Patent ID: 12244917

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. With respect to constituent elements used in the following description, suffixes “module” and “unit” are given only in consideration of ease in the preparation of the specification, and do not have or serve as different meanings. Accordingly, the suffixes “module” and “unit” may be used interchangeably.

An electronic device described in this specification may include a robot, a drone, a vehicle, etc. that can employ Lidar or the like for driving, and in addition, may include home appliances such as a refrigerator, a washing machine, an air conditioner, an electronic door, an automatic temperature controller, etc., for sensing users or the like.

Meanwhile, a camera described in this specification is a camera employed in Lidar or the like, and outputs light to the front.

FIG.1is a view illustrating an electronic device including a camera apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawing, the electronic device ELE may include a camera apparatus195.

Meanwhile, the camera apparatus195may include a light source that outputs auxiliary light in order to obtain an image of an external object.

Meanwhile, when the light source outputs the auxiliary light, artifacts caused by the auxiliary light may be generated from the acquired image.

In particular, when the auxiliary light is outputted in a certain direction from the light source while the camera apparatus195is fixed or hardly moves, artifacts caused by the auxiliary light may be generated.

In particular, when the camera apparatus195includes a depth camera for acquiring depth information, the artifacts caused by the auxiliary light have a large effect during 3D reconstruction.

In view of this, the present disclosure proposes a method of reducing artifacts caused by a light source by dynamically moving output light by moving a light source or a lens module through an actuator.

That is, the camera apparatus195according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a light source LMP, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, an actuator ACT for moving the light source LMP or the lens module LND, and an image sensor IMS for converting light coming from the outside into an electrical signal.

Accordingly, it is possible to implement a high-quality 3D volume by dynamically moving output light. In particular, artifacts caused by the light source LMP can be reduced by dynamically moving output light by moving the light source LMP or the lens module LND through the actuator ACT.

That is, on the other hand, when a vibration driving system is applied to all or part of the camera apparatus195, no artifacts of the auxiliary light are located in the same volume in successive frames FRM.

Therefore, although an error of depth itself cannot be overcome, the camera apparatus195has its own dynamic characteristics when performing 3D reconstruction, which eliminates artifacts generated by the auxiliary light from the volume of the final result, resulting in the creation of a high-quality 3D volume.

Meanwhile, a camera apparatus195according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light source LMP, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, a second lens module LND for collecting light from the outside, an image sensor IMS for converting light coming from the second lens module LND into an electrical signal, and an actuator ACT for moving the direction of travel of light output from the lens module LND and the direction of travel of light input into the second lens module LND.

Accordingly, it is possible to implement a high-quality 3D volume by dynamically moving output light. In particular, artifacts caused by the light source LMP can be reduced by dynamically moving output light by moving the light source LMP or the lens module LND through the actuator ACT.

FIGS.2A to2Cillustrate various examples of an internal block diagram of the camera apparatus ofFIG.1.

First, referring toFIG.2A, a camera apparatus195maaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a light source device210, a second lens module OPT, an image sensor IMS, and a processor270.

The second lens module OPT may collect light from the outside and deliver it to the image sensor IMS. To this end, the second lens module OPT may include a plurality of lenses.

The image sensor IMS may convert external light coming from the second lens module OPT into an electrical signal.

To this end, the image sensor IMS may include m*n pixels and a pixel driving circuit for driving the pixels.

The electrical signal obtained by the conversion by the image sensor IMS may be sent to the processor270, in response to an image signal.

The processor270may process an image signal from the image sensor IMS and output a converted image.

For example, if the image sensor IMS is an IR image sensor, the processor270may output a signal-processed IR image or a depth image.

As another example, if the image sensor IMS is an RGB image sensor, the processor270may output a signal-processed RGB image.

Meanwhile, the second lens module OPT and the image sensor IMS may operate as a depth camera.

The light source device210includes a light source LMP, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, and an actuator ACTa for moving the light source LMP or the lens module LND.

The light source LMP may output structured light. Alternatively, the light source LMP may output infrared light.

The lens module LND may include a plurality of lenses positioned above the light source LMP and a frame FRM supporting the plurality of lenses.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTa may move the light source LMP or the lens module LND for changing the direction of travel of the output light based on a movement pattern.

