Handheld thermal imager

Abstract

A handheld thermal imager, comprising a handle housing (1), an infrared imaging module (2), a mainboard (11), and a display module (3). The infrared imaging module (2) is at least partially located in the handle housing (1). The mainboard (11) is provided in the handle housing (1) and is electrically connected to the infrared imaging module (2) in the handle housing (1). The display module (3) is provided on the outer wall of the handle housing (1) and is rotatably connected to the handle housing (1). A closed connection channel is formed on the side where the display module (3) and the handle housing (1) get close to each other. A connection cable (9) passes through the connection channel. Two ends of the connection cable (9) are electrically connected to the mainboard (11) and the display module (3), respectively.

Description

A handheld thermal imager Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of imaging equipment technology, and in particular to a handheld thermal imager. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some handheld thermal imagers are equipped with built-in display screens for observation, allowing for observation without the need for external display devices. Existing handheld thermal imagers with display screens generally fall into two categories: one where the screen is embedded within the imager's housing, resulting in a fixed display that cannot meet the needs of observation from certain specific angles, and the screen size is often small, hindering clear observation; and another where the screen is located externally, featuring a larger screen that can rotate relative to the housing, facilitating multi-directional observation. However, this type of imager often suffers from inconvenient circuit connections between components. For example, exposed cables may affect connection stability and the imager's overall waterproofing; or the complex wiring and structure lead to complex manufacturing processes and low production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Based on this, this application provides a handheld thermal imager to improve the problems of complex wiring, poor connection stability and complex structure in the prior art.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0005] This application provides a handheld thermal imager, including a handle housing, an infrared imaging module, a motherboard, and a display module;

[0006] The infrared imaging module is at least partially located within the handle housing; the main board is disposed within the handle housing and is electrically connected to the infrared imaging module within the handle housing;

[0007] The display module is located on the outer wall of the handle housing and is rotatably connected to the handle housing. A sealed connection channel is provided on the side of the display module and the handle housing that are close to each other. A connection cable is passed through the connection channel, and the two ends of the connection cable are electrically connected to the motherboard and the display module, respectively.

[0008] In one embodiment, the display module is rotatably connected to the handle housing via a damping pivot.

[0009] In one embodiment, the display module and the handle housing are respectively provided with connection ports on their sides that are close to each other, and the connection channel is composed of a flexible protective sleeve with openings at both ends and the two connection ports that are sequentially sealed and connected.

[0010] In one embodiment, the connecting cable is a flexible circuit board, and the connecting cable passes through the flexible protective sleeve.

[0011] In one embodiment, the flexible protective sleeve has an inner cavity, the width of which is greater than the width of the connecting cable, and / or the height of which is greater than the thickness of the connecting cable.

[0012] In one embodiment, the flexible protective sleeve is an elastic element capable of elastic stretching.

[0013] In one embodiment, the infrared imaging module includes an infrared detector, a lens assembly, and a lens cap; the infrared detector is disposed within the handle housing, the lens assembly is partially disposed within the handle housing and partially exposed outside the handle housing, and the lens cap is detachably disposed on the end of the lens assembly.

[0014] In one embodiment, the handheld thermal imager further includes a power supply module, which is at least partially located within the handle housing, and the mainboard is electrically connected to the power supply module within the handle housing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the power supply module includes a battery compartment, a battery compartment cover, and a battery; the battery compartment is disposed within the handle housing, and the battery compartment cover is detachably connected to the battery compartment; on two inner walls opposite to the battery compartment cover, one has a positive contact and the other has a negative contact; the battery is installed within the battery compartment and is electrically connected to the positive and negative contacts. In one embodiment, the motherboard and the infrared imaging module are connected via a ribbon cable, and the motherboard is connected to the power supply module via a connector.

[0016] In one embodiment, a seal is provided between the battery compartment cover and the battery compartment.

[0017] In one embodiment, the handheld thermal imager further includes a laser pointer for emitting laser light as a pointer. The laser pointer is at least partially disposed within the handle housing, and the outlet of the laser pointer is oriented in the same direction as the lens assembly.

[0018] In one embodiment, the handle housing is further provided with a button assembly, the button assembly including a button and a control circuit board, the control circuit board being electrically connected to the main board inside the handle housing, the button being disposed on the control circuit board, and the button cap being exposed outside the handle housing.

