Lens assembly and lens assembly assembling method

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a lens assembly and a lens assembly assembling method. The lens assembly comprises a lens group; the shell comprises a first shell body and a second shell body, the first shell body and the second shell body are detachably connected, a containing space is defined by the first shell body and the second shell body, and the lens set is arranged in the containing space; the buffer structure is arranged between the lens group and the second shell, the buffer structure is located in the containing space, and the buffer structure is configured to be deformable in the optical axis direction of the lens group so as to buffer the acting force applied to the lens group in the assembling process of the lens assembly. According to the lens assembly and the lens assembly assembling method disclosed by the invention, elastic supporting and stress buffering of the lens group in the assembling process are realized, and the problems of lens damage, film layer damage and low assembling yield caused by rigid extrusion are avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of optical device assembly technology, and in particular to a lens assembly and a method for assembling a lens assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, the assembly of lenses and housings typically employs the following two mainstream methods: One method is adhesive bonding: one end of the lens is inserted into the front housing, and the other end is bonded to the corresponding structural component with adhesive. Although this method is simple in structure, it has obvious drawbacks: the curing process of the adhesive is easily affected by the ambient temperature and humidity, resulting in unstable bonding strength; during long-term use, the adhesive layer may age, crack, or delaminate, affecting the reliability and service life of the optical components; in addition, there is a risk of adhesive volatilization or seepage, which may contaminate the optical coating on the lens surface.

[0003] The second method is mechanical locking: this typically uses a locking ring or cross-shaped locking structure to press the lens firmly between the housings. Specifically, after the lens is installed in the front housing, a locking ring or a threaded cross-shaped structure is screwed in, so that its end face directly presses against the back of the lens to achieve fixation. However, in this assembly process, the metal locking component and the glass lens are in rigid contact. During tightening, rotational friction or localized stress concentration can easily lead to scratches on the lens surface, damage to the coating, or even breakage of the glass itself. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application discloses a lens assembly and a lens assembly assembly method that achieves elastic support and stress buffering for the lens assembly during the assembly process, avoiding problems such as lens breakage, coating damage and low assembly yield caused by rigid extrusion.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this application discloses a lens assembly, the lens assembly comprising: Lens assembly; The housing includes a first housing and a second housing, which are detachably connected and form an accommodating space, wherein the lens assembly is disposed in the accommodating space; A buffer structure is disposed between the lens assembly and the second housing, and the buffer structure is located within the receiving space. The buffer structure is configured to be deformable in the optical axis direction of the lens assembly to buffer the forces applied to the lens assembly during the assembly of the lens assembly.

[0006] As an optional implementation, the buffer structure includes an elastic element disposed within the receiving space and located on the side of the lens assembly facing the second housing, the elastic element being configured to provide the lens assembly with an elastic force from the second housing toward the first housing.

[0007] As an optional implementation, the buffer structure further includes a protective member disposed in the receiving space, one end of the protective member being sleeved on the end of the lens assembly facing the second housing, and the other end of the protective member abutting against the elastic member.

[0008] As an optional implementation, the protective member includes a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole. The protective member has a first opening at one end facing the first housing. A first end of the first connecting hole communicates with the first opening, and a second end of the first connecting hole communicates with the second connecting hole. The protective member has a second opening at one end facing the second housing. A second end of the second connecting hole communicates with the second opening. The first connecting hole is configured to accommodate the lens assembly, and the second connecting hole is configured to allow a light source to pass through the protective member.

[0009] In one optional embodiment, the protective component includes a protective portion and a mounting portion connected to each other. The protective portion has a first communicating hole, and the mounting portion has a second communicating hole. The diameter of the second communicating hole is smaller than the diameter of the lens assembly.

[0010] In one optional embodiment, the diameter of the mounting portion is smaller than the diameter of the protective portion, the elastic element is a spring, the spring is sleeved on the mounting portion, and the first end of the spring is connected to the protective portion.

[0011] As an optional embodiment, the second housing has a limiting portion, and the outer peripheral surface of the mounting portion is provided with a mating portion. The limiting portion and the mating portion are shaped to guide the mounting portion into the second housing.

[0012] As an optional implementation, the protective member and the elastic member are integrally formed; or, the protective member and the elastic member are connected by welding.

[0013] In one optional embodiment, the first housing includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity. The first receiving cavity is used to receive at least a portion of the lens assembly. A first end of the first receiving cavity has an opening, and a second end of the first receiving cavity communicates with the first end of the second receiving cavity. The second receiving cavity also has an opening. The second housing includes a mounting portion configured to extend into the second receiving cavity to connect the first housing to the second housing. The mounting portion has a third receiving cavity with openings at both ends. When the mounting portion extends into the second receiving cavity, the third receiving cavity is configured to communicate with the first receiving cavity through the openings to form the receiving space.

[0014] As an optional implementation, the outer peripheral surface of the mounting portion is threadedly engaged with the inner peripheral surface of the second receiving cavity to connect the first housing and the second housing.

[0015] As an alternative implementation, the inner peripheral surface of the first receiving cavity is fitted to the outer peripheral surface of the lens assembly to restrict the degree of freedom of the lens assembly within the first receiving cavity.

[0016] The second aspect of this application discloses a lens assembly assembly method for the lens assembly described in the first aspect of this application. The assembly method includes: disposing a buffer structure in the lens assembly on a second housing of the lens assembly; disposing a lens group of the lens assembly on a first housing of the lens assembly; connecting the second housing to the first housing, and causing the buffer structure to buffer the force applied to the lens group during the connection between the second housing and the first housing.

