Raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention discloses a camera module that detects raindrops and automatically heats to remove raindrops and moisture. The module comprises at least a lens barrel, a first lens disposed at the front end of the lens barrel, a gland that cooperates with the front end of the lens barrel to lock the first lens to the lens barrel, and a heating element that heats the first lens. The first lens is also provided with a raindrop detection element. The camera module that detects raindrops and automatically heats to remove raindrops and moisture in this embodiment of the present invention automatically detects raindrops or moisture in cold, humid, rainy, or foggy weather, providing precise detection and control signals for subsequent automatic raindrop and moisture removal control.

Description

Technical field:

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera module, in particular to a camera module which detects raindrops and automatically heats to remove raindrops and water vapor. Background technology:

[0002] Currently, camera modules for outdoor surveillance or external vehicle-mounted camera modules are generally unable to automatically detect raindrops or water vapor and automatically remove raindrops and water vapor in cold, humid, rainy or foggy weather. Summary of the invention:

[0003] In order to overcome the problem that existing camera modules are generally unable to automatically detect raindrops or water vapor, an embodiment of the present invention provides a camera module that detects raindrops and automatically heats to remove raindrops and water vapor.

[0004] The raindrop detection automatic heating and raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module comprises at least a lens barrel, a first lens arranged at the front end of the lens barrel, a pressure cover that cooperates with the front end of the lens barrel to lock the first lens on the lens barrel, and a heating plate that can heat the first lens. The first lens is also provided with a raindrop detection element.

[0005] The raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module of the embodiment of the present invention provides a raindrop detection element on the first lens, thereby realizing automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, rainy or foggy weather, and providing accurate detection control signals for subsequent automatic raindrop removal and water vapor removal control. Description of the drawings:

[0006] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0007] Figure 1 The structure of the raindrop detection element embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. Figure 1 ;

[0008] Figure 2 The structure of the raindrop detection element embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. Figure 2 ;

[0009] Figure 3 A front view of an embodiment of a raindrop detection element of the present invention;

[0010] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a raindrop detection element of the present invention;

[0011] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of part A;

[0012] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the raindrop detection element of the present invention

[0013] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of part B;

[0014] Figure 8 The stereoscopic embodiment of the raindrop detection and water vapor removal lens of the present invention Figure 1 ;

[0015] Figure 9 The stereoscopic embodiment of the raindrop detection and water vapor removal lens of the present invention Figure 2 ;

[0016] Figure 10 for Figure 9 sectional view of

[0017] Figure 11 for Figure 9 Explosion diagram Figure 1 ;

[0018] Figure 12 for Figure 9 Explosion diagram Figure 2 ;

[0019] Figure 13 A perspective view of another embodiment of the raindrop detection, raindrop removal and moisture removal lens of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 14 for Figure 13 sectional view of

[0021] Figure 15 Schematic diagram of the structure of a camera module embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 16 for Figure 15 Exploded diagram;

[0023] Figure 17 Schematic diagram of the structure of another embodiment of the camera module of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 18 for Figure 17 Exploded diagram;

[0025] Figure 19 Schematic diagram of the structure of another embodiment of the camera module of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 20 Schematic diagram of the principle framework of the control circuit of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 21 1 is a schematic diagram of a detection circuit of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the driving circuit of the present invention. Specific implementation method:

[0029] In order to make the technical problems, technical solutions and beneficial effects solved by the present invention more clearly understood, the present invention is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0030] When ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are mentioned in the embodiments of the present invention, unless they actually express the meaning of order according to the context, they should be understood as being merely for the purpose of distinction.

[0031] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] like Figure 1-3 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention discloses a raindrop detection element 1, including an element body, on which are printed electrode pairs (11, 12) arranged at intervals. When the element body cooperates with a camera module, a sensing signal of whether there are raindrops or water vapor on the camera module is obtained through the electrode pairs (11, 12) arranged at intervals.

[0033] The raindrop detection element or camera module of the embodiment of the present invention, when water droplets or water vapor condenses on the spaced electrode pairs, will change the electrical signal between the spaced electrode pairs, thereby forming a sensing signal of whether there are raindrops or water vapor. It can automatically detect raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, or rainy and foggy weather, and provide accurate detection control signals for the subsequent camera module to automatically remove raindrops and water vapor.

[0034] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of this solution but not limiting, when raindrops or water vapor are present, the electrode pairs (11, 12) spaced apart on the element body output a low-level sensing signal; when there are no raindrops or water vapor, the electrode pairs (11, 12) spaced apart on the element body output a high-level sensing signal. The structure is simple and the detection is accurate.

[0035] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of the present invention but not limiting, the electrode pair includes two parallel wires, which may be two capacitor plates with a potential difference or ITO conductive strips.

[0036] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of this solution but not limiting, the component body is annular, has a simple structure, and can be easily matched with the camera module.

