Camera device

Abstract

To provide a camera device which allows removal of water droplets attached to transparent parts and has excellent measurement accuracy and high reliability.SOLUTION: A camera device 1 comprises: a waterproof case 3; transparent parts 4a and 4b provided in the waterproof case 3; and forward tilting parts 5a and 5b which are formed of respectively one ends of the transparent parts 4a and 4b in the waterproof case 3 and provide in front of the transparent parts 4a and 4b in an optical axis direction (third direction Z). The forward tilting parts 5a and 5b are tilted with respect to the optical axis direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the actual vehicle installation of driver assistance systems has been progressing. Among them, the development of systems that pursue the safety, convenience, and comfort of drivers and passengers, such as a collision damage mitigation braking device that automatically performs a stop operation before a collision, a vehicle-to-vehicle automatic control device that automatically follows a preceding vehicle, a lane departure suppression device, and sign recognition, has been advancing. As such a system, for example, there is an external recognition system that recognizes vehicles, pedestrians, etc. and measures the distance to the object. As an example of the external recognition system, a camera device is used. The camera device mounted on such a vehicle has a waterproof function because it is used even in rainy weather.

[0003] As such a camera device, for example, there is one described in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 describes a technique in a camera device provided with a lens substantially at the center of the front of the housing and a camera mechanism inside the housing, in which a guiding path for the attached water droplets to flow down from above to the lens is formed in the upper surface portion of the housing.

[0004] Further, as such a camera device, for example, there is one described in Patent Document 2. Patent Document 2 describes a technique including a camera that photographs the front of a traveling body, a case body in which the camera is housed and supported, and a support mechanism that supports the case body on the traveling body side. Further, Patent Document 2 describes that the case body has a plate-shaped glass body disposed in front of the camera via a support packing and a cylindrical front cover portion disposed in front of the glass body, and the glass body is attached in a state inclined with respect to the camera.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 only has a waterproof structure and does not have a configuration to remove water droplets adhering to the transparent part. As a result, not only is the field of view obstructed by water droplets adhering to the transparent part, but the image is distorted due to the refraction of light by the water droplets, which reduces the distance measuring performance of the camera device.

[0007] Furthermore, in the technology described in Patent Document 2, the glass body is positioned at an angle to the optical axis, which means that the optical path length changes along the viewing direction, potentially causing distortion in the image detected by the image sensor.

[0008] The objective of this invention is to provide a highly reliable camera device that can remove water droplets adhering to the transparent part, taking into consideration the above-mentioned problems, and that offers high measurement accuracy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To solve the above problems and achieve the objective, the camera device comprises a housing component for housing an imaging unit, a transparent portion provided in the housing component and located within the imaging range of the imaging unit, and a forward-tilting portion formed from one end of the transparent portion in the housing component and provided in front of the transparent portion in the optical axis direction of the imaging unit. The forward-tilting portion is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] With the camera device configured as described above, water droplets adhering to the transparent part can be removed, resulting in higher measurement accuracy and reliability. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1]It is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a first exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a plan view seen from above around the transparent part in the camera device according to the first exemplary embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing an example of a conventional camera device. [Figure 4] It is a side view showing an example of a conventional camera device. [Figure 5] It is a side view showing another example of a conventional camera device. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing the relationship between the tilt angle of the tilt part and the wind speed in the camera device according to the first exemplary embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a second exemplary embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a plan view seen from above around the transparent part in the camera device according to the second exemplary embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a third exemplary embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a plan view seen from above around the transparent part in the camera device according to the third exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a fourth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a fifth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a side view showing the camera device according to the fifth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a sixth exemplary embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a plan view seen from above around the lens in the camera device according to the sixth exemplary embodiment. <�

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the camera device will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15. In each figure, common members are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0013] 1. First Embodiment Example 1-1. Configuration of Camera Device First, the configuration of the camera device according to the first embodiment example (hereinafter referred to as "this example") will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the camera device. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the camera device as viewed from above around the transparent part.

[0014] The device shown in FIG. 1 is a camera device mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile or a motorcycle. As shown in FIG. 1, the camera device 101 includes a stereo camera 2 and a waterproof case 3 which is an example of a housing component. The stereo camera 2 has two lenses 1a, 1b and an image pickup element showing an image pickup part not shown. Then, the stereo camera 2 captures an image obtained through the two lenses 1a, 1b using the image pickup element. This stereo camera 2 is housed in the waterproof case 3.