For example, the actuator ACTa may include a coil COL attached to the frame FRM and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL.

An attractive or repulsive force acts between the magnet MGT and the coil COL by an electrical signal applied to the coil COL, thus allowing the frame FRM to move.

That is, the actuator ACTa is disposed on a side surface of the frame FRM and changes the output direction of light from the light source LMP by performs horizontal or vertical rotation of the lens module LND.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTa may include a magnet MGT attached to the frame FRM and a coil COL spaced apart from the magnet MGT.

As another example, the actuator ACTa may include a liquid lens LON disposed on or above the plurality of lenses.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTa may include a liquid lens LON and a liquid lens driver (not shown) for driving the liquid lens LON.

The liquid lens LON includes a plurality of electrodes (not shown) on a first substrate (not shown), a plurality of insulators (not shown) for insulating the plurality of electrodes (not shown), a liquid (not shown) on the plurality of electrodes (not shown), an electroconductive aqueous solution (not shown) on the liquid (not shown), a common electrode (not shown) spaced apart from the liquid530, and a second substrate (not shown) on the common electrode (not shown).

The common electrode520may have a hollow and may be formed in a tube shape. In addition, a liquid (not shown) and an electrically conductive aqueous solution (not shown) may be disposed in the hollow region. In this case, the liquid530may be a non-conductive liquid such as oil.

The liquid lens driver (not shown) may change the curvature of the formed liquid (not shown) in response to electrical signals respectively applied to the plurality of electrodes (not shown) and the common electrode (not shown).

Accordingly, the liquid lens LON may change the direction of travel of light according to the applied power.

That is, the actuator ACTa may change the output direction of light from the light source LMP by changing the curvature of the liquid lens LON.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTa may move the lens module LND for changing the direction of travel of the output light based on the movement pattern.

Meanwhile, the processor270receives motion information from an external inertial sensor (not shown), and controls the actuator ACTa to operate based on the level of the motion information being lower than a reference value, and controls the actuator ACTa to not operate based on the level of the motion information being higher than or equal to the reference value.

That is, based on the level of the motion information being lower than the reference value, the processor270may perform a first mode in which the actuator ACTa operates, and based on the level of the motion information being higher than or equal to the reference value, it may perform a second mode in which the actuator ACTa does not operate.

Meanwhile, in the first mode, the processor270may control the actuator ACTa to operate at a higher frequency than a frame (FRM) frequency of an image obtained from the image sensor IMS.

Meanwhile, the processor270may generate a 3D image based on a plurality of image frames obtained by conversion by the image sensor IMS, based on light of output direction changed by the actuator ACTa. Accordingly, it is possible to implement a high-quality 3D volume by dynamically moving output light. In particular, it is possible to reduce artifacts caused by the light source LMP.

Next, referring toFIG.2B, a camera apparatus195mbaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light source device210, a second lens module OPT, an image sensor IMS, and a processor270.

The camera apparatus195mbofFIG.2Bis similar to the camera apparatus195maofFIG.2A, only with the difference that the actuator ACTa moves the light source LMP but not the lens module LND.

Accordingly, the actuator ACTa may not be attached to the frame FRM of the lens module LND, but may be attached to a substrate PCB on which the light source LMP is disposed.

For example, the actuator ACTa ofFIG.2Bmay include a coil COL attached to the substrate PCB and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL. Accordingly, the output direction of light from the light source LMP may be changed.

As another example, the actuator ACTa may include a liquid lens LON disposed on or above the lens module LND or on top of the light source LMP. In addition, the output direction of light from the light source LMP may be changed based on the variable curvature of the liquid lens LON.

Next, referring toFIG.2C, a camera apparatus195mcaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a light source LMP, a lens module LND, a second lens module OPT, an actuator ACT, an image sensor IMS, and a processor270.

The actuator ACT of the camera apparatus195mcofFIG.2Cmay change the direction of travel of light output from the lens module LND and the direction of travel of light input to the image sensor IMS.