[0019] In one embodiment, the lens assembly includes an optical system and a focusing ring for focusing the optical system.

[0020] In one embodiment, the outer wall of the handle housing is further provided with a mounting hole for mounting external accessories.

[0021] This application has at least the following beneficial effects: In the handheld thermal imager of this application embodiment, the infrared imaging module is mostly housed within the handle housing, facilitating electrical connection between the mainboard and the handle housing. The display module is located on the outer wall of the handle housing, allowing for easy selection of a suitable screen size to meet different user needs. Furthermore, the rotation angle of the display module can be selected according to actual requirements, enabling users to observe targets from different angles. A sealed connection channel is provided between the display module and the handle housing, through which a connecting cable runs, with its two ends connected to the mainboard and the display module, respectively. This design simplifies the wiring structure, making the connection simple and reliable. Simultaneously, the sealed connection channel effectively enhances the overall waterproof performance of the thermal imager. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a handheld thermal imager according to an embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the display screen side of the handheld thermal imager in Figure 1.

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the lens side of the handheld thermal imager in Figure 1.

[0025] Figure 4 is an enlarged schematic diagram of the structure at point A of the handheld thermal imager in Figure 1.

[0026] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the handheld thermal imager in Figure 1.

[0027] The meanings of the labels in the attached diagram are as follows: 1. Handle housing; 11. Main board; 12. Hot melt nut; 121. Mounting hole; 2. Infrared imaging module; 21. Lens assembly; 211. Focusing ring; 22. Lens cap; 23. Connector; 24. Infrared detector; 3. Display module; 31. Display screen module; 32. Display housing; 4. Damping hinge; 5. Power supply module; 51. Battery compartment cover; 52. Battery compartment; 53. Battery; 6. Button assembly; 7. Flexible ribbon cable; 8. Connector port; 9. Connecting cable; 10. Flexible protective sleeve. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The technical solution of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the specification of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the ways in which this application may be implemented. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0031] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3. The handheld thermal imager of this application embodiment includes a handle housing 1, an infrared imaging module 2, a motherboard 11, and a display module 3.

[0033] The infrared imaging module 2 is located at least partially inside the handle housing 1; the main board 11 is located inside the handle housing 1 and is electrically connected to the infrared imaging module 2 inside the handle housing 1.

[0034] The display module 3 is located on the outer wall of the end of the handle housing 1 where the infrared imaging module 2 is located, and is located on both sides of the handle housing 1. A sealed connection channel is provided on the side of the display module 3 and the handle housing 1 that are close to each other. A connection cable 9 is threaded through the connection channel, and the two ends of the connection cable 9 are electrically connected to the main board 11 and the display module 3, respectively.

[0035] In this embodiment, the handle housing 1 is a one-piece molded structure. In other embodiments, the handle housing 1 may also be a split structure composed of multiple parts. The one-piece molded handle housing 1 in this embodiment has better waterproof sealing and better overall stability. An opening is provided at one end of the upper part of the handle housing 1 along the thickness direction. This opening is used to form the optical path entrance of the infrared imaging module 2. A bracket for mounting the display module 3 is provided on the outer wall of the other end opposite to the opening.

[0036] Specifically, the infrared imaging module 2 is located at one end of the handle housing 1, and all components of the infrared imaging module 2, except for a portion of the lens assembly 21 which is exposed outside the handle housing 1, are located inside the handle housing 1. The infrared imaging module 2 is used to acquire target images and includes an infrared detector 24, a lens assembly 21, and a lens cap 22. The infrared detector 24 is located inside the handle housing 1, and at the upper part of the handle housing 1 (i.e., the end away from the handheld part). The lens assembly 21 is mostly located inside the handle housing 1. The lens assembly 21 includes an optical system and a focusing ring 211. The focusing ring 211 and the display module 3 are respectively located on two opposite outer walls of the handle housing 1 (i.e., the focusing ring 211 and the display module 3 are respectively located on the two sides of the upper part of the handle housing 1). The focusing ring 211 is used to focus the optical system. The lens cap 22 is detachably attached to the end of the lens assembly 21, for example, attached to the focusing ring 211. To prevent the lens cap 22 from being lost during use, a connector 23 can be provided on the lens cap 22. The two ends of the connector 23 are connected to the lens cap 22 and the handle housing 1 respectively, or are integrally formed. The lens cap 22 can be suspended on the outer wall of the handle housing 1 through the connector 23. The lens cap 22 can be made of a soft material, such as plastic, and the inner diameter of the lens cap 22 is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the focusing ring 211, so that the lens cap 22 will not fall off when it is placed on the focusing ring 211.