[0037] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of the present invention but not limiting, the cross section of the element body is plane or arc-shaped, and the electrode pairs (11, 12) are spaced apart on the plane or arc surface. The structure is simple, and the raindrop detection element can be installed on the object side of the first lens of the camera module, or on the annular groove between the object side and the image side of the first lens, or on the outer side of the glass substrate in the camera module gland and in front of the first lens, thereby realizing multiple installation and matching methods and better adaptability.

[0038] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of this solution, but not limiting, the component body is a flexible transparent substrate layer. In this embodiment, the flexible transparent substrate layer includes, but is not limited to, a PET film layer. The substrate layer is covered with an ITO conductive film, which is etched to form ITO conductive strips; or the substrate layer is provided with a touch film, which is provided with nanowires.

[0039] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of this solution but not limitation, the electrode pair (11, 12) is embedded in the component body and flush with the upper surface of the component body. The structure is simple.

[0040] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of this solution but not limiting, the overall thickness of the component body is 0.6-1 mm. The structure is simple and does not affect the volume of the product after installation.

[0041] like Figure 8-10 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention further discloses a camera module, which at least includes an optical lens, and the above-mentioned raindrop detection element is installed in the optical lens.

[0042] The raindrop detection element or camera module of the embodiment of the present invention, when water droplets or water vapor condenses on the spaced electrode pairs, will change the electrical signal between the spaced electrode pairs, thereby forming a sensing signal of whether there are raindrops or water vapor. It can automatically detect raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, or rainy and foggy weather, and provide accurate detection control signals for the subsequent camera module to automatically remove raindrops and water vapor.

[0043] like Figure 8As shown, an embodiment of the present invention further discloses a raindrop detection and raindrop removal and water vapor removal lens, comprising a first lens 2 and a heating plate 3 capable of heating the first lens 2 . The first lens 2 is further provided with a raindrop detection element 1 .

[0044] The raindrop detection and de-raindropping and de-watering lens of the embodiment of the present invention provides a raindrop detection element on the first lens, thereby realizing automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, rainy or foggy weather, and providing accurate detection control signals for subsequent automatic control of raindrop removal and de-watering.

[0045] Furthermore, if Figure 13 、 14 As shown in FIG. 1 , as a preferred embodiment of the present invention but not limiting, the raindrop detection element 1 is disposed on the object side of the first lens 2. The structure is simple, the installation is convenient, and the automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor can be accurately achieved.

[0046] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 13 、 14 As shown, the first lens 2 is a whole lens, or the first lens 2 is a combined lens of split parts and glued together. The structure is simple and can accurately realize automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor.

[0047] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 8-12 As shown, the first lens 2 is a split and glued composite lens, and the raindrop detection element 1 is arranged between the glued surfaces of the composite lens. The structure is simple, the raindrop detection element is installed more compactly, and can accurately realize automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor.

[0048] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 8-12 As shown, the combined lens includes a front lens 21 and a rear lens 22. Figure 11 As shown, an annular groove 210 is formed on the side of the front lens 21 that is bonded to the rear lens 22, and the raindrop detection element 1 is disposed on the annular groove 210. The structure is simple, the raindrop detection element is easy to install, and the structure is more compact, which can accurately realize automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor.

[0049] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 8-14 As shown, the heating plate is arranged on the image side of the first lens 2. The structure is simple and convenient for heating the first lens.

[0050] like Figure 15As shown, an embodiment of the present invention also discloses a raindrop detection automatic heating to remove raindrops and water vapor camera module, which at least includes a lens barrel 4, a first lens 2 provided at the front end of the lens barrel 4, a pressure cover 5 that cooperates with the front end of the lens barrel 4 to lock the first lens 2 on the lens barrel 4, and a heating plate 3 that can heat the first lens 2. The first lens 2 is also provided with a raindrop detection element 1.

[0051] The raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module of the embodiment of the present invention provides a raindrop detection element on the first lens, thereby realizing automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, rainy or foggy weather, and providing accurate detection control signals for subsequent automatic raindrop removal and water vapor removal control.

[0052] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 15 As shown, the front end of the lens barrel 4 is large and the rear end is small. The front end of the lens barrel 4 is recessed with a receiving chamber that matches the first lens 2. Inside the receiving chamber, near the outer wall of the receiving chamber, a second wiring groove 42 is opened that runs through the receiving chamber, and a first wiring groove 41 is opened on the upper side of the outer wall of the receiving chamber. The first wiring groove 41 and the second wiring groove 42 extend along the optical axis of the camera module respectively. Among them, the first wiring groove 41 is used for the wiring terminal electrically connected to the raindrop detection element 1 to pass through the first wiring groove 41; and the second wiring groove 42 is used for the wiring terminal electrically connected to the heating plate 3 to pass through the second wiring groove 42. The structure is simple, the straight line is convenient, and the appearance is beautiful.