For example, the actuator ACT ofFIG.2Cmay include a coil COL attached to the substrate PCB and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL. Accordingly, the output direction of light from the light source LMP and the direction of travel of light input into the image sensor IMS attached to the substrate PCB may be changed.

As another example, the actuator ACT may include a liquid lens LON disposed on or above the lens module LND and above the second lens module OPT. In addition, based on the variable curvature of the liquid lens LON, the direction of light output from the lens module LND and the direction of travel of light input into the second lens module OPT.

FIG.3Ais a view illustrating a mobile terminal as an example of the electronic device ofFIG.1, andFIG.3Bis a rear perspective view of the mobile terminal shown inFIG.3A.

Referring toFIG.3A, a case forming an outer appearance of a mobile terminal100may be formed by a front case100-1and a rear case100-2. Various electronic components may be embedded in a space formed by the front case100-1and the rear case100-2.

Specifically, a display180, a first sound output module153a, a first camera195a, and a first to third user input devices130a,130b, and130cmay be disposed in the front case100-1. Further, a fourth user input device130d, a fifth user input device130e, and a microphone123may be disposed on a lateral surface of the rear case100-2.

In the display180, a touchpad may be overlapped in a layer structure so that the display180may operate as a touch screen.

The first sound output module153amay be implemented in the form of a receiver or a speaker. The first camera195amay be implemented in a form suitable for photographing an image or a moving image of a user, and the like. The microphone123may be implemented in a form suitable for receiving a user's voice, other sounds, and the like.

The first to fifth user input devices130a,130b,130c,130dand130eand a sixth and seventh user input devices130fand130gdescribed below may be collectively referred to as a user input device130.

The microphone123may be disposed in the lower side of the rear case100-2, i.e., in the lower side of the mobile terminal100, so as to collect an audio signal. Otherwise the microphone123may be disposed in the upper side of the rear case100-2, i.e., in the upper side of the mobile terminal100, so as to collect an audio signal.

Referring toFIG.3B, a second camera195b, a third camera195c, and a fourth microphone (not shown) may be additionally mounted on the rear surface of the rear case100-2, and a sixth and seventh user input devices130fand130g, and an interface175may be disposed on the side surface of the rear case100-2.

The second camera195bhas a photographing direction substantially opposite to that of the first camera195a, and may have different pixels from the first camera195a. A flash (not shown) and a mirror (not shown) may be additionally disposed adjacent to the second camera195b. In addition, another camera may be installed adjacent to the second camera195bto be used for shooting a three-dimensional stereoscopic image.

A second sound output module (not shown) may be additionally disposed in the rear case100-2. The second sound output module may implement a stereo function together with the first sound output module153a, and may be used for talking in a speakerphone mode.

A power supply190for supplying power to the mobile terminal100may be mounted in the rear case100-2. The power supply190may be, for example, a rechargeable battery and may be detachably coupled to the rear case100-2for charging or the like.

The microphone123may be disposed in the front surface of the rear case100-2, i.e., in the rear surface of the mobile terminal100so as to collect an audio signal.

FIG.4is a block diagram of a mobile terminal ofFIG.3according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.4, the mobile terminal100may include a wireless transceiver110, an audio/video (A/V) input device120, a user input device130, a sensing device140, an output device150, a memory160, an interface175, a controller170, and a power supply190. When these components are implemented in an actual application, two or more components may be combined into one component if necessary, or one component may be divided into two or more components.

The wireless transceiver110may include a broadcast receiving module111, a mobile communication module113, a wireless Internet module115, a short distance communication module117, and a GPS module119.

The broadcast receiving module111may receive at least one of a broadcast signal and broadcast related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast signal and/or broadcast related information received through the broadcast receiving module111may be stored in the memory160.

The mobile communication module113may transmit and receive a wireless signal to at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. Here, the wireless signal may include various types of data in accordance with a voice call signal, a video call signal, or a character/multimedia message transmission/reception.

The wireless Internet module115refers to a module for wireless Internet access, and the wireless Internet module115may be embedded in the mobile terminal100or externally provided.

The short distance communication module117refers to a module for short distance communication. BLUETOOTH, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, and Near Field Communication (NFC) may be used as a short distance communication technology.