[0017] As an optional implementation, the step of setting the buffer structure in the second housing includes: setting the elastic element of the lens assembly in the second housing; and connecting the protective element of the lens assembly to the elastic element.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this application are: This application provides a lens assembly that introduces a buffer structure located between the lens group and the second housing, which is deformable along the optical axis. This creates an elastic mechanical transition zone between the lens group and the external rigid fastener, making the force on the lens group controllable, uniform, and gentle during the final assembly and locking process. This reduces the risk of damage introduced by the assembly process itself and effectively solves the technical problems inherent in traditional lens fixing methods (such as direct pressing with rigid locking rings or adhesive curing stress), such as low reliability, large yield fluctuations, and easy damage to the lens body and coating. This achieves higher safety and reliability of high-precision optical lenses in the assembly process. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the lens assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along the AA direction; Figure 3 This is a second schematic diagram of the lens assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the protective component provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the shell provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along the BB direction.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 100-Lens assembly; 1-Lens group; 2-Housing; 21-First housing; 211-First receiving cavity; 212-Second receiving cavity; 22-Second housing; 221-Third receiving cavity; 2a-Receiving space; 3-Buffer structure; 31-Elastic element; 32-Protective element; 321-First connecting hole; 322-Second connecting hole; 323-Protective part; 324-Mounting part. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "inner," "vertical," and "horizontal," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0024] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0025] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "equipped with," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0026] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, components, or parts (which may be the same or different in specific type and construction), and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, components, or parts. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0027] In optical lens assemblies, the lens, as the core optical element, directly determines the image quality and system performance through its material, structure, and surface treatment. Lens surfaces are typically coated with optical thin films, such as anti-reflective coatings, reflective coatings, and beam-splitting coatings, to regulate transmission and reflection characteristics, improve optical efficiency, and suppress stray light. These coatings are usually on the nanometer to micrometer scale in thickness, have low mechanical strength, and are extremely sensitive to stress and friction during assembly.

[0028] In existing technologies, the assembly of lens assemblies and housings typically employs two main methods: one is adhesive bonding, where one end of the lens assembly is inserted into the housing, and the other end is bonded to the corresponding structural components using adhesive. While this method is simple in structure, it has significant drawbacks: the curing process of the adhesive is easily affected by ambient temperature and humidity, leading to unstable bonding strength; during long-term use, the adhesive layer may age, crack, or delaminate, affecting the reliability and lifespan of the optical components; furthermore, there is a risk of adhesive volatilization or seepage, potentially contaminating the optical coating on the lens surface.

[0029] The second method is mechanical locking: this typically uses a locking ring or cross-shaped locking structure to press the lens assembly between the housings. Specifically, after the lens assembly is inserted into the housing, a locking ring or a threaded cross-shaped structure is screwed in, so that its end face directly presses against the back of the lens to achieve fixation. However, in this assembly process, the metal locking component and the glass lens are in rigid contact. During tightening, rotational friction or localized stress concentration can easily lead to scratches on the lens surface, damage to the coating, or even breakage of the glass itself.

[0030] Based on this, this application discloses a lens assembly and a lens assembly assembly method. By setting a buffer structure between the lens assembly and the second housing that can deform in the optical axis direction, elastic support and stress buffering of the lens assembly are achieved during the assembly process, avoiding problems such as lens breakage, film damage and low assembly yield caused by rigid extrusion.

[0031] The technical solution of this application will be further described below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0032] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the lens assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional structural diagram along the AA direction. A first aspect of this application discloses a lens assembly 100 comprising: a lens group 1; a housing 2, the housing 2 including a first housing 21 and a second housing 22, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 being detachably connected, and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 enclosing and forming a receiving space 2a, the lens group 1 being disposed in the receiving space 2a; and a buffer structure 3, the buffer structure 3 being disposed between the lens group 1 and the second housing 22, and the buffer structure 3 being located within the receiving space 2a, the buffer structure 3 being configured to be deformable in the optical axis direction of the lens group 1 to buffer the force applied to the lens group 1 during the assembly of the lens assembly 100.

[0033] Lens group 1, as the core component of optical function, is housed within the receiving space 2a formed by the housing 2. Lens group 1 may include one or more lens groups 1, which together constitute a complete optical imaging path. By treating lens group 1 as a whole unit, the assembly object is simplified, and the stability of the relative positions between the internal lens groups 1 is ensured.

[0034] The housing 2 specifically includes a first housing 21 and a second housing 22, which are detachably connected to each other. After connection, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 together define a closed or semi-closed receiving space 2a, which is used to precisely receive and position the lens assembly 1. The first housing 21 is used for initial reception and positioning of the lens assembly 1, while the second housing 22 combines with the first housing 21 during final assembly to complete the encapsulation of the entire component.

[0035] The detachable connection method, such as the connection by threads, clips or screws, provides convenience for the assembly, adjustment and even the later maintenance and replacement of the lens assembly 100. It not only forms an external frame to protect the lens assembly 1 and resist external mechanical impact and environmental pollution, but also gives the product good processability and maintainability through its detachable feature, overcoming the irreversible problems caused by integrated packaging or permanent glue fixation.

[0036] The buffer structure 3 is disposed between the lens group 1 and the second housing 22, and is located inside the aforementioned receiving space 2a. The buffer structure 3 is specifically configured to deform in the optical axis direction of the lens group 1.

[0037] During the assembly of the lens assembly 100, when the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are connected and fastened, the buffer structure 3 is subjected to axial compression and undergoes compressive deformation. This controllable deformation capability enables it to effectively absorb, disperse, and buffer the force transmitted to the lens assembly 1 by the locking operation of the housing 2.

