On-vehicle imaging device and method for manufacturing on-vehicle imaging device

Abstract

An on-vehicle imaging device according to an embodiment comprises: a housing composed of a first member and a second member; an imaging element provided inside the housing; a first welding member fixed to the first member; and a second welding member fixed to the second member. The first welding member and the second welding member are welded.

Description

In-vehicle imaging device and method for manufacturing an in-vehicle imaging device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle imaging device and a method for manufacturing an in-vehicle imaging device.

[0002] For example, among imaging devices such as in-vehicle cameras, there has been proposed an imaging device in which electronic components such as imaging elements are provided in a housing, and further, a metal shield case surrounding the electronic components is provided in the housing (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] International Publication No. 2021 / 166764

[0004] However, in the above-described technology, in addition to the housing, there is a metal shield case, so the number of components increases. Therefore, it is difficult to achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of components.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides an in-vehicle imaging device and a method for manufacturing an in-vehicle imaging device that can achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of components.

[0006] The in-vehicle imaging device according to the embodiment includes a housing composed of a first member and a second member, an imaging element provided inside the housing, a first welding member fixed to the first member, and a second welding member fixed to the second member, and the first welding member and the second welding member are welded.

[0007] The method for manufacturing an in-vehicle imaging device according to the embodiment includes fixing a first welding member to a first member and fixing a second welding member to a second member, combining the first member to which the first welding member is fixed and the second member to which the second welding member is fixed to form a housing incorporating an imaging element, and welding the first welding member and the second welding member.

[0008] This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a housing according to the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the manufacturing process configuration of an imaging device of a modified version according to the first embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing of modified version 1 according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing of modified version 2 according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing of modified version 3 according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing of modified version 4 according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing of modified version 5 according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing of modified version 6 according to the second embodiment. This is a perspective view showing an example of the manufacturing process of a housing according to the second embodiment. This is a diagram for explaining laser irradiation according to the second embodiment. This is a diagram for explaining laser irradiation according to the second embodiment. This is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a housing according to the third embodiment. This is a block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a vehicle control system. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the installation position of the external information detection unit and the imaging unit.

[0009] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Embodiments include examples and modifications. However, the technology relating to this disclosure is not limited by the embodiments. In addition, redundant descriptions are omitted by denoting the same reference numerals for essentially the same parts in the embodiments.

[0010] This disclosure will be described in the following order of items: 1. First Embodiment 1-1. Example of Imaging Device Configuration 1-2. Example of Housing Configuration 1-3. Example of Housing Manufacturing Process 1-4. Modification of Imaging Device 2. Second Embodiment 2-1. Example of Housing Configuration 2-2. Modification of Housing 2-3. Example of Housing Manufacturing Process 3. Third Embodiment 3-1. Example of Housing Configuration 4. Operation and Effects 5. Other Embodiments 6. Application Examples 7. Notes

[0011] <1. First Embodiment> <1-1. Example of Imaging Device Configuration> An example of the configuration of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment. The imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment is, for example, an example of an in-vehicle imaging device.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment includes a lens unit 10, a front substrate 20, a bonding member 30, a substrate spacer 40, a rear substrate 50, a plurality of heat dissipation members 60A, 60B, and a connector unit 70.

[0013] The lens unit 10 has a lens barrel 11 and a holder 12. The lens barrel 11 houses multiple lenses. Examples of lenses include biconvex lenses, plano-convex lenses, biconcave lenses, plano-concave lenses, and meniscus lenses. The holder 12 holds the lens barrel 11. For example, the holder 12 holds one end of the lens barrel 11. One end of the lens barrel 11 is fixed in close contact with the holder 12. For example, the holder 12 is made of metal, such as die-cast aluminum. The lens barrel 11 and the holder 12 are formed separately, for example, but may also be formed as a single unit.

[0014] The front substrate 20 has an image sensor 21 and a connector 22. This front substrate 20 includes a front surface 20A and a rear surface 20B. The rear surface 20B is the surface opposite to the front surface 20A, facing the front surface 20A. The image sensor 21 is provided on the front surface 20A, and the connector 22 is provided on the rear surface 20B. In addition to the image sensor 21 and connector 22, other electronic components such as chips, resistors, and capacitors may be mounted on the front surface 20A or the rear surface 20B. The front surface 20A functions as the first surface, and the rear surface 20B functions as the second surface.

[0015] For example, a printed circuit board (PCB) is used as the front board 20. For example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor is used as the image sensor 21. For example, a board-to-board connector is used as the connector 22.