[0053] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 15 As shown, the first lens 2 is a split and glued composite lens, and the raindrop detection element 1 is arranged between the glued surfaces of the composite lens. The structure is simple, the raindrop detection element is installed more compactly, and can accurately realize automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor.

[0054] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 11 As shown, the combined lens 2 includes a front lens 21 and a rear lens 22. An annular groove 210 is formed on the bonding surface of the front lens 21 opposite to the rear lens 22. The raindrop detection element 1 is disposed in the annular groove 210. The structure is simple, the raindrop detection element is easy to install, and the structure is more compact, enabling accurate automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor.

[0055] like Figure 18As shown, an embodiment of the present invention also discloses an external raindrop detection automatic heating raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module, which at least includes a lens barrel 4, a first lens 2 provided at the front end of the lens barrel 4, a pressure cover 5 that cooperates with the front end of the lens barrel 4 to lock the first lens 2 on the lens barrel 4, and a heating plate 3 that can heat the first lens 2. The outer surface of the object side of the first lens 2 is provided with a raindrop detection element 1.

[0056] The external raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module in the embodiment of the present invention provides a raindrop detection element on the first lens, thereby realizing automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, rainy or foggy weather, and providing accurate detection control signals for subsequent automatic raindrop removal and water vapor removal control.

[0057] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 18 、 19 As shown, the first lens 2 is a monolithic lens, and the heating plate 3 is arranged on the image side of the first lens 2 .

[0058] like Figure 19 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention further discloses a press-on raindrop detection automatic heating raindrop and water vapor removal camera module, which at least includes a lens barrel 4, a first lens 2 provided at the front end of the lens barrel 4, and a press-on cover 5 that cooperates with the front end of the lens barrel 4 to lock the first lens 2 on the lens barrel 4. A glass substrate 6 is further provided between the front end surface of the press-on cover 5 and the first lens 2. The outer surface of the glass substrate 6 is provided with a raindrop detection element 1, and the inner surface of the glass substrate 6 is provided with a heating plate 3 that can heat it.

[0059] The press-covered raindrop detection and automatic heating raindrop and water vapor removal camera module of the embodiment of the present invention provides a raindrop detection element on the glass substrate in front of the first lens, thereby realizing automatic detection of raindrops or water vapor in cold, humid, rainy or foggy weather, and providing accurate detection control signals for the subsequent automatic raindrop and water vapor removal control.

[0060] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation manner of this embodiment but not limitation, a spacer is further provided between the glass substrate 6 and the first lens 2 .

[0061] Furthermore, the embodiment of the present invention also discloses a control circuit. Figure 14 、 18 , 19 are used to automatically start heating the heating plate 3 of the camera module when the raindrop detection element 1 detects raindrops or water vapor on the outer surface of the first lens 2 or the outer surface of the glass substrate 6, thereby realizing the function of automatically removing raindrops and water vapor.

[0062] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 20-22As shown, the control circuit includes:

[0063] a detection circuit, the input end of which is electrically connected to a raindrop detection element 1, the raindrop detection element 1 being used to obtain a sensor signal of whether there are raindrops or moisture on or outside the first lens;

[0064] A driving circuit, the output end of which is electrically connected to the heating plate 3 and is used to drive the heating plate 3 to stop / start;

[0065] The microprocessor is connected to the detection circuit and the drive circuit and is used to control the drive circuit according to the sensor signal. When the raindrop detection element 1 detects raindrops or water vapor on the outer surface of the first lens 2 or the outer surface of the glass substrate 6, the heating element 3 of the camera module automatically starts heating, thereby realizing the function of automatically removing raindrops and water vapor.

[0066] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 21 As shown, the detection circuit includes an operational amplifier U7. Its output pin OUTA is connected to the rain sensor signal acquisition terminal Raindrop Detect via line resistors R18 and R19. A capacitor C34 is connected in parallel across resistor R18. The output pin OUTA of the operational amplifier U7 is connected to the microprocessor U6 to provide feedback on a first signal Dout indicating the presence of raindrops. The positive phase pin INA+ of the operational amplifier U7 is connected to the microprocessor U6 to provide feedback on a second signal Aout indicating the amount of rain. The output pin of the operational amplifier U7 is connected to the low potential terminal of an LED indicator LED1. The negative phase pin INA- of the operational amplifier U7 is connected to ground via a sliding resistor R20. The connecting point of the line resistors R18 and R19 is connected to the wiper end of the sliding resistor R20 to implement feedback regulation.