[0038] The buffer structure 3 acts as an "isolation layer" or "buffer" between the lens assembly 1 and the rigid housing 2. Through its own elastic deformation, it transforms the concentrated, instantaneous assembly stress (such as the impact force and clamping force generated by locking) that might otherwise act directly on the lens assembly 1 into flexible, uniform, and continuous pressure. This fundamentally avoids damage such as cracking, scratches, microcracks, or film peeling caused by hard contact or localized point compression between the lens assembly 1 (especially its fragile glass material and precision optical coating) and the metal housing 2.

[0039] The specific assembly process of the lens assembly 100 is as follows: First, the lens assembly 1 is properly placed in the preset position on the first housing 21. Next, the buffer structure 3 is placed on the side of the lens assembly 1 facing away from the mounting surface of the first housing 21, i.e., towards the second housing 22. Finally, the second housing 22 is aligned with the first housing 21, and the two are joined and fixed by detachable connection methods such as threaded engagement and snap-fit ​​engagement. During this joining process, the inner surface of the second housing 22 gradually approaches and compresses the buffer structure 3, and the buffer structure 3 subsequently undergoes elastic deformation in the optical axis direction, continuously applying a uniform and stable axial support force to the lens assembly 1, thereby completing the reliable and damage-free fixation of the lens assembly 1 without causing destructive rigid contact.

[0040] Thus, the lens assembly 100 provided in this application introduces a buffer structure 3 located between the lens group 1 and the second housing 22, which is deformable along the optical axis. This establishes an elastic mechanical transition zone between the lens group 1 and the external rigid fastener. During the final assembly and locking process, the force borne by the lens group 1 becomes controllable, uniform, and gentle, thereby reducing the risk of damage introduced by the assembly process itself. This effectively solves the technical problems inherent in traditional lens group 1 fixing methods (such as direct pressing with rigid locking rings or adhesive curing stress), such as low reliability, large yield fluctuations, and easy damage to the lens body and coating. This achieves higher safety and reliability of high-precision optical lenses in the assembly process.

[0041] Please see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the buffer structure 3 includes an elastic element 31 disposed within the receiving space 2a and located on the side of the lens assembly 1 facing the second housing 22. The elastic element 31 is configured to provide the lens assembly 1 with an elastic force from the second housing 22 toward the first housing 21.

[0042] The placement of the elastic element 31 within the receiving space 2a allows it to be structurally integrated into the housing 2 without occupying additional external space, thus contributing to the overall compactness and miniaturization of the lens assembly 100. Positioning the elastic element 31 on the side of the lens assembly 1 facing the second housing 22 ensures that it is directly on the force path between the lens assembly 1 and the second housing 22 during assembly. This guarantees that when the second housing 22 moves closer to the first housing 21 and compresses the receiving space 2a, the elastic element 31 can immediately and effectively intervene and bear the transmitted mechanical load.

[0043] The elastic element 31 is equipped with the ability to provide an elastic force to the lens assembly 1 from the second housing 22 toward the first housing 21. This means that the elastic element 31 generates a directional restoring force when compressed. This restoring force acts directly on the lens assembly 1, in the opposite direction to the assembly clamping force applied by the second housing 22, thereby forming a continuous, uniform, and directionally controllable elastic support on the back of the lens assembly 1. During assembly, as the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are gradually locked together by screwing or other means, the second housing 22 moves inward and compresses the elastic element 31. The elastic element 31 then undergoes a corresponding elastic deformation and transmits the resulting elastic force to the lens assembly 1. This process ensures that the lens assembly 1 experiences a gradually increasing and buffered clamping force in the optical axis direction, rather than an instantaneous impact or localized point load.

[0044] Through the above structural configuration, the elastic element 31 can continuously provide stable elastic support throughout the assembly process, effectively absorbing and dispersing the impact energy and concentrated stress caused by the locking operation of the housing 2, reducing the risk of cracking or film peeling on the surface of the lens assembly 1, especially in the edge area, due to stress concentration. At the same time, since the direction of the elastic force is always from the second housing 22 to the first housing 21, the position of the lens assembly 1 in the optical axis direction can be flexibly limited, which avoids shaking or skew caused by gaps during assembly, and also prevents crush damage to the lens assembly 1 caused by overpressure.

[0045] Please see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the buffer structure 3 further includes a protective member 32, which is disposed in the receiving space 2a. One end of the protective member 32 is sleeved on the end of the lens group 1 facing the second housing 22, and the other end of the protective member 32 abuts against the elastic member 31.

[0046] One end of the protective member 32 is sleeved on the end of the lens assembly 1 facing the second housing 22, allowing the protective member 32 to directly cover or fit against the end of the lens assembly 1. Through this sleeved relationship, the protective member 32 forms a physical cover on the outer periphery or end face of the lens assembly 1. On the one hand, it can prevent external impurities or metal debris from directly contacting the surface of the lens assembly 1 during assembly and use. On the other hand, it also provides the lens assembly 1 with a rigid and dimensionally stable load-bearing interface, which helps to initially disperse the forces subsequently transmitted to the lens assembly 1, avoiding the direct concentration of local stress on the edge of the lens assembly 1 or a specific point, thereby reducing the risk of the lens assembly 1 breaking or being indented due to point contact or line contact.

[0047] The other end of the protective element 32 abuts against the elastic element 31. This abutting connection allows the protective element 32 to effectively transmit the elastic force generated by the elastic element 31 to the lens assembly 1 without being rigidly fixed to it. Simultaneously, it allows for slight relative displacement or angular adaptation between the protective element 32 and the elastic element 31 during stress application, thus better accommodating assembly tolerances and component deformation. This design enables the elastic force provided by the elastic element 31 to be applied more evenly and smoothly to the lens assembly 1 through the protective element 32 as an intermediate medium, avoiding uneven local pressure or contact damage that might occur if the elastic element 31 directly acts on the lens assembly 1. Furthermore, the presence of the protective element 32 physically isolates the elastic element 31 from direct contact with the lens assembly 1, preventing scratches or contamination of the lens assembly 1 surface due to fretting wear caused by vibration or temperature changes during long-term use.