[0037] The display module 3 includes a display screen module 31 and a display housing 32. The display screen module 31 is at least partially disposed within the display housing 32. The display housing 32 is rotatably connected to the handle housing 1 via a damping pivot 4, allowing the display module 3 to rotate relative to the handle housing 1 to adjust for a more suitable observation angle (pitch angle). In this embodiment, the handheld thermal imager integrates the display module 3 and the infrared imaging module 2 into one unit, making it more convenient for users. Users do not need to connect a separate display device when observing with this handheld thermal imager; they can measure and view immediately, which is very convenient. When using the handheld thermal imager for observation, certain targets in specific orientations may be difficult to observe. Therefore, this embodiment designs a rotatable and adjustable display module 3, which can rotate a certain angle on the handle housing 1 to facilitate user observation.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, the display module 3 and the handle housing 1 have connection ports 8 on their respective sides, close to each other. The connection channel is composed of a flexible protective sleeve 10 with openings at both ends and two connection ports 8 sealed together in sequence. To make the overall appearance of the handheld thermal imager simpler and more aesthetically pleasing, the two connection ports 8 can be located below the rotating shaft, that is, on the side of the rotating shaft closer to the handheld part. This not only facilitates the wiring of the connection channel but also provides a certain degree of concealment, without compromising the simplicity of the appearance. When observation from different angles and directions is required, the display module 3 can be rotated to an angle suitable for human eye observation to facilitate handheld operation and observation.

[0039] In some embodiments, the handheld thermal imager may further include a power supply module 5, which is at least partially located within the handle housing 1. The power supply module 5 supplies power to the handheld thermal imager and includes a battery compartment 52, a battery compartment cover 51, and a battery 53. The battery compartment 52 is located inside the handle housing 1, below the infrared detector 24 (near the handheld part), and partially within the handle housing 1, below the infrared detector 24 (near the handheld part), for housing the battery 53. One end of the battery compartment 52, away from the display module 3, extends out of the handle housing 1 for detachable connection to the battery compartment cover 51. The detachable connection between the battery compartment cover 51 and the battery compartment 52 can be, for example, a threaded connection, a rotating flip-top connection, etc., allowing for the replacement or removal of the battery 53. Electrode contacts are provided on the two inner walls of the battery compartment 52 and the battery compartment cover 51, respectively, i.e., the bottom of the battery compartment 52 and the inner bottom of the battery compartment cover 51. One of these contacts has a positive contact (not shown), and the other has a negative contact (not shown). Battery 53 is installed inside battery compartment 52 and electrically connected to positive and negative contacts. The positive and negative contacts can be conductive structures such as springs, sheet metal springs, or spring pins, used for connection to the positive and negative terminals of battery 53. Mainboard 11 is electrically connected to power supply module 5 inside handle housing 1 via electrode contacts on battery compartment 52. To enhance the waterproof performance of the handheld thermal imager, a seal can be provided between battery compartment cover 51 and battery compartment 52.

[0040] The handheld thermal imager of this embodiment integrates the infrared imaging module 2, display module 3, and power supply module 5 into a single structure. All connecting cables are housed inside the thermal imager housing, resulting in a clean and simple appearance. Furthermore, the cables are fixed inside the housing, eliminating the need for manual connection by the user, making it more convenient and avoiding the reliability issues caused by repeated plugging and unplugging. This makes the overall performance of the device more stable and reliable. It maintains the stability and reliability of traditional fixed handheld thermal imagers (where the display module 3 is located inside and fixedly connected to the handle housing 1, and the viewing angle of the display module 3 cannot be adjusted), while keeping all cables inside the device and eliminating the need for manual plugging and unplugging, resulting in a clean appearance. Simultaneously, it allows for the adjustment of the rotation angle of the display module 3, facilitating user observation and significantly improving the user experience. In other embodiments, to meet the different needs of different users, the infrared imaging module 2 and display module 3 can be designed to be detachably connected to the handle housing 1, allowing users to select different specifications and parameters of the infrared imaging module 2 or display module 3 as needed.

