A camera assembly
By designing structures such as a sealed chamber, rotating shaft, servo motor, and bevel gear set, the problem of underwater robot cameras being difficult to adjust quickly and accurately has been solved, enabling the camera to rotate flexibly and perform tasks efficiently in complex environments.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202521987864.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-25
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-09-16
AI Technical Summary
The existing underwater robot cameras are fixedly connected to the body, making it difficult to quickly and accurately adjust the shooting angle in complex underwater environments, which reduces the efficiency of task execution and the scope of application.
A camera assembly was designed, including a sealed chamber, a rotating shaft, a sealed window, a servo motor, a bevel gear set, and a robotic arm. The servo motor drives the rotating shaft to achieve flexible rotation of the camera. Combined with the sealing structure and heat sink, the camera can rotate with high precision and high torque within the sealed chamber, and is dustproof, waterproof, and corrosion-resistant.
It enables cameras to quickly and accurately adjust their shooting angles in complex underwater environments, improving mission execution efficiency, reducing maintenance costs and resource consumption, and expanding the application scope of underwater robots.
Smart Images

Figure CN224684261U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of underwater robots, and in particular to a camera assembly. Background Technology
[0002] In the field of underwater robotics, cameras, as key detection components, require efficient and safe transportation to ensure smooth operation. Currently, existing underwater robot cameras are fixedly connected to the robot body, requiring the entire robot to rotate to adjust the shooting angle during underwater filming. However, the complex and ever-changing underwater environment, with strong currents, confined spaces, or obstacles often limiting the robot's rotation, makes it difficult for the camera to quickly and accurately aim at the target. This fixed connection method is not only complex to operate, requiring simultaneous consideration of the robot's overall posture and position, but also significantly reduces task execution efficiency, increases task completion time and resource consumption, and limits the application range of underwater robots in complex environments.
[0003] Therefore, developing a new type of underwater robot that can effectively solve the above-mentioned pain points, especially significantly improve the camera efficiency of underwater robots, is of urgent practical need and important economic value for improving the overall efficiency of underwater robot operation and reducing operating costs. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this application is to provide a camera assembly that solves the problem that adjusting the shooting angle during underwater photography requires the rotation of the entire body. The underwater environment is complex and changeable, and factors such as strong currents, narrow spaces, or obstacles often limit the rotation of the body, making it difficult for the camera to quickly and accurately aim at the target.
[0005] The technical solution of this application is as follows:
[0006] A camera assembly includes: a sealed chamber with an enclosed space formed inside;
[0007] A camera module installed in the enclosed space; and
[0008] A rotating shaft passes through the sealed chamber, the connection between the rotating shaft and the sealed chamber is sealed, and the rotating shaft can rotate relative to the sealed chamber.
[0009] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes: an opening on the sealed chamber, a light-transmitting sealed window at the opening, and the sealed window sealing the opening;
[0010] The camera module faces the sealed window.
[0011] Furthermore, in the camera assembly of this application, the sealing window further includes: a lens, a flange, and a sealing ring; the flange connects the lens to the opening, and the flange and the opening, and / or the flange and the lens are sealed by the sealing ring.
[0012] Preferably, the flange edge is sealed to the opening wall, for example, by means of a sealing ring.
[0013] Preferably, the lens edge is sealed to the flange wall, for example, by means of a sealing ring.
[0014] Furthermore, the sealed chamber in the camera assembly of this application includes a first seal and a second seal, which are detachably connected and form a sealed space when connected.
[0015] Furthermore, in the camera assembly of this application, the camera module includes a camera, which is disposed inside the sealed chamber and faces the opening.
[0016] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes: a servo motor, which is located inside a sealed chamber;
[0017] The output end of the servo motor is connected to an output shaft, which drives the rotating shaft to rotate synchronously.
[0018] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes: a servo bracket, which is fixed to the inner wall of the sealed chamber;
[0019] The servo is fixed to the servo bracket.
[0020] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes: a first bevel gear and a second bevel gear within the sealed chamber;
[0021] The first bevel gear is located at the end of the output shaft away from the servo motor, and the first bevel gear is in the same direction as the output shaft.