[0016] A lens unit 10 is provided on such a front substrate 20 so as to cover the image sensor 21. The lens unit 10 and the front substrate 20 form an internal space 10A that houses the image sensor 21. The end of the holder 12 of the lens unit 10 on the front substrate 20 side is fixed to the front surface 20A of the front substrate 20 by adhesive, for example. As a result, the end of the holder 12 on the front substrate 20 side is in close contact with the front surface 20A of the front substrate 20. Through holes 20a are formed in the front substrate 20. These through holes 20a connect the internal space 10A and the external space outside the internal space 10A in order to suppress the pressure difference between the internal space 10A and the external space outside the internal space 10A.

[0017] However, the intrusion of foreign matter (for example, several tens of micrometers) into the internal space 10A can lead to defects such as the reflection of foreign matter on the image sensor 21 or flare. For this reason, a foreign matter intrusion prevention structure is provided on the rear surface 20B of the front substrate 20 of the through-hole 20a. As a foreign matter intrusion prevention structure, for example, a breathable filter 23 is used. The filter 23 is formed, for example, from a sealing material. This filter 23 is attached to the rear surface 20B of the front substrate 20 so as to block the through-hole 20a.

[0018] The joining member 30 is a member that joins the lens unit 10 and the connector unit 70. The joining member 30 is composed of a first welding member 31 and a second welding member 32. These first welding member 31 and second welding member 32 are formed, for example, in an annular shape. The first welding member 31 is fixedly provided at the end of the lens unit 10 on the connector unit 70 side. The second welding member 32 is fixedly provided at the end of the connector unit 70 on the lens unit 10 side. The first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 are welded together, and the lens unit 10 and the connector unit 70 are joined and integrated by the joining member 30.

[0019] The substrate spacer 40 is a member that secures space (e.g., separation distance) between the front substrate 20 and the rear substrate 50. The substrate spacer 40 is formed, for example, in an annular shape. The substrate spacer 40 is formed, for example, of a heat dissipation resin material. This substrate spacer 40 is in contact with, for example, the rear surface 20B of the front substrate 20 and functions as a heat dissipation member that dissipates heat from the front substrate 20.

[0020] The rear substrate 50 has a connector 51 and a connector 52. The rear substrate 50 includes a front surface 50A and a rear surface 50B. The rear surface 50B is the surface opposite to the front surface 50A, facing the front surface 50A. Connector 51 is provided on the front surface 50A, and connector 52 is provided on the rear surface 50B. The rear substrate 50 is in contact with, for example, the substrate spacer 40, and functions as a heat dissipation member that dissipates heat from the substrate spacer 40. In addition to the connectors 51 and 52, other electronic components such as chips, resistors, and capacitors may be mounted on the front surface 50A or the rear surface 50B of the rear substrate 50.

[0021] For example, a printed circuit board (PCB) may be used as the rear board 50. This PCB may be equipped with processing circuits such as image processing circuits. For example, a board-to-board connector may be used as the connector 51. For example, a PCB (printed circuit board) connector may be used as the connector 52.

[0022] Each of the heat dissipation members 60A and 60B is a component that dissipates heat from the rear substrate 50 and the like. Each of these heat dissipation members 60A and 60B is provided on the rear substrate 50 so as to be in contact with the connector unit 70. For each of the heat dissipation members 60A and 60B, for example, a heat dissipation block or a heat dissipation sheet may be used. For example, a sheet metal such as a heat spreader may be used as the heat dissipation sheet.

[0023] The connector unit 70 has a case 71 and a connector section 72. The case 71 is a component that houses the front substrate 20, substrate spacer 40, rear substrate 50, and various heat dissipation members 60A, 60B, etc. For example, a metal case such as one made of die-cast aluminum can be used as the case 71. The connector section 72 is a component that enables connection between the imaging device 1 and an external device. For example, when the imaging device 1 is connected to an external device via the connector section 72, the image sensor 21 is electrically connected to the external device.

[0024] In the assembly process of this imaging device 1, a front substrate 20 is provided on the lens unit 10, and a rear substrate 50 is provided on the front substrate 20 via a substrate spacer 40. Next, a plurality of heat dissipation members 60A and 60B are provided on the rear substrate 50, and a connector unit 70 is provided on the lens unit 10. At this time, a first welding member 31 fixed to the holder 12 of the lens unit 10 and a second welding member 32 fixed to the case 71 of the connector unit 70 are in contact. In this state, the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 are welded together, and the holder 12 and the case 71 are joined by a joining member 30 to form a housing 2.