[0048] By introducing the protective component 32, the buffer structure 3 adds direct mechanical protection and force transmission optimization to the lens assembly 1 on the basis of the original elastic buffer, making the entire buffer mechanism more complete and reliable. The protective component 32 not only improves the safety of the lens assembly 1 during assembly and use, but also enhances the smoothness and controllability of the internal mechanical transmission of the component, which helps to further reduce the probability of damage to the optical lens assembly 1 under complex working conditions and improve the overall durability and functional stability of the lens assembly 100.

[0049] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 This is a second schematic diagram of the lens assembly provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the protective member provided in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, the protective member 32 includes a first connecting hole 321 and a second connecting hole 322. The end of the protective member 32 facing the first housing 21 has a first opening. The first end of the first connecting hole 321 communicates with the first opening. The second end of the first connecting hole 321 communicates with the second connecting hole 322. The end of the protective member 32 facing the second housing 22 has a second opening. The second end of the second connecting hole 322 communicates with the second opening. The first connecting hole 321 is configured to accommodate the lens group 1. The second connecting hole 322 is configured to allow a light source to pass through the protective member 32.

[0050] The first connecting hole 321 is configured to accommodate the lens assembly 1. The shape and size of the connecting hole are adapted to the shape of the lens assembly 1. When the lens assembly 1 is inserted into the first connecting hole 321 from the first opening side, the lens assembly 1 is precisely guided to a preset position along the optical axis and is radially limited and protected by the hole wall. This accommodating method ensures that the lens assembly 1 is securely housed inside the protective member 32, preventing lateral displacement or shaking during assembly or use, enhancing the structural stability and positioning reliability of the lens assembly 1, and isolating the risk of direct contact between the external structure and the sides of the lens assembly 1.

[0051] The second connecting hole 322 is configured to allow a light source to pass through the protective member 32. The axial extension of the second connecting hole 322 communicates with the first connecting hole 321, and a second opening is formed at the end of the protective member 32 facing the second housing 22, together forming an optical path from the second housing 22 side to the lens assembly 1. The second connecting hole 322 allows light from external or internal light sources to pass unobstructed through the protective member 32, enter the second connecting hole 322 via the second opening, and pass through the first connecting hole 321 to reach the lens assembly 1, ensuring that the light transmission capability required by the optical system is not weakened by the introduction of the protective member 32. The arrangement of the second connecting hole 322 not only takes into account the function of structural protection but also fully considers and maintains the core light transmission requirements of the lens assembly 100 as an optical component.

[0052] By connecting the first connecting hole 321 and the second connecting hole 322 within the protective member 32, and providing corresponding first and second openings at both ends, the protective member 32 constructs a closed guiding environment around the lens assembly 1 that provides both mechanical protection and optical transparency. This environment effectively isolates the lens assembly 1 from non-optical components such as the housing 2 and the elastic member 31, preventing dust, scratches, or assembly stress from directly affecting the lens surface. Furthermore, it ensures the continuity and unobstructedness of the optical path, allowing the protective member 32 to perform its mechanical protection function without affecting the normal optical imaging or light signal reception function of the lens assembly 1.

[0053] Please see Figure 4 In some embodiments, the protective member 32 includes a protective part 323 and a mounting part 324 connected to each other. The protective part 323 has a first connecting hole 321, and the mounting part 324 has a second connecting hole 322. The diameter of the second connecting hole 322 is smaller than the diameter of the lens group 1.

[0054] It is understandable that the protective component 32 is divided into distinct regions in terms of function and form, so that the functions of lens assembly 1, optical transmission, and assembly and connection with elastic component 31 can be realized and integrated in different structural regions, which helps to optimize the force distribution and optical path guidance characteristics of the protective component 32 itself.

[0055] The protective section 323 and the mounting section 324 are interconnected to form a single integrated component, achieving functional zoning and integration while ensuring structural strength. The protective section 323 is mainly used to directly accommodate and protect the lens assembly 1, and its structural characteristics focus more on mechanical support and isolation. The mounting section 324 is mainly used to construct the optical path channel and connect with the buffer structure 3 such as the elastic element 31, and its design focuses more on optical compatibility and assembly adaptation. The connection between the two allows the entire protective component 32 to act as a stable force transmission and positioning intermediate, providing a continuous and reliable transition between the lens assembly 1 and the elastic element 31.

[0056] The protective part 323 has a first connecting hole 321 for accommodating the lens assembly 1. The size and shape of the first connecting hole 321 are designed to match the outer contour of the lens assembly 1, so that the lens assembly 1 can be smoothly inserted axially and stably positioned within the protective part 323 during assembly. The lens assembly 1, accommodated in the first connecting hole 321, can obtain uniform circumferential constraint in the radial direction, effectively limiting the possible displacement or swaying of the lens assembly 1 when subjected to lateral forces or vibrations, thereby improving the positional retention capability and structural stability of the lens assembly 1 under complex working conditions.

[0057] The mounting portion 324 has a second connecting hole 322, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the lens assembly 1. This dimensional design creates a stop structure in the mounting direction of the lens assembly 1. When the lens assembly 1 is assembled, the corresponding end face of the lens assembly 1 will contact the end face of the mounting portion 324 facing the protective portion 323 or be confined at this dimensional transition point, thereby preventing the lens assembly 1 from continuing to move towards the mounting portion 324 during assembly or use, ensuring the correct axial position of the lens assembly 1. At the same time, the second connecting hole 322 still maintains a sufficient size to allow light to pass through, maintaining the necessary optical path unobstructed behind the lens assembly 1, and avoiding obstruction or interference to the imaging or sensing functions of the optical system.