The Global Position System (GPS) module119may receive position information from a plurality of GPS satellites.

The audio/video (A/V) input device120may be used to input an audio signal or a video signal, and may include a camera195, the microphone123, and the like.

The camera195may process an image frame such as a still image or a moving image acquired by an image sensor in a video call mode or a photographing mode. Then, the processed image frame may be displayed on the display180.

The image frame processed by the camera195may be stored in the memory160or transmitted to the outside through the wireless transceiver110. Two or more cameras195may be provided according to the configuration of the terminal.

The microphone123may receive an external audio signal by a microphone in a display off mode, e.g., a call mode, a recording mode, or a voice recognition mode, and may process the audio signal into an electrical voice data.

Meanwhile, a plurality of microphones123may be disposed in different positions. The audio signal received in each microphone may be audio-signal processed in the controller170, or the like.

The user input device130may generate key input data that the user inputs for controlling the operation of the terminal. The user input device130may include a key pad, a dome switch, and a touch pad (static pressure scheme/capacitive scheme) capable of receiving a command or information by a user's pressing or touching operation. In particular, when the touch pad has a mutual layer structure with the display180described later, it may be referred to as a touch screen.

The sensing device140may detect the current state of the mobile terminal100such as the open/close state of the mobile terminal100, the position of the mobile terminal100, the contact of the user, and the like, and may generate a sensing signal for controlling the operation of the mobile terminal100.

The sensing device140may include a proximity sensor141, a pressure sensor143, a motion sensor145, a touch sensor146, and the like.

The proximity sensor141may detect an object approaching the mobile terminal100or an object in the vicinity of the mobile terminal100without mechanical contact. In particular, the proximity sensor141may detect a nearby object by using a change in the alternating magnetic field or a change in the static magnetic field, or by using a change rate of the capacitance.

The pressure sensor143may detect whether a pressure is applied to the mobile terminal100, or detect the magnitude of the pressure, and the like.

The motion sensor145may detect the position or motion of the mobile terminal100by using an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or the like.

The touch sensor146may detect a touch input by a user's finger or a touch input by a specific pen. For example, when a touch screen panel is disposed on the display180, the touch screen panel may include a touch sensor146for sensing position information and intensity information of the touch input. A sensing signal sensed by the touch sensor146may be transmitted to the controller180.

The output device150may be used to output an audio signal, a video signal, or an alarm signal. The output device150may include a display180, a sound output module153, an alarm device155, and a haptic module157.

The display180may display and output information processed by the mobile terminal100. For example, when the mobile terminal100is in the call mode, a user interface (UI) or graphic user interface (GUI) related with the call may be displayed. When the mobile terminal100is in the video call mode or the photographing mode, the photographed or received image may be displayed individually or simultaneously, and the UI and the GUI may be displayed.

Meanwhile, as described above, when the display180and the touch pad form a mutual layer structure to constitute a touch screen, the display180may be used as an input apparatus capable of inputting information by a user's touch in addition to an output apparatus.

The sound output module153may output the audio data received from the wireless transceiver110or stored in the memory160in a call signal reception, a call mode or a recording mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, and the like. In addition, the sound output module153may output an audio signal related to the function performed in the mobile terminal100, e.g., a call signal reception tone, a message reception tone, and the like. The sound output module153may include a speaker, a buzzer, and the like.

The alarm device155may output a signal for notifying the occurrence of an event of the mobile terminal100. The alarm device155may output a signal for notifying the occurrence of an event in a different form from an audio signal or a video signal. For example, it is possible to output a signal in a form of vibration.

The haptic module157may generate various tactile effects that the user can feel. A typical example of the tactile effect generated by the haptic module157may be a vibration effect. When the haptic module157generates vibration with a tactile effect, the intensity and pattern of the vibration generated by the haptic module157can be converted, and different vibrations may be synthesized to be outputted or may be sequentially outputted.

The memory160may store a program for the processing and controlling of the controller170, and may serve to temporarily store inputted or outputted data (e.g., a phone book, a message, a still image, a moving image, or the like).

