Camera adapter and method for fitting camera

Abstract

To provide a camera adapter which secures sure electrical contact.SOLUTION: A camera adapter 10 comprises: an adapter cover which is connected to a camera housing 1300 of a camera 1000, where the adapter cover and the camera housing form a chamber 150 for a sensor substrate 1100 of the camera. The camera adapter comprises: a connector for connecting the camera adapter to a control unit which is provided on an external part of the chamber; a waveguide 300 which transmits a signal to the connector from the sensor substrate, the waveguide being guided in the chamber; and a contact surface 400 arranged on the waveguide, the contact surface for bringing the waveguide into contact with the sensor substrate in the chamber. The waveguide is arranged on a side wall 120 of the camera adapter extending in an optical axis direction with the contact surface for, contacting an edge 1102 of the sensor substrate in a contact direction X which is vertical to an optical axis Z of the camera.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The subject matter described herein relates to a camera adapter and a method for mounting a camera. [Background technology]

[0002] Camera systems have various applications, for example as part of higher level units, for example in vehicles such as automobiles, where the camera system transmits camera images to a user, for example the driver, as video data, thereby enhancing driving safety.

[0003] The higher level unit usually has a control unit that can be connected to the camera via a connector. Standardized connectors, also referred to herein as plugs, are usually used in vehicles. Therefore, an adapter is needed to connect the camera to the wire harness of the higher level unit. An adapter is a connection for mechanical and electrical connections of different devices, e.g. with different nominal widths or connection system standards.

[0004] FIG. 15 shows an example of a camera 1000 that can be connected to a higher level unit (not shown) using a camera adapter 2000.

[0005] The camera 1000 comprises a sensor substrate 1100 which includes a light-sensitive sensor 1110, for example a CCD sensor, and further comprises an optical system 1200, for example a lens, for imaging an object onto the sensor 1110, the optical system being carried by a camera housing 1300.

[0006] The optics 1200 define the optical axis Z of the camera. The optical axis (OA) is the axis of symmetry of a symmetric optical system. The symmetry of the surfaces of the optics is important here. The distance and alignment between the sensor 1110 and the optics 1300 largely determine the imaging characteristics of the camera. For example, to enable a sharp image, the sensor plane is aligned perpendicular to the OA at the focal point of the optics.

[0007] For use in a higher level unit, e.g. a vehicle, a camera adapter 2000 is required to connect the sensor 1110 to a control unit of the vehicle (not shown). Typically, the camera adapter 2000 has an adapter cover 2100 including a connector 2200, which is connectable to the sensor 1110 via a socket (also referred to below as connection unit 1120) of the sensor board 1100. As shown in FIG. 15 , the connector 2200 includes a connector housing 2210, connection contacts 2220, and a shielding element 2230.

[0008] Fig. 15 shows the camera 1000 and the camera adapter 2000 before mounting. Fig. 16 shows the components 1000 and 2000 after mounting. In particular, the camera housing 1300 and the adapter cover 2100 are moved towards each other in a connection direction Z, here parallel to the optical axis Z, so that the sensor board is enclosed in a chamber formed by the camera housing 1300 and the adapter cover 2100. Furthermore, the connection unit 1120 is connected to the connector 2200 in an assembly step. This establishes an electrical connection between the sensor 1110 and a higher level unit.

[0009] The lens 1200 is typically held by the camera housing 1300. When the camera 1000 and the camera adapter 2000 are attached, the position between the sensor 1110 and the camera housing 1300 may change because the connection unit 1120 is connected to the connector 2200. In other words, a force is generated that causes a displacement and / or deformation of the sensor substrate.

[0010] To allow for attachment, tolerances are also taken into account during assembly, which are due in particular to optical requirements, such as permitted variations in the alignment of the sensor 1110 with the optical component 1200, and electrical connection requirements, such as a reliable contact between the connector 2200 and the connection unit 1120.

[0011] In particular, it should be noted that the sensor 1110, i.e. the camera sensor chip, is very sensitive and therefore only very small insertion forces in the normal (perpendicular) direction, i.e. in the direction of the optical axis, are tolerated in the sensor substrate 1100. In other words, in the configurations of Figs. 15 and 16, the tolerance in the direction of the optical axis Z is small. Insertion and pulling forces applied to the sensor substrate during and after insertion can damage the highly sensitive sensor 1110. Errors include, for example, bending of the camera itself, which causes errors in the imaging data.

[0012] The arrangements of Figures 15 and 16 have large tolerances perpendicular to the optical axis Z, i.e. in the X and Y directions. In particular, when mounting the camera, the sensor is aligned with the optics to form the camera. However, the connector 2100, i.e. the electrical interface with the higher level unit, must be reliably contacted by the connection unit 1120 even if it is misaligned perpendicular to the optical axis Z. However, misalignment in the X and Y directions increases the mating forces, since the socket and connector springs bend considerably. However, this leads to a large error in the Z direction.

