The slits  450  may penetrate the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the slits  450  may be provided in the form of an opening that penetrates the second surface  430   b  from the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 , for example. In an embodiment, when the second surface  430   b  of the metal plate  430  is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the z-axis direction), the circuit board  420  may be visible through the slits  450 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the slits  450  may extend in a direction (e.g., the x-axis or the y-axis) perpendicular to an optical axis (e.g., the z-axis). In an embodiment, each of the slits  450  may extend at least partially parallel to one of the edges of the first area  431  or one of the edges of the image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the slits  450  may include a first slit  451  and a second slit  452  that extend in the y-axis direction and a third slit  453  and a fourth slit  454  that extend in the x-axis direction. 
     In an embodiment, the first slit  451  and the second slit  452  may face each other in the x-axis direction. The first area  431  or the image sensor  421  may be located between the first slit  451  and the second slit  452 . Each of the first slit  451  and the second slit  452  may be defined in a position spaced apart from an edge of the first area  431  by a predetermined gap in the x-axis direction. In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG.  8   , the first slit  451  and the second slit  452  may be defined in positions spaced apart from the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420  so as not to overlap the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 , for example. In an embodiment, the first slit  451  and the second slit  452  may be provided such that a region of the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  located in the x-axis direction with respect to the first area  431  and a region of the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  located in the −x-axis direction with respect to the first area  431  are bent when an external force is applied to the metal plate  430 . 
     In an embodiment, the third slit  453  and the fourth slit  454  may face each other in the y-axis direction. The first area  431  or the image sensor  421  may be located between the third slit  453  and the fourth slit  454 . Each of the third slit  453  and the fourth slit  454  may be defined in a position spaced apart from an edge of the first area  431  by a predetermined gap in the y-axis direction. In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG.  8   , the third slit  453  and the fourth slit  454  may be defined in positions spaced apart from the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420  so as not to overlap the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 , for example. In an embodiment, the third slit  453  and the fourth slit  454  may be provided such that a region of the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  located in the y-axis direction with respect to the first area  431  and a region of the second area  432  of the metal plate  430  located in the −y-axis direction with respect to the first area  431  are bent when an external force is applied to the metal plate  430 . 
     In various embodiments (not illustrated), at least one of the first slit  451 , the second slit  452 , the third slit  453 , or the fourth slit  454  may be replaced with a recess  470  concavely defined in the second surface  430   b  included in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . 
     In various embodiments, at least one of the first slit  451 , the second slit  452 , the third slit  453 , or the fourth slit  454  may extend to have a length (also referred to as an extension length) less than a length of an edge of the first area  431  adjacent thereto or an edge of the image sensor  421  adjacent thereto. 
       FIGS.  13 A and  13 B  are views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module.  FIG.  13 B  is a plan view of a second surface of the metal plate as viewed from above. 
     The circuit board  420  illustrated in  FIGS.  13 A and  13 B  may include the circuit board illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    in which the opening area  423  is defined or the circuit board illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10 , and  11    in which the opening area  423  is not defined. 
     In an embodiment, a first area  431  of the metal plate  430  illustrated by a dotted line may be defined as an area in physical contact with an image sensor  421  as illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    or an area overlapping the image sensor  421  in physical contact with the circuit board  420  as illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10   , and  11 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, slits  460  may be defined in a second area  432  of the metal plate. The slits  460  may penetrate the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the slits  460  may be provided in the form of an opening that penetrates the second surface  430   b  from the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 , for example. In an embodiment, when the second surface  430   b  of the metal plate  430  is viewed from above, the circuit board  420  may be visible through the slits  460 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the slits  460  may surround corner areas C 1 , C 2 , C 3 , and C 4  of the first area  431  or the image sensor  421 , respectively. Each of the corner areas C 1 , C 2 , C 3 , and C 4  may be defined as an area where edges extending in different directions meet each other. In various embodiments, a first edge P 1  and a second edge P 2  parallel to each other in the y-axis direction and a third edge P 3  and a fourth edge P 4  parallel to each other in the x-axis direction may be defined in the first area  431 . 
     In an embodiment, each of a first slit  461 , a second slit  462 , a third slit  463 , and a fourth slit  464  may be spaced apart from a slit adjacent thereto in the x-axis and/or y-axis direction. In an embodiment, the first slit  461  may face the third slit  463  in a diagonal direction, and the second slit  462  may face the fourth slit  464  in a diagonal direction. 