[0058] The design of the second connecting hole 322 having a diameter smaller than that of the lens group 1 also creates a stepped or tapered channel shape. This shape not only helps to achieve more precise positioning of the lens group 1 in the axial and radial directions, but also allows the mounting part 324 to provide a clearer mating surface and support boundary for the elastic member 31 when the protective member 32 abuts against the elastic member 31. This facilitates a more concentrated and stable transmission of the force from the elastic member 31 to the protective member 32, and thus a more uniform application to the lens group 1. This differentially sized channel structure also helps to disperse localized stresses that may occur during assembly or impact, preventing excessive stress concentration at the edge of the lens group 1, thereby further reducing the risk of damage to the lens group 1 or impaired optical performance.

[0059] Please see Figure 4 In some embodiments, the diameter of the mounting portion 324 is smaller than the diameter of the protective portion 323, and the elastic element 31 is a spring, which is sleeved on the mounting portion 324, with its first end connected to the protective portion 323. The smaller diameter of the mounting portion 324 compared to the protective portion 323 creates a stepped or shoulder-like structural transition on the protective element 32. During axial assembly, the support surface provides a clear and stable end face stop for the lens assembly 1, preventing excessive pressing of the lens assembly 1 into the mounting portion 324 direction. During force transmission, this structure can diffuse the load from the mounting portion 324 direction over a larger cross-section, thereby reducing local pressure and preventing excessive stress concentration at the edge of the lens assembly 1 or in localized areas of the protective element 32.

[0060] The elastic element 31 is specifically a spring. As a mechanical component with stable elastic properties, a spring can provide a linear restoring force proportional to the deformation within a certain stroke. Applying the spring to the buffer structure 3 of the lens assembly 100 provides continuous, controllable, and repeatable elastic support force to the lens assembly 1 in the optical axis direction. The selection of the spring ensures good predictability and consistency in the buffering behavior, which is beneficial for achieving stable preload control during batch assembly, thereby improving the consistency of the assembly quality of the lens assembly 100.

[0061] The spring is fitted onto the mounting portion 324, meaning that the outer peripheral wall of the mounting portion 324 directly serves as the inner guide surface of the spring. This mounting method constrains the spring radially with the mounting portion 324, preventing lateral bending, displacement, or torsion of the spring during compression or rebound, ensuring that the spring's deformation always occurs along the optical axis, thereby maintaining the accuracy of the direction of the elastic force. The mounting method of fitting the spring onto the mounting portion 324 also determines the relative height between the spring and the protective component 32, simplifying the assembly process and improving the convenience and reliability of assembly.

[0062] The first end of the spring is connected to the protective part 323, specifically to the end of the protective part 323 facing the mounting part 324 or the shoulder surface formed therein. This connection method allows the elastic force generated by the spring to act directly on the protective part 323, and then be transmitted through the protective part 323 to the lens assembly 1 housed inside it. Since the first end of the spring is connected to the larger diameter protective part 323 rather than the smaller diameter mounting part 324, the connection has a larger circumferential contact area, which is beneficial to improving the force distribution at the connection interface and enhancing the firmness and stability of the connection. At the same time, this connection method also allows the supporting force of the spring to diffuse to the bearing area of ​​the lens assembly 1 through the protective part 323 earlier, further optimizing the force transmission path and ensuring that the lens assembly 1 obtains uniform and stable elastic compression in the optical axis direction, ultimately achieving reliable buffering and protection of the lens assembly 1 throughout the entire assembly and use cycle.

[0063] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the shell provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional structural diagram along the BB direction is shown. In some embodiments, the second housing 22 has a limiting part, and the outer peripheral surface of the mounting part 324 is provided with a mating part. The limiting part and the mating part are shape-matched to guide the mounting part 324 into the second housing 22. The shape matching of the limiting part and the mating part creates a mating interface with a clear geometric correspondence between the second housing 22 and the mounting part 324. This interface provides precise spatial guidance and path constraint for the movement of the mounting part 324 into the second housing 22 during assembly. Shape matching means that the limiting part and the mating part are complementary in structural details such as cross-sectional contours, chamfers, or keyways. This ensures that the mounting part 324 must follow a specific rotation direction or phase angle during axial advancement to smoothly engage with the limiting part, thereby achieving pre-positioning and error prevention functions during assembly. This guiding mechanism reduces the possibility of the mounting part 324 tilting, shifting, or getting stuck when entering the second housing 22, improving the smoothness and repeatability of the assembly process.

[0064] The limiting part is located on the second housing 22, which means that the main body of the guiding and positioning function is located on the fixed part, providing a stable and reliable reference for the entire assembly process. The mating part is correspondingly located on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting part 324, so that when the mounting part 324 enters the second housing 22, it can actively adapt to and follow the path set by the limiting part through its own structural features. The two can form a good alignment relationship at the initial contact stage, avoiding component wear or abnormal force on the lens assembly 1 that may be caused by repeated attempts to adjust.

[0065] Furthermore, the shape-matching structure of the limiting part and the mating part also has a stabilizing effect in the assembled state. After the two are matched and fitted, they can form a mechanical interlock or tight fit in the radial direction, restricting the radial movement or circumferential rotation of the protective part 32 and the lens assembly 1 within the second housing 22, thereby enhancing the structural stability and position retention capability of the entire lens assembly 100 under dynamic environments such as vibration, impact or temperature changes.