[0013] As shown in Figure 16, a tolerance compensation socket can be used as a connection unit 1120 to compensate for these tolerances. As shown in Figure 16, this socket 1120 is typically located in the center of the sensor board 1100 and therefore takes up a lot of space in the central region of the sensor board 1100.

[0014] It should also be noted that the sensor 1110 of the camera typically has edge lengths in the X and Y directions of at least 0.1 mm and no more than 2 cm. The size of the sensor 1110 determines the size of the camera. Thus, the sensor substrate 1100 is typically not much larger than the sensor 1110. In particular, the sensor substrate 1100 determines the dimension perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera. Thus, the space of the sensor substrate typically determines the size of the camera. In other words, the space on the sensor board is limited because the sensor can be small. This is especially problematic because the connection unit 1120 is large compared to the sensor 1100 to ensure tolerance compensation and contact, and therefore occupies a lot of the PCB space where components might otherwise be mounted, making the overall PCB small. This connection unit 1120 is typically located on the optical axis or along the connection axis of the connector 2000.

[0015] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the insertion force F is transferred to the sensor substrate 1100 at an unfavorable point in the normal direction, i.e., in the Z direction (i.e., in the direction of the optical axis). As shown in Figure 17, the sensor substrate 1100 is held at the edge 1102, for example by a fixing element 1302 provided on the housing 1300. Thus, the insertion force in the center results in a maximum surface curvature, as shown in Figure 18. As a result, the sensor 1110 may easily come off the sensor substrate.

[0016] Furthermore, electrical contact of the sensor board is made during attachment of the camera to the camera adapter, without possible visual inspection. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0017] The object is to solve the above problems. In particular, the object is to facilitate a non-destructive mounting of the sensor and the camera adapter. In particular, the mounting tolerances in the direction of the optical axis should be large. Another object is to minimize the size of the camera. In particular, the space required by the connection unit on the sensor board should be minimized. A further object is to ensure that the connection of the sensor with a connector for connection to a higher-level unit allows a high bandwidth transmission. A further object is to ensure a reliable electrical contact even when visual inspection is not possible. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] The above-mentioned problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments are the subject matter of the dependent patent claims.

[0019] According to a general aspect, contact surfaces arranged on the side walls of the camera adapter extending in the direction of the optical axis solve the above problem, since the edges of the sensor board can be contacted in a contact direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera. In particular, this arrangement means that no forces are applied to the sensor board in the direction of the optical axis during contact, and the sensor of the camera is not stressed. Furthermore, contacting the edges of the sensor board means that the central space of the sensor board does not have to be used for the connection unit. Usually, the central space of the sensor board can be advantageously used for other units, since these other units can be easily contacted from various directions.

[0020] In other words, the connection is made at the edge of the PCB, especially at the side, to avoid the joining forces on the PCB surface and to save PCB space. In this way, the joining forces are applied parallel to the PCB and no socket is required on the PCB. Therefore, there is no PCB space taken up by the socket. The size of the camera system can be reduced.

[0021] A waveguide is used for the electrical path from the cable harness connector, i.e., the interface of the connector, to the sensor board, i.e., the PBC boarder; therefore, a signal wire enclosed in a chamber that may be closed shielded is not required, and a single conductor including, for example, two outer shield conductors can be used.

[0022] In the following, the general concept is explained in detail. The first aspect concerns a camera adapter for connecting a camera including an optical axis. As mentioned before, the camera consists of a sensor and an optical system. In the simplest case, the lens is a hole, i.e. a pinhole camera. By inserting a converging lens into the hole, the camera becomes smaller and the image can be brighter and clearer. The image is generated by electronic sensor optics on the rear wall opposite the camera. The camera adapter is used to mechanically and electrically connect the camera to a higher level unit, e.g. a vehicle.

[0023] The camera adapter comprises an adapter cover for connection to a camera housing of a camera, thus facilitating the mechanical connection of the camera, and in particular the camera housing, to the camera adapter.

[0024] Furthermore, when the adapter cover and the camera housing are connected, these two parts form a housing that surrounds the chamber. The sensor board of the camera is accommodated in the chamber. The adapter cover thus facilitates the formation of a part of the chamber housing, for example the cover of the chamber. The chamber is a substantially or completely enclosed cavity for protecting the sensor board from external influences such as moisture and dust. In particular, to shield the interior of the chamber from electric and magnetic fields, the adapter cover includes or consists of a shielding material, preferably aluminum.

[0025] The camera adapter also comprises a connector for connecting the camera adapter to a control unit outside the chamber. The connector, also known as a plug, is used to disconnect and connect an electric cable or, for example, a cable for optical emission. The connection parts, i.e. the connector and the counter connector, can be aligned by a positive lock of the connector parts, detachably fixed by a spring force (contact foot) or further fixed against unintentional loosening by a screw fastening. In particular, the camera adapter can thus be connected, for example, to a wire harness of a vehicle.

[0026] The camera adapter also includes a waveguide for transmitting the signal from the sensor board to the connector in the chamber. Transmission through a waveguide allows the signal to be transmitted over a greater distance within the chamber.

[0027] A waveguide is a structure that transmits waves, such as radio waves (e.g. radio frequency waveguides) or other electromagnetic waves, with minimal energy loss by directional restriction of the transmission of energy. Without the restriction of the waveguide, the strength of the waves would be reduced and they would not be able to transmit the high bandwidth required for camera signals. Typically, the transmission of moving camera images requires a bandwidth of several Gbit / s. In particular, waveguides are used to transmit waves with frequencies above 3 MHz and below 30 THz.

[0028] Furthermore, the camera adapter comprises a contact surface arranged on the waveguide, the contact surface being for contacting the waveguide to the sensor substrate in the chamber. The contact surface allows electrical contact between the connection terminals of the sensor substrate and the connection terminals of the waveguide, and thus allows efficient data transmission. The contact surface can also be used to compensate for tolerances. In particular, the connector, the waveguide and the contact surface are different components that can be manufactured separately from each other and are simply joined together during the manufacturing of the camera adapter.

[0029] According to the first aspect, the waveguide is arranged with the contact surface on a side wall of the camera adapter extending in the direction of the optical axis. The side wall therefore extends in the direction of the optical axis. Ideally, the side wall is parallel to the optical axis. As a result of the assembly process, the side wall of the camera connected to the camera adapter is parallel to the optical axis of the camera within a tolerance.

[0030] The sensors of the sensor substrate are arranged perpendicular to the optical axis, so that the camera can generate images with less optical errors. The sensor substrate has the shape of a plate, i.e. the substrate is much thinner in the direction of the optical axis than the image surface, which extends at least over the surface of the sensor. The border at the edge of the sensor substrate therefore extends in the direction of the optical axis.

[0031] This arrangement allows the edge of the sensor board to be contacted in a contact direction X perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera. This means that no forces are transmitted to the sensor board in the direction of the optical axis. This means that a larger tolerance in the direction of the optical axis can be achieved compared to contacting the rear side of the sensor board.

[0032] This arrangement also means that the space in the centre of the sensor board can be used for other electronic units.

[0033] According to a second aspect, in addition to the first aspect, the adapter cover comprises a rear wall facing an opening defined by a side wall, the side wall protruding from the rear wall in the direction of the opening, the opening being capable of being closed by a camera housing including an optical component defining an optical axis. In particular, the adapter cover can have the shape of a pot, the side wall being a wall of the pot, for example housing a sensor board in the pot. In other words, the rear wall is formed by a polygon, the side wall following the edge of the polygon, for example a rectangle. Alternatively, the side wall may simply be a structure rising from the adapter cover, for example a strut. These arrangements allow the side wall and the rear wall to be manufactured in one piece.

[0034] According to the third embodiment, in addition to the second embodiment, the connector is located on the rear wall of the chamber. When mounting the camera adapter and the camera, the camera system can be mounted on a higher level unit to save space. This is because the cable harness is routed away from the camera's field of view and there is no need to further change the cable routing direction to avoid blocking the camera's field of view. Alternatively, the connector can be located on the side wall.

[0035] According to a fourth aspect, in addition to one of the above aspects, the connector is shielded, the connector being preferably suitable for connection to a coaxial cable. A coaxial cable is a two-pole cable with a concentric structure. A coaxial cable is composed of an inner conductor (also known as a signal conductor) surrounded at a certain distance by a hollow cylindrical outer conductor. The outer conductor shields the inner conductor from interfering radiation. It is particularly preferred that the adapter cover and in particular the side wall are also formed from a shielding material, preferably that the adapter cover and / or the side wall comprises or consists of aluminum.

[0036] According to the fifth aspect, in addition to the fourth aspect, the shield of the connector is connected to the adapter cover, which means that the entire housing is shielded and there is no need for further shielding of the sensor board.

[0037] According to a sixth aspect, in addition to any of the above aspects, the waveguide includes a signal conductor track disposed on the dielectric substrate to form a lead frame. The lead frame is a metal structure within or on the chip, i.e. the dielectric substrate, that carries the signal. This makes it particularly easy to route the signal lines in the chamber that are separated from the adapter cover and the sidewalls.

[0038] According to a seventh aspect, in addition to the sixth aspect, the lead frame further includes two shielding conductor tracks, the shielding conductor track and the single conductor trace being disposed on one side of the substrate. In other words, a coplanar waveguide connects the connector and the contact surface.

[0039] A coplanar waveguide is a type of electrical planar transmission line that can be manufactured using printed circuit board technology and is used to transmit microwave signals. For example, a coplanar waveguide (CPW) includes a signal conductor track applied to a dielectric substrate, e.g. a printed circuit board, and a pair of shield conductors, one on each side of the track. All three conductors are located on the same side of the substrate and are therefore coplanar. The shield conductor track is separated from the signal conductor track by a small gap, the width of which is constant over the entire length of the line. The shield conductor track usually extends over an indefinite but large distance away from the signal conductor track, thus theoretically forming a semi-infinite surface.

[0040] Coplanar waveguides transmit signals particularly effectively and can even be used within the chamber of the camera adapter, since after assembly the structure is protected from external influences.

[0041] According to an eighth aspect, in addition to the sixth or seventh aspect, the lead frame further includes a rear conductive shield, the rear conductive shield being disposed on a rear side of the substrate, the rear side facing a front side of the substrate, and the single conductor being disposed on the front side, in particular, thereby forming a coplanar waveguide including a ground.

[0042] According to a ninth aspect, in addition to any of the above aspects, the camera adapter further comprises a holder for mounting the waveguide to the housing cover. In particular, the holder may be insulating. This is particularly advantageous for guiding the waveguide inside the chamber in a controlled manner. Furthermore, in the case of a shielded housing, the waveguide can be mounted separately from the housing, which is advantageous for signal transmission. Furthermore, multiple holders can be provided to guide the waveguide on the edge of the chamber, i.e. partially at the back wall and partially at the side wall.

[0043] According to the tenth aspect, in addition to the ninth aspect, the holder is arranged between the contact surface and the connector, so that the waveguide is movable at the contact surface in a compensation direction perpendicular to the optical axis and perpendicular to the contact direction and in the contact direction. Thus, the contact surface is attached to the side wall so that it can move in both directions relative to the side wall perpendicular to the optical axis. This allows the contact surface to contact the camera, taking into account that the sensor board can be attached with a large tolerance to the camera housing. A large tolerance between the sensor board and the camera housing is advantageous because it has little effect on the imaging characteristics of the camera, and therefore the camera can be manufactured with a larger tolerance.

[0044] According to an eleventh aspect, in addition to one of the above aspects, the contact surface comprises a spring element, such that the contact surface is movable in a contact direction X. Advantageously, a pressure limiter is further arranged on the contact surface, the pressure limiter protruding from the waveguide in the contact direction to prevent excessive bending of the spring element.

[0045] A first spring element, also known as the tolerance compensation spring, presses the waveguide against the printed circuit board. A second spring element, also known as the contact spring, allows the contact surface to bend. A pressure limiter protects the contact spring from damage (overbending). This results in a well-defined contact spring force.

[0046] According to a twelfth aspect, in addition to one of the above aspects, in order to increase the tolerance of the connection along the optical axis Z, the extent of the contact surface along the optical axis Z is greater than the extent in a compensation direction Y perpendicular to the optical axis Z and perpendicular to the contact direction X. Since the contact is made from the edge, the tolerance along the optical axis can be increased by forming a long contact surface in the direction of the optical axis. In particular, the contact surface in the direction of the optical axis is at least twice as long as the contact surface extends perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0047] According to a thirteenth aspect, in addition to any of the above aspects, the sidewall includes a spacer element extending perpendicular to the optical axis to limit movement of the camera and adapter housing in the direction of the optical axis Z. For example, the sidewall includes a groove at an edge that receives the camera housing. The spacer element prevents the sensor from being damaged during installation because the sidewall does not transmit forces to a central region of the sensor substrate.

[0048] Although not yet mentioned in the above description, according to an alternative aspect, a camera system may include a camera adapter according to one of the first to thirteenth aspects above, and the above camera.

[0049] For example, such a camera system is realized by the method of the fourteenth aspect. A method of mounting a camera including an optical axis comprises: - inserting the sensor board, particularly in the direction of the optical axis, into a chamber partially formed by an adapter cover of the camera adapter, the adapter cover including a connector, the connector being for connecting to a control unit; contacting an edge of a sensor substrate in the chamber with a contact surface of a sidewall of the camera adaptor in a contact direction, the contact direction being perpendicular to the optical axis; and closing the chamber of the adapter cover by connecting the adapter cover to the camera housing.

[0050] In particular, the camera adapter may be any one of the camera adapters of aspects 1 to 13. For a detailed description of the aspects, reference is made to the description of aspects 1 to 13, which can independently supplement the fourteenth aspect.

[0051] According to a fifteenth aspect, in addition to the method of the fourteenth aspect, the method further includes that when the sensor substrate is inserted into the chamber in the direction of the optical axis, a recess arranged on an edge of the sensor substrate is guided by a waveguide arranged on a side wall.

[0052] This allows the contacts arranged on the waveguide to be aligned with respect to the sensor substrate in a compensation direction, which is perpendicular to the optical axis and perpendicular to the contact direction, In other words, the recess on the edge of the sensor substrate is a kind of guide movably arranged on the side wall for aligning the waveguide.

[0053] This makes it particularly easy to achieve large tolerances in the compensation direction and facilitates good contact.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, the method may further comprise the step of contacting an edge of the sensor substrate of the chamber in a contact direction such that a contact pin protruding from the sensor substrate in the direction of the optical axis Z contacts the contact surface. This means that the edge of the sensor substrate does not necessarily have to be metallized.

[0055] In order to better understand the present invention, it will be described in more detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the following drawings. The same parts are indicated with the same reference numerals and the same component names. Moreover, some features or combinations of features of the different embodiments shown and described may represent independent inventive solutions or solutions according to the present invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0056] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a camera adapter. [Diagram 2]1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera system including a camera adapter and a camera before attachment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the tolerance of the compensation direction. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the tolerance of the connection direction. [Diagram 5] 13 is a schematic diagram of a connection between the sensor board and the camera adapter perpendicular to the optical axis. FIG. [Figure 6] A schematic cross-sectional view of a camera system including a camera adapter and a camera after installation according to a first example. [Figure 7] A schematic cross-sectional view of a camera system including a camera adapter and a camera after installation according to a second example. [Figure 8] A cross-sectional view of a camera system including a camera adapter and a camera after installation according to a third example. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of forces in the direction of the optical axis in a camera system. [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a side view of a waveguide. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a waveguide. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a waveguide and electric field intensity. [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera system including a further camera adapter and a camera prior to attachment; [Figure 16] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera system including a further camera adapter and a camera after attachment; [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of forces in the direction of the optical axis in the camera system of FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of forces in the direction of the optical axis in the camera system of FIG. 16. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0057] The camera adapter will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera adapter 10 including an adapter cover 100, a connector 200, a waveguide 300, and a contact surface 400.

[0058] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a camera system including a camera adapter 10 and a camera 1000. The camera adapter 10 is used to connect the camera 1000.

[0059] The camera 1000 is as described in Figures 15 and 16. In particular, the camera 1000 has an optical axis Z. As described above, the camera 1000 has a sensor substrate 1100 including a sensor 1110, and an optical system 1200, which is held by a camera housing 1300.

[0060] The camera adapter 10 is formed in part by an adapter cover 100, which is used to connect to a camera housing 1300 of the camera 1000 and enclose a chamber 150. Figures 6-8 show the camera system after assembly, where the adapter cover 100 and the camera housing 1300 are connected to form an enclosed chamber 150 for the sensor substrate 1100 of the camera 1000.

[0061] For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the adapter cover 100 can be formed by a rear wall 110 and a side wall 120. The rear wall 110 faces an opening defined by the side wall 120. As shown in Figs. 1, 2, and 6-8, the side wall 120 protrudes from the rear wall 110 toward the opening. As shown in Figs. 6-8, after assembly, the opening is closed by a camera housing 1300. Here, the camera housing 1300 holds an optical component 1200 defining an optical axis Z.

[0062] The adapter cover 100 may be formed from a shielding material. For example, the adapter cover may include or be constructed from aluminum. In particular, the adapter cover 100 may be an extruded housing. The side wall 120 and the rear wall 110 may integrally form the adapter cover 100.

[0063] Additionally, spacer elements 122, 124 may be provided on the sidewall 120, extending perpendicular to the optical axis Z, as shown, for example, in FIG.

[0064] For example, the spacer element may be an edge of the side wall 120. In addition, a groove 122 for connecting to a camera housing may be provided on the edge of the side wall 120 as the spacer element. The groove 122 forming an elongated recess cooperates with a mating groove 1322 of the camera housing 1300 as shown in FIG. 8 to limit the movement of the camera relative to the adapter housing in the direction of the optical axis Z.

[0065] Additionally or alternatively, as shown in Fig. 1, the spacer element 124 may be a fixing element 124 for connecting to the sensor substrate. For example, the sensor substrate is supported on the mounting element 124 forming a cylindrical protrusion, limiting the movement of the sensor substrate of the camera relative to the adapter housing in the direction of the optical axis Z. Thus, the sensor substrate is held in the chamber and the movement of the sensor substrate after mounting is limited.

[0066] Fig. 2 shows a connector 200. Similar to the connector of Fig. 15, the connector 200 is formed by a connector housing 210, connecting contacts 220, and a shielding element 230. The connector 200 is used to connect the camera adapter 10 to a control unit (not shown) outside the chamber 150. The connector 200 is therefore a shielded connector, e.g., a coaxial cable, as shown in Figs. 1 and 8.

[0067] 8, the shield 230 is connected to the adapter cover 100. The connector 200 further includes a connector housing 210, which may be formed from or include plastic. The connector housing 210 protects the connecting contacts 220 and the shield element 230.

[0068] The connector 200 can be located on the rear wall 110 of the adapter cover 110. In other words, the connector is located on the opposite side of the camera system from the optical components 1300. As illustrated in Figures 1 and 8, the connector 200 can be large compared to the electrical connections of the chamber. Thus, smaller camera systems can be easily handled.

[0069] 1 and 2, the camera adapter 10 further includes a waveguide 300 for transmitting signals from the sensor substrate 1100 to the connector 200, the waveguide 300 being disposed in the chamber 150. A contact surface 400 is disposed in the waveguide 300. The contact surface 400 establishes electrical contact between the waveguide 300 and the sensor substrate 1100 in the chamber. The waveguide 300, together with the contact surface 400, is disposed in the side wall 120 of the camera adapter 10 extending in the direction of the optical axis Z to contact an edge 1102 of the sensor substrate 1100 in a contact direction X perpendicular to the optical axis Z of the camera 1000.

[0070] 1, a first holder 310 is provided for fixing the waveguide 300 to the rear wall 110 of the adapter cover 100. Additionally or alternatively, a second holder 320 is provided for fixing the waveguide 300 to the side wall 120 of the adapter cover 100. Each of the holders 310, 320 allows the waveguide 300 to be guided in a controlled manner in the chamber 150, which is particularly necessary when the assembly is performed without visual inspection. In particular, the holders include or are formed of an insulating material.

[0071] 1, the holders are arranged between the contact surface 400 and the connector 200, i.e. one on the rear wall 110 and one on the side wall 120. Thus, the waveguide can be guided on the edge, which is advantageous when the connector is arranged on the rear wall 110.

[0072] A second holder 320 located centrally on the side wall 120 serves to provide increased tolerances, as will be further explained with reference to Figures 3-5.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 3, the holder 320 allows the waveguide 300 to be movably positioned at the contact surface 400 in a compensation direction Y perpendicular to the optical axis Z and perpendicular to the contact direction X, relative to the side wall 120 .

[0074] In addition, as shown in, for example, Fig. 5, the sensor substrate 1100 may have a recess 1120 arranged at the edge 1102 of the sensor substrate. During assembly, the recess 1120 guides the waveguide 300, on which the contact surface 400 is arranged, and the waveguide 300 is arranged at the sidewall 110. This ensures that the contact of the waveguide 300 to the sensor substrate 1100 is aligned in the compensation direction Y. Thus, even if the tolerance of the compensation direction Y is large, it can be ensured that the contact surface 400 is in reliable contact with the sensor substrate.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, the holder 320 allows the waveguide to be movably positioned in a contact direction X perpendicular to the optical axis Z at the contact surface.

[0076] In addition, as shown for example in Fig. 4, the contact surface 400 may include spring elements 410, 420, thus allowing the contact surface 400 to move in the contact direction X. In particular, a tolerance compensation spring 410 may be provided between the side wall 120 and the waveguide 300, thereby pre-tensioning the contact surface 400. Furthermore, a contact spring 420 may be provided between the waveguide 300 and the sensor substrate. Both springs help to ensure that tolerances in the contact direction X can be compensated.

[0077] 4, a pressure limiter 430 is disposed on the contact surface, which protrudes from the waveguide in the contact direction X to prevent excessive bending of the contact spring 420. The pressure limiter 430 protects the contact spring from damage (excessive bending), thereby providing a well-defined contact spring force.

[0078] 1 and 2, the extent of the contact surface 400 along the optical axis Z is greater than the extent in the compensation direction Y. Thus, the tolerance of the connection along the optical axis Z is greater.

[0079] Next, Figures 6 to 8 explain a camera system 1 in which the camera adapter 10 of Figures 1 and 2 is connected to the camera 1000 shown in Figure 2. It should be noted that Figure 8 shows only the sensor board without the sensor.

[0080] The following method can be used for the attachment. The method first includes inserting the sensor substrate 1100 into the chamber 150, the chamber being partially formed by the adapter cover 100 of the camera adapter 10. Furthermore, the method includes contacting the edge 1102 of the sensor substrate 1100 in the chamber 150 with the contact surface 400 of the side wall 120 of the camera adapter 10 in a contact direction X, the contact direction X being perpendicular to the optical axis Z. Finally, the method includes closing the chamber 150 of the adapter cover 100 by connecting the adapter cover 100 to the camera housing 1300.

[0081] These steps can be performed simultaneously, i.e. when pre-assembling the sensor board 1100 to the camera housing 1300. This means that the contacting steps can be performed without visual inspection. As the sensor board 1100 is typically mounted to the camera housing 1300 with tolerances, the camera adapter 10 facilitates the compensation of these tolerances. Methods for compensating for the tolerances have been described above, particularly with reference to Figures 1 to 5.

[0082] Further advantages of the arrangement are explained with reference to Fig. 9. In particular, during assembly, forces act only on the edges of the sensor substrate. Thus, the case described in Fig. 17 and Fig. 18, i.e. the sensor 1110 coming off the sensor substrate during blind assembly, can be avoided.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows a first example of a sensor substrate, in which the contacts 1130 are arranged on the edge of the sensor substrate 1100. This space-saving solution is possible because the edges, i.e. the edges extending in the direction of the optical file Z, can be metallized. In particular, the size of the chamber 150 can be reduced. It is advantageous to combine this arrangement with the solution shown in Fig. 5, i.e. in which the sensor substrate 1100 includes recesses for guiding the waveguides.

[0084] 7 shows a second example of a sensor substrate, in which the contact pins 1140 are arranged on the edge of the sensor substrate 1100. The contact pins 1140 protrude from the sensor substrate 1100 in the direction of the optical axis Z. The advantage of this is that a further galvanic surface can be formed on the contact pins, which may be better suited for connection.

[0085] The camera systems of Figures 6-8 are non-detachably connected, for example the adapter cover is welded to the camera housing, in particular the adapter cover and the camera housing may be formed from or include the same material.

[0086] A waveguide 300 is shown in Figures 10 to 14 together with a contact surface 400. In particular, as shown in Figure 10, the waveguide 300 comprises a signal conductor track 330 and two shield conductor tracks 332, 334. For example, as shown in Figure 13, the signal conductor track 330 and the shield conductor tracks 332, 334 may be arranged on one side of a dielectric substrate 340. In addition, a rear conductor shield 336 may be provided, arranged on the rear side of the substrate.

[0087] The electric field distribution of a waveguide including a signal conductor track 330 and two shield conductor tracks 332, 334 is shown, for example, in FIG.

[0088] Furthermore, Fig. 11 shows that the contact surface 400 described in particular with reference to Fig. 4 can be formed as a contact spring 420. Furthermore, Fig. 12 shows that the two holders 310, 320 described in particular with reference to Fig. 1 are suitable for guiding a waveguide on at least two angled internal surfaces of an adapter cover.

[0089] It should be noted that, as shown in Figures 1 and 8, the shield conductors 332, 334 are connected to the shield of the connector 200 that is connected to the adapter cover. The shield conductors can contact the housing between the contact surface 400 and the connector 200. Furthermore, Figure 5 shows that during assembly of the adapter cover and the camera housing, the shield conductors 332, 334, in addition to the signal conductors 330, are also connected to contacts on the printed circuit board.

[0090] The connection between the signal conductor 330 and the plug contact 220 is shown, for example, in FIGS.

[0091] The above description assumes that the higher level unit is, for example, a vehicle, however the higher level unit is not necessarily a vehicle but may be any device that uses camera data, for example a machine tool. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 1 Camera System 10 Camera adapter 100 Adapter cover 110 Back wall 120 side wall 122 Groove 124 Fixed elements 200, 2200 Connectors 210, 2210 Connector Housing 220, 2220 plug contact 230, 2230 Shielding elements 300 Waveguide 310, 320 Holder 330 Signal Conductor Track 332, 334 Shielded Conductor Tracks 400 Contact surface 410 Tolerance Compensation Spring 420 Contact spring 430 Pressure Limiter 1000 Cameras 1100 Sensor Board 1102 Edge of sensor board 1110 Sensor 1120 Socket, Connection Unit 1130 Contact us 1140 Contact pin 1200 Optical Components 1300 Camera Housing 1322 Counter groove 1302 Fixed elements 2000 Camera Adapter 2100 Adapter Cover

Claims

1. A camera adapter (10) for connecting a camera (1000) having an optical axis (Z), The camera adapter (10) - an adapter cover (100) for connecting to a camera housing (1300) of said camera (1000), said adapter cover (100) and said camera housing (1300) forming a chamber (150) for a sensor board (1100) of said camera (1000); a connector (200) for connecting said camera adapter (10) to a control unit outside said chamber (150); a waveguide (300) for transmitting signals from said sensor substrate (1100) to said connector, said waveguide (300) being guided within said chamber (150); a contact surface (400) arranged on said waveguide (300), said contact surface (400) being for contacting said waveguide (300) to said sensor substrate (1100) in said chamber (150); Equipped with The waveguide (300) is arranged on a side wall (120) of the camera adapter (10) extending in the direction of the optical axis (Z) of the camera (1000) with the contact surface (400) for contacting an edge (1102) of the sensor substrate (1100) in a contact direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z). Camera adapter (10).

2. The adapter cover (100) further comprises a rear wall (110); the rear wall (110) faces an opening defined by the side walls (120), the side walls (120) protruding from the rear wall in the direction of the opening; The opening can be closed by the camera housing (1300) including an optical element (1200) that defines the optical axis (Z). The camera adapter (10) of claim 1.

3. The connector (200) is disposed on the rear wall (110) of the adapter cover (100).

3. A camera adapter (10) according to claim 2.

4. The connector (200) is shielded and is preferably a coaxial cable, and / or the adapter cover (100) is formed from a shielding material, preferably comprising aluminum. A camera adapter (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A shield (230) of the connector (200) is connected to the adapter cover (100). A camera adapter (10) according to claim 4.

6. The waveguide (300) includes a signal conductor track (330) disposed on a dielectric substrate (340) to form a lead frame. A camera adapter (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The lead frame further comprises two shielding conductor tracks (332, 334), the shield conductor tracks (332, 334) and the signal conductor tracks (330) are arranged on one side of the substrate (340); A camera adapter (10) according to claim 6.

8. The lead frame further includes a rear conductive shield (336); the rear conductor shield (336) is disposed on a rear side of the substrate (340), the rear side facing a front side of the substrate (340), and the single conductor (332) is disposed on the front side; A camera adapter (10) according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The present invention further comprises a holder (310, 320) for attaching the waveguide (300) to the adapter cover (100), in particular the holder comprises an insulating material. A camera adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

10. the holder (310, 320) is arranged between the contact surface (400) and the connector (200), so that the waveguide (300) is movable in a compensation direction (Y) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z) and perpendicular to the contact direction (X) at the contact surface (400) and is movable in the contact direction (X); A camera adapter (10) according to claim 9.

11. said contact surface (400) comprises spring elements (410, 420) such that said contact surface (400) is movable in said contact direction (X), in particular a pressure limiter (430) is arranged on said contact surface (300), said pressure limiter (430) protruding from said waveguide (300) in said contact direction (X) to prevent excessive bending of said spring elements (420); A camera adapter (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. In order to increase the tolerance of the connection along the optical axis (Z), the extent of the contact surface (400) along the optical axis (Z) is greater than its extent in the compensation direction (Y); The compensation direction (Y) is perpendicular to the optical axis (Z) and perpendicular to the contact direction (X); A camera adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. The sidewall (120) includes spacer elements (122, 124) extending perpendicular to the optical axis (Z); Limiting movement of the camera (1000) in the direction of the optical axis (Z) relative to the adapter housing (100); A camera adapter (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A method for mounting a camera system (1) having a camera (1000) including an optical axis (Z), comprising: The method comprises: - inserting the sensor board (1100) into a chamber (150) partially formed by an adapter cover (100) of a camera adapter (10) containing a connector (200), said connector (200) being for connecting to a control unit; - contacting an edge (1102) of the sensor substrate (1100) in the chamber (150) with a contact surface (400) of a side wall (120) of the camera adaptor (10) in a contact direction (X), the contact direction (X) being perpendicular to the optical axis (Z); - closing said chamber (150) of said adapter cover (100) by connecting said adapter cover (100) to a camera housing (1300); The method includes:

15. The step of inserting the sensor substrate (1100) into the chamber (150) in the direction of the optical axis (Z) comprises: In order to align the contact between the waveguide (300) and the sensor substrate (1100) in a compensation direction (Y) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z) and perpendicular to the contact direction (X), a recess (1120) arranged on the edge (1102) of the sensor substrate (1100) is guided by the waveguide (300), the contact surface (400) is arranged on the waveguide (300), and the waveguide (300) is arranged on the side wall (120) and further includes being guided through the recess (1120), and / or The step of contacting the edge (1102) of the sensor substrate (1100) in the chamber (150) in the contact direction (X) further includes contacting a contact pin (1140) protruding from the sensor substrate (1100) in the direction of the optical axis (Z) with the contact surface (400). The method of claim 14.

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