[0015] Hereinafter, the direction in which the two lenses 1a, 1b are arranged is taken as the first direction X, the direction orthogonal to the first direction X and parallel to the vertical direction is taken as the second direction Y. And the direction orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y is taken as the third direction Z. Note that the lenses 1a, 1b are arranged in front of the stereo camera 2 body in the third direction Z. And the third direction Z is parallel to the optical axis direction of the lenses 1a, 1b and the traveling direction of the vehicle.

[0016] The waterproof case 3 is formed in a hollow container shape. A front part 7 is formed in front of the waterproof case 3 in the third direction Z. In the front part 7, a first opening 9a and a second opening 9b are formed.

[0017] The first aperture 9a is formed on one side of the front surface 7 in the first direction X, and the second aperture 9b is formed on the other side of the front surface 7 in the first direction X. The first aperture 9a is positioned to face the first lens 1a of the stereo camera 2, and the second aperture 9b is positioned to face the second lens 1b of the stereo camera 2. The first aperture 9a is positioned in front of the first lens 1a in the third direction Z, and the second aperture 9b is positioned in front of the second lens 1b in the third direction Z. The sizes of the first aperture 9a and the second aperture 9b are set according to the imaging range of the stereo camera 2.

[0018] A first transparent portion 4a is fitted into the first aperture 9a, and a second transparent portion 4b is fitted into the second aperture 9b. Therefore, the first transparent portion 4a is positioned in front of the first lens 1a in the third direction Z, and the second transparent portion 4b is positioned in front of the second lens 1b in the third direction Z. The first transparent portion 4a and the second transparent portion 4b are formed in a flat plate shape. As shown in Figure 2, one surface of the first transparent portion 4a and the second transparent portion 4b is positioned parallel to a plane perpendicular to the third direction Z. The first transparent portion 4a and the second transparent portion 4b are configured to transmit light toward the image sensor and are located within the imaging range of the imaging unit.

[0019] Furthermore, a forward-sloping portion 5a is formed on the side of the first direction X that is further towards the center than the first transparent portion 4a of the waterproof case 3. A rearward-sloping portion 6a is formed on the side of the waterproof case 3 that is further out than the first transparent portion 4a of the waterproof case 3, i.e., on the side portion 8 side of the waterproof case 3. A forward-sloping portion 5b is formed on the side of the first direction X that is further towards the center than the second transparent portion 4b of the waterproof case 3. A rearward-sloping portion 6b is formed on the side of the waterproof case 3 that is further out than the second transparent portion 4b of the waterproof case 3, i.e., on the side portion 8 side of the waterproof case 3.

[0020] The first transparent section 4a and the second transparent section 4b have the same configuration. Similarly, the forward-sloping section 5a and the forward-sloping section 5b have the same configuration. Furthermore, the rearward-sloping section 6a and the rearward-sloping section 6b also have the same configuration. Therefore, the following description will focus on the second transparent section 4b, the forward-sloping section 5b, and the rearward-sloping section 6b.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, one surface of the second transparent portion 4b is positioned parallel to a plane perpendicular to the third direction Z. That is, one surface of the second transparent portion 4b is positioned parallel to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the second lens 1b.

[0022] The forward-sloping portion 5b is formed at one end of the second transparent portion 4b on the central side in the first direction X. The forward-sloping portion 5b is inclined toward the front in the third direction Z as it moves away from the end of the second transparent portion 4b. The rearward-sloping portion 6b is formed at the other end of the second transparent portion 4b on the outside in the first direction X. The rearward-sloping portion 6b is inclined toward the rear in the third direction Z as it moves away from the other end of the second transparent portion 4b. Therefore, the forward-sloping portion 5b is positioned in front of the second transparent portion 4b in the third direction Z, and the rearward-sloping portion 6b is positioned behind the second transparent portion 4b in the third direction Z.

[0023] The forward-sloping portion 5b and the rear-sloping portion 6b are inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the third direction Z, and in this example, they are inclined with respect to both the third direction Z and the first direction X. Furthermore, the forward-sloping portion 5b and the rear-sloping portion 6b are formed in a flat plate shape, and their inclined surfaces are planar.

[0024] Here, we will explain a conventional camera device with reference to Figures 3 to 5. Figure 3 is a perspective view and a side view showing an example of a conventional camera device. Figure 5 is a side view showing another example of a conventional camera device. Parts common to the camera device 101 in this example are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0025] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the conventional camera device 210 comprises a stereo camera 2 and a waterproof case 13. The front surface 17 of the waterproof case 13 is provided with two transparent sections 4a and 4b. The two transparent sections 4a and 4b are positioned to face the lenses 1a and 1b of the stereo camera 2. The front surface 17 of the waterproof case 13 is formed in a flat plate shape.