     In an embodiment, the first slit  461 , the second slit  462 , the third slit  463 , and the fourth slit  464  may be defined in positions spaced apart from the corner areas C 1 , C 2 , C 3 , and C 4  of the first area  431 , respectively. In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG.  8   , each of the first slit  461 , the second slit  462 , the third slit  463 , and the fourth slit  464  may be provided so as not to overlap the opening area  423  of the circuit board  420 , for example. 
     In an embodiment, the first slit  461  may be provided adjacent to the first corner area C 1  of the first area  431 . The first corner area C 1  may include the area where the first edge P 1  and the fourth edge P 4  meet each other. The first slit  461  may include a portion extending at least partially parallel to the first edge P 1  and a portion extending at least partially parallel to the fourth edge P 4 . In an embodiment, one portion of the first slit  461  may extend in the y-axis direction, and the other portion of the first slit  461  may extend in the x-axis direction, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the second slit  462  may be provided adjacent to the second corner area C 2  of the first area  431 . The second corner area C 2  may include the area where the first edge P 1  and the third edge P 3  meet each other. The second slit  462  may include a portion extending at least partially parallel to the first edge P 1  and a portion extending at least partially parallel to the third edge P 3 . In an embodiment, one portion of the second slit  462  may extend in the y-axis direction, and the other portion of the second slit  462  may extend in the x-axis direction, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the third slit  463  may be provided adjacent to the third corner area C 3  of the first area  431 . The third corner area C 3  may include the area where the third edge P 3  and the second edge P 2  meet each other. The third slit  463  may include a portion extending at least partially parallel to the third edge P 3  and a portion extending at least partially parallel to the second edge P 2 . In an embodiment, one portion of the third slit  463  may extend in the y-axis direction, and the other portion of the third slit  463  may extend in the x-axis direction, for example. 
     In an embodiment, the fourth slit  464  may be provided adjacent to the fourth corner area C 4  of the first area  431 . The fourth corner area C 4  may include the area where the second edge P 2  and the fourth edge P 4  meet each other. The fourth slit  464  may include a portion extending at least partially parallel to the second edge P 2  and a portion extending at least partially parallel to the fourth edge P 4 . In an embodiment, one portion of the fourth slit  464  may extend in the y-axis direction, and the other portion of the fourth slit  464  may extend in the x-axis direction, for example. 
     In various embodiments (not illustrated), at least one of the first slit  461 , the second slit  462 , the third slit  463 , or the fourth slit  464  may be replaced with a recess (e.g., the recess  470  of  FIG.  14 A ) concavely defined in the second surface  430   b  included in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . 
       FIGS.  14 A and  14 B  are views illustrating an embodiment of a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module.  FIG.  14 B  is a plan view of a second surface of the metal plate as viewed from above. 
     The circuit board  420  illustrated in  FIGS.  14 A and  14 B  may include the circuit board illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    in which the opening area  423  is defined or the circuit board illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10 , and  11    in which the opening area  423  is not defined. 
     In an embodiment, a first area  431  of the metal plate  430  illustrated by a dotted line may be defined as an area in physical contact with an image sensor  421  as illustrated in  FIGS.  6 ,  7 , and  8    or an area overlapping the image sensor  421  physically disposed (e.g., mounted) on the circuit board  420  as illustrated in  FIGS.  9 ,  10 , and  11   , for example. 
     In an embodiment, a recess  470  that is defined in a second area  432  and that surrounds the first area  431  may be defined in the metal plate  430 . In an embodiment, the recess  470  may be defined in the second surface  430   b  included in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 , for example. The recess  470  may include an area recessed toward the first surface  430   a  (e.g., the +z-axis direction). In an embodiment, the recess  470  may be recessed by a thickness smaller than the thickness of the metal plate  430  without penetrating the metal plate  430 , for example. In an embodiment, the recess  470  may be provided in a form parallel to the edges of the first area  431 . The recess  470  may be defined in a position spaced apart from the first area  431  by a predetermined gap. 
     The table below shows bending stresses applied to image sensors  421  in comparative examples and embodiments when the same external force (e.g., the external force P of  FIG.  5   ) is applied to metal plates  430 . Comparative examples 1 and 2 include metal plates in which the slits  450  or  460  or the recess  479  is not defined. Embodiment 1 includes the metal plate illustrated in  FIGS.  12 A and  12 B . Embodiment 2 includes the metal plate illustrated in  FIGS.  13 A and  13 B . Embodiment 3 includes the metal plate illustrated in  FIGS.  14 A and  14 B . 
     Referring to [Table 1] below, the camera modules  400  in the embodiments of the disclosure may include the metal plates  430  having a relatively small thickness and thus may have an effect of decreasing the overall thicknesses of the camera modules  400 . 
     In addition, the slits  450  or  460  or the recess  470  defined outside the image sensors  421  may be defined in the metal plates  430 , and thus may have an effect of protecting the image sensors  421  by reducing bending stresses applied to the image sensors  421 . In an embodiment, embodiment 3 may have substantially the same level of protection effect as comparative example 2 including a relatively thick metal plate, for example. In an embodiment, embodiments 1 and 2 may have a relatively improved effect, compared to comparative example 2 including a relatively thick metal plate, for example. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                   
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Thickness of 
                 Bending Stress 
               
               
                   
                 Metal Plate 
                 Applied to Image Sensor 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Comparative 
                 0.15T 
                 40 Mpa 
               
               
                   
                 Example 1 
               
               
                   
                 Comparative 
                 0.25T 
                 32 Mpa 
               
               
                   
                 Example 2 
               
               
                   
                 Embodiment 1 
                 0.15T 
                 16 Mpa 
               
               
                   
                 Embodiment 2 
                 0.15T 
                 18 Mpa 
               
               
                   
                 Embodiment 3 
                 0.15T 
                 33 Mpa 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
       FIGS.  15 A and  15 B  are cross-sectional views illustrating a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. In an embodiment,  FIGS.  15 A and  15 B  are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A of  FIG.  12 A  or  FIG.  13 A , for example. 
     A slit S illustrated in  FIGS.  15 A and  15 B  may include at least one of the slits  450  illustrated in  FIGS.  12 A and  12 B  and/or at least one of the slits  460  illustrated in  FIGS.  13 A and  13 B . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  15 A and  15 B , the slit S may be located in the outward direction of an image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the slit S may be located in a second area  432  of the metal plate  430 , for example. The slit S may pass through a first surface  430   a  from a second surface  430   b  included in the second area  432 . In an embodiment, when the second surface  430   b  of the metal plate  430  is viewed in the direction of an optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction), a portion of the circuit board  420  may be visible through the slit S, for example. In an embodiment, the slit S may overlap the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction). 
     Referring to  FIG.  15 A , a fourth surface  420   b  included in a peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may at least partially contact the first surface  430   a  included in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . The image sensor  421  may be attached to a first area  431  of the metal plate  430 . The circuit board  420  and the image sensor  421  may be connected through wires W. The wires W may extend from the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  to the image sensor  421  across a gap g between the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  and the image sensor  421 . The slit S may not overlap the gap g or the wires W when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA. The slit S may overlap the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA. Accordingly, infiltration of foreign matter into the camera module  400  through the slit S of the metal plate  430  may be prevented. In an embodiment, when the second surface  430   b  of the metal plate  430  is viewed from above, the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may be visible through the slit, for example. 
     Referring to  FIG.  15 B , the fourth surface  420   b  of the circuit board  420  may be attached to the first surface  430   a  of the metal plate  430 . The image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on a third surface  420   a  of the circuit board  420 . A portion of the circuit board  420  may be disposed between the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  and the image sensor  421 . The image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the circuit board  420  using SMT and may be electrically connected with the circuit board  420 . The slit S may overlap a partial area of the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction). The partial area may be a portion around the area on which the image sensor  421  is disposed (e.g., mounted). In an embodiment, when the second surface  430   b  of the metal plate  430  is viewed from above, the circuit board  420  may be visible through the slit S, for example. 
       FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  are cross-sectional views illustrating a metal plate and a circuit board of a camera module. In an embodiment,  FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  are cross-sectional views taken along line B-B of  FIG.  14 A , for example. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  16 A and  16 B , a recess  470  may be located in the outward direction of an image sensor  421 . In an embodiment, the recess  470  may be located in a second area  432  of the metal plate  430 , for example. The recess  470  may be defined in a second surface  430   b  included in the second area  432  and may be recessed toward a first surface  430   a . In an embodiment, the recess  470  may overlap the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of an optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction). 
     Referring to  FIG.  16 A , a fourth surface  420   b  included in a peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  may at least partially contact the first surface  430   a  included in the second area  432  of the metal plate  430 . The image sensor  421  may be attached to a first area  431  of the metal plate  430 . The circuit board  420  and the image sensor  421  may be connected through wires W. The wires W may extend from the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  to the image sensor  421  across a gap g between the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  and the image sensor  421 . The recess  470  may overlap the peripheral area  422  of the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA (e.g., the z-axis direction). In an embodiment, the recess  470  may not overlap the gap g or the wires W when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA. In another embodiment, the recess  470  may overlap the gap g or the wires W when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA. 
     Referring to  FIG.  16 B , the fourth surface of the circuit board may be attached to the first surface of the metal plate. The image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on a third surface  420   a  of the circuit board  420 . A portion of the circuit board  420  may be disposed between the first area  431  of the metal plate  430  and the image sensor  421 . The image sensor  421  may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the circuit board  420  using SMT and may be electrically connected with the circuit board  420 . The recess  470  may overlap a partial area of the circuit board  420  when viewed in the direction of the optical axis OA. The partial area may be a portion around the area on which the image sensor  421  is disposed (e.g., mounted). 
     An electronic device in an embodiment of the disclosure includes a housing and a camera module in the housing. The camera module includes a camera housing, a lens assembly disposed in the camera housing, an image sensor disposed in the camera housing and at least partially aligned with an optical axis of the lens, a metal plate including a first area that overlaps the image sensor when viewed in a direction of the optical axis and a second area around the first area, and a circuit board at least partially attached to the metal plate and electrically connected with the image sensor. A slit that penetrates the metal plate or a recess concavely defined in a surface of the metal plate is defined in the second area of the metal plate. 
     In an embodiment, the image sensor may contact the first area of the metal plate, and the circuit board may include an opening area in which the image sensor is disposed and a peripheral area that surrounds the opening area and that is attached to a portion of the second area of the metal plate. 
     In an embodiment, a portion of the first area may be located in the opening area when the metal plate is viewed in the direction of the optical axis. 
     In an embodiment, the slit or the recess may overlap the peripheral area of the circuit board when the metal plate is viewed in the direction of the optical axis. 
     In an embodiment, a predetermined gap may be defined between the image sensor and the peripheral area of the circuit board, and the slit or the recess may not overlap the predetermined gap when the metal plate is viewed in the direction of the optical axis. 
     In an embodiment, the camera module may further include a wire that electrically connects the circuit board and the image sensor, and the wire may extend across the predetermined gap. 
     In an embodiment, the slit or the recess may be defined in a position non-overlapping the wire when viewed in the direction of the optical axis. 
     In an embodiment, the image sensor may be disposed (e.g., mounted) on the circuit board, and a portion of the circuit board may be disposed between the first area of the metal plate and the image sensor. 
     In an embodiment, when viewed in the direction of the optical axis, the slit or the recess may overlap an area around an area on which the image sensor is disposed (e.g., mounted). 
     In an embodiment, the image sensor may be disposed on a first surface of the metal plate, the recess may be concavely defined in a second surface of the metal plate that is opposite to the first surface of the metal plate, and the slit may pass through the second surface from the first surface of the metal plate. 
     In an embodiment, the slit may be provided in plural, and a plurality of slits may include a first slit and a second slit that extend in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis and a third slit and a fourth slit that extend in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis and the first direction. 
     In an embodiment, the slit may be spaced apart from an edge of the first area and may extend in a direction parallel to the edge, and an extension length of the slit may be less than a length of the edge. 
     In an embodiment, adjacent slits of the plurality of slits may be spaced apart from each other. 
     In an embodiment, the slit may be provided in plural, and a plurality of slits may be adjacent to corner areas of the first area, respectively. 
     In an embodiment, each of the plurality of slits may include parts that extend parallel to portions of two edges of the first area connected at a right angle. 
     In an embodiment, the slit may be provided in plural, and a plurality of slits may partially surround the first area when the surface of the metal plate is viewed from above. 
     In an embodiment, the recess may surround an entirety of the first area when the surface of the metal plate is viewed from above. 
     In an embodiment, the electronic device may further include a processor, the camera module may further include a connecting member that extends outside the camera housing from the circuit board, and the connecting member may electrically connect the circuit board and the processor. 
     In an embodiment, the connecting member may be unitary with the circuit board. 
     In an embodiment, when an external force is applied to the metal plate, the first area may remain substantially flat, and the second area may be at least partially deformed to be flat or curved. 
     The electronic device in embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance, for example. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above. 
     It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of such phrases as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C,” may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as “1st” and “2nd,” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other feature (e.g., importance or order). It is to be understood that when an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term “operatively” or “communicatively”, as “coupled with,” “coupled to,” “connected with,” or “connected to” another element (e.g., a second element), it means that the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element. 
     As used in connection with various embodiments of the disclosure, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, e.g., “logic,” “logic block,” “part,” or “circuitry”. A module may be a single integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. In an embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), for example. 
     Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program  140 ) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory  136  or external memory  138  in  FIG.  1   ) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device  101 ). In an embodiment, a processor (e.g., the processor  120 ) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device  101 ) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor, for example. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a complier or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, the term “non-transitory” simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium. 
     In an embodiment, a method in embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (“CD-ROM”)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore™), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. When distributed online, at least a part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as a memory of the manufacturer&#39;s server, a server of the application store, or a relay server. 
     In embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. In embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, in embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. In embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.