[0066] In some embodiments, the protective member 32 and the elastic member 31 are integrally formed; or, the protective member 32 and the elastic member 31 are connected by welding.

[0067] When the protective component 32 and the elastic component 31 are manufactured using an integral molding method, they form a single, continuous material unit. This manufacturing method eliminates the assembly interface between the protective component 32 and the elastic component 31, thereby avoiding the risk of connection failure due to loose connections, fretting wear, or corrosion of the contact surface. The integral molding structure provides a continuous material transfer path between the protective component 32 and the elastic component 31, allowing the stress generated by the elastic component 31 under stress deformation to be distributed more smoothly and evenly to the entire protective component 32. This reduces stress concentration that may be caused by discontinuous connections, thereby enhancing the structural integrity and fatigue life of the buffer structure 3 under long-term cyclic loading.

[0068] When the protective element 32 and the elastic element 31 are connected by welding, the welding process forms a metallurgical bond in the contact area between them. This connection method can establish a high-strength, high-rigidity connection node between the protective element 32 and the elastic element 31, effectively resisting relative displacement or separation that may occur during stress. Welded connections typically have excellent connection strength and durability, ensuring that the elastic element 31 remains firmly connected to the protective element 32 during repeated compression and rebound, thereby guaranteeing the reliability and consistency of the elastic force transmission path. Furthermore, the welding process allows for the selection of appropriate welding methods based on the material properties of the protective element 32 and the elastic element 31, achieving a reliable connection between dissimilar materials and providing greater flexibility in material selection.

[0069] Please see Figure 6In some embodiments, the first housing 21 includes a first receiving cavity 211 and a second receiving cavity 212. The first receiving cavity 211 is used to receive at least a portion of the lens group 1. The first end of the first receiving cavity 211 has an opening, and the second end of the first receiving cavity 211 communicates with the first end of the second receiving cavity 212. The second end of the second receiving cavity 212 also has an opening. The second housing 22 includes a mounting portion 324, which is configured to extend into the second receiving cavity 212 to connect the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. The mounting portion 324 has a third receiving cavity 221, which has openings at both ends. When the mounting portion 324 extends into the second receiving cavity 212, the third receiving cavity 221 is configured to communicate with the first receiving cavity 211 through the opening to form a receiving space 2a.

[0070] It can be understood that this structure divides the internal space of the first housing 21 into different functionally defined and interconnected cavities. The first receiving cavity 211 is specifically used to receive and position the lens assembly 1, and its first end opening provides an entrance for the insertion of the lens assembly 1. The connection between the second end of the first receiving cavity 211 and the first end of the second receiving cavity 212 allows the lens assembly 1 receiving area to form a natural structural transition with the subsequent assembly connection area. The second receiving cavity 212 extends inside the first housing 21 to form a guiding and receiving space 2a for receiving the mounting part 324 of the second housing 22, and its second end opening provides a passage for the introduction of the mounting part 324. This compartmentalized design makes the installation and fixing of the lens assembly 1 and the docking connection of the housing 2 spatially interconnected yet relatively independent, which is conducive to step-by-step operation and precise alignment during the assembly process. At the same time, the interconnection between the cavities ensures the structural continuity and functional unity of the overall receiving space 2a.

[0071] The second housing 22 includes a mounting portion 324, which is configured to extend into the second receiving cavity 212 to connect the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. The mounting portion 324 acts as a mating structure extending from the second housing 22 towards the first housing 21; its insertion into the second receiving cavity 212 directly achieves the mechanical connection and relative fixation between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. This design transforms the connection process of the two housings 2 into an axial insertion movement of the mounting portion 324 along the second receiving cavity 212, simplifying the complexity of the connection operation and improving assembly efficiency. The mating relationship between the mounting portion 324 and the second receiving cavity 212 provides additional positioning and constraint for the two housings 2 in the radial direction, helping to improve the structural rigidity and integrity of the entire lens assembly 100 after assembly.

[0072] The mounting part 324 has a third receiving cavity 221, with openings at both ends. When the mounting part 324 extends into the second receiving cavity 212, the third receiving cavity 221 is configured to communicate with the first receiving cavity 211 through the openings to form a receiving space 2a. The arrangement of the third receiving cavity 221 inside the mounting part 324 ensures that the mounting part 324, while performing a connecting function, also constitutes part of the final receiving space 2a. The openings at both ends of the third receiving cavity 221 ensure that its internal space is axially continuous. When the mounting part 324 extends into the second receiving cavity 212 and is in place, the opening of the third receiving cavity 221 facing the first housing 21 communicates with the first receiving cavity 211, thereby allowing the first receiving cavity 211 and the third receiving cavity 221 to together form a continuous and complete sealed or semi-sealed receiving space 2a for accommodating internal components such as the lens assembly 1 and the buffer structure 3. This design cleverly integrates the connection structure with the functional space, achieving a reliable connection of the housing 2 without compromising the spatial integrity required by the internal components. It also ensures that the optical path required by the optical lens group 1 still has a smooth path when passing through the connection area of ​​the housing 2, avoiding the obstruction or interference of the connection structure on the optical performance, thus achieving a good balance between mechanical assembly and optical function.

[0073] Please see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the outer peripheral surface of the mounting portion 324 and the inner peripheral surface of the second receiving cavity 212 are threaded together to connect the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. The threaded engagement, through the machining of matching helical grooves and protrusions on the outer peripheral surface of the mounting portion 324 and the inner peripheral surface of the second receiving cavity 212, allows the two components to be converted into precise axial movement through rotational motion, thereby achieving controllable and progressive locking and fixing. This allows the assembler to adjust the relative axial position and degree of compression between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 by controlling the rotation angle or torque during operation, providing a direct and quantifiable means of obtaining appropriate preload force for the lens assembly 1 and the buffer structure 3 within the receiving space 2a.

[0074] The threaded connection provides predictable mechanical transmission characteristics. When the mounting part 324 is screwed into the second receiving cavity 212, the threaded surfaces gradually mesh and form a large contact area. This allows the axial preload generated during the locking process to be evenly distributed across the entire mating length of the mounting part 324 and the second receiving cavity 212 through multiple threaded teeth, avoiding excessive stress concentration in localized areas and thus reducing the risk of plastic deformation or structural damage to the connection. This uniform load distribution also helps maintain the coaxiality and alignment of the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 in the connected state, thereby helping to maintain the alignment accuracy of the optical axis of the lens group 1 and the mechanical axis of the housing 2.

[0075] The threaded connection provides excellent disassembly and repeatability. When adjusting, maintaining, or replacing internal components of the lens assembly 100, the operator can gradually disengage the threads by rotating the second housing 22 or the mounting part 324 in the reverse direction, thereby safely and without damage separating the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. This reversible connection not only facilitates later maintenance and upgrades of the product but also allows for multiple adjustments and optimizations during assembly until the optimal assembly state is achieved. Simultaneously, the inherent structural characteristics of the threaded connection provide a certain degree of self-locking capability under vibration conditions, resisting loosening caused by external excitation, thus enhancing the long-term connection stability and reliability of the lens assembly 100 under dynamic operating environments.

[0076] By using a threaded connection as the specific connection method between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, this design achieves a reliable mechanical connection of the housing 2 while taking into account the controllability of the assembly process, the reliability of the connection strength, the uniformity of the load distribution, and the convenience of later maintenance. This provides a stable, adjustable, and durable encapsulation and fixing environment for the lens assembly 1 and the buffer structure 3.

[0077] Please see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the inner peripheral surface of the first receiving cavity 211 is fitted with the outer peripheral surface of the lens assembly 1 to restrict the degree of freedom of the lens assembly 1 within the first receiving cavity 211. After the lens assembly 1 is placed into the first receiving cavity 211, a large-area, continuous, and tight contact interface is formed between its outer peripheral surface and the inner wall of the cavity. This fitting relationship mechanically provides the lens assembly 1 with all-round radial constraint. When the lens assembly 1 is subjected to lateral forces or torques, the fitting inner peripheral surface can immediately provide a corresponding reaction force, thereby effectively restricting the tendency of the lens assembly 1 to move laterally, tilt, or rotate within the first receiving cavity 211, and reducing the positional instability of the lens assembly 1 due to internal gaps during assembly or subsequent use.

[0078] By fitting the inner circumferential surface of the lens assembly 1 to the outer circumferential surface of the lens assembly 1, the lens assembly 1 obtains not only positioning within the first receiving cavity 211, but also a uniformly distributed circumferential support. This support stably holds the lens assembly 1 in the central region of the cavity, avoiding the risk of stress concentration and deformation that might occur due to single-point or localized support. The uniform contact support also helps to distribute external loads that may act on the lens assembly 1, such as assembly pressure or inertial forces caused by environmental vibrations, more evenly across the entire outer circumferential region of the lens assembly 1, and then transmit them outward through the shell 2 structure of the first receiving cavity 211. This reduces the local peak stress on the lens assembly 1 body, especially its vulnerable edges, and plays a positive role in preventing microcracks or breakage of the glass lens.

[0079] Please see Figure 2The second aspect of this application provides a method for assembling a lens assembly 100, which is used in the lens assembly 100 of the first aspect of this application. The assembly method includes: disposing a buffer structure 3 in the lens assembly 100 in the second housing 22 of the lens assembly 100; disposing a lens group 1 of the lens assembly 100 in the first housing 21 of the lens assembly 100; connecting the second housing 22 to the first housing 21, and buffering the force applied to the lens group 1 during the connection of the second housing 22 to the first housing 21.

[0080] First, the buffer structure 3 in the lens assembly 100 is placed on the second housing 22 of the lens assembly 100. This step ensures that the buffer structure 3 establishes a definite relative positional relationship with the second housing 22 at the initial stage of assembly, laying the foundation for the accurate realization of the buffering function in subsequent overall assembly. The pre-installation of the buffer structure 3 on the second housing 22 avoids positional shifts, abnormal postures, or poor contact with the lens assembly 1 due to temporary adjustments or alignment difficulties during final assembly. This ensures that the buffer structure 3 can effectively deform along the optical axis direction as designed when subjected to force, fully utilizing its buffering performance.

[0081] Subsequently, the lens group 1 of the lens assembly 100 is placed in the first housing 21 of the lens assembly 100. This step independently places the core optical functional component within the receiving space 2a of the first housing 21, allowing the lens group 1 to obtain initial positioning and support within the first housing 21. At this stage, the operator can focus on the alignment and fit between the lens group 1 and the first housing 21, ensuring that the outer peripheral surface of the lens group 1 and the inner peripheral surface of the first receiving cavity 211 achieve the expected fit, thereby providing stable constraint to the lens group 1 in the radial direction and placing it in a preset initial position in the axial direction. This independent installation step helps to complete the fine-tuning and confirmation of the basic position of the lens group 1 before the subsequent introduction of the second housing 22 and the buffer structure 3, reducing the assembly complexity and uncertainty that may arise from the simultaneous intervention of multiple variables.