[0026] As shown in Figure 4, the airflow F1 generated when the vehicle is in motion is blown onto the transparent parts 4a and 4b along the third direction Z. When water droplets M1 adhere to the transparent parts 4a and 4b during driving in rainy weather, the water droplets M1 are pressed down onto the transparent parts 4a and 4b by the airflow F1. As a result, the water droplets M1 remain attached to the transparent parts 4a and 4b without being removed.

[0027] When these water droplets M1 adhere to the transparent parts 4a and 4b, they obstruct the field of view of the stereo camera 2 and cause image distortion due to light refraction, etc. As a result, the water droplets M1 adhering to the transparent parts 4a and 4b were a factor that reduced the distance measuring performance of the camera device 210.

[0028] Furthermore, the camera device 211 shown in Figure 5, which represents another conventional example, comprises a stereo camera 2 and a waterproof case 23. A transparent section 24b is positioned in the waterproof case 23 at a location facing the lens 1b of the stereo camera 2. The transparent section 24b is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the third direction Z, and in the example shown in Figure 5, it is inclined with respect to the second direction Y. That is, the transparent section 24b of the camera device 211 shown in Figure 5 is inclined with respect to the optical axis of the lens 1b.

[0029] Therefore, the length of the third direction Z from the transparent part 24b to the lens 1b changes. As a result, the optical path length of the light passing through the transparent part 24b changes depending on the viewing direction, which can cause distortion in the image formed by the lens 1b and potentially reduce the distance measuring performance of the camera device 211.

[0030] In contrast, as shown in Figure 2, the camera device 101 in this example has transparent parts 4a and 4b formed in a planar shape with respect to the direction perpendicular to the optical axes of lenses 1a and 1b. This prevents the optical path length from changing due to the transparent parts 4a and 4b, and prevents distortion from occurring in the image formed by lenses 1a and 1b.

[0031] Furthermore, forward-sloping sections 5a and 5b are provided on one side of the transparent sections 4a and 4b, and rearward-sloping sections 6a and 6b are provided on the other side of the transparent sections 4a and 4b. Therefore, when the airflow F1 is applied to the waterproof case 3 from the front of the camera device 101, the direction of the airflow F1 is first changed by the forward-sloping sections 5a and 5b to a direction parallel to the first direction X.

[0032] Then, the wind (hereinafter referred to as the "first guided wind") F2, whose direction has been changed by the forward-sloping sections 5a and 5b, passes over one surface of the transparent sections 4a and 4b from the center outward in the first direction X. As a result, water droplets M1 adhering to the transparent sections 4a and 4b are removed by the first guided wind F2.

[0033] Furthermore, the first air guide F2 that has passed through the transparent sections 4a and 4b changes direction due to the rearward inclined sections 6a and 6b, so that it flows towards the rear in the third direction Z. The air (hereinafter referred to as the "second air guide") F3 whose direction has been changed by the rearward inclined sections 6a and 6b then flows to the rear of the waterproof case 3 along the side section 8 of the waterproof case 3. As a result, the water droplets M1 removed from the transparent sections 4a and 4b are discharged by the second air guide F3 to the side section 8 of the waterproof case 3 and to the outside of the waterproof case 3. In this way, the rearward inclined sections 6a and 6b prevent water droplets M1 from accumulating at the other ends of the transparent sections 4a and 4b.

[0034] Thus, with the camera device 101 of this example, water droplets M1 adhering to the transparent parts 4a and 4b can be removed using the running airflow F1, the first guided airflow F2, and the second guided airflow F3, thereby ensuring a clear field of view and providing a highly accurate and reliable camera device 101.

[0035] Here, the effect of removing water droplets M1 from the transparent sections 4a and 4b is greater with the first guided air F2 passing above one surface of the transparent sections 4a and 4b than with the second guided air F3. Therefore, it is important to provide the forward-sloping sections 5a and 5b located in front of the transparent sections 4a and 4b in the third direction Z, and the rearward-sloping sections 6a and 6b do not need to be provided. Also, the inclination angles of the forward-sloping sections 5a and 5b and the rearward-sloping sections 6a and 6b may be the same or different.

[0036] In the above explanation, we assumed that raindrops or other water droplets M1 adhere to the transparent parts 4a and 4b, assuming driving in rainy weather, but this is not the only scenario. The camera device 101 in this example can remove not only water droplets M1 but also dust and other particles from the transparent parts 4a and 4b. As a result, the camera device 101 in this example can also be used as a countermeasure against dust that adheres when driving on rough roads such as off-road. Therefore, the waterproof case 3 shown as an example of a housing component may be a dustproof case.