The interface175may serve as an interface with all external apparatuses connected to the mobile terminal100. The interface175may receive data from an external apparatus or receive power from the external apparatus to transmit to each component in the mobile terminal100, and allow the data in the mobile terminal100to be transmitted to the external apparatus.

The controller170may control, in general, the operation of each unit to control the overall operation of the mobile terminal100. For example, the controller170may perform relevant control and processing for voice call, data communication, video call, and the like. In addition, the controller170may include a multimedia playback module181for playing multimedia. The multimedia playback module181may be configured in hardware inside the controller170or may be configured in software separately from the controller170. Meanwhile, the controller170may include an application processor (not shown) for driving an application. Alternatively, the application processor (not shown) may be provided separately from the controller170.

The power supply190may receive external power or internal power under the control of the controller170to supply power required for operation of each component.

FIGS.5A to5Dare views illustrating a camera apparatus according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.FIGS.6A to16Care views referenced in the description ofFIGS.5A to5D.

First,FIG.5Aillustrates a camera apparatus195maaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawing, the camera apparatus195maaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light source device210mafor outputting light to the outside and one camera220for receiving external light.

As shown inFIG.2A, the camera220ofFIG.5Amay include a second lens module OPT and an image sensor IMS, and may further include a processor270.

The light source device210mamay output light to an external object OBJ. In particular, according to the first mode, the light source device210mamay change the output light based on a specific pattern.

As shown inFIG.2A, the light source device210maofFIG.5Amay include a light source LMP, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, and an actuator ACTa for moving the light source LMP or the lens module LND.

For example, the actuator ACTa may include a coil COL attached to the frame FRM and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL.

Specifically, the actuator ACTa is disposed on a side surface of the frame FRM and changes the output direction of light from the light source LMP by performing horizontal rotation or vertical rotation of the lens module LND.

As another example, the actuator ACTa may include a liquid lens LON disposed on or above the plurality of lenses.

Specifically, in response to an electric signal applied to the liquid lens LON, the output direction of light from the light source LMP may be changed by changing the curvature of the liquid lens LON.

As a result, the actuator ACTa may move the light source LMP or the lens module LND for changing the direction of travel of the output light based on the movement pattern.

Next,FIG.5Billustrates a camera apparatus195mbaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawing, the camera apparatus195mbaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light source device210mafor outputting light to the outside and two cameras220and220bfor receiving external light.

The light source device210mamay perform the same operation as described with reference toFIG.5A.

The first camera220may include a second lens module OPT and an image sensor IMS, and the second camera220bmay include a third lens module (not shown) spaced apart from the second lens module OPT of the first camera220and a second image sensor (not shown).

Meanwhile, beams of light collected through the second lens module OPT and the third lens module (not shown) may be converted into respective electrical signals through respective image sensors, and the electrical signals may be delivered to the processor270.

Meanwhile, the first camera220and the second camera220bmay be referred to as stereo cameras.

The processor270may extract depth information based on electrical signals from the first camera220and the second camera220b, that is, based on stereo image signals, and may generate a 3D image based on the extracted depth information.

In this case, as the light source device210machanges the output light based on a specific pattern, the processor270may create a high-quality 3D volume in which artifacts caused by the light source are removed.

Next,FIG.5Cillustrates a camera apparatus195naccording to further another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawing, a camera apparatus195naccording to further another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light source device210afor outputting light to the outside and one camera220for receiving external light, similarly toFIG.5A.

Next, as shown inFIG.2C, the camera220ofFIG.5Cmay include a second lens module OPT and an image sensor IMS, and may further include a processor270.

The light source device210may output light to an external object OBJ. In particular, according to the first mode, the light source device210may change the output light based on a specific pattern.

The light source device210ofFIG.5Cis similar to that ofFIG.5A, only with the difference that the actuator ACTb moves the light source LMP and the substrate PCB on which the image sensor IMS is disposed.

For example, the actuator ACTb ofFIG.5Cmay include a coil COL attached to the substrate PCB and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL.

Specifically, the actuator ACTb may be disposed on a side surface of the substrate PCB and change the output direction of light from the light source LMP by performing horizontal rotation or vertical rotation of the substrate PCB.

As another example, the actuator ACTb may include a liquid lens LON disposed on or above the lens module LND and the second lens module OPT.