[0025] <1-2. Example of Housing Configuration> An example of the configuration of the housing 2 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2, the holder (front case) 12 and the case (rear case) 71 function as the housing 2 of the imaging device 1. In other words, the housing 2 is composed of the holder 12 and the case 71. These holder 12 and case 71 are joined together by a joining member 30, forming the housing 2 consisting of the holder 12 and the case 71. At this time, airtightness and liquid tightness within the housing 2 are maintained, but are not limited to these. The holder 12 is an example of a first member constituting the housing 2, and the case 71 is an example of a second member constituting the housing 2.

[0027] The first welded member 31 is fixed to the end portion 12a of the holder 12 on the case 71 side. More specifically, the end portion 12a of the holder 12 on the case 71 side is formed in a shape with an annular step and is thinner than the rest of the holder. The first welded member 31 is, for example, formed in an annular shape and has an opening 31a which is a through hole. The opening 31a of the first welded member 31 and the end portion 12a of the holder 12 on the case 71 side are fitted together, and the first welded member 31 is fixed to the holder 12.

[0028] The second welded member 32 is fixed to the end portion 71a of the case 71 on the holder 12 side. Specifically, the end portion 71a of the case 71 on the holder 12 side is formed in a shape with an annular step and is narrower than the rest of the case. The second welded member 32 is, for example, formed in an annular shape and has an opening 32a which is a through hole. The opening 32a of the second welded member 32 and the end portion 71a of the case 71 on the holder 12 side are fitted together, and the second welded member 32 is fixed to the case 71.

[0029] The first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 are in contact, while the end 12a of the holder 12 on the case 71 side and the end 71a of the case 71 on the holder 12 side are not in contact. In this state, the interface between the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 is welded, forming a housing 2 consisting of the holder 12 and the case 71. The housing 2 may be, for example, a cube or a cylinder, or any other shape. In the example in Figure 2, the end 12a of the holder 12 on the case 71 side and the end 71a of the case 71 on the holder 12 side are not in contact, but they may be in contact.

[0030] Various fastening methods can be used for fastening the first welded member 31 to the holder 12, and for fastening the second welded member 32 to the case 71, such as shrink fitting, screws, or adhesives. Shrink fitting will be described in more detail later.

[0031] Here, the holder 12 and case 71 are made of difficult-to-weld materials. Examples of difficult-to-weld materials include copper, titanium, aluminum, magnesium, and nickel-based alloys. Aluminum, for example, has a low energy absorption rate from lasers and other sources, resulting in poor weldability. The holder 12 and case 71 may be formed from the same type of metal material or from different types of metal material.

[0032] Furthermore, the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 are members with better weldability (high weldability) compared to the holder 12 and the case 71. For example, metals other than difficult-to-weld materials can be used as the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32. The first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 may be formed from the same type of metal material or from different types of metal material.

[0033] In the housing 2 described above, the holder 12 and case 71, which are made of materials that are difficult to weld, are not directly welded together, but are welded together via a joining member 30 with good weldability, namely a first welding member 31 and a second welding member 32. The first welding member 31 is fixed to the holder 12, and the second welding member 32 is fixed to the case 71. These first welding member 31 and second welding member 32 are welded together to join the holder 12 and case 71, thereby forming the housing 2. Therefore, both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics can be achieved without increasing the number of parts. In addition, there is no need to select metal materials with good weldability for the holder 12 and case 71, and welding defects of the holder 12 and case 71 due to selection errors can be suppressed.

[0034] Furthermore, in order to select a metal material with good weldability for the holder 12 and case 71, it is necessary to evaluate and confirm the welding conditions for the selected metal and the difficult-to-weld material, which requires time and effort for setting the conditions. In addition, since it is necessary to satisfy each welding condition, there may be constraints on equipment conditions such as the focus and energy of the welding laser, which increases equipment costs. On the other hand, as mentioned above, by providing the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32, the effort required for setting conditions and the increase in equipment costs can be suppressed. In addition, welding difficult-to-weld materials together becomes easier, and the range of welding conditions is expanded, so it is possible to achieve stable welding quality and improved reliability.

[0035] <1-3. Example of the manufacturing process for the housing> An example of the manufacturing process for the housing 2 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figures 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views showing an example of the manufacturing process for the housing 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0036] As shown in Figure 3, in step S11, the first welding member 31 is heated and expands. This increases the size of the opening 31a of the first welding member 31, making it possible to insert the end 12a of the holder 12 into the opening 31a of the first welding member 31.