[0041] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, in this embodiment, the flexible protective sleeve 10 is an elastic element used to elastically deform with the rotation of the display module 3. Preferably, the length of the flexible protective sleeve 10 in its free state (excluding the connection and fixing portion between the flexible protective sleeve 10 and the two connection ports 8) is equal to the minimum distance between the two connection ports 8. That is, when the relative rotation angle between the handle housing 1 and the display housing 32 is at its minimum, the flexible protective sleeve 10 is in its original length state, and at this time, the flexible protective sleeve 10 does not extend or retract. When the relative rotation angle between the handle housing 1 and the display housing 32 is at its maximum, the flexible protective sleeve 10 extends to its longest state. This design can better protect the flexible circuit board (connecting cable 9) wrapped inside the flexible protective sleeve 10. If the flexible protective sleeve 10 is too long, it will fold when it retracts, which may pull on the internal flexible circuit board and damage it. The flexible protective sleeve 10 and the two connection ports 8 can be sealed together by applying adhesive.

[0042] In this embodiment, the connecting cable 9 is a flexible circuit board, which passes through the flexible protective sleeve 10. The width of the flexible protective sleeve 10 is greater than the width of the connecting cable 9. Preferably, when the display module 3 is rotated to its maximum angle with the handle housing 1, the width of the flexible protective sleeve 10 is still slightly greater than the width of the connecting cable 9, allowing the connecting cable 9 to move easily and preventing it from being pulled and damaged. Preferably, the flexible protective sleeve 10 has an inner cavity, the width of which is greater than the width of the connecting cable 9, and / or the height of which is greater than the thickness of the connecting cable 9. When the flexible protective sleeve 10 is stretched to a straight state, it has an internal cavity, that is, there is a certain gap between its two inner walls. For example, in the straight state, the cross-section of the flexible protective sleeve 10 is a flat rectangle. This gap allows the connecting cable 9 to move freely inside the flexible protective sleeve 10 even when it is pulled. The height of the inner cavity of the flexible protective sleeve 10 being greater than the thickness of the flexible circuit board is more conducive to the movement of the flexible circuit board. When connecting the flexible protective sleeve 10 to the connecting port 8, try to keep the flexible protective sleeve 10 in a flat state without deformation, and avoid excessive compression or pulling of the ends of the flexible protective sleeve 10 by the adhesive. For example, a rigid material matching its cross-sectional shape can be inserted into the opening of the flexible protective sleeve 10 for support, and then it can be glued and fixed.

[0043] As shown in Figures 1 and 5, one end of the motherboard 11 is connected to the infrared imaging module 2 via a flexible ribbon cable 7, and the other end is connected to the power supply module 5 via a connector. The other side of the motherboard 11 is connected to a connecting cable 9, the other end of which is connected to the display module 31. In this embodiment, all connections of the handheld thermal imager are located inside the housing or channels, which not only makes the handheld thermal imager more concise and aesthetically pleasing but also improves the reliability of connections between components. The above-described ribbon cable and connector connection method is only one specific implementation of this embodiment; other connection methods can also be selected.

[0044] In this embodiment, the flexible circuit board is completely encased in the flexible protective sleeve 10, with no part exposed on the outside of the device. The flexible protective sleeve 10 is also sealed to the two connection ports 8, improving the waterproof performance of the handheld thermal imager while maintaining a clean appearance, and enhancing the connection stability between components. The flexible circuit board can move freely within the flexible protective sleeve 10, and no matter how the display module 3 rotates, it will not experience any pulling or pushing forces on the flexible circuit board, extending its lifespan and improving the overall product quality.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2, a button assembly 6 can also be provided on the handle housing 1. The button assembly 6 includes a button and a control circuit board. The control circuit board is electrically connected to the main board 11 inside the handle housing 1. The button is located on the control circuit board, and the button cap is exposed outside the handle housing 1. The button is used to control the handheld thermal imager, such as turning it on and off and other operations.

[0046] As shown in Figure 5, a mounting hole 121 is also provided on the outer wall of the handle housing 1 between the focusing ring 211 and the display module 3. The mounting hole 121 is used to install external accessories. For example, a thermosetting nut 12 can be installed on the outer wall of the handle housing 1. The internal thread hole of the thermosetting nut 12 forms the mounting hole 121. In this embodiment, there are two mounting holes 121. In other embodiments, an appropriate number of mounting holes 121 can be selected as needed. External accessories can be installed on the mounting hole 121 by screws or other connectors to be fixedly connected to the handle housing 1.