Specifically, in response to the electrical signal applied to the liquid lens LON, the output direction of light from the lens module LND and the direction of travel of light incident to the second lens module OPT may be changed by changing the curvature of the liquid lens LON.

Next,FIG.5Dillustrates a camera device195nbaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawing, a camera apparatus195nbaccording to a further embodiment of the present disclosure may include a light source device210for outputting light to the outside and two cameras220and220bfor receiving external light.

The light source device210may perform a similar operation to that described with reference toFIG.5C.

The first camera220may include a second lens module OPT and an image sensor IMS, and the second camera220bmay include a third lens module (not shown) spaced apart from the second lens module OPT of the first camera220and a second image sensor (not shown).

Meanwhile, beams of light collected through the second lens module OPT and the third lens module (not shown) may be converted into respective electrical signals through respective image sensors, and the electrical signals may be delivered to the processor270.

Meanwhile, the first camera220and the second camera220bmay be referred to as stereo cameras.

The processor270may extract depth information based on electrical signals from the first camera220and the second camera220b, that is, based on stereo image signals, and may generate a 3D image based on the extracted depth information.

In this case, as the light source device210machanges the output light based on a specific pattern, the processor270may create a high-quality 3D volume in which artifacts caused by the light source are removed.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTb may move a substrate PCB on which the light source LMP, the image sensor IMS, and the second image sensor (not shown) are disposed.

For example, the actuator ACTb ofFIG.5Dmay include a coil COL attached to the substrate PCB and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL.

Specifically, the actuator ACTb may be disposed on a side surface of the substrate PCB and change the output direction of light from the light source LMP by performing horizontal rotation or vertical rotation of the substrate PCB.

As another example, the actuator ACTb may include a liquid lens LON disposed on or above the lens module LND, the second lens module OPT, and the third lens module (not shown).

Specifically, in response to an electric signal applied to the liquid lens LON, the output direction of light from the lens module LND, the direction of travel of light incident on the second lens module OPT, and the direction of travel of light incident on the third lens module (not shown) may be changed by changing the curvature of the liquid lens LON.

FIG.6Ais a front view of the camera apparatus195maofFIG.5A, andFIG.6Bis a side view of the light source device210maofFIG.6A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195mamay include a light source device210maand a camera220.

The light source device210mamay include a light source LMP disposed on a substrate PCB, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, and an actuator ACTa1for moving the light source LMP or the lens module LND.

The lens module LND is supported by a frame FRM surrounding the lens module LND.

Meanwhile, the lens module LND and the frame FRM may be collectively referred to as a lens structure LNU.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTa1may include a coil COL attached to the frame FRM and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL.

Meanwhile, the magnet MGT may be disposed on a holder HLD disposed under the frame FRM.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTa1may perform horizontal rotation or vertical rotation of the lens module LND based on an electrical signal applied to the coil COL, and, as a result, may change the output direction of light from the light source LMP by performing horizontal rotation or vertical rotation of the lens module LND.

FIG.7Ais a front view of the camera apparatus195mbofFIG.5B, andFIG.7Bis a side view of the light source device210maofFIG.7A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195mbmay include a light source device210mafor outputting light to the outside and two cameras220and220bfor receiving external light.

Meanwhile, the light source device210maofFIG.7Bmay have the same shape as the light source210maofFIG.6B.

FIG.8Ais a front view of the camera apparatus195mcaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG.8Bis a side view of the light source device210mcofFIG.8A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195mcmay include a light source device210mcfor outputting light to the outside by a time-of-flight (TOF) method and a single camera220ifor receiving external light.

The light source device210mcmay include a light source LMPb for outputting light by a scanning method, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMPb to the outside, and an actuator ACTa1for moving the light source LMPb or the lens module LND.

The light source LMPB may include a MEMS scanner for scanning in one direction or a MEMS scanner for scanning in two directions.

The actuator ACTa1may include a coil COL attached to the frame FRM and a magnet MGT spaced apart from the coil COL.

Also, based on an electric signal applied to the coil COL, the output direction of light from the light source LMPb may be changed by performing horizontal rotation or vertical rotation of the lens module LND.