[0082] Finally, the second housing 22 is connected to the first housing 21, and the buffer structure 3 buffers the force applied to the lens group 1 during the connection process. This step is the integration and completion stage of the assembly process. As the second housing 22 gradually approaches and is finally fixed to the first housing 21, the buffer structure 3, which is pre-installed on the second housing 22, comes into contact with and interacts with the lens group 1 in the first housing 21. As the connection operation proceeds, the buffer structure 3 is gradually compressed in the optical axis direction, and the resulting elastic force is simultaneously applied to the lens group 1, thereby absorbing and buffering the mechanical clamping force, impact force, or additional stress caused by assembly errors resulting from the connection of the housings 2. This process softens and homogenizes the final assembly load borne by the lens group 1, avoiding structural damage or optical performance degradation caused by instantaneous overload, local hard contact, or uneven force on the lens group 1.

[0083] In some embodiments, the step of disposing of the buffer structure 3 in the second housing 22 includes: disposing of the elastic member 31 of the lens assembly 100 in the second housing 22; and connecting the protective member 32 of the lens assembly 100 to the elastic member 31.

[0084] This step-by-step operation process rationally decomposes and sequentializes the assembly process of the buffer structure 3. First, the core buffer functional unit, the elastic element 31, is installed onto the second housing 22. This operation ensures that the elastic element 31 can obtain an accurate and stable initial positioning on the second housing 22 beforehand. As the element that directly provides buffering force, fixing the elastic element 31 to the second housing 22 in advance can avoid positional deviations caused by mutual interference or limited operating space during subsequent assembly with the protective element 32. This ensures that the deformation direction of the elastic element 31 remains consistent with the optical axis during subsequent overall assembly and can generate the required elastic force as designed.

[0085] Subsequently, the protective component 32 of the lens assembly 100 is connected to the elastic component 31 already installed in the second housing 22. This step, based on the already in place elastic component 31, establishes the interface and force transmission medium facing the lens assembly 1 in the buffer structure 3. Whether the connection between the protective component 32 and the elastic component 31 is through abutment, sleeve, or fixed connection, a definite, force-transmitting mechanical connection is established between the elastic component 31 and the lens assembly 1. This sequence of installing the elastic component 31 first, followed by the protective component 32, makes the assembly process of the buffer structure 3 logically clear and hierarchically distinct, reducing the risk of assembly defects such as misalignment, jamming, or improper connection that may occur due to the simultaneous operation of multiple components.

[0086] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A lens assembly, characterized in that, The lens assembly includes: Lens assembly; The housing includes a first housing and a second housing, which are detachably connected and form an accommodating space, wherein the lens assembly is disposed in the accommodating space; A buffer structure is disposed between the lens assembly and the second housing, and the buffer structure is located within the receiving space. The buffer structure is configured to be deformable in the optical axis direction of the lens assembly to buffer the forces applied to the lens assembly during the assembly of the lens assembly.

2. The lens assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The buffer structure includes: An elastic element is disposed within the receiving space and located on the side of the lens assembly facing the second housing. The elastic element is configured to provide the lens assembly with an elastic force from the second housing toward the first housing.

3. The lens assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The buffer structure also includes: A protective element is disposed in the receiving space, one end of the protective element is sleeved on the end of the lens assembly facing the second housing, and the other end of the protective element abuts against the elastic element.

4. The lens assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protective member includes a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole. The protective member has a first opening at one end facing the first housing. The first end of the first connecting hole communicates with the first opening. The second end of the first connecting hole communicates with the second connecting hole. The protective member has a second opening at one end facing the second housing. The second end of the second connecting hole communicates with the second opening. The first connecting hole is configured to accommodate the lens assembly. The second connecting hole is configured to allow a light source to pass through the protective member.

5. The lens assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The protective component includes a protective part and a mounting part that are connected to each other. The protective part has a first connecting hole, and the mounting part has a second connecting hole. The diameter of the second connecting hole is smaller than the diameter of the lens assembly.

6. The lens assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The diameter of the mounting part is smaller than the diameter of the protective part, the elastic element is a spring, the spring is sleeved on the mounting part, and the first end of the spring is connected to the protective part.

7. The lens assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second housing has a limiting part, and the outer peripheral surface of the mounting part is provided with a mating part. The shapes of the limiting part and the mating part are matched to guide the mounting part into the second housing.

8. The lens assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protective component is integrally formed with the elastic component; or, The protective component and the elastic component are connected by welding.

9. The lens assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first housing includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity. The first receiving cavity is used to receive at least a portion of the lens group. The first receiving cavity has an opening at a first end. The second end of the first receiving cavity is in communication with the first end of the second receiving cavity. The second end of the second receiving cavity also has an opening. The second housing includes a mounting portion configured to extend into the second receiving cavity to connect the first housing to the second housing. The mounting portion has a third receiving cavity with openings at both ends. When the mounting portion extends into the second receiving cavity, the third receiving cavity is configured to communicate with the first receiving cavity through the openings to form the receiving space.

10. The lens assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer peripheral surface of the mounting part is threadedly engaged with the inner peripheral surface of the second receiving cavity to connect the first housing and the second housing.

11. The lens assembly according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The inner peripheral surface of the first receiving cavity is fitted to the outer peripheral surface of the lens assembly to restrict the degree of freedom of the lens assembly within the first receiving cavity.

12. A method for assembling a lens assembly, characterized in that, For a lens assembly according to any one of claims 1-11, the assembly method comprises: The buffer structure in the lens assembly is disposed in the second housing of the lens assembly; The lens group of the lens assembly is disposed in the first housing of the lens assembly; The second housing is connected to the first housing, and the buffer structure buffers the force applied to the lens assembly during the connection between the second housing and the first housing.

13. The assembly method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The step of setting the buffer structure in the second housing includes: The elastic element of the lens assembly is disposed in the second housing; The protective element of the lens assembly is connected to the elastic element.

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