[0022] The second bevel gear is disposed on the rotating shaft, and the second bevel gear is in the same direction as the rotating shaft. The second bevel gear and the first bevel gear mesh with each other, and the output rotating shaft drives the rotating shaft to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the output rotating shaft.
[0023] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes: a wire threading nut;
[0024] The sealed chamber has a threaded hole, and the threaded nut is threadedly connected to the threaded hole and seals the threaded hole.
[0025] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes a heat sink disposed between the servo and the camera module, the heat sink being detachably connected to both the servo and the camera module.
[0026] Furthermore, the camera assembly of this application also includes a robotic arm connected to the sealed chamber, the robotic arm being connected to the outer surface of the sealed chamber.
[0027] Furthermore, the robotic arm in the camera assembly of this application includes: an extension arm and a robotic gripper;
[0028] One end of the extension arm is connected to the sealed chamber;
[0029] The mechanical claw is located at the end of the extension arm away from the sealed chamber, and the mechanical claw can perform grasping actions.
[0030] Furthermore, the robotic arm in the camera assembly of this application also includes: a first fixing member and a second fixing member;
[0031] The first fastener is fixedly connected to the sealed chamber;
[0032] The second fastener is fixedly connected to the first fastener;
[0033] The extension arm is disposed between the first fixing member and the second fixing member.
[0034] Compared with the prior art, this utility model has the following obvious and prominent substantive features and significant advantages:
[0035] 1. Sealed structures such as sealed chambers, sealed windows, and cable nuts completely isolate key components such as cameras, servos, and cables from the outside world, achieving dustproof, waterproof, and corrosion-resistant requirements, significantly improving reliability and service life in harsh environments.
[0036] 2. The three-stage transmission of servo motor, bevel gear set and rotating shaft enables the camera to rotate with high precision, high torque and low backlash in the sealed chamber.
[0037] 3. A detachable heat sink is installed between the servo motor and the camera module to quickly dissipate heat from the two heat sources; the first and second fixing parts firmly lock the extension arm to the sealed chamber, forming a cantilever beam-type stable base, which not only suppresses vibration but also facilitates disassembly and maintenance.
[0038] 4. The lens, flange, sealing ring, detachable heat sink, layered fixed robotic arm, and threaded nut are all modular and detachable, allowing any part to be replaced independently on site, significantly reducing maintenance time and costs. Attached Figure Description
[0039] The accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of this utility model, are used to provide a further understanding of the utility model. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the utility model are used to explain the utility model and do not constitute an undue limitation of the utility model. In the drawings:
[0040] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the camera assembly of this utility model.
[0041] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the sealed chamber and camera module in the camera assembly of this utility model.
[0042] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the connection between the camera assembly and the body of this utility model.
[0043] Figure 4 This is a side view of the camera assembly of this utility model connected to the body.
[0044] Figure 5 This is a bottom view of the camera assembly of this utility model connected to the body.
[0045] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the sealed chamber in the camera assembly of this utility model.
[0046] Figure 7 This is a front view of the sealed chamber in the camera assembly of this utility model.
[0047] Figure 8 This is a top view of the sealed chamber in the camera assembly of this utility model.
[0048] Figure 9 This is a side view of the sealed chamber in the camera assembly of this utility model.
[0049] In the picture:
[0050] 1. Sealed chamber; 11. First seal; 12. Second seal; 13. Threaded nut; 14. Transmission line; 2. Camera module; 21. Camera; 22. Sealing ring; 23. Lens; 24. Flange; 3. Rotating shaft; 31. Second bevel gear; 4. Servo; 41. Output shaft; 42. First bevel gear; 43. Servo bracket; 5. Heat sink; 61. Extension arm; 62. Mechanical claw; 63. First fixing component; 64. Second fixing component; 7. Fuselage. Detailed Implementation
[0051] This utility model provides a camera assembly. To make the purpose, technical solution, and effects of this utility model clearer and more explicit, the following describes this utility model in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.
[0052] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this utility model are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be used interchangeably where appropriate. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.
[0053] This application discloses a camera component, such as Figure 1 As shown, the camera assembly includes a sealed chamber 1 with an internal airtight space, a camera module 2 disposed within the sealed chamber 1, and a rotating shaft 3 penetrating the sealed chamber 1. The connection between the rotating shaft 3 and the sealed chamber 1 is sealed, and the rotating shaft 3 is capable of relative rotation with the sealed chamber 1. The rotating shaft 3 can be connected to the body 7 of an underwater robot. The rotating shaft 3 allows the camera assembly and the body 7 to rotate relative to each other, eliminating the need for the body 7 to rotate synchronously with the camera module 2. The camera module 2 is securely encapsulated within the sealed chamber 1. The sealed connection between the sealed chamber 1 and the rotating shaft 3 effectively prevents moisture and other impurities from entering the camera module 2. Simultaneously, the rotating shaft 3 enables the camera module 2 to rotate flexibly, allowing the camera module 2 to adjust its shooting angle.
[0054] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in a preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the sealed chamber 1 has an opening, and a light-transmitting sealed window is provided at the opening. The sealed window seals the opening, and the camera module 2 faces the sealed window. The camera module 2 can capture images outside the sealed window.
[0055] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the sealing window includes a lens 23, a flange 24, and a sealing ring 22. The sealing ring 22, lens 23, and flange 24 are sequentially disposed on the outside of the opening of the sealed chamber 1. The flange 24 connects the lens 23 to the opening. Through the combination of multiple components, the sealing and optical functions of the camera module 2 are achieved. The lens 23 protects the lens of the camera 21 from external physical damage and environmental factors, while also optimizing optical performance to ensure the clarity and quality of image acquisition. The combination of the sealing ring 22 and flange 24 further enhances the sealing performance between the sealed chamber 1 and the sealing window, forming multiple sealing guarantees and effectively preventing moisture and other impurities from entering the interior of the sealed chamber 1. The layered structure facilitates assembly and maintenance; each component can be replaced or repaired independently, reducing maintenance costs and increasing product lifespan.
[0056] Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the edge of the flange 24 is sealed to the opening wall, for example, by means of a sealing ring 22, so that the sealing chamber 1 forms a closed space.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the edge of the lens 23 is sealed to the wall of the flange 24, for example, by means of a sealing ring 22, so that the sealed chamber 1 forms a sealed space.
[0058] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, in a preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the sealed chamber 1 includes a first sealing member 11 and a second sealing member 12. The first sealing member 11 and the second sealing member 12 are detachably connected and form a sealed space when connected. The camera module 2 is disposed in the sealed space. The first sealing member 11 and the second sealing member 12 make it easier to assemble and disassemble the sealed chamber 1.
[0059] Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the camera module 2 includes a camera 21, which is disposed inside the sealed chamber 1 and faces the sealed window. The camera 21 captures images as the sealed chamber 1 rotates.
[0060] Better, combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the camera assembly further includes a servo motor 4, which is disposed in a sealed space. Its output end is connected to an output shaft 41, which drives the rotating shaft 3 passing through the sealed chamber 1 to rotate synchronously. Driven by the servo motor 4, the rotating shaft 3 can achieve precise rotation control, thereby driving the camera module 2 to adjust its angle. This allows for precise control of the rotation angle and direction of the camera module 2. Through external signals or preset programs, the camera 21 can be quickly and accurately adjusted to the required angle.
[0061] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, it further includes: a servo bracket 43, which is fixed to the inner wall of the sealed chamber 1, and the servo 4 is fixed to the servo bracket 43. The servo 4 is reinforced and fixed to prevent the servo 4 from shaking or loosening during operation, which would reduce the accuracy of the camera assembly or cause it to shift when rotating.
[0062] Better, combination Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, it further includes a first bevel gear 42 and a second bevel gear 31. Specifically, the first bevel gear 42 is disposed at the end of the output shaft 41 of the servo motor 4 away from the servo motor 4, and the first bevel gear 42 is in the same direction as the output shaft 41. The second bevel gear 31 is disposed on the rotating shaft 3, and the second bevel gear 31 is in the same direction as the rotating shaft 3. The first bevel gear 42 and the second bevel gear 31 mesh with each other, and the output shaft 41 drives the rotating shaft 3 to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the output shaft 41. Through the meshing transmission of the first bevel gear 42 and the second bevel gear 31, the output power of the servo motor 4 can be efficiently transmitted to the rotating shaft 3, and precise angle adjustment can be achieved, ensuring that the camera 21 can be quickly and accurately adjusted to the required angle and position. The bevel gear set can play the role of deceleration and torque increase. After the power output by the servo motor 4 is transmitted through the bevel gear set, the high-speed, low-torque power can be converted into low-speed, high-torque power, thereby driving the rotating shaft 3 to rotate more effectively, especially under heavy load, which can significantly improve the driving capability of the rotating shaft 3. The bevel gear transmission system allows for power transmission and conversion within a smaller space, resulting in a more compact camera assembly structure. This is highly advantageous for devices that require installation in limited space, effectively saving space while maintaining good functionality. The meshing transmission of bevel gears offers high reliability and stability, effectively reducing slippage and vibration during transmission.
[0063] Furthermore, in combination Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, a wire threading nut 13 is further included. Specifically, a wire threading hole is provided on the sealed chamber 1 for inserting power lines, signal lines, and other transmission lines 14. The wire threading nut 13 is threadedly connected to the wire threading hole. After the power lines, signal lines, and other transmission lines 14 are inserted into the wire threading nut, the transmission lines 14 and the wire threading nut 13 are sealed, and the wire threading hole is sealed by its tight fit with the wire threading nut. The threaded connection between the wire threading nut 13 and the wire threading hole can fit tightly, effectively sealing the wire threading hole. This can prevent moisture and other impurities from entering the interior of the sealed chamber 1 through the wire threading hole, thereby further improving the sealing performance of the camera assembly and enhancing its reliability in harsh environments.
[0064] The cable nut 13 not only serves a sealing function but also provides a certain degree of fixation and protection for the inserted transmission cable 14. The transmission cable 14 is firmly clamped in the cable nut 13, reducing the risk of loosening due to external pulling or vibration, and also preventing wear on the transmission cable 14 inside the cable nut 13. Appropriate cable nuts 13 can be selected according to different sizes of transmission cables 14, thereby improving the versatility and flexibility of the camera assembly and reducing installation problems caused by incompatible transmission cable 14 specifications.
[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, a heat sink 5 is further included. The heat sink 5 is disposed between the servo motor 4 and the camera module 2, and is detachably connected to both. The servo motor 4 generates heat during operation, and the camera module 2 also generates heat due to the operation of its electronic components. The heat sink 5 effectively conducts and dissipates this heat, reducing the operating temperature of the servo motor 4 and the camera module 2, reducing component aging and damage caused by high temperatures, and preventing the servo motor 4 and the camera module 2 from affecting performance or malfunctioning due to overheating. Through the heat dissipation function of the heat sink 5, when it is necessary to clean the heat sink 5 or replace the heat dissipation component, the heat sink 5 can be disassembled without the need for complex disassembly and reassembly of the entire camera assembly, reducing maintenance costs and time. The heat sink 5 is directly disposed between the servo motor 4 and the camera module 2, and the compact layout allows the heat dissipation function to be closely integrated with other functions of the camera assembly, while avoiding the increase in size caused by additional heat dissipation components.
[0066] like Figure 1As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, a robotic arm is also included. Specifically, the robotic arm is connected to the outer surface of the sealed chamber 1. The robotic arm can be expanded or replaced according to actual needs to adapt to different application scenarios and task requirements. Combined with the rotation function of the camera module 2, the robotic arm can further enhance the dynamic adjustment capability of the camera assembly, enabling it to quickly respond to external commands. The motion control of the robotic arm can be combined with the rotation control of the camera 21 to achieve more precise adjustment of the shooting angle and position.
[0067] The robotic arm can be optimized as needed, for example, by adding shock absorption devices or using high-strength materials.
[0068] The robotic arm can also be adjusted according to the application environment, such as adjusting its length, angle, or connection method, to adapt to different installation spaces and requirements.
[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the robotic arm includes an extension arm 61 and a robotic gripper 62. One end of the extension arm 61 is connected to the sealed chamber 1, while the robotic gripper 62 is located at the other end of the extension arm 61 away from the sealed chamber 1, and the robotic gripper 62 has the function of grasping. The robotic gripper 62 enables the camera assembly to not only have the function of shooting, but also to perform grasping or other physical operations. The camera assembly can grasp objects through the robotic gripper 62, realizing the combination of visual detection and physical operation. The camera assembly can act as the "eyes" and "hands" of the robot to achieve more complex tasks, such as grasping objects and performing assembly. The extension arm 61 increases the operability range of the camera assembly. By extending or bending the extension arm 61, the camera assembly can operate in a larger space. The grasping action of the robotic gripper 62 can be precisely controlled by the control system. Combined with visual recognition technology, the camera assembly can automatically adjust the grasping position and force according to the recognized target object.
[0070] like Figure 1 As shown, in another preferred embodiment of the camera assembly of this application, the robotic arm includes a first fixing member 63 and a second fixing member 64. The first fixing member 63 is fixedly connected to the sealed chamber 1, and the second fixing member 64 is fixedly connected to the first fixing member 63. The extension arm 61 is clamped between the first fixing member 63 and the second fixing member 64, forming a stable support structure. This structure can effectively disperse the force generated by the robotic arm during movement, reducing vibration and sway, especially when the robotic arm makes large-amplitude movements or grasps heavy objects. It also simplifies the installation process of the robotic arm. By placing the extension arm 61 between the first fixing member 63 and the second fixing member 64, the assembly and fixation of the robotic arm can be completed quickly, facilitating fine-tuning of the position and angle of the robotic arm to adapt to different work scenarios and task requirements.
[0071] The specific embodiments of this utility model have been described in detail above, but they are merely examples, and this utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. For those skilled in the art, any equivalent modifications and substitutions to this utility model are also within the scope of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent changes and modifications made without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model should be covered within the scope of this utility model.
Claims
1. A camera assembly, characterized in that, include: Sealed compartment; The camera module is installed inside the sealed chamber; as well as A rotating shaft runs through the sealed chamber, the connection between the rotating shaft and the sealed chamber is sealed, and the rotating shaft can rotate relative to the sealed chamber.
2. The camera assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealed chamber has an opening, and the opening has a light-transmitting sealed window that seals the opening. The camera module faces the sealed window.
3. The camera assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealed chamber also includes: a lens, a flange, and a sealing ring; The flange connects the lens to the opening, and the flange and the opening, and / or the flange and the lens are sealed by a sealing ring.
4. The camera assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: Servo motor; The output end of the servo motor is connected to an output shaft, and the output shaft rotates synchronously with the rotating shaft.
5. The camera assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: First bevel gear and second bevel gear; The first bevel gear is located at the end of the output shaft away from the servo motor, and the first bevel gear is in the same direction as the output shaft. The second bevel gear is disposed on the rotating shaft, the second bevel gear and the rotating shaft are in the same direction, and the second bevel gear and the first bevel gear mesh with each other.
6. The camera assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Thread nut; The sealed chamber has a threaded hole, and the threaded nut is threadedly connected to the threaded hole and seals the threaded hole.
7. The camera assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a heat sink disposed between the servo motor and the camera module, wherein the heat sink is detachably connected to the servo motor and the camera module respectively.
8. The camera assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A robotic arm connected to the sealed chamber, the robotic arm being attached to the outer surface of the sealed chamber.
9. The camera assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The robotic arm includes: an extension arm and a robotic gripper; One end of the extension arm is connected to the sealed chamber; The mechanical claw is located at the end of the extension arm away from the sealed chamber, and the mechanical claw can perform grasping actions.
10. The camera assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The robotic arm also includes: a first fixing member and a second fixing member; The first fastener is fixedly connected to the sealed chamber; The second fastener is fixedly connected to the first fastener; The extension arm is disposed between the first fixing member and the second fixing member.