Meanwhile, the camera220imay include a second lens module OPT for collecting light from the outside and an image sensor IMS for converting light coming from the second lens module OPT into an electrical signal.

FIG.9A, which is similar toFIG.6A, is a front view of a camera apparatus195maeusing a liquid lens as an actuator, andFIG.9Bis a side view of a light source210maeofFIG.9A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195maemay include a light source device210maeand a camera220.

The light source device210maemay include a light source LMP disposed on a substrate PCB, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, and a liquid lens LON, as an actuator ACTe, disposed on the lens module LND.

Accordingly, unlikeFIG.6A, the frame FRM and the lens module LND do not move, and the shape or refractive index of the liquid lens LON changes in response to an electrical signal applied to the liquid lens LON.

FIG.9Billustrates that the liquid lens LON disposed on or above the lens module LND maintains a constant thickness of ho.

FIG.9Cillustrates that, as a first electrical signal is applied to the liquid lens LON, a left side of the liquid lens LON has a thickness of h1 which is less than ho and a right side thereof has a thickness of h2 which is greater than ho.

Accordingly, in comparison toFIG.9B, light output to the outside is moved further to the right in the direction of travel.

FIG.9Dillustrates that, as a second electrical signal is applied to the liquid lens LON, the left side of the liquid lens LON has a thickness of ha which is greater than ho and the right side thereof has a thickness of hb which is less than ho.

Accordingly, in comparison toFIG.9B, light output to the outside is moved further to the left in the direction of travel.

FIG.10A, which is similar toFIG.7A, is a front view of a camera apparatus195mbeusing a liquid lens as an actuator, andFIG.10Bis a side view of a light source device210maeofFIG.10A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195mbemay include a light source device210maeand two cameras220and220bfor receiving external light.

Meanwhile, the light source device210maeofFIGS.10D to10Dmay have the same shape as the light source210maeofFIGS.9B to9D. Thus, a description of them will be omitted.

FIG.11A, which is similar toFIG.8A, is a front view of a camera apparatus195mceusing a liquid lens as an actuator, andFIG.10Bis a side view of a light source device210mceofFIG.11A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195mcemay include a light source device210mcefor outputting light to the outside by a time-of-flight (TOF) method and a single camera220ifor receiving external light.

The light source device210mcemay include a light source LMPb for outputting light by a scanning method, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMPb to the outside, and a liquid lens LON, as an actuator ACTae, disposed on or above the lens module LND.

The light source LMPb may include a MEMS scanner for scanning in one direction or a MEMS scanner for scanning in two directions.

Meanwhile, the shape or refractive index of the liquid lens LON is changed in response to an electrical signal applied to the liquid lens LON.

FIG.11Billustrates that the liquid lens LON disposed on or above the lens module LND maintains a constant thickness of ho.

FIG.11Cillustrates that, as a first electrical signal is applied to the liquid lens LON, a left side of the liquid lens LON has a thickness of h1 which is less than ho and a right side thereof has a thickness of h2 which is greater than ho.

Accordingly, in comparison toFIG.11B, light output to the outside is moved further to the right in the direction of travel.

FIG.11Dillustrates that, as a second electrical signal is applied to the liquid lens LON, the left side of the liquid lens LON has a thickness of ha which is greater than ho and the right side thereof has a thickness of hb which is less than ho.

Accordingly, in comparison toFIG.11B, light output to the outside is moved further to the left in the direction of travel.

FIG.12Ais a front view of a camera apparatus195naaccording to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG.12Bis a perspective view of a light source device210kofFIG.12A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195namay include a light source device210kand a camera220.

The light source device210kmay include a light source LMP disposed on a substrate PCB, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, and an actuator ACTb for moving both the light source LMP and the lens module LND.

The lens module LND may be supported by a frame FRM surrounding the lens module LND, and the light source LMP may be disposed on the PCB.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTb may include a coil COLv attached to the frame FRM, for moving the lens module LND, and magnets MGTva and MGTVb spaced apart from the coil COLv.