[0047] In some embodiments, the handheld thermal imager further includes a laser pointer (not shown) for emitting laser light as a pointer. The laser pointer is at least partially housed within the handle housing 1, and the laser pointer's exit port faces the same direction as the lens assembly 21. For example, as shown in FIG1, if the optical system of the lens assembly 21 faces left, then the laser pointer's exit port also faces left. In this embodiment of the handheld thermal imager, all connecting wires are located within the housing or channels, with none exposed, ensuring stable connections and improving the overall waterproof performance. The display module in this embodiment can rotate at a certain angle relative to the handle housing, making it easier for the user to observe targets in different directions. The connection between the display module and the motherboard is reliable and the connection structure is simple; the use of a flexible circuit board connection method is more cost-effective than coaxial cable connections.

[0048] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0049] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A handheld thermal imager, characterized in that, It includes a handle housing (1), an infrared imaging module (2), a motherboard (11), and a display module (3); The infrared imaging module (2) is at least partially located inside the handle housing (1); the main board (11) is located inside the handle housing (1) and is electrically connected to the infrared imaging module (2) inside the handle housing (1); The display module (3) is located on the outer wall of the handle housing (1) and is rotatably connected to the handle housing (1). A sealed connection channel is provided on the side of the display module (3) and the handle housing (1) that are close to each other. A connection cable (9) is passed through the connection channel. The two ends of the connection cable (9) are electrically connected to the motherboard (11) and the display module (3) respectively.

2. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The display module (3) is rotatably connected to the handle housing (1) via a damping shaft (4).

3. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The display module (3) and the handle housing (1) are respectively provided with connection ports (8) on the side close to each other. The connection channel is composed of a flexible protective sleeve (10) with openings at both ends and two connection ports (8) connected in sequence and sealed.

4. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting cable (9) is a flexible circuit board, and the connecting cable (9) is inserted inside the flexible protective sleeve (10).

5. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The flexible protective sleeve (10) has an inner cavity, the width of which is greater than the width of the connecting cable (9), and / or the height of which is greater than the thickness of the connecting cable (9).

6. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The flexible protective sleeve (10) is an elastic element capable of elastic stretching.

7. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The infrared imaging module (2) includes an infrared detector (24), a lens assembly (21), and a lens cover (22); the infrared detector (24) is located inside the handle housing (1), the lens assembly (21) is partially located inside the handle housing (1) and partially exposed outside the handle housing (1), and the lens cover (22) is detachably attached to the end of the lens assembly (21).

8. The handheld thermal imager as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, It also includes a power supply module (5), which is at least partially located inside the handle housing (1), and the main board (11) is electrically connected to the power supply module (5) inside the handle housing (1).

9. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The power supply module (5) includes a battery compartment (52), a battery compartment cover (51), and a battery (53); the battery compartment (52) is located inside the handle housing (1), and the battery compartment cover (51) is detachably connected to the battery compartment (52); on the two inner walls of the battery compartment (52) and the battery compartment cover (51) opposite to each other, one is provided with a positive contact and the other is provided with a negative contact; the battery (53) is installed inside the battery compartment (52) and is electrically connected to the positive contact and the negative contact.

10. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The motherboard (11) and the infrared imaging module (2) are connected by a ribbon cable, and the motherboard (11) is connected to the power supply module (5) through a connector.

11. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 9, characterized in that, A sealing element is provided between the battery compartment cover (51) and the battery compartment (52).

12. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a laser pointer for emitting laser light as a pointer, the laser pointer being at least partially located within the handle housing (1), and the laser pointer's outlet facing the same direction as the lens assembly (21).

13. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The handle housing (1) is also provided with a button assembly (6), which includes a button and a control circuit board. The control circuit board is electrically connected to the main board (11) inside the handle housing (1). The button is located on the control circuit board, and the button cap is exposed outside the handle housing (1).

14. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The lens assembly (21) includes an optical system and a focusing ring (211) for focusing the optical system.

15. The handheld thermal imager as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the handle housing (1) is also provided with a mounting hole (121), which is used to install external accessories.

Images