[0037] 1-2. Regarding the angle of inclination of the inclined section Next, the inclination angles of the forward-sloping sections 5a and 5b and the rear-sloping sections 6a and 6b will be explained with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 shows the relationship between the inclination angle of inclined sections 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b and the wind speed.

[0038] Here, the angle between the plane normalized to the third direction Z, which is the direction of vehicle travel, and the plane of the forward inclined sections 5a, 5b and the rear inclined sections 6a, 6b is referred to as the inclination angle θ. As shown in Figure 6, it can be seen that the wind speed of the first air guide F2 and the second air guide F3 is maximized when the inclination angle θ is approximately 30 degrees. Therefore, taking into account variations in parts, it is preferable to set the inclination angle θ of the forward inclined sections 5a, 5b and the rear inclined sections 6a, 6b in the range of 15 to 45 degrees.

[0039] In this example, the camera device 101 uses a stereo camera 2, but the type of camera is not limited to this; monocular cameras, tricular cameras, and various other types of cameras can be used.

[0040] Furthermore, although the transparent parts 4a and 4b are fitted into the openings 9a and 9b, the design is not limited to this configuration. For example, the waterproof case 3 may be integrally molded with the transparent parts 4a and 4b using a molded material such as resin, and the parts other than the transparent parts 4a and 4b may be made opaque by painting. By manufacturing the waterproof case by integral molding in this way, costs can be reduced.

[0041] 2. Second Embodiment Example Next, a camera device relating to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a second embodiment, and Figure 8 is a plan view of the area around the transparent part viewed from above.

[0042] The camera device 102 according to this second embodiment differs from the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the inclined section. Therefore, parts common to both the camera device 101 and the first embodiment are denoted by the number 1, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0043] As shown in Figure 7, the camera device 102 according to the second embodiment comprises a stereo camera 2 and a waterproof case 33, which is an example of a housing component. Transparent parts 4a and 4b are provided on the front surface 37 of the waterproof case 33, facing the lenses 1a and 1b.

[0044] A first forward-sloping portion 35a and a second forward-sloping portion 35b are formed on the central side of the first transparent portion 4a in the first direction X. A first rearward-sloping portion 36a and a second rearward-sloping portion 36b are formed on the side surface 38 of the first transparent portion 4a in the first direction X. Similarly, a first forward-sloping portion 35c and a second forward-sloping portion 35d are formed on the central side of the second transparent portion 4b in the first direction X. A first rearward-sloping portion 36c and a second rearward-sloping portion 36d are formed on the side surface 38 of the second transparent portion 4b in the first direction X.

[0045] The first forward-sloping section 35a and the second forward-sloping section 35b have the same configuration as the first forward-sloping section 35c and the second forward-sloping section 35d, and the first rearward-sloping section 36a and the second rearward-sloping section 36b have the same configuration as the first rearward-sloping section 36c and the second rearward-sloping section 36d. Therefore, this section will describe the first forward-sloping section 35c and the second forward-sloping section 35d and the first rearward-sloping section 36c and the second rearward-sloping section 36d, which are on the side of the second transparent section 4b.

[0046] As shown in Figure 8, the second forward-sloping portion 35d is formed from one end of the second transparent portion 4b on the central side in the first direction X. The first forward-sloping portion 35c is formed continuously from the end of the second forward-sloping portion 35d opposite to the second transparent portion 4b. The first forward-sloping angle θb of the first forward-sloping portion 35c is greater than the second forward-sloping angle θa of the second forward-sloping portion 35d (θb > θa).

[0047] In other words, the first forward tilt angle θb is closer to the third direction Z, which is the direction of travel, than the second forward tilt angle θa. Furthermore, the second forward tilt angle θa is closer to the first direction X, which is parallel to one surface of the second transparent part 4b, than the first forward tilt angle θb. Therefore, the difference between the tilt angle of the second forward tilt angle θa and one surface of the second transparent part 4b is smaller than the difference between the tilt angle of the first forward tilt angle θb and one surface of the second transparent part 4b.

[0048] Therefore, in the camera device 102 according to the second embodiment, the inclination angles of the forward inclined sections 35c and 35d change in steps. As it approaches the second transparent section 4b, the inclination angle approaches one surface of the second transparent section 4b. This makes it possible to efficiently change the direction of the running airflow F1 to the direction of the first guided airflow F2. As a result, the airflow volume of the first guided airflow F2, which is the air that removes the water droplets M1 adhering to the second transparent section 4b, can be increased, and the water droplets M1 can be removed from the second transparent section 4b more efficiently.

[0049] Furthermore, the corner where the second forward-sloping section 35d and the second transparent section 4b intersect is a place where air stagnation is likely to occur. To address this, by reducing the difference between the second forward-sloping angle θa and the inclination angle of one surface of the second transparent section 4b, air stagnation at the corner where the second forward-sloping section 35d and the second transparent section 4b intersect can be suppressed. As a result, the first guided air F2 can pass smoothly over one surface of the second transparent section 4b.

[0050] Furthermore, the first rearward inclined portion 36c is formed from the other end of the second transparent portion 4b that is on the outside in the first direction X. The second rearward inclined portion 36d is formed continuously from the end of the first rearward inclined portion 36c that is opposite to the second transparent portion 4b. The first rearward inclination angle θc of the first rearward inclined portion 36c is smaller than the second rearward inclination angle θd of the second rearward inclined portion 36d (θd > θc).

[0051] In other words, the first rearward tilt angle θc is closer to the first direction X, which is parallel to one surface of the second transparent part 4b, than the second rearward tilt angle θd. And the second rearward tilt angle θa is closer to the third direction Z, which is the direction of travel, than the first rearward tilt angle θb. Therefore, the difference between the tilt angle of the first rearward tilt angle θc and one surface of the second transparent part 4b is smaller than the difference between the tilt angle of the second rearward tilt angle θd and one surface of the second transparent part 4b.

[0052] Therefore, in the camera device 102 according to the second embodiment, the inclination angles of the rearward inclined portions 36c and 36d change in steps. As it approaches the second transparent portion 4b, its inclination angle approaches that of one surface of the second transparent portion 4b.

[0053] Here, the corner where the first rearward inclined portion 36c and the second transparent portion 4b intersect is a place where air separation is likely to occur. As a result, water droplets M1 may scatter at the corner where the first rearward inclined portion 36c and the second transparent portion 4b intersect, and the scattered water droplets M1 may reattach to the second transparent portion 4b. In contrast, as described above, by reducing the difference between the inclination angle of the first rearward inclination angle θc and the inclination angle of one surface of the second transparent portion 4b, the water droplets M1 can be separated from the second transparent portion 4b in the first place. As a result, it is possible to prevent the water droplets M1 from scattering and reattaching to the second transparent portion 4b.

[0054] The other components are the same as those of the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted. The camera device 102 having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects and advantages as the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0055] In the camera device 102 according to the second embodiment, an example was described in which the inclination angles of the forward-tilting section and the rear-tilting section are changed in two stages. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the inclination angles of the forward-tilting section and the rear-tilting section may be changed in three or more stages.

[0056] Furthermore, while the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment and the camera device 102 according to the second embodiment described examples in which the forward-sloping portion and the rear-sloping portion are formed in a planar shape, the invention is not limited to these. For example, the forward-sloping portion and the rear-sloping portion may be curved, or they may be curved in a way that the radius of curvature continuously increases as it approaches the transparent portion. However, if the forward-sloping portion and the rear-sloping portion are formed in a curved shape, there is a risk of air vortices being generated. For this reason, it is preferable to form the forward-sloping portion and the rear-sloping portion in a planar shape.

[0057] 3. Third Embodiment Example Next, a camera device according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a third embodiment, and Figure 10 is a plan view of the area around the transparent part viewed from above.

[0058] The camera device 103 according to this third embodiment differs from the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the boundary between the forward-sloping portion and the transparent portion. Therefore, parts common to the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the number 1, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0059] As shown in Figure 9, the camera device 103 according to the third embodiment comprises a stereo camera 2 and a waterproof case 43, which is an example of a housing component. Transparent parts 4a and 4b are provided on the front surface 47 of the waterproof case 43, facing the lenses 1a and 1b.

[0060] A forward-sloping portion 45a is formed on the central side of the first transparent portion 4a in the first direction X, and a backward-sloping portion 46a is formed on the side surface 48 of the first transparent portion 4a in the first direction X. Similarly, a forward-sloping portion 45b is formed on the central side of the second transparent portion 4b in the first direction X, and a backward-sloping portion 46b is formed on the side surface 48 of the second transparent portion 4b in the first direction X.

[0061] Furthermore, a first groove 49a is formed between the first transparent portion 4a and the forward-sloping portion 45a, and similarly, a second groove 49b is formed between the second transparent portion 4b and the forward-sloping portion 45b. Since grooves 49a and 49b have the same configuration, the second groove 49b will be described first.