Meanwhile, the actuator ACTb may include a core CREs disposed on the side of the magnets MGTva and MGTVb, for moving the substrate PCB, a second coil COLs spaced apart from the core CREs and disposed on the inside of the core CREs, and a second magnet MGTs spaced apart from the second coil COLs and disposed on or above the coil COLs.

Meanwhile, the lens module LND may be moved based on an electrical signal applied to the coil COLv, and the substrate PCB may be moved based on an electrical signal applied to the second coil COLs.

FIG.13Ais a front view of a camera apparatus195nbaccording to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawing, the camera apparatus195nbmay include a light source device210kfor outputting light to the outside and two cameras220and220bfor receiving external light.

Meanwhile, the light source device210kofFIG.13Amay have the same shape as the light source device210kofFIG.12A or12B.

FIG.13Bis a front view of a camera apparatus195ncaccording to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195ncmay include a light source device210mcfor outputting light to the outside by a time-of-flight (TOF) method and a single camera220ifor receiving external light.

The light source device210kofFIG.13B, similarly to the light source210kofFIG.11b, may include a light source LMPb, a lens module LND, and an actuator ACTb for moving both the light source LMPb and the lens module LND.

In this case, the light source LMPb may include a MEMS scanner for scanning in one direction or a MEMS scanner for scanning in two directions.

FIG.14Ais a front view of a camera apparatus195ndaccording to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG.14Bis a perspective view of a light source device210dofFIG.14A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera apparatus195ndmay include a light source device210dand a camera220.

The light source device210dmay include a light source LMP disposed on a substrate PCB, a lens module LND for outputting light from the light source LMP to the outside, and a liquid lens LONe, as an actuator ACTeb, disposed on the lens module LND.

Meanwhile, the camera220may include an image sensor IMS disposed on a common substrate PCB, a second lens module OPT disposed on the image sensor IMS, for outputting light to the image sensor IMS, and a liquid lens LONe, as an actuator ACTeb, disposed on the second lens module OPT.

The second lens module OPT may be supported by a second frame FRMs, and the second frame FRMs may be supported by a second holder HLD.

Meanwhile, since the liquid lens LONe is disposed on or above the lens module LND in the light source device210dand the second lens module OPT in the camera220, which are spaced apart from each other, the direction of light output from the lens module LND and the direction of light input into the second lens module OPT may be changed by varying the refractive index based on an applied electrical signal, based on an applied electrical signal.

FIG.15Ashows an example of a light source210Pa including a condensing lens MP and a uniaxial MEMS scanner MES.

Such a light source210Pa may be used as a light source using the above-mentioned TOF method.

FIG.15Bshows an example of a light source210Pa including a point light source SPD, a condensing lens CMP, and a biaxial MEMS scanner MESb.

FIG.16Ais a view referenced to describe how noise is attenuated by a light source based on an image signal input into the processor270.

The first image1210may be an image obtained when the output direction of the light source is not varied, and the second image1212may be an image obtained when the output direction of the light source is varied.

The processor270may combine the first image1210and the second image1212to generate a third image1214from which noise is removed and whose pattern resolution is increased.

Alternatively, unlike the above description, the first image1210may be an image obtained by varying a first output direction of the light source at a first point in time, and the second image1212may be an image obtained by varying a second output direction of the light source at a second point in time.

In addition, the processor270may combine the first image1210and the second image1212to generate a third image1214from which noise is removed and whose pattern resolution is increased.

The first image1220ofFIG.16Bexemplifies an image generated by the processor270when the output direction of the light source is not varied, and the second image1222ofFIG.16Bexemplifies an image generated by the processor270when the output direction of the light source is varied.

Based upon a comparison between the first image1220and the second image1222, it can be seen that variation of the output direction of the light source improved the images.

The first image1230ofFIG.16Cexemplifies an image generated by the processor270when the output direction of the light source is not varied, and the second image1232ofFIG.16Cexemplifies an image generated by the processor270when the output direction of the light source is varied.

Based upon a comparison between the first image1230and the second image1232, it can be seen that variation of the output direction of the light source improved the images.

Hereinabove, although the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, but may be variously modified and altered by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure claimed in the following claims.

The present disclosure is applicable to a camera apparatus and an electronic device having the same.