[0067] Furthermore, as a preferred implementation of this embodiment but not limiting, Figure 22 As shown, the drive circuit includes a transistor Q3, resistors R13 and R14, a field effect transistor U5, and several filter capacitors. The source of the field effect transistor U5 is connected to a DC source, and its drain serves as the electrical output end of the drive circuit and is connected in parallel with the several filter capacitors. The resistors R13 and R14 are connected in series and connected between the source of the field effect transistor U5 and the ground terminal, and the connection point of the resistors R13 and R14 is connected to the gate of the field effect transistor U5. The transistor Q3 is connected in parallel with the resistor R14, and its base is connected to the microprocessor. A voltage regulator D4 is connected in parallel at both ends of the resistor R13. The transistor Q3 is controlled by the PWM signal of the microprocessor to achieve on / off.

[0068] The working principle of this control circuit is as follows:

[0069] After the circuit is powered on, the output of the raindrop detection element 1 will continue to generate a high-level signal, which is captured by the detection circuit, the LED indicator light goes out, and the microprocessor determines that there is no raindrop at this time; when there are raindrops on or outside the first lens, due to the capacitive sensing characteristics of the raindrop detection element 1, the rain amount sensor signal changes from high level to low level, the LED indicator light turns on, and the microprocessor responds immediately, starting the heating plate to heat the first lens.

[0070] In specific implementation, the microprocessor obtains the first signal Dout from the output end of the operational amplifier, which directly reflects whether there are raindrops at present; obtains the second signal Aout from the non-phase pin of the operational amplifier, and the second signal Aout synchronously reflects the change of the first signal Dout, and its peak value is smaller, which can be recognized by the microprocessor; when the rain continues, the microprocessor will adjust the frequency of the PWM signal it outputs to increase the effective heating power to ensure that no raindrops or water vapor accumulate on the first lens 2 of the camera module or the glass substrate 6.

[0071] The above descriptions are provided in conjunction with specific content to provide one or more embodiments, and the specific implementation of the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any similarity or similarity with the methods, structures, etc. of the present invention, or any technical deduction or substitution based on the concept of the present invention, shall be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal, and moisture removal camera module comprises at least a lens barrel, a first lens disposed at the front end of the lens barrel, a gland that cooperates with the front end of the lens barrel to lock the first lens to the lens barrel, and a heating element that can heat the first lens. The module is characterized by: The first lens is also provided with a raindrop detection element. The first lens is a combined lens formed by splitting and gluing two parts together. The raindrop detection element is provided between the gluing surfaces of the combined lens. The raindrop detection element includes an element body, on which are printed electrode pairs spaced apart. When raindrops or moisture are present, the electrode pairs spaced apart on the element body output a low-level sensing signal; when there are no raindrops or moisture, the electrode pairs spaced apart on the element body output a high-level sensing signal. Also included is a control circuit, the control circuit comprising: a detection circuit, an input end of which is electrically connected to a raindrop detection element, the raindrop detection element being used to obtain a sensor signal of whether there are raindrops or moisture on or outside the first lens; A driving circuit, the output end of which is electrically connected to the heating plate, for driving the heating plate to stop / start; a microprocessor connected to the detection circuit and the drive circuit, and configured to control the drive circuit according to the sensing signal; The detection circuit includes an operational amplifier, the output pin of the operational amplifier is connected to the acquisition terminal of the rain sensor signal through a plurality of line resistors, and the output pin of the operational amplifier is connected to the microprocessor to feedback a first signal indicating the presence or absence of raindrops, and the non-inverting pin of the operational amplifier is connected to the microprocessor to feedback a second signal indicating the amount of rain. Line resistors R18 and R19 are connected in series between the output pin of the operational amplifier and the acquisition end of the rain sensor signal, and a capacitor C34 is connected in parallel at both ends of the resistor R18; the output pin of the operational amplifier is connected to the low potential end of an LED indicator light, and the negative phase pin of the operational amplifier is grounded via a sliding resistor R20. The connection point of the line resistors R18 and R19 is connected to the wiper end of the sliding resistor R20 to realize feedback regulation.

2. The raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The combined lens comprises a front lens and a rear lens. An annular groove is provided on one side of the bonding surface of the front lens opposite to the rear lens, and a raindrop detection element is arranged on the annular groove.

3. The raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal and water vapor removal camera module according to claim 2, characterized in that: The heating plate is arranged on the image surface side of the first lens.

4. The raindrop detection, automatic heating, raindrop removal, and water vapor removal camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that: The drive circuit includes a transistor Q3, resistors R13 and R14, a field-effect transistor U5, and several filter capacitors. The source of the field-effect transistor U5 is connected to a DC source, and its drain serves as the electrical output end of the drive circuit and is connected in parallel to the several filter capacitors. The resistors R13 and R14 are connected in series and connected between the source of the field-effect transistor U5 and the ground terminal, and the connection point of the resistors R13 and R14 is connected to the gate of the field-effect transistor U5. The transistor Q3 is connected in parallel with the resistor R14, and its base is connected to the microprocessor.

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