[0062] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the second groove 49b is formed at one end of the second transparent portion 4b on the central side, along the second direction Y, which is the vertical direction. The lower end of the second groove 49b in the vertical direction is open. Also, as shown in Figure 10, the second groove 49b is a recess that is indented from front to back in the third direction Z.

[0063] Water droplets M1 that have flowed along the forward-sloping section 45b by the first air duct F2 enter the second groove 49b. The water droplets M1 that have entered the second groove 49b are then discharged from the bottom in the vertical direction along the second groove 49b to the outside of the waterproof case 43. As a result, water droplets M1 contained in the first air duct F2 can be removed before they adhere to the second transparent section 4b, and water droplets M1 that have adhered to the second transparent section 4b can be efficiently removed by the first air duct F2.

[0064] Furthermore, the depth of the lower end of the second groove 49b in the vertical direction is formed to be deeper than the depth of the upper end in the vertical direction. In other words, the second groove 49b is sloped such that its depth continuously increases from the upper end to the lower end along the vertical direction. This makes it easier for water droplets M1 that have entered the second groove 49b to be discharged from the lower end of the second groove 49b.

[0065] The other components are the same as those of the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted. The camera device 103 having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects and advantages as the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0066] 4. A fourth embodiment example Next, with reference to Figure 11, a camera device relating to the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a camera device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0067] The camera device 104 according to this fourth embodiment differs from the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment in that it is provided with a canopy. Therefore, parts common to the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the number 1, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0068] Figure 11 shows a camera device 104 according to the fourth embodiment, which comprises a stereo camera 2 and a waterproof case 53, which is an example of a housing component. Transparent sections 4a and 4b are provided on the front surface 57 of the waterproof case 53, facing the lenses 1a and 1b.

[0069] A forward-sloping portion 55a is formed on the central side of the first transparent portion 4a in the first direction X, and a backward-sloping portion 56a is formed on the side surface 58 of the first transparent portion 4a in the first direction X. Similarly, a forward-sloping portion 55b is formed on the central side of the second transparent portion 4b in the first direction X, and a backward-sloping portion 56b is formed on the side surface 58 of the second transparent portion 4b in the first direction X.

[0070] Furthermore, a first upper canopy 52a is provided at the upper end of the first transparent section 4a in the vertical direction (second direction Y), and a first lower canopy 52b is provided at the lower end of the first transparent section 4a in the vertical direction. The first upper canopy 52a and the first lower canopy 52b are arranged to sandwich the first transparent section 4a. Similarly, a second upper canopy 52c is provided at the upper end of the second transparent section 4b in the vertical direction, and a second lower canopy 52d is provided at the lower end of the second transparent section 4b in the vertical direction. The second upper canopy 52c and the second lower canopy 52d are arranged to sandwich the second transparent section 4b. In other words, the canopies 52a, 52b, 52c, and 52d are provided at the ends of the transparent sections 4a and 4b in a direction (second direction Y) perpendicular to the direction (first direction X) in which the inclined sections 55a, 55b, 56a, and 56b are provided.

[0071] The first upper canopy 52a, the first lower canopy 52b, the second upper canopy 52c, and the second lower canopy 52d each project forward in the third direction Z. The first upper canopy 52a and the first lower canopy 52b are formed continuously along the first direction X, extending to the forward inclined portion 55a, the first transparent portion 4a, and the rearward inclined portion 56a. The second upper canopy 52c and the second lower canopy 52d are formed continuously along the first direction X, extending to the forward inclined portion 55b, the second transparent portion 4b, and the rearward inclined portion 56b.

[0072] The first and second guided airflows between the first upper canopy 52a and the first lower canopy 52b. The first and second guided airflows between the second upper canopy 52c and the second lower canopy 52d. The canopies 52a, 52b, 52c, and 52d serve as air passages that guide the air.

[0073] In this way, by providing the canopies 52a, 52b, 52c, and 52d, it is possible to suppress the first airflow F2 passing over one surface of the first transparent section 4a and the second transparent section 4b from escaping in the vertical direction. As a result, the airflow rate of the first airflow F2 flowing along the first direction X can be increased, and the ability of the first airflow F2 to remove water droplets M1 can be improved.

[0074] The other components are the same as those of the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted. The camera device 104 having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects and advantages as the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0075] 5. Fifth Embodiment Example Next, a camera device relating to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a camera device according to the fifth embodiment, and Figure 13 is a side view.

[0076] The camera device 105 according to this fifth embodiment differs from the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment in the position where the forward-tilting portion and the rearward-tilting portion are provided. Therefore, parts common to the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the number 1, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0077] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the camera device 105 comprises a monocular camera 62 and a waterproof case 63, which is an example of a housing component. The monocular camera 62 has one lens 61 and an image sensor (not shown). The monocular camera 62 is housed in the waterproof case 63.

[0078] The waterproof case 63 is formed in the shape of a hollow container. A transparent section 64 is provided on the front surface 67 of the waterproof case 63, facing the lens 61. A forward-sloping section 65 is provided above the transparent section 64 in the vertical direction (second direction Y), and a rearward-sloping section 66 is provided below the transparent section 64 in the vertical direction.

[0079] The forward-sloping portion 65 is inclined so as it extends upward in the vertical direction from one end, which is the upper end of the transparent portion 64, it moves forward in the third direction Z. The rearward-sloping portion 66 is inclined so as it extends downward in the vertical direction from the other end, which is the lower end of the transparent portion 64, it moves backward in the third direction Z.

[0080] As shown in Figure 13, when the airflow F1 from the front of the camera device 105 is applied to the waterproof case 63, the direction of the airflow F1 is first changed along the second direction X by the forward inclined section 65, and then changes into the first guided airflow F2. The first guided airflow F2 flows downward in the vertical direction along the forward inclined section 65 and passes over one surface of the transparent section 64 from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction.

[0081] Furthermore, the first airflow F2 that has passed through the transparent section 64 changes direction due to the rearward inclined section 66, becoming the second airflow F3. The second airflow F3 then flows along the bottom surface 68 of the waterproof case 63 towards the rear of the waterproof case 63.

[0082] Furthermore, by positioning the forward-sloping section 65 at the top and the rearward-sloping section 66 at the bottom, not only the first air guide F2 but also gravity acts on the water droplet M1. This promotes the removal of the water droplet M1 from the transparent section 64.

[0083] The other components are the same as those of the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted. The camera device 105 having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects and advantages as the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0084] In the fifth embodiment of the camera device 105, an example using a monocular camera 62 was described, but the type of camera is not limited to this, and various other cameras such as stereo cameras and tricular cameras can be applied.

[0085] 6. Sixth Embodiment Example Next, a camera device relating to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a camera device according to the sixth embodiment, and Figure 15 is a plan view of the area around the lens viewed from above.

[0086] The camera device 106 according to this sixth embodiment differs from the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment in that it does not have a waterproof case. Therefore, parts common to the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the number 1, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0087] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the camera device 106 comprises two lenses 71a and 71b, and a housing 79, which is an example of a housing component. The housing 79 is a waterproof housing. The housing 79 has two lenses 71a and 71b, which are transparent, spaced apart in a first direction X. The front of the lenses 71a and 71b in a third direction Z is formed in a planar shape. Alternatively, a planar transparent section may be provided in front of the lenses 71a and 71b. The front part of the housing 79 where the two lenses 71a and 71b are provided has a first front part 77a, a second front part 77b, forward inclined parts 75a and 75b, rearward inclined parts 76a and 76b, and a recess 77c.

[0088] The recess 77c is formed in the middle of the first direction X. A first front portion 77a is formed at one end of the recess 77c in the first direction X, and a second front portion 77b is formed at the other end of the recess 77c in the first direction X. The recess 77c is recessed toward the rear in the third direction Z than the first front portion 77a and the second front portion 77b.

[0089] Between the first front section 77a and the side section 78 of the housing 79, a forward-sloping section 75a, a lens 71a, and a rearward-sloping section 76a are arranged, and between the second front section 77b and the side section 78 of the housing 79, a forward-sloping section 75b, a lens 71b, and a rearward-sloping section 76b are arranged. Since the configuration around the first lens 71a and the configuration around the second lens 71b are identical, the configuration around the second lens 71b will be described here.

[0090] As shown in Figure 15, the forward-sloping portion 75b is formed at one end of the second lens 71b on the central side in the first direction X. The forward-sloping portion 75b is inclined forward in the third direction Z as it moves from one end of the second lens 71b toward the second front portion 77b. The rearward-sloping portion 76b is formed at the other end of the second lens 71b on the outer side in the first direction X. The rearward-sloping portion 76b is inclined rearward in the third direction Z as it moves from the other end of the second lens 71b toward the side portion 78. Therefore, the forward-sloping portion 75b is positioned forward in the third direction Z compared to the second lens 71b, and the rearward-sloping portion 76b is positioned behind the second lens 71b in the third direction Z.

[0091] When airflow F1 is applied to the housing 79 from the front of the camera device 106, the direction of the airflow F1 is changed by the forward-sloping sections 75a and 75b to be parallel to the first direction X, and the airflow F1 is transformed into a first guided airflow F2. The first guided airflow F2 then passes over one surface of the transparent lenses 71a and 71b from the center of the first direction X outwards. As a result, water droplets M1 adhering to the transparent sections 71a and 71b are removed by the first guided airflow F2.

[0092] Furthermore, the first airflow F2 that has passed through lenses 71a and 71b changes direction due to the rearward inclined sections 6a and 6b, becoming a second airflow F3 directed towards the rear in the third direction Z. The second airflow F3 then flows along the side section 78 of the waterproof case 3 towards the rear of the housing 79.

[0093] The other configurations are the same as those of the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted. The camera device 106 having such a configuration can also obtain the same effects and advantages as the camera device 101 according to the first embodiment described above.

[0094] Furthermore, according to the camera device 106 of the sixth embodiment, the housing 79 itself has forward-sloping portions 75a, 75b and rearward-sloping portions 76a, 76b formed thereon. This makes it possible to reduce the waterproof case, reduce the number of parts, and lower costs.

[0095] Furthermore, the recess 77c provided in the housing 79 is for weight reduction, and it is not necessary to provide the recess 77c. However, if airflow is prioritized, it is preferable not to provide the recess 77c in the housing 79.

[0096] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the invention as described in the claims. In addition, the present invention is not limited to having all the configurations described in the above embodiments, and includes those in which some of the configurations have been omitted.

[0097] In this specification, although terms such as "parallel" and "orthogonal" are used, these do not mean only strictly "parallel" and "orthogonal," but may also refer to states that are "approximately parallel" or "approximately orthogonal," which include "parallel" and "orthogonal" and are within a range in which they can perform their functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1a, 1b, 61, 71a, 71b... Lens (transparent part), 2... Stereo camera (camera), 3, 33, 43, 53, 63... Waterproof case (housing components), 4a, 4b, 64... Transparent part, 5a, 5b, 45a, 45b, 55a, 55b, 65, 75a, 75b... Forward sloping part, 6a, 6b, 46a, 46b, 56a, 56d, 66, 76a, 76b... Rearward sloping part, 9a, 9b... Opening, 35a, 35c... First forward sloping part, 35b, 35d... Second forward sloping part, 36a, 36c... First rearward sloping part, 36b, 36d... Second rearward sloping part, 49a, 49b... Groove, 52a, 52, 52c, 52d... Canopy, 62... Monocular camera (camera), 79... Housing (householding components), 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106... Camera device, F1... Running airflow, F2... First air guide, F3... Second air guide, M1... Water droplet

Claims

1. A housing component that accommodates the imaging unit, A transparent portion is provided in the aforementioned housing component and is located within the imaging range of the imaging unit, The housing component comprises a forward-sloping portion formed from one end of the transparent portion and provided in front of the transparent portion in the optical axis direction of the imaging portion, The forward-tilting portion is tilted with respect to the optical axis, The housing component has a rearward-sloping portion formed at the other end opposite to the end on which the forward-sloping portion of the transparent portion is formed, and is located behind the transparent portion in the optical axis direction. The rearward inclined portion is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction. Camera device.

2. The aforementioned forward-tilting section has an inclination angle that changes in multiple stages. The camera device according to claim 1.

3. The forward-sloping portion comprises a first forward-sloping portion and a second forward-sloping portion positioned closer to the transparent portion than the first forward-sloping portion. The inclination angle of the second forward-tilting portion with respect to the plane that serves as the normal to the optical axis is set to be smaller than the inclination angle of the first forward-tilting portion. The camera device according to claim 2.

4. A groove is formed between the forward-sloping portion and the transparent portion of the housing component. The camera device according to claim 1.

5. The housing component is provided with a canopy that protrudes forward in the direction of the optical axis, The canopy is provided at the end of the transparent portion in a direction perpendicular to the end of the transparent portion where the forward-sloping portion is provided. The camera device according to claim 1.

6. A camera having the aforementioned imaging unit, The camera comprises a waterproof case capable of housing the aforementioned camera, The aforementioned housing component is the waterproof case. The camera device according to claim 1.

7. The camera comprises the aforementioned imaging unit, The aforementioned housing component is the camera housing. The camera device according to claim 1.

8. The transparent portion has one surface parallel to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. The camera device according to claim 1.

Images