[0037] In step S12, the end portion 12a of the holder 12 is inserted into the opening 31a of the first welding member 31, which has expanded due to heating, and the holder 12 is fitted onto the first welding member 31. At this time, the first welding member 31 is not fixed to the end portion 12a of the holder 12.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, in step S13, the first welding member 31, with the end portion 12a of the holder 12 inserted, is cooled and shrinks. As a result, the size of the opening 31a of the first welding member 31 decreases, and the first welding member 31 is fixed to the end portion 12a of the holder 12. At this time, the first welding member 31 is fixed to the end portion 12a of the holder 12 by the frictional force with the end portion 12a due to the shrinkage. As a method of cooling the first welding member 31, for example, heating to the first welding member 31 may be stopped, or air may be blown onto the first welding member 31.

[0039] Steps S11 to S13 described above are a process called shrink fitting. Through this shrink fitting, the second welded member 32 is also fixed to the case 71. That is, the second welded member 32 is heated and expands, and the end portion 71a of the case 71 is inserted into the opening 32a of the second welded member 32 that has expanded due to heating, and the case 71 is fitted into the second welded member 32. The second welded member 32 into which the end portion 71a of the case 71 has been inserted cools and contracts, and the second welded member 32 is fixed to the end portion 71a of the case 71. At this time, the second welded member 32 is fixed to the end portion 71a of the case 71 by the frictional force with the end portion 71a of the case 71 due to the contraction.

[0040] In step S14, the holder 12 to which the first welded member 31 is fixed and the case 71 to which the second welded member 32 is fixed are assembled so that the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 come into contact with each other, and the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 are welded together. For example, the laser irradiation unit 100 irradiates the laser beam 101 around the boundary between the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 for only one full rotation. As a result, the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 are welded together by the laser beam 101, and the holder 12 and the case 71 are connected by the joining member 30 to form a single housing 2.

[0041] <1-4. Modified Example of Imaging Device> A configuration example of the imaging device 1 according to the modified example of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the imaging device 1 according to the modified example of the first embodiment.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 5, in the imaging device 1 of the modified example, the position of the joining member 30 is different from that in FIG. 1. In the example of FIG. 1, the joining member 30 is positioned and provided between the lens barrel portion 11 and the front substrate 20. On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 5, the joining member 30 is at least on the side of the lens barrel portion 11 rather than the imaging element 21, and is provided outside the space between the lens barrel portion 11 and the front substrate 20. For example, the annular joining member 30 (the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32) is provided at a position surrounding the lens barrel portion 11.

[0043] According to the imaging device 1 of the modified example, the joining member 30 is provided on the side of the lens barrel portion 11 rather than the imaging element 21. In this case, even if the laser light 101 leaks into the inside of the housing 2 during the welding of the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 by the laser light 101, it will hit the upper part of the holder 12. On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 1, when the laser light 101 leaks into the inside of the housing 2, it hits each part inside (for example, the end portion of the holder 12 on the front substrate 20 side, the adhesive between the end portion of the holder 12 on the front substrate 20 side and the front substrate 20, etc.), and may have an adverse effect (for example, damage, function degradation, characteristic degradation, etc.) on each of these parts. Therefore, by providing the joining member 30 on the side of the lens barrel portion 11 rather than the imaging element 21, it is possible to suppress the laser light 101 from leaking into the inside of the housing 2 during the welding of the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 by the laser light 101 and having an adverse effect on each part inside.

[0044] <2. Second Embodiment> <2-1. Configuration Example of Housing> A configuration example of the housing 2 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a front view showing a configuration example of the housing 2 according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 according to the first embodiment do not exist. <000009As shown in FIG. 6, in the second embodiment, the holder (front case) 12 has concavo-convex portions 12b. The concavo-convex portions 12b are formed at the end of the holder 12 on the case 71 side. The end of the holder 12 on the case 71 side is formed in a shape without an annular step, unlike the first embodiment. The concavo-convex portions 12b are formed, for example, in a comb tooth shape (rectangular wave shape).

[0046] The case (rear case) 71 also has concavo-convex portions 71b, similar to the holder 12. The concavo-convex portions 71b are formed at the end of the case 71 on the holder 12 side. The end of the case 71 on the holder 12 side is formed in a shape without an annular step, unlike the first embodiment. The concavo-convex portions 71b are formed, for example, in a comb tooth shape.

[0047] Each of the concavo-convex portions 12b of the holder 12 and the concavo-convex portions 71b of the case 71 has a plurality of concave portions and convex portions because they repeatedly have concave and convex portions. The concavo-convex portions 12b and the concavo-convex portions 12b are engaged and in contact with each other. Therefore, the interface 150 between the holder 12 and the case 71 is formed in a concavo-convex shape (e.g., comb tooth shape). Welding (e.g., welding by laser irradiation) is performed along this interface 150. As a result, a weld mark (weld portion) 200 is formed along the interface 150. This weld mark 200 also has a concavo-convex shape (e.g., comb tooth shape).

[0048] Although the entire interface 150 for one circumference is welded, only a part of the interface 150 may be welded. When only a part of the interface 150 is welded, when the interface 150 is rectangular in plan view, it is desirable to weld the central portions of the four sides of the interface 150, or to weld the central portions of the two opposite sides of the interface 150.

[0049] In the housing 2 described above, the interface 150 between the holder 12 and the case 71 is formed with an uneven shape. As a result, instead of a uniaxial (planar) weld mark in the lateral direction, a biaxial weld mark 200 in the lateral and vertical directions is formed. As a result, the two axes of the weld mark 200 act as stoppers for each other, making warping less likely and thus suppressing welding defects. In addition, since the length of the weld mark 200 (welding trajectory length) is increased, the welding strength (for example, tensile strength) can be increased.

[0050] When two components are joined by laser welding, the laser-entered surface of one component shrinks more during cooling after melting than the opposite surface of the component. As a result, lifting may occur on the opposite side of the laser-entered surface. For example, even if one side of a laser-welded housing is successfully welded, the opposite side may lift, resulting in a defective weld. To suppress this lifting, it is necessary to perform spot welding or to rotate the component while welding with strong force applied from above and below the housing, which is technically difficult in terms of equipment. Furthermore, this can increase the manufacturing cycle time and raise costs. On the other hand, by forming the interface surface 150 between the holder 12 and the case 71 with an uneven shape, it is possible to suppress the aforementioned lifting, thereby reducing the technical difficulty and cost increase.

[0051] <2-2. Modified Housing Configurations> The configuration examples of each housing 2 of each modified configuration 1 to 6 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 12.

[0052] (Modification 1) Figure 7 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 of Modification 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0053] As shown in Figure 7, in the housing 2 of the modified example 1, the height (or depth) of the uneven portion 12b is not constant but varies. In the example in Figure 7, in the uneven portion 12b, the height of many of the protrusions is A1, but the height of some of the protrusions is A2. A2 is greater than A1 (A2 > A1). These protrusions with a height of A2 may be formed, for example, in the center of one side of the interface 150. The number of protrusions with a height of A2 may be one or more.

[0054] (Modification 2) Figure 8 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 of Modification 2 according to the second embodiment.

[0055] As shown in Figure 8, in the housing 2 of Modification 2, similar to Modification 1, the height of the uneven portion 12b is not constant but varies. In the example in Figure 8, in the uneven portion 12b, the height of many of the protrusions is B1, but the height of some of the protrusions is B2. B2 is greater than B1 (B2 > B1). These protrusions with a height of B2 may be formed, for example, at both ends of one side of the interface surface 150. The number of protrusions with a height of B2 may be one or more.

[0056] (Modification 3) Figure 9 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 of Modification 3 according to the second embodiment.

[0057] As shown in Figure 9, in the housing 2 of the modified example 3, the height and width of the uneven portion 12b are not constant but vary. In the example in Figure 9, in the uneven portion 12b, the height of many of the protrusions is C1 and their width is D1, but the height of some of the protrusions is C2 and their width is D2. C2 is smaller than C1, and D2 is larger than D1 (C2 < C1, D2 > D1). These protrusions with height C2 and width D2 may be formed, for example, in the center of one side of the interface 150. The number of protrusions with height C2 and width D2 may be more than one.

[0058] (Modification 4) Figure 10 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 of Modification 4 according to the second embodiment.

[0059] As shown in Figure 10, in the housing 2 of the modified example 4, the interface 150 is formed in a shape that alternates between a flat surface 151 and a curved surface 152. Therefore, the weld marks 200 are also formed in a shape that alternates between a flat surface 151 and a curved surface 152. The uneven portion 12b of the holder 12 and the uneven portion 71b of the case 71 are also formed in a shape that alternates between a flat surface 151 and a curved surface 152. In the example in Figure 10, the curved surface 152 of the interface 150 is curved toward the holder 12 side.

[0060] (Modification 5) Figure 11 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 in Modification 5 according to the second embodiment.

[0061] As shown in Figure 11, in the housing 2 of the modified example 5, the interface 150 is formed in a sawtooth shape (triangular wave shape). Therefore, the weld marks 200 are also formed in a sawtooth shape. Furthermore, the uneven portions 12b of the holder 12 and the uneven portions 71b of the case 71 are also formed in a sawtooth shape.

[0062] (Modification 6) Figure 12 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 of Modification 6 according to the second embodiment.

[0063] As shown in Figure 12, in the housing 2 of the modified example 6, the weld marks 200 are not formed on the entire interface 150, but only on a portion of the interface 150. The interface 150 includes a lateral surface extending in the lateral direction (e.g., horizontal direction) and a vertical surface extending in the vertical direction (e.g., vertical direction). In the example in Figure 12, all vertical surfaces are welded, and multiple weld marks 200 are formed in the vertical direction.

[0064] In addition, although all vertical surfaces around the interface 150 are welded, only some of the vertical surfaces around the interface may be welded. Also, although not all horizontal surfaces around the interface are welded, some of the horizontal surfaces around the interface may be welded.

[0065] <2-3. Example of the manufacturing process of the housing> An example of the manufacturing process of the housing 2 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing an example of the manufacturing process of the housing 2 according to the second embodiment. Figures 14 and 15 are diagrams for explaining the laser irradiation according to the second embodiment.

[0066] As shown in Figure 13, in step S21, the holder 12 and the case 71 are held facing each other. At this time, the protrusions 12b of the holder 12 and the protrusions 71b of the case 71 are facing each other.

[0067] In step S22, the holder 12 and the case 71 are assembled. At this time, the protrusions 12b of the holder 12 and the protrusions 71b of the case 71 interlock.

[0068] In step S23, the holder 12 and the case 71 are welded together. This forms a weld mark 200 along the interface 150, joining the holder 12 and the case 71 together to form a single housing 2.

[0069] As shown in Figure 14, the laser beam 101 may be irradiated along the interface 150, that is, the boundary line of the interface 150 (the boundary line of the side surface of the housing 2). In this case, the width of the laser beam 101 is at least wider than the width of the boundary line of the interface 150. The laser beam 101 is scanned, for example, in the direction of extension of the boundary line, that is, in the lateral (horizontal) or (vertical) direction.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, the laser beam 101 may be irradiated without following the boundary line of the interface surface 150. In this case, the width of the laser beam 101 is wider than the height of the uneven portion 12b (or uneven portion 71b) that constitutes the interface surface 150. The laser beam 101 is scanned, for example, in the lateral direction (horizontal direction). In this case, the laser beam 101 does not need to be scanned in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

[0071] <3. Third Embodiment> <3-1. Example of Housing Configuration> An example of the configuration of the housing 2 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the housing 2 according to the third embodiment.

[0072] As shown in Figure 16, in the housing 2 according to the third embodiment, the uneven shape according to the second embodiment is applied to the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 according to the first embodiment. In the example in Figure 16, a comb-tooth shape is used, but it is not limited to this, and the shapes and configurations of each of the modified examples 1 to 6 according to the second embodiment may be used.

[0073] The first welded member 31 has a protruding portion 31b. The protruding portion 31b is formed at the end of the first welded member 31 on the side facing the second welded member 32. The protruding portion 31b is formed, for example, in a comb-tooth shape. Similarly, the second welded member 32 also has a protruding portion 32b. The protruding portion 32b is formed at the end of the second welded member 32 on the side facing the first welded member 31. The protruding portion 32b is formed, for example, in a comb-tooth shape.

[0074] Each of the uneven portions 31b of the first welded member 31 and 32b of the second welded member 32 has a repeating pattern of recesses and protrusions, and therefore has multiple recesses and multiple protrusions. The uneven portions 31b and 32b interlock and abut each other. Therefore, the interface 150 between the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 is formed in an uneven shape (for example, a comb-like shape). Welding (for example, laser welding) is performed along this interface 150. As a result, a weld mark 200 is formed along the interface 150. This weld mark 200 also has an uneven shape (for example, a comb-like shape).

[0075] In the third embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the entire interface 150 is welded, but it is also possible to weld only a portion of the interface 150. When welding only a portion of the interface 150, if the interface 150 is rectangular in plan view, it is desirable to weld the center of the four sides of the interface 150, or to weld the center of two opposing sides of the interface 150.

[0076] With the housing 2 described above, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the effects of the second embodiment can be obtained. That is, the interface 150 between the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 is formed in an uneven shape. As a result, instead of a uniaxial (planar) weld mark in the lateral direction, a biaxial weld mark 200 in the lateral and vertical directions is formed. As a result, the two axes of the weld mark 200 act as stoppers for each other, making warping less likely, and thus suppressing welding defects. In addition, since the length of the weld mark 200 (welding trajectory length) is increased, the welding strength (tensile strength) can be increased.

[0077] <4. Operation and Effects> As described above, the imaging device 1 according to the embodiment (for example, an in-vehicle imaging device) comprises a housing 2 composed of a first member (for example, a holder 12) and a second member (for example, a case 71), an image sensor 21 provided inside the housing 2, a first welded member 31 fixed to the first member, and a second welded member 32 fixed to the second member, wherein the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 are welded together (see Figures 1 and 2, etc.). As a result, the first member and the second member are not directly welded together, but are welded together via the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32, thereby forming the housing 2 composed of the first member and the second member. Therefore, both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics can be achieved without increasing the number of parts.

[0078] Alternatively, the first welding member 31 may be fitted and fixed to the first member, and the second welding member 32 may be fitted and fixed to the second member (see Figure 2, etc.). This allows the first welding member 31 to be easily fixed to the first member, and the second welding member 32 to be easily fixed to the second member.

[0079] Alternatively, the first welded member 31 may be fixed in place by frictional force with the first member due to the contraction of the first welded member 31, and the second welded member 32 may be fixed in place by frictional force with the second member due to the contraction of the second welded member 32 (see Figures 3 and 4, etc.). This ensures that the first welded member 31 is securely fixed to the first member, and that the second welded member 32 is securely fixed to the second member.

[0080] Furthermore, the planar shapes of the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 may be ring-shaped (see Figure 2, etc.). This allows the first welding member 31 to be easily fixed to the first member, and the second welding member 32 to be easily fixed to the second member.

[0081] Furthermore, the first welding member 31 is fixed to the end of the first member on the second member side (for example, the end 12a of the holder 12 on the case 71 side), and the second welding member 32 is fixed to the end of the second member on the first member side (for example, the end 71a of the case 71 on the holder 12 side), and the end of the first member on the second member side of the first member and the end of the second member on the first member side of the second member are not in contact, while the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 may be in contact (see Figure 2, etc.). This makes it possible to ensure that the first welding member 31 and the second welding member 32 are in contact, regardless of the flatness of the respective ends of the first member on the second member side of the first member and the end of the second member on the first member side of the second member. Therefore, both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics can be reliably achieved without increasing the number of parts.

[0082] Furthermore, the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 may be formed from the same or different metal materials (see Figure 2, etc.). This makes it possible to reliably achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of parts.

[0083] Furthermore, the first and second members may be formed from the same or different metal materials (see Figure 2, etc.). Even with such a configuration, both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics can be reliably achieved without increasing the number of parts.

[0084] Furthermore, the interface 150 between the first welded member 31 and the second welded member 32 may be formed with an uneven shape (see Figure 6, etc.). This makes it possible to reliably achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of parts.

[0085] Furthermore, the uneven shape may be provided on a part of the interface surface 150 (see Figure 6, etc.). Even with such a configuration, both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics can be reliably achieved without increasing the number of parts.

[0086] Furthermore, the uneven shape may also be a comb-like shape (see Figure 6, etc.). This makes it possible to reliably achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of parts.

[0087] Furthermore, the uneven shape may also be a repeating shape of flat surfaces 151 and curved surfaces 152 (see Figure 10). This makes it possible to reliably achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of parts.

[0088] Furthermore, the uneven shape may also be a sawtooth shape (see Figure 11). This makes it possible to reliably achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of parts.

[0089] Furthermore, the interface 150 may include a plurality of protrusions (for example, the uneven portion 12b or the uneven portion 71b) (see Figure 6, etc.). This makes it possible to reliably achieve both airtightness and electromagnetic shielding characteristics without increasing the number of parts.

[0090] Furthermore, the height of each of the multiple protrusions may be the same (see Figure 6, etc.). This allows for appropriate adjustment of the welding strength.

[0091] Furthermore, the heights of each of the multiple protrusions may be different (see Figures 7 to 9, etc.). This allows for appropriate adjustment of the welding strength.

[0092] Furthermore, the width of each of the multiple protrusions may be the same (see Figure 6, etc.). This allows for appropriate adjustment of the welding strength.

[0093] Furthermore, the widths of each of the multiple protrusions may be different (see Figure 9). This allows for appropriate adjustment of the welding strength.

[0094] Furthermore, the shape of each of the multiple protrusions may be the same (see Figure 6, etc.). This allows for appropriate adjustment of the welding strength.

[0095] Furthermore, the shapes of each of the multiple protrusions may be different (see Figures 7 to 11, etc.). This allows for appropriate adjustment of the welding strength.

[0096] <5. Other Embodiments> The configurations and processes described in the above-described embodiments (including examples and modifications) may be implemented in various other forms besides those described above. For example, the configurations and processes may be in various forms, not limited to the examples described above. Also, for example, the configurations, processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings may be changed at will unless otherwise specified.

[0097] Furthermore, the configurations and processes described in the above-mentioned embodiments (including examples and modifications) do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the illustrations. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each configuration and process are not limited to those shown in the illustrations, and all or part of them may be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit depending on various loads and usage conditions.

[0098] Furthermore, the various configurations and processes described in the above-mentioned embodiments (including examples and modifications) may be combined as appropriate. For example, at least a part of one embodiment may be combined with at least a part of another embodiment as appropriate. Also, the effects described in the embodiments are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other effects may also occur.

[0099] <6. Application Examples> The technology relating to this disclosure can be applied to a variety of products. For example, the technology relating to this disclosure may be implemented as a device (e.g., electronic equipment) mounted on any type of mobile vehicle such as automobiles, electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, personal mobility devices, airplanes, drones, ships, robots, construction machinery, or agricultural machinery (tractors). Alternatively, for example, the technology relating to this disclosure may be implemented as a device (e.g., electronic equipment) mounted on an endoscopic surgical system or a microsurgical system.

[0100] For example, the imaging device 1 described above may be applied to imaging devices for various purposes other than in-vehicle imaging devices (mobile imaging devices). The imaging device 1 may be, for example, "a device that takes images for viewing purposes, such as a digital camera or a portable device with a camera function," "a device used for traffic purposes, such as an in-vehicle camera that takes pictures of the front, rear, surroundings, and interior of a vehicle for safe driving such as automatic stopping and recognition of the driver's condition, a surveillance camera that monitors moving vehicles and roads, and a distance measuring sensor that measures the distance between vehicles (a device for traffic purposes)," "a device used in home appliances such as TVs, refrigerators, and air conditioners to take pictures of user gestures and operate the device according to those gestures (a device for home appliances)," or "an endoscope or infrared light It may also be applied to "imaging devices that perform angiography by receiving light, and other devices used for medical and healthcare purposes (medical devices, healthcare devices)", "security devices such as surveillance cameras for crime prevention and cameras for person recognition (security devices)", "cosmetic devices such as skin measuring devices that photograph skin and microscopes that photograph the scalp (cosmetic devices)", "sports devices such as action cameras and wearable cameras for sports use", and "agricultural devices such as cameras for monitoring the condition of fields and crops (agricultural devices)".

[0101] Figure 17 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a vehicle control system 7000, which is an example of a mobile control system to which the technology of this disclosure may be applied. The vehicle control system 7000 comprises a plurality of electronic control units connected via a communication network 7010. In the example shown in Figure 17, the vehicle control system 7000 comprises a drive system control unit 7100, a body system control unit 7200, a battery control unit 7300, an external information detection unit 7400, an internal information detection unit 7500, and an integrated control unit 7600. The communication network 7010 connecting these plurality of control units may be an in-vehicle communication network conforming to any standard such as CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), LAN (Local Area Network), or FlexRay®.

[0102] Each control unit comprises a microcomputer that performs calculations according to various programs, a storage unit that stores programs executed by the microcomputer or parameters used in various calculations, and a drive circuit that drives various controlled devices. Each control unit is equipped with a network interface for communication with other control units via the communication network 7010, and a communication interface for communication with devices or sensors inside or outside the vehicle via wired or wireless communication. Figure 17 shows the functional configuration of the integrated control unit 7600, which includes a microcomputer 7610, a general-purpose communication interface 7620, a dedicated communication interface 7630, a positioning unit 7640, a beacon receiver 7650, an in-vehicle equipment interface 7660, an audio / image output unit 7670, an in-vehicle network interface 7680, and a storage unit 7690. Other control units similarly include a microcomputer, a communication interface, and a storage unit.

[0103] The drivetrain control unit 7100 controls the operation of devices related to the vehicle's drivetrain according to various programs. For example, the drivetrain control unit 7100 functions as a control device for generating driving force for the vehicle, such as an internal combustion engine or a drive motor; a driving force transmission mechanism for transmitting driving force to the wheels; a steering mechanism for adjusting the steering angle of the vehicle; and a braking device for generating braking force for the vehicle. The drivetrain control unit 7100 may also function as a control device such as an ABS (Antilock Brake System) or an ESC (Electronic Stability Control).

[0104] A vehicle state detection unit 7110 is connected to the drive system control unit 7100. The vehicle state detection unit 7110 includes, for example, a gyro sensor for detecting the angular velocity of the axial rotation motion of the vehicle body, an acceleration sensor for detecting the acceleration of the vehicle, or at least one of the sensors for detecting the amount of operation of the accelerator pedal, the amount of operation of the brