In-vehicle camera module, camera mounting bracket and vehicle

Abstract

An on-board camera module (1), a camera mounting bracket, and a vehicle are provided. The on-board camera module (1) includes a support member (11), a height adjustment mechanism (12), and a camera (13). The support member (11) is fixed to the top of the cockpit. The height adjustment mechanism (12) is configured to switch the camera (13) between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the camera (13) is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror (3) and lower than the height of the camera (13) in the second state. When the camera (13) needs to be used for image capture, the camera (13) can be switched to the first state via the height adjustment mechanism (12). In the first state, the camera (13) is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror (3) and can be flush with the line of sight of a person inside the vehicle, so that the camera (13) has a good image capture angle and can obtain high-quality images of people inside the vehicle. When the camera 13 does not need to be used, the camera 13 can be switched to the second state via the height adjustment mechanism 12. The increased height of the camera 13 reduces the impact of the on-board camera module 1 on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application claims priority from Chinese Patent Application No. 202211216265.6 filed on September 30, 2022, entitled "VEHICLE-MOUNTED CAMERA MODULE, CAMERA MOUNTING BRACKET, AND VEHICLE", the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Technical Field The present disclosure relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular, to a vehicle-mounted camera module, a camera mounting bracket, and a vehicle.

Background Art

[0003] Currently, some vehicles are provided with a vehicle-mounted camera configured to capture images inside the vehicle. This type of vehicle-mounted camera faces the cockpit. When a person inside the vehicle wants to make a video call or take a photo, the vehicle-mounted camera can be activated.

[0004] However, this type of vehicle-mounted camera is usually arranged at the position of the dome light inside the vehicle, and has a poor shooting angle. It can only capture the head of a person inside the vehicle, resulting in poor quality of the captured image.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure provides a vehicle-mounted camera module, a camera mounting bracket and a vehicle. A camera in the vehicle-mounted camera module can be switched between a first state and a second state, and when in the first state, the camera is located at a position lower than the internal rear-view mirror of the vehicle. When a person inside the vehicle needs to use the camera to capture an image, the camera can be switched to the first state. In this case, the camera has a good shooting angle, and a high-quality image of the person inside the vehicle can be obtained. The technical solutions of the vehicle-mounted camera module, the camera mounting member, and the vehicle are described as follows.

[0006] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an in-vehicle camera module. The in-vehicle camera module includes a support member, a height adjustment mechanism, and a camera. The support member is configured to be fixed to the top of the vehicle's cockpit. The camera is connected to the support member via the height adjustment mechanism. The height adjustment mechanism is configured to switch the camera between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the camera height is lower than in the second state, and in the first state, the camera is lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror.

[0007] The support members are configured to support the height adjustment mechanism and the camera. The cockpit is sometimes called the passenger cockpit.

[0008] The height adjustment mechanism is configured to perform a state change for the camera. The height adjustment mechanism may perform the state change by driving the camera to slide, or by driving the camera to rotate, but is not limited to this disclosure.

[0009] A camera in the first state may be configured to capture images, and this first state may also be called the image capture state or the operational state. A camera in the second state may not be configured to capture images, and this second state may also be called the stored state or the non-operational state. The camera may be a camera for an in-vehicle camera monitor system (CMS).

[0010] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, a support member is configured to be fixed to the top of the cockpit, and a camera is configured to be connected to the support member via a height adjustment mechanism, so that when the camera needs to be used for image capture, the camera can be switched to a first state via the height adjustment mechanism. In the first state, the camera is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror, so that the camera can perform image capture at a good image capture angle and obtain high-quality images of people inside the vehicle.

[0011] When the camera is not needed, it can be switched to a second state via a height adjustment mechanism. Raising the camera's height reduces the impact of the in-vehicle camera module on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0012] In possible implementations, the support member is configured to be fixed to the side of the rearview mirror that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0013] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the height adjustment mechanism and the camera are arranged on a support member, which is fixed to the side of the rearview mirror that faces away from the mirror surface, so that the in-vehicle camera module is located on the side of the rearview mirror that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0014] In this way, the rearview mirror partially obstructs the in-vehicle camera module, reducing the impact of the camera module's placement on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0015] In possible implementations, the support member is configured to be fixed to the vehicle's windshield.

[0016] In possible implementations, the support member is configured to be fixed to the mirror rod of the rearview mirror.

[0017] In possible implementations, the support member is a bracket.

[0018] In possible implementations, the support member includes a housing, which has a cavity configured to accommodate a height adjustment mechanism and a camera. In the first state, the camera is located outside the housing, and in the second state, the camera is located inside the housing.

[0019] In a possible implementation, in the first state, the camera faces the rear of the vehicle.

[0020] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the camera is set to face the rear of the vehicle, thereby enabling better image acquisition of people inside the vehicle.

[0021] In possible implementations, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror and the height of the camera is less than 100 mm.

[0022] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the aforementioned settings result in a good camera image capture angle in the first state, making it easier to acquire high-quality images of people inside the vehicle.

[0023] In possible implementations, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror and the height of the camera is greater than 20 mm and less than 50 mm.

[0024] In possible implementations, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror and the height of the camera is greater than 30 mm and less than 40 mm.

[0025] In possible implementations, in the first state, the camera is flush with the eye lip.

[0026] Along with the development of engineering capabilities in the vehicle industry, the concept of eyellipse has been proposed and developed by vehicle engineers to ensure that most vehicle drivers have good visual field characteristics. Due to differences in human physiques, when different drivers sit in the driver's seat in a normal driving posture, the eye positions obviously differ among different drivers. When the regularity of the distribution of driver viewpoints is studied by applying statistical perspectives and methods, it is found that the viewpoint distribution diagram of vehicle drivers is elliptical. Therefore, this is called eyellipse, driver eyellipse, or eyellipse. In other words, an eyellipse is a statistical distribution diagram of the eye positions of drivers with different physiques, which is obtained when drivers with different physiques sit in the vehicle in a normal posture.

[0027] That the camera is flush with the eyellipse may mean that the center point of the camera is at the same height as the center point of the eyellipse, or may mean that the height of the center point of the camera is between the maximum height and the minimum height of the eyellipse.

[0028] According to the technical solution provided in the present disclosure, the camera in a first state is set to be aligned with the eyellipse, whereby the image capturing angle of the camera in the first state is favorable, which makes it easy to obtain high-quality images of people in the vehicle.

[0029] In a possible implementation, the camera in the first state protrudes toward the rear of the vehicle relative to the camera in a second state.

[0030] According to the technical solution provided in the present disclosure, through the above setting, during the process of switching from the second state to the first state, the camera further moves toward the rear of the vehicle in addition to descending in the vertical direction. In this way, the horizontal distance between the camera and the interior rearview mirror can be shortened, thereby reducing the blocking of the visual field of the camera in the first state by the interior rearview mirror, ensuring a wide viewing angle of the camera and improving the image capturing effect.

[0031] In addition, assuming the target field of view is secured, the rearview mirror hardly obstructs the camera's field of view in the first state, so the vertical distance between the camera and the rearview mirror can be smaller, which leads to a reduction in the amount the camera protrudes relative to the rearview mirror.

[0032] In a possible implementation, in the first state, the camera is positioned below the rearview mirror.

[0033] In possible implementations, the camera is obstructed in the second state.

[0034] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, when image capture is not required, the camera is configured to be obscured, thereby preventing the camera from capturing a complete image of a person inside the vehicle, and thus ensuring the privacy of the person inside the vehicle is fully protected.

[0035] In possible implementations, in the second state, the camera is not facing the rear of the vehicle.

[0036] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, with the aforementioned settings, when image capture is not required, people inside the vehicle will not be within the camera's field of view, thereby completely protecting the privacy of people inside the vehicle.

[0037] In possible implementations, the camera is hidden in the second state.

[0038] When a camera is described as being "hidden," it means that the camera is not visible to people inside the vehicle.

[0039] According to the technical solutions provided in this disclosure, when image capture is not required, the camera is hidden, which prevents people inside the vehicle from noticing the camera, thus improving the passenger experience.

[0040] In a possible implementation, in the second state, the camera is positioned on the side of the rearview mirror that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0041] In possible implementations, in the second state, the camera is positioned higher than the rearview mirror.

[0042] In a possible implementation, in the second state, the camera is flush with the rearview mirror.

[0043] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes a camera mounting member and a drive mechanism. The camera mounting member is slidably connected to a support member. The drive mechanism is connected separately to the support member and the camera mounting member and is configured to drive the camera mounting member to slide. The camera is fixed to the camera mounting member.

[0044] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the aforementioned configuration allows the camera to switch between the first state and the second state in the form of a sliding motion.

[0045] In possible implementations, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member is inclined with respect to the vertical, and the camera gradually moves towards the rear of the vehicle as it slides from the second state to the first state.

[0046] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the aforementioned configuration allows the camera in the first state to be brought closer to the rearview mirror, thereby reducing the obstruction of the camera's field of view by the rearview mirror.

[0047] In possible implementations, the angle between the sliding direction and the perpendicular direction of the camera mounting member is greater than 15° and less than 45°.

[0048] In possible implementations, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member is vertical.

[0049] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes a motor and a lifting mechanism. The motor is fixed to a support member and connected to a camera mounting member via the lifting mechanism.

[0050] In possible implementations, the lifting mechanism includes a lead screw and a nut. The lead screw is powered to a motor and is parallel to the sliding direction of the camera mounting member. The nut is fixed to the camera mounting member and cooperates with the lead screw.

[0051] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes an elastic member, the ends of which press against a support member and a camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. The drive mechanism is configured such that when the camera mounting member is pressed in the first state, the camera mounting member presses and compresses the elastic member until the first and second latches are locked; when the camera is switched to the second state, or when the camera mounting member is pressed in the second state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and the elastic member drives the camera to slide back to the first state.

[0052] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes a camera mounting member and a drive mechanism. The camera mounting member is connected to a support member via the drive mechanism, which is configured to drive the camera mounting member to rotate. The camera is fixed to the camera mounting member.

[0053] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the aforementioned configuration allows the camera to switch between the first and second states in the form of rotational motion.

[0054] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes a motor. The motor is fixed to a support member, and the motor's rotation axis is fixed to a camera mounting member.

[0055] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes a rotating shaft and a torsion spring. A camera mounting member is rotatably connected to a support member via the rotating shaft, and the torsion spring is sleeve-connected to the rotating shaft, with two torsion arms pressing against the support member and the camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. The drive mechanism is configured such that when the camera mounting member is pressed in a first state, the camera mounting member drives the torsion spring to store energy until the first and second latches are locked, and when the camera is switched to a second state, or when the camera mounting member is pressed in the second state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and the torsion spring drives the camera to rotate back to the first state.

[0056] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes a camera mounting member, a first drive mechanism, a second drive mechanism, and a connecting rod. The camera is fixed to the camera mounting member. The first drive mechanism is positioned on a support member and connected to the second drive mechanism via the connecting rod, and the first drive mechanism is configured to drive the connecting rod to rotate. The second drive mechanism is drive-connected to the camera mounting member and is configured to drive the camera mounting member to rotate. In the first state, the connecting rod rotates downward to a first lower target position, and the camera mounting member rotates downward to a second lower target position. In the second state, the connecting rod rotates upward to a first upper target position, and the camera mounting member rotates upward to a second upper target position.

[0057] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, a two-stage rotational motion is set up, and the camera stroke is performed by both the rotation of the connecting rod and the rotation of the camera mounting member. However, in a solution in which only a one-stage rotational motion is set up, the camera stroke is performed by the rotation of the camera mounting member alone.

[0058] Assuming the same camera stroke is performed, the length of the camera mounting member in the two-stage rotational motion may be shorter than the length of the camera mounting member in the single-stage rotational motion, and the sizes of the connecting rod and camera mounting member can partially overlap in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the two-stage rotational motion setup allows for a reduction in the overall size of the in-vehicle camera module, which makes it easier to conceal the in-vehicle camera module and reduces its impact on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0059] In addition, by adjusting the rotation angle of the connecting rod and camera mounting member, in the first state, the camera mounting member and camera can be moved closer to the rear of the vehicle, reducing the obstruction of the camera by the rearview mirror and making it easier to achieve a wide field of view for the camera.

[0060] In possible implementations, the first drive mechanism includes a first motor, and the second drive mechanism includes a second motor. The first motor is fixed to a support member, and its first rotation axis is fixed to a connecting rod. The second motor is positioned on the connecting rod, and its second rotation axis is fixed to a camera mounting member.

[0061] In possible implementations, the first drive mechanism includes a first rotating shaft and a first torsion spring, and the second drive mechanism includes a second rotating shaft and a second torsion spring. The connecting rod is rotatably connected to the support member via the first rotating shaft. The first torsion spring is sleeve-connected to the first rotating shaft, and its two torsion arms press against the support member and the connecting rod, respectively. The camera mounting member is rotatably connected to the connecting rod via a second rotating shaft. The second torsion spring is sleeve-connected to the second rotating shaft, and its two torsion arms press against the connecting rod and the camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. In the first state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and in the second state, the first and second latches are locked.

[0062] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism is configured to drive the camera to switch from a first state to a second state, and then back to the first state.

[0063] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes an elastic drive member. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. When the camera mounting member is pressed in the first state, it drives the elastic drive member to store energy until the first and second latches are locked, and the camera is switched to the second state. When the camera mounting member is pressed in the second state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and the elastic drive member drives the camera mounting member, driving the camera and switching it back to the first state.

[0064] According to a second aspect, the disclosure provides a camera mounting bracket. The camera mounting bracket includes a support member and a height adjustment mechanism. The support member is configured to be fixed to the upper part of the vehicle's cockpit. The height adjustment mechanism has a camera mounting member. The camera mounting member is configured to mount a camera. The height adjustment mechanism is configured to switch the camera mounting member between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the height of the camera mounting member is lower than the height of the camera mounting member in the second state, and in the first state, the camera mounting member is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror.

[0065] According to the technical solution provided in this disclosure, the camera is mounted by using a camera mounting bracket, so that when image capture is required, the camera mounting member can be switched to a first state via a height adjustment mechanism. Since the camera mounting member in the first state is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror, the camera can perform image capture at a good image capture angle, and high-quality images of people inside the vehicle can be obtained.

[0066] When image capture is not required, the camera mounting component may be switched to a second state via a height adjustment mechanism, thereby reducing the impact of the camera mounting bracket and camera on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0067] In possible implementations, the support member is configured to be fixed to the side of the rearview mirror that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0068] In possible implementations, the support member is configured to be fixed to the vehicle's windshield.

[0069] In possible implementations, the support member is configured to be fixed to the mirror rod of the rearview mirror.

[0070] In possible implementations, the support member is a bracket.

[0071] In possible implementations, the support member includes a housing, and the support member has a cavity configured to accommodate a height adjustment mechanism. In the first state, the camera mounting member is located outside the housing, and in the second state, the camera mounting member is located inside the housing.

[0072] In possible implementations, if the camera is mounted on a camera mounting component, in the first state, the camera faces the rear of the vehicle.

[0073] In possible implementations, when the camera is mounted on a camera mounting component, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror and the height of the camera is less than 100 mm.

[0074] In possible implementations, when the camera is mounted on a camera mounting component, in the first state, the camera is flush with the eye lip.

[0075] In possible implementations, the camera mounting member in the first state protrudes further rearward from the vehicle than the camera mounting member in the second state.

[0076] In possible implementations, if the camera is mounted on a camera mounting component, the camera is obstructed in the second state.

[0077] In possible implementations, if the camera is mounted on a camera mounting component, the camera is hidden in the second state.

[0078] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes a camera mounting member and a drive mechanism. The camera mounting member is slidably connected to a support member. The drive mechanism is connected separately to the support member and the camera mounting member and is configured to drive the camera mounting member to slide.

[0079] In possible implementations, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member is inclined with respect to the vertical, and the camera mounting member gradually moves towards the rear of the vehicle as it slides from the second state to the first state.

[0080] In possible implementations, the angle between the sliding direction and the perpendicular direction of the camera mounting member is greater than 15° and less than 45°.

[0081] In possible implementations, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member is vertical.

[0082] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes a motor and a lifting mechanism. The motor is fixed to a support member and connected to a camera mounting member via the lifting mechanism.

[0083] In possible implementations, the lifting mechanism includes a lead screw and a nut. The lead screw is powered to a motor and is parallel to the sliding direction of the camera mounting member. The nut is fixed to the camera mounting member and cooperates with the lead screw.

[0084] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes an elastic member, the ends of which press against a support member and a camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. The drive mechanism is configured such that when the camera mounting member is pressed in the first state, the camera mounting member presses and compresses the elastic member until the first and second latches are locked; when the camera mounting member is switched to the second state, or when the camera mounting member is pressed in the second state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and the elastic member drives the camera mounting member to slide back to the first state.

[0085] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes a camera mounting member and a drive mechanism. The camera mounting member is connected to a support member via the drive mechanism, and the drive mechanism is configured to drive the camera mounting member to rotate.

[0086] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes a motor. The motor is fixed to a support member, and the motor's rotation axis is fixed to a camera mounting member.

[0087] In possible implementations, the drive mechanism includes a rotating shaft and a torsion spring. A camera mounting member is rotatably connected to a support member via the rotating shaft, and the torsion spring is sleeve-connected to the rotating shaft, with two torsion arms pressing against the support member and the camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. The drive mechanism is configured such that when the camera mounting member is pressed in a first state, the camera mounting member drives the torsion spring to store energy until the first and second latches are locked, and when the camera mounting member is switched to a second state, or when the camera mounting member is pressed in a second state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and the torsion spring drives the camera mounting member to rotate back to the first state.

[0088] In possible implementations, the height adjustment mechanism includes a camera mounting member, a first drive mechanism, a second drive mechanism, and a connecting rod. The first drive mechanism is positioned on a support member and connected to the second drive mechanism via the connecting rod, and the first drive mechanism is configured to drive the connecting rod to rotate. The second drive mechanism is drive-connected to the camera mounting member, and the second drive mechanism is configured to drive the camera mounting member to rotate. In the first state, the connecting rod rotates upward to a first upper target position, and the camera mounting member rotates upward to a second upper target position. In the second state, the connecting rod rotates downward to a first lower target position, and the camera mounting member rotates downward to a second lower target position.

[0089] In possible implementations, the first drive mechanism includes a first motor, and the second drive mechanism includes a second motor. The first motor is fixed to a support member, and its first rotation axis is fixed to a connecting rod. The second motor is positioned on the connecting rod, and its second rotation axis is fixed to a camera mounting member.

[0090] In possible implementations, the first drive mechanism includes a first rotating shaft and a first torsion spring, and the second drive mechanism includes a second rotating shaft and a second torsion spring. The connecting rod is rotatably connected to the support member via the first rotating shaft. The first torsion spring is sleeve-connected to the first rotating shaft, and its two torsion arms press against the support member and the connecting rod, respectively. The camera mounting member is rotatably connected to the connecting rod via a second rotating shaft. The second torsion spring is sleeve-connected to the second rotating shaft, and its two torsion arms press against the connecting rod and the camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. In the first state, the first and second latches are unlocked, and in the second state, the first and second latches are locked.

[0091] According to a third aspect, the disclosure provides a vehicle having an in-vehicle camera module in any mounting configuration of the first aspect, or a camera mounting bracket in any mounting configuration of the second aspect. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0092] [Figure 1] This is a diagram of the interior of the cockpit of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5]This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] This is a diagram of an in-vehicle camera module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] Explanation of reference symbols: 1: In-car camera module, 2: Windshield, 3: Rearview mirror, 31: Mirror rod, 11: Support member, 111: Guide rail, 112: First latch, 12: Height adjustment mechanism, 121: Camera mounting member, 1211: Sliding block, 1212: Second latch, 122: Drive mechanism, 122a: First drive mechanism, 122b: Second drive mechanism, 1221: Motor, 1221a: First motor, 1221b: Second motor, 12211: Rotating shaft, 12211a: First rotating shaft, 12211b: Second rotating shaft, 1222: Lifting mechanism, 12221: Lead screw, 12222: Nut, 1223: Elastic member, 1224: Torsion spring, 1224a: First torsion spring, 1224b: Second torsion spring, 123: Connecting rod, 13: Camera. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0094] Currently, some vehicles are equipped with onboard cameras configured to capture images inside the vehicle. These cameras are directed towards the cockpit. The cameras can be activated when someone inside the vehicle wants to make a video call or take photos.

[0095] However, this type of in-car camera is usually positioned near the top light inside the vehicle, resulting in a poor image capture angle. It can only capture the heads of people inside the vehicle, and the quality of the captured images is poor.

[0096] In view of the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an in-vehicle camera module in which the height of the camera 13 of the in-vehicle camera module can be adjusted. As shown in the upper part of Figure 1, in the first state, the camera 13 is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror 3, thereby allowing the camera 13 to capture images of people inside the vehicle at a good image capture angle. As shown in the lower part of Figure 1, in the second state, the height of the camera 13 is increased, thereby reducing the impact of the camera 13 on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0097] The following describes an example of an in-vehicle camera module provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0098] As shown in Figures 2 to 12, the in-vehicle camera module 1 includes a support member 11, a height adjustment mechanism 12, and a camera 13. The support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the top of the vehicle's cockpit. The camera 13 is connected to the support member 11 via the height adjustment mechanism 12. The height adjustment mechanism 12 is configured to switch the camera 13 between a first state and a second state. In addition, the height of the camera 13 in the first state is lower than the height of the camera 13 in the second state, and in the first state, the camera 13 is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror 3.

[0099] The support member 11 is configured to support the height adjustment mechanism 12 and the camera 13. The cockpit is sometimes called the passenger cockpit.

[0100] The height adjustment mechanism 12 is configured to perform a state change for the camera 13. For example, the height adjustment mechanism 12 may perform the state change by driving the camera 13 to slide, or by driving the camera 13 to rotate. This is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0101] Camera 13 in the first state may be configured to capture images, and the first state may also be referred to as the image capture state or the operational state. Camera 13 in the second state may not be configured to capture images, and the second state may also be referred to as the retracted state or the non-operational state. Camera 13 may be a camera for an in-vehicle camera monitor system (CMS).

[0000] According to the technical solution provided in embodiments of the present disclosure, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed above the cockpit, and the camera 13 is configured to be connected to the support member 11 via a height adjustment mechanism 12, so that when it is necessary to use the camera 13 for image capture, the camera 13 can be switched to the first state (shown at the top of Figure 1) via the height adjustment mechanism 12. Since the camera 13 in the first state is positioned lower than the rearview mirror 3 of the vehicle, the image capture angle of the camera 13 is good, and high-quality images of people inside the vehicle can be obtained.

[0102] When camera 13 is not needed, it can be switched to a second state (shown at the bottom of Figure 1) via the height adjustment mechanism 12. By increasing the height of camera 13, the impact of the in-vehicle camera module 1 on the field of view of people inside the vehicle can be reduced.

[0103] Next, an example of the support member 11 will be described.

[0104] The mounting position of the support member 11 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 12, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0105] Since the height adjustment mechanism 12 and the camera 13 are positioned on the support member 11, the entire in-vehicle camera module 1 can be positioned on the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface. In this way, the rearview mirror 3 obstructs the in-vehicle camera module 1, reducing the impact of the in-vehicle camera module 1's positioning on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0106] In embodiments of this disclosure, the components located in the upper part of the cockpit and configured to attach the support member 11 are not limited. In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 7, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the mirror rod 31 of the rearview mirror 3. In some other examples, as shown in Figures 8 to 12, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the windshield 2 of the vehicle.

[0107] The method of attaching the support member 11 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, the support member 11 is fixed using screws. For example, as shown in Figures 2 to 7, the support member 11 is fixed to the mirror rod 31 of the rearview mirror 3 using screws. In another example, as shown in Figures 10 to 12, the support member 11 is fixed to the windshield 2 using screws.

[0108] In some other examples, the support member 11 is fixed by adhesive. For example, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the support member 11 is bonded to the windshield 2. Alternatively, the support member 11 may be bonded to the mirror rod 31 of the rearview mirror 3.

[0109] The form of the support member 11 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 12, the support member 11 includes a housing and has a cavity configured to accommodate the height adjustment mechanism 12 and the camera 13. In this case, the support member 11 supports the height adjustment mechanism 12 and the camera 13, as well as protecting and shielding the height adjustment mechanism 12 and the camera 13.

[0110] For example, in the first state, the camera 13 is located outside the housing. In the second state, the camera 13 is located inside the housing.

[0111] Of course, in some other examples, the support member 11 may be a bracket instead. In this case, if it is necessary to obstruct the height adjustment mechanism 12 and the camera 13, the obstruction may be carried out using the interior decorative parts on the upper part of the vehicle's cockpit.

[0112] The following sections will explain the posture, position, etc., of camera 13 in the first and second states using examples.

[0113] In some examples, as shown in Figures 1 to 12, in the first state, camera 13 faces the rear of the vehicle, so camera 13 can acquire images of people inside the vehicle more effectively.

[0114] In some other examples, the orientation of camera 13 in the first state may be adjusted according to the requirements of people inside the vehicle. For example, people inside the vehicle may change the orientation of camera 13 to satisfy different image capture requirements for people inside the vehicle. For example, in the first state, camera 13 may alternatively face forward in the vehicle to satisfy the requirement of capturing images of people inside the vehicle in front of the vehicle.

[0115] In embodiments of this disclosure, the height of the camera 13 in the first state is not limited. In some examples, in order to improve the image capture effect, the camera 13 is flush with the eye lip in the first state.

[0116] With the advancement of engineering capabilities in the automotive industry, the concept of the eye lipse was proposed and developed by vehicle engineers to ensure that most vehicle drivers have good visual field characteristics. Due to differences in human physique, the position of the eyes will clearly differ from driver to driver when they are seated in the driver's seat in a normal driving position. When the regularity of the distribution of drivers' viewpoints was studied by applying statistical perspectives and methods, it was found that the viewpoint distribution map of vehicle drivers is elliptical. Therefore, this is called the eye lipse, driver eye lipse, or eyellipse. In other words, the eye lipse is a statistical distribution map of the eye positions of drivers of different physiques obtained when drivers of different physiques are seated in a vehicle in a normal position.

[0117] The fact that camera 13 is flush with the eye lips may mean that the center point of camera 13 is at the same height as the center point of the eye lips, or it may mean that the height of the center point of camera 13 is between the maximum and minimum heights of the eye lips. This is not particularly limited in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0118] In order to ensure that the camera 13 is flush with the eye lip in the first state, in some examples, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror 3 and the height of the camera 13 is less than 100 mm in the first state. That is, the amount by which the camera 13 protrudes from the rearview mirror 3 is less than 100 mm.

[0119] For example, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror 3 and the height of the camera 13 is greater than 20 mm and less than 50 mm.

[0120] As another example, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror 3 and the height of the camera 13 may be greater than 30 mm and less than 40 mm, for example, 35 mm.

[0121] As shown in Figure 2, it should be noted that the difference between the height of the rearview mirror 3 and the height of the camera 13 may be defined as the distance between the center point of the camera 13 and the lowest point of the rearview mirror 3, i.e., h1, or as the distance between the lowest point of the camera 13 and the lowest point of the rearview mirror 3, i.e., h2. This is not particularly limited in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0122] In addition, if the support member 11 is located on the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface, in some examples, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the camera 13 in the first state protrudes further rearward from the vehicle than the camera 13 in the second state.

[0123] In other words, during the transition from the second state to the first state, the camera 13 moves not only downward vertically but also horizontally closer to the rear of the vehicle (rearview mirror 3).

[0124] This allows the distance between camera 13 and rearview mirror 3 to be reduced in the first state, thereby reducing the obstruction of camera 13's field of view by rearview mirror 3. As shown in Figure 4, two cameras 13 are shown that are at the same height but at different horizontal positions. From the figure, it can be seen that the field of view of camera 13, which is closer to the rear of the vehicle, is not obstructed much by rearview mirror 3. Therefore, a wide field of view can be achieved with the above settings.

[0125] In addition, as shown in Figure 5, the positions of the two cameras 13 with the same field of view are indicated. From the figure, it can be seen that although the two cameras 13 have the same field of view, the height of the camera 13 closer to the rear of the vehicle is higher than the height of the camera 13 further away from the rear of the vehicle. Therefore, the amount of protrusion of the camera 13 relative to the rearview mirror 3 is reduced, and the obstruction of the field of view of people inside the vehicle by the camera 13 is reduced.

[0126] In conclusion, the camera 13 in the first state is set to protrude toward the rear of the vehicle relative to the camera 13 in the second state, thereby enabling a wider field of view, provided that a specific height of the camera 13 is maintained, and reducing the amount of protrusion of the camera 13 relative to the rearview mirror 3 (i.e., raising the camera 13), provided that a specific field of view of the camera 13 is maintained.

[0127] To achieve a wide field of view for camera 13, in some examples, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, camera 13 is positioned below the rearview mirror 3 in the first state. "Below" may mean "directly below" or "diagonally below" (as shown in Figures 2 and 3). Camera 13 being positioned below the rearview mirror 3 can be defined as the vertical projections of camera 13 and rearview mirror 3 partially overlapping.

[0128] Of course, the specific position of camera 13 must be determined based on a particular scenario and in accordance with the actual requirements of people inside the vehicle regarding the field of view. In some other examples, in the first state, camera 13 may alternatively be positioned on the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0129] In the second state, since camera 13 is not configured to capture images, in some examples, camera 13 is obscured in the second state to protect the privacy of people inside the vehicle.

[0130] Camera 13 being obstructed means that camera 13 cannot obtain a complete image of a person inside the vehicle through image capture, which may mean, for example, that camera 13 cannot capture a complete image of a person inside the vehicle, or that camera 13 cannot capture an image of a person's face inside the vehicle.

[0131] The implementation configurations in which the camera 13 is obscured are not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure, and the obscuration of the camera 13 can be implemented by any component. In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 12, in the second state, the camera 13 is obscured by the support member 11. In some other examples, the camera 13 may alternatively be obscured by the rearview mirror 3, the cockpit, and so on.

[0132] Of course, in some other examples, the orientation of camera 13 in the second state may be restricted, thereby preventing camera 13 from obtaining a complete image of a person inside the vehicle through image capture. For example, in the second state, camera 13 may not be facing the rear of the vehicle, but rather, for example, directly upwards or directly downwards.

[0133] In addition, in the second state, camera 13 may be hidden. Therefore, it is difficult for people inside the vehicle to recognize camera 13, which leads to an improved riding experience for people inside the vehicle. When camera 13 is hidden, it means that camera 13 is not visible to people inside the vehicle.

[0134] The implementation configurations in which the camera 13 is concealed are not limited to those embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, the camera 13 is concealed on the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0135] For example, in the second state, the camera 13 is either higher than the rearview mirror 3, or the camera 13 is flush with the rearview mirror 3. Therefore, the rearview mirror 3 can completely block the camera 13.

[0136] As another example, in the second state, the camera 13 is hidden inside the support member 11, as shown in Figures 2 to 12.

[0137] The implementation of the height adjustment mechanism 12 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. Examples for illustrative purposes are provided below.

[0138] Based on the motion patterns of the camera 13, the height adjustment mechanism 12 can be classified into the following several implementation forms.

[0139] (1) In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 7, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes a camera mounting member 121 and a drive mechanism 122. The camera mounting member 121 is slidably connected to the support member 11. The drive mechanism 122 is connected separately to the support member 11 and the camera mounting member 121, and the drive mechanism 122 is configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 to slide. The camera 13 is fixed to the camera mounting member 121.

[0140] In other words, camera 13 switches between the first state and the second state in the form of a sliding motion.

[0141] In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 7, the support member 11 has a guide rail 111, and the camera mounting member 121 has a sliding block 1211, the sliding block 1211 is slidably connected to the guide rail 111.

[0142] The sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121 (camera 13) is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 to 5, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121 is inclined with respect to the vertical, and the camera 13 slides gradually toward the rear of the vehicle as it slides from a second state to a first state.

[0143] This allows the camera 13 in the first state to protrude rearward relative to the camera 13 in the second state, thereby reducing the obstruction of the camera 13's field of view by the rearview mirror 3 and ensuring a wide field of view for the camera 13.

[0144] In some examples, as shown in Figure 3, the angle between the sliding direction and the perpendicular direction of the camera mounting member 121 (i.e., ∠A) may be greater than 15° and less than 45°, for example, 28°.

[0145] Of course, in some other examples, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121 may alternatively be vertical, and the camera 13 may move up or down vertically. This is not particularly limited to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0146] The implementation of the drive mechanism 122 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, the drive mechanism 122 is an electric drive mechanism configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 up and down.

[0147] For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 6, the drive mechanism 122 includes a motor 1221 and a lifting mechanism 1222. The motor 1221 is fixed to the support member 11 and connected to the camera mounting member 121 via the lifting mechanism 1222. The motor 1221 drives the camera mounting member 121, which can be raised and lowered via the lifting mechanism 1222.

[0148] The type of lifting mechanism 1222 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, as shown in Figures 2 and 6, the lifting mechanism 1222 is a lead screw-nut mechanism including a lead screw 12221 and a nut 12222. The lead screw 12221 is power-driven to the motor 1221 and is parallel to the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121. The nut 12222 is fixed to the camera mounting member 121 and cooperates with the lead screw 12221.

[0149] When the motor 1221 rotates, the lead screw 12221 rotates, driving the nut 12222 and the camera mounting member 121 to slide along the lead screw 12221. By changing the direction of rotation of the motor 1221, the sliding direction of the nut 12222 and the camera mounting member 121 can be changed, and the camera mounting member 121 can be raised or lowered.

[0150] The lead screw nut mechanism may be a general lead screw nut mechanism or a more precise ball screw mechanism. This is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0151] In some other examples, the lifting mechanism 1222 is a gear rack mechanism, comprising a rack and gears. The rack is fixed to the camera mounting member 121 and is parallel to the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121. The motor 1221 is powered by the gears, which engage with the rack.

[0152] When the motor 1221 rotates, the gear rotates, driving the rack and camera mounting member 121 to slide. By changing the direction of rotation of the motor 1221, the sliding direction of the rack and camera mounting member 121 can be changed, and the camera mounting member 121 can be raised and lowered.

[0153] Referring to Figures 2 and 6, an example of the process by which camera 13 is switched between a first state and a second state is described below.

[0154] If camera 13 is not needed, and camera 13 is currently in a first state (shown at the top of Figures 2 and 6), motor 1221 rotates in a first direction, and motor 1221 drives camera mounting member 121 upwards via lifting mechanism 1222 until camera 13 is switched to a second state (shown at the bottom of Figures 2 and 6).

[0155] If the camera 13 needs to be used, the motor 1221 rotates in a second direction, and the motor 1221 drives the camera mounting member 121 downwards via the lifting mechanism 1222 until the camera 13 is switched to the first state.

[0156] In addition to the electric drive mechanism, in some other examples, the drive mechanism 122 may alternatively be an elastic drive mechanism. The elastic drive mechanism is configured only to drive the camera mounting member 121 to slide downward, and the force to slide the camera mounting member 121 upward needs to be provided by a person inside the vehicle.

[0157] For example, as shown in Figures 3 and 7, the drive mechanism 122 includes an elastic member 1223, the ends of which press against the support member 11 and the camera mounting member 121, respectively. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212.

[0158] The positions of the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are opposite to each other, and the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are configured to cooperate with each other to lock, thereby stabilizing the camera mounting member 121 (camera 13) in the second state. In addition, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 can be unlocked alternatively, thereby allowing the elastic member 1223 to drive the camera mounting member 121 and camera 13 to switch to the first state.

[0159] In some examples, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are configured as follows: When the camera mounting member 121 is pressed while locked, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are unlocked, and when the camera mounting member 121 is pressed while unlocked, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked.

[0160] For example, to perform the functions described above, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 may be a rebounder and push-push buckle, a resetter and locking device, a heart-shaped groove structure (sometimes called a maze mechanism), and a hook, etc.

[0161] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, an example of the process by which camera 13 is switched between a first state and a second state is described below.

[0162] If camera 13 is not needed, and camera 13 is currently in the first state (shown at the top of Figures 3 and 7), a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121 so that it slides upward. The camera mounting member 121 pushes and compresses the elastic member 1223 until the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked, and camera 13 is switched to the second state (shown at the bottom of Figures 3 and 7).

[0163] If it is necessary to use camera 13, a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121 again, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are released, and the elastic member 1223 drives camera 13 to slide downward to the first position.

[0164] (2) In some examples, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes a camera mounting member 121 and a drive mechanism 122. The camera mounting member 121 is connected to the support member 11 via the drive mechanism 122, which is configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate. The camera 13 is fixed to the camera mounting member 121.

[0165] In other words, camera 13 switches between the first state and the second state in the form of rotational motion.

[0166] In some examples, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the first end of the camera mounting member 121 is connected to the drive mechanism 122, and the second end of the camera mounting member 121 is connected to the camera 13. In addition, the second end of the camera mounting member 121 is closer to the rearview mirror 3 than the first end.

[0167] The implementation of the drive mechanism 122 is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, the drive mechanism 122 is an electric drive mechanism and the camera mounting member 121 Upward It is configured to perform rotation and downward rotation.

[0168] For example, as shown in Figure 8, the drive mechanism 122 includes a motor 1221, which is fixed to a support member 11, and the rotation axis 12211 of the motor 1221 is fixed to a camera mounting member 121. The motor 1221 can perform bidirectional rotation of the camera 13 by changing the rotation direction of the rotation axis 12211.

[0169] Referring to Figure 8, the following describes an example of the process by which camera 13 switches between the first and second states.

[0170] If camera 13 is not needed, and camera 13 is currently in the first state (shown at the top of Figure 8), motor 1221 drives camera mounting member 121 to rotate upward until camera 13 is switched to the second state (shown at the bottom of Figure 8).

[0171] If it is necessary to use camera 13, motor 1221 drives camera mounting member 121 to rotate downward until camera 13 is switched to the first state.

[0172] In addition to the electric drive mechanism, in some other examples, the drive mechanism 122 may alternatively be an elastic drive mechanism. The elastic drive mechanism is configured only to drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate downward, and the force to rotate the camera mounting member 121 upward needs to be provided by a person inside the vehicle.

[0173] For example, as shown in Figure 9, the drive mechanism 122 includes a rotating shaft 12211 and a torsion spring 1224. The camera mounting member 121 is rotatably connected to the support member 11 via the rotating shaft 12211. The torsion spring 1224 is sleeve-connected to the rotating shaft 12211, and its two torsion arms press against the support member 11 and the camera mounting member 121, respectively. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212.

[0174] Referring to Figure 9, the following describes an example of the process by which camera 13 is switched between the first and second states.

[0175] If camera 13 is not needed, and camera 13 is currently in the first state (shown at the top of Figure 9), a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121, causing it to rotate upward. The camera mounting member 121 pushes the torsion spring 1224, accumulating energy until the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked, and camera 13 is switched to the second state (shown at the bottom of Figure 9).

[0176] If it is necessary to use camera 13, a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121 again, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are released, and the torsion spring 1224 drives camera 13 to rotate to the first position.

[0177] (3) In some examples, as shown in Figures 10 to 12, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes a camera mounting member 121, a first drive mechanism 122a, a second drive mechanism 122b, and a connecting rod 123. The camera 13 is fixed to the camera mounting member 121. The first drive mechanism 122a is positioned on the support member 11 and connected to the second drive mechanism 122b via the connecting rod 123. The first drive mechanism 122a is configured to drive the connecting rod 123 to rotate. The second drive mechanism 122b is drive-connected to the camera mounting member 121 and is configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate. The axis of rotation of the camera mounting member 121 may be further from the rearview mirror 3 than the axis of rotation of the connecting rod 123.

[0178] In the first state, as shown in the upper part of Figures 10 and 11, the connecting rod 123 rotates downward to a first lower target position, and the camera mounting member 121 rotates downward to a second lower target position.

[0179] In the second state, as shown in the lower part of Figures 10 and 11, the connecting rod 123 rotates upward to the first upper target position, and the camera mounting member 121 rotates upward to the second upper target position.

[0180] According to the technical solution provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, a two-stage rotational motion is set up, and the stroke of the camera 13 is performed by both the rotation of the connecting rod 123 and the rotation of the camera mounting member 121. However, in the case of a solution in which only a one-stage rotational motion is set up, the stroke of the camera 13 is performed by the rotation of the camera mounting member 121 alone.

[0181] Assuming that the same stroke of camera 13 is performed, the length of the camera mounting member 121 in the two-stage rotational motion may be shorter than the length of the camera mounting member 121 in the one-stage rotational motion, and it can be understood that the sizes of the connecting rod 123 and the camera mounting member 121 can partially overlap in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the two-stage rotational motion setting allows for a reduction in the overall size of the in-vehicle camera module 1, which makes it easier to conceal the in-vehicle camera module 1 and reduces its impact on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0182] In addition, as shown in Figure 12, by adjusting the rotation angle of the connecting rod 123 and the camera mounting member 121, in the first state, the camera mounting member 121 and the camera 13 can be brought closer to the rear of the vehicle, reducing the obstruction of the camera 13 by the rearview mirror 3, and making it easier to achieve a wide field of view for the camera 13.

[0183] The implementation configurations of the first drive mechanism 122a and the second drive mechanism 122b are not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, both the first drive mechanism 122a and the second drive mechanism 122b are electrically driven mechanisms and are configured to switch the camera mounting member 121 from a first state to a second state and from a second state to a first state.

[0184] For example, as shown in Figure 10, the first drive mechanism 122a includes a first motor 1221a, and the second drive mechanism 122b includes a second motor 1221b. The first motor 1221a is fixed to a support member 11, and the first rotation axis 12211a of the first motor 1221a is fixed to a connecting rod 123. The second motor 1221b is positioned on the connecting rod 123, and the second rotation axis 12211b of the second motor 1221b is fixed to a camera mounting member 121.

[0185] Referring to Figure 10, the following describes an example of the process by which camera 13 is switched between the first and second states.

[0186] If camera 13 is not needed, and camera 13 is currently in the first state (shown at the top of Figure 10), the first motor 1221a drives the connecting rod 123 to rotate it upward to the first upper target position (shown in the center of Figure 10). Next, the second motor 1221b drives the camera mounting member 121 to rotate it upward to the second upper target position, and camera 13 is switched from the first state to the second state (shown at the bottom of Figure 10).

[0187] It should be noted that, in the process of switching from the first state to the second state, alternatively, the second motor 1221b may first drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate it upward to the second upper target position, and then the first motor 1221a may drive the connecting rod 123 to rotate it upward to the first upper target position. Alternatively, the first motor 1221a and the second motor 1221b may operate simultaneously. This is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0188] When it is necessary to use camera 13, if camera 13 is currently in the second state, the second motor 1221b drives the camera mounting member 121 to rotate it downward to the first downward target position (shown in the center of Figure 10). Next, the first motor 1221a drives the connecting rod 123 to rotate it downward to the second downward target position, and camera 13 is switched from the second state to the first state.

[0189] It should be noted that, in the process of switching from the second state to the first state, alternatively, the first motor 1221a may first drive the connecting rod 123 to rotate it downward to the second lower target position, and then the second motor 1221b may drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate it downward to the first lower target position. Alternatively, the first motor 1221a and the second motor 1221b may operate simultaneously. This is not limited to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0190] In addition to the electric drive mechanism, in some other examples, the first drive mechanism 122a and the second drive mechanism 122b may alternatively be elastic drive mechanisms. In this case, the first drive mechanism 122a and the second drive mechanism 122b are configured only to drive the camera mounting member 121 to switch from the second state to the first state, and the force to switch the camera mounting member 121 from the first state to the second state must be provided by a person inside the vehicle.

[0191] For example, as shown in Figure 11, the first drive mechanism 122a includes a first rotating shaft 12211a and a first torsion spring 1224a, and the second drive mechanism 122b includes a second rotating shaft 12211b and a second torsion spring 1224b. The connecting rod 123 is rotatably connected to the support member 11 via the first rotating shaft 12211a. The first torsion spring 1224a is sleeve-connected to the first rotating shaft 12211a, and its two torsion arms press against the support member 11 and the connecting rod 123, respectively. The camera mounting member 121 is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 123 via the second rotating shaft 12211b. A second torsion spring 1224b is sleeve-connected to a second rotation shaft 12211b, and two torsion arms press against a connecting rod 123 and a camera mounting member 121, respectively. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212. The first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are unlocked in a first state, and the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked in a second state.

[0192] Referring to Figure 11, the following describes an example of the process by which camera 13 is switched between a first state and a second state.

[0193] If camera 13 is not needed, and camera 13 is currently in the first state (shown at the top of Figure 11), a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121, which drives the connecting rod 123 to rotate upward, and the connecting rod 123 drives the first torsion spring 1224a to store energy until the connecting rod 123 rotates upward to the first upper target position (shown in the center of Figure 11). Next, the person inside the vehicle continues to push the camera mounting member 121, which drives the second torsion spring 1224b to store energy until the camera mounting member 121 rotates to the second upper target position. In this case, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked, and camera 13 is switched to the second state (shown at the bottom of Figure 11).

[0194] In some examples, when a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121, the elastic force of the first torsion spring 1224a is smaller than the elastic force of the second torsion spring 1224b in order to achieve that the connecting rod 123 first rotates around the first rotation axis 12211a, and then the camera mounting member 121 rotates around the second rotation axis 12211b.

[0195] If camera 13 needs to be used, and camera 13 is currently in the second state, a person inside the vehicle pushes the camera mounting member 121, and the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are unlocked. The first torsion spring 1224a drives the connecting rod 23 to rotate downward, and the second torsion spring 1224b drives the camera mounting member 121 to rotate downward until the connecting rod 123 rotates downward to a first downward target position and the camera mounting member 121 rotates downward to a second downward target position, thereby switching camera 13 to the first state.

[0196] In some examples, guide grooves may be provided in the support member 11 to improve the stability of the connecting rod 123 and the camera mounting member 121 during rotation, and the connecting rod 123 and the camera mounting member 121 may slide along the guide grooves during rotation.

[0197] In addition to the classification described above based on the operating mode of the camera 13, the height adjustment mechanism 12 may also be classified into an electrically operated height adjustment mechanism 12 and a manual height adjustment mechanism 12 based on the power source. Examples for explanation are provided separately below.

[0198] (1) In some examples, the height adjustment mechanism 12 is electrically operated. The height adjustment mechanism 12 is configured to drive the camera 13 to switch from a first state to a second state and from the second state to a first state.

[0199] For example, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes at least a motor 1221 (or a first motor 1221a and a second motor 1221b) and a camera mounting member 121, and the motor 1221 can drive the camera mounting member 121 to switch the state of the camera 13. Figures 2, 6, 8, and 10 show specific implementations of the electrically operated height adjustment mechanism 12.

[0200] In the case of the electrically operated height adjustment mechanism 12, the position of the camera 13 in the first state may be set to a fixed position, or it may be set to be adjustable according to the requirements of the people inside the vehicle. For example, the people inside the vehicle may adjust the position of the camera 13 in the first state by controlling the rotation amplitude of the motor 1221. In this way, the image capture angle and image capture height of the camera 13 can meet the requirements of different people inside the vehicle.

[0201] (2) In some examples, the height adjustment mechanism 12 is manual. The height adjustment mechanism 12 is configured to drive the camera 13 to switch from a second state to a first state, and the force to switch the camera 13 from the first state to the second state must be manually provided by a person inside the vehicle.

[0202] For example, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes an elastic drive member. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212. When the camera mounting member 121 is pressed in the first state, it drives the elastic drive member to store energy until the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked, and the camera 13 is switched to the second state. When the camera mounting member 121 is pressed in the second state, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are unlocked, and the elastic drive member drives the camera mounting member 121, driving the camera 13 to switch back to the first state.

[0203] Figures 3-5, 7, 9, and 11 show specific implementations of the manual height adjustment mechanism 12. Correspondingly, the elastic drive member is an elastic member 1223, a torsion spring 1224, or a first torsion spring 1224a and a second torsion spring 1224b.

[0204] Embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a camera mounting bracket. As shown in Figures 2 to 12, the camera mounting bracket includes a support member 11 and a height adjustment mechanism 12. The support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the upper part of the vehicle's cockpit. The height adjustment mechanism 12 has a camera mounting member 121. The camera mounting member 121 is configured to mount a camera 13. The height adjustment mechanism 12 is configured to switch the camera mounting member 121 between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the height of the camera mounting member 121 is lower than the height of the camera mounting member 121 in the second state, and in the first state, the camera mounting member 121 is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror 3.

[0205] According to the technical solution provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, the camera 13 is mounted by using a camera mounting bracket, so that when image capture is required, the camera mounting member 121 can be switched to a first state via a height adjustment mechanism 12. In the first state, the camera mounting member 121 is positioned lower than the vehicle's rearview mirror 3 so that the camera 13 can perform image capture at a good image capture angle and obtain high-quality images of people inside the vehicle.

[0206] When image capture is not required, the camera mounting member 121 may be switched to a second state via the height adjustment mechanism 12, thereby reducing the impact of the camera mounting bracket and camera 13 on the field of view of people inside the vehicle.

[0207] In some examples, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface.

[0208] In some examples, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the windshield 2 of the vehicle.

[0209] In some examples, the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the mirror rod 31 of the rearview mirror 3.

[0210] In some examples, the support member 11 is a bracket.

[0211] In some examples, the support member 11 includes a housing, and the support member 11 has a cavity configured to accommodate a height adjustment mechanism 12. In the first state, the camera mounting member 121 is located outside the housing, and in the second state, the camera mounting member is located inside the housing.

[0212] In some examples, when the camera 13 is attached to the camera mounting member 121, in the first state, the camera 13 faces the rear of the vehicle.

[0213] In some cases, when the camera 13 is attached to the camera mounting member 121, in the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror 3 and the height of the camera 13 is less than 100 mm.

[0214] In some examples, when the camera 13 is attached to the camera mounting member 121, in the first state, the camera 13 is flush with the eye lip.

[0215] In some cases, the camera mounting member 121 in the first state protrudes further rearward from the vehicle than the camera mounting member 121 in the second state.

[0216] In some examples, when camera 13 is attached to camera mounting member 121, camera 13 is obscured in the second state.

[0217] In some examples, when camera 13 is attached to camera mounting member 121, camera 13 is hidden in the second state.

[0218] In some examples, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes a camera mounting member 121 and a drive mechanism 122. The camera mounting member 121 is slidably connected to the support member 11. The drive mechanism 122 is connected separately to the support member 11 and the camera mounting member 121, and the drive mechanism 122 is configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 to slide.

[0219] In some examples, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121 is inclined with respect to the vertical, and the camera mounting member 121 gradually moves towards the rear of the vehicle as it slides from the second state to the first state.

[0220] In some examples, the angle between the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121 and the horizontal plane is greater than 15° and less than 45°.

[0221] In some examples, the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121 is vertical.

[0222] In some examples, the drive mechanism 122 includes a motor 1221 and a lifting mechanism 1222. The motor 1221 is fixed to the support member 11 and connected to the camera mounting member 121 via the lifting mechanism 1222.

[0223] In some examples, the lifting mechanism 1222 includes a lead screw 12221 and a nut 12222. The lead screw 12221 is powered to a motor 1221 and is parallel to the sliding direction of the camera mounting member 121. The nut 12222 is fixed to the camera mounting member 121 and cooperates with the lead screw 12221.

[0224] In some examples, the drive mechanism 122 includes an elastic member 1223, the ends of which press against the support member 11 and the camera mounting member 121, respectively. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212.

[0225] The drive mechanism 122 is configured such that when the camera mounting member 121 is pressed in the first state, the camera mounting member 121 presses and compresses the elastic member 1223 until the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked. When the camera mounting member 121 is switched to the second state, or when the camera mounting member 121 is pressed in the second state, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are released, and the elastic member 1223 drives the camera mounting member 121 to slide back to the first state.

[0226] In some examples, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes a camera mounting member 121 and a drive mechanism 122. The camera mounting member 121 is connected to the support member 11 via the drive mechanism 122, and the drive mechanism 122 is configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate.

[0227] In some examples, the drive mechanism 122 includes a motor 1221, which is fixed to a support member 11, and the rotation axis 12211 of the motor 1221 is fixed to a camera mounting member 121.

[0228] In some examples, the drive mechanism 122 includes a rotating shaft 12211 and a torsion spring 1224. The camera mounting member 121 is rotatably connected to the support member 11 via the rotating shaft 12211. The torsion spring 1224 is sleeve-connected to the rotating shaft 12211, and its two torsion arms press against the support member 11 and the camera mounting member 121, respectively. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212.

[0229] The drive mechanism 122 is configured such that when the camera mounting member 121 is pressed in the first state, it drives the torsion spring 1224 to store energy until the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked. When the camera mounting member 121 is switched to the second state, or when the camera mounting member 121 is pressed in the second state, the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are released, and the torsion spring 1224 drives the camera mounting member 121 to rotate back to the first state.

[0230] In some examples, the height adjustment mechanism 12 includes a camera mounting member 121, a first drive mechanism 122a, a second drive mechanism 122b, and a connecting rod 123. The camera 13 is fixed to the camera mounting member 121. The first drive mechanism 122a is positioned on the support member 11 and connected to the second drive mechanism 122b via the connecting rod 123. The first drive mechanism 122a is configured to drive the connecting rod 123 to rotate. The second drive mechanism 122b is drive-connected to the camera mounting member 121 and is configured to drive the camera mounting member 121 to rotate. In the first state, the connecting rod 123 rotates upward to a first upper target position, and the camera mounting member 121 rotates upward to a second upper target position. In the second state, the connecting rod 123 rotates downward to the first lower target position, and the camera mounting member 121 rotates downward to the second lower target position.

[0231] In some examples, the first drive mechanism 122a includes a first motor 1221a, and the second drive mechanism 122b includes a second motor 1221b. The first motor 1221a is fixed to a support member 11, and the first rotation axis 12211a of the first motor 1221a is fixed to a connecting rod 123. The second motor 1221b is positioned on the connecting rod 123, and the second rotation axis 12211b of the second motor 1221b is fixed to a camera mounting member 121.

[0232] In some examples, the first drive mechanism 122a includes a first rotating shaft 12211a and a first torsion spring 1224a, and the second drive mechanism 122b includes a second rotating shaft 12211b and a second torsion spring 1224b. The connecting rod 123 is rotatably connected to the support member 11 via the first rotating shaft 12211a. The first torsion spring 1224a is sleeve-connected to the first rotating shaft 12211a, and its two torsion arms press against the support member 11 and the connecting rod 123, respectively. The camera mounting member 121 is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 123 via the second rotating shaft 12211b. A second torsion spring 1224b is sleeve-connected to a second rotation shaft 12211b, and the two torsion arms press against the connecting rod 123 and the camera mounting member 121, respectively. The support member 11 has a first latch 112, and the camera mounting member 121 has a second latch 1212. The first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are unlocked in a first state, and the first latch 112 and the second latch 1212 are locked in a second state.

[0233] For specific details regarding the camera mounting bracket, please refer to the relevant information for the in-vehicle camera module 1. Please note that further details will not be explained here.

[0234] Embodiments of this disclosure further provide a vehicle having the above-described in-vehicle camera module 1 or the above-described camera mounting bracket.

[0235] In some examples, the support member 11 of the in-vehicle camera module 1 or camera mounting bracket is fixed to the side of the rearview mirror 3 that faces away from the mirror surface. For example, the support member 11 is fixed to the vehicle's windshield 2, or the support member 11 is configured to be fixed to the mirror rod 31 of the rearview mirror 3.

[0236] The terms used in the implementations of this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, technical or scientific terms used in the implementations of this disclosure should have the general meanings understood by those skilled in the art in which this disclosure pertains. Terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., used in the specification and claims of this disclosure are not intended to indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely intended to distinguish different components. Similarly, “a / an,” “one,” etc., are not intended to indicate a limitation of quantity, but are intended to indicate that there is at least one. Terms such as “include” and “comprise” mean that the element or object preceding “include” or “comprise” encompasses the elements or objects and their equivalents listed after “include” or “comprise,” and that other elements or objects are not excluded. Terms such as “up,” “down,” “left,” and “right” mean only relative positional relationships. If the absolute position of the object being described changes, the relative positional relationships may change accordingly. "A plurality of" means two or more unless explicitly limited otherwise.

[0237] The foregoing description is merely an optional embodiment of the Disclosure and is not intended to limit the Disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the principles of the Disclosure should fall within the scope of the Disclosure.

Claims

1. An in-vehicle camera module comprising a support member, a height adjustment mechanism, and a camera, The support member is configured to be fixed to the upper part of the vehicle's cockpit. The camera is connected to the support member via the height adjustment mechanism, and the height adjustment mechanism is configured to switch the camera between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the camera height is lower than in the second state, and in the first state, the camera is lower than the rearview mirror of the vehicle. The height adjustment mechanism comprises a camera mounting member and a drive mechanism. The camera mounting member is slidably connected to the support member, the drive mechanism is separately connected to the support member and the camera mounting member, and the drive mechanism is configured to drive the camera mounting member to slide. The camera is fixed to the camera mounting member, The sliding direction of the camera mounting member is inclined with respect to the vertical direction, and the camera gradually slides toward the rear of the vehicle during the process of sliding from the second state to the first state. In-vehicle camera module.

2. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 1, wherein the support member is configured to be fixed to the side of the rearview mirror that faces away from the mirror surface.

3. In the first state, the difference between the height of the rearview mirror and the height of the camera is less than 100 mm, as described in claim 1.

4. In the first state, the camera is flush with the eye lip, as described in claim 1 of the in-vehicle camera module.

5. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 1, wherein the camera in the first state protrudes rearward from the vehicle relative to the camera in the second state.

6. In the first state, the camera is located below the rearview mirror, as described in claim 1.

7. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 1, wherein the camera is obstructed in the second state.

8. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 1, wherein in the second state, the camera is hidden.

9. The aforementioned drive mechanism comprises a motor and a lifting mechanism. The motor is fixed to the support member and connected to the camera mounting member via the lifting mechanism. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 1.

10. The lifting mechanism comprises a lead screw and a nut. The lead screw is power-driven to the motor, and the lead screw is parallel to the sliding direction of the camera mounting member. The nut is fixed to the camera mounting member and cooperates with the lead screw. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 9.

11. The drive mechanism includes an elastic member, and both ends of the elastic member press against the support member and the camera mounting member, respectively. The support member has a first latch, and the camera mounting member has a second latch. The aforementioned drive mechanism is When the camera mounting member is pressed in the first state, the camera mounting member compresses the elastic member until the first latch and the second latch are locked, and the camera is switched to the second state, or When the camera mounting member is pressed in the second state, the first latch and the second latch are released, and the elastic member drives the camera to slide back to the first state. The in-vehicle camera module according to claim 1, configured as described above.

12. A vehicle equipped with the in-vehicle camera module described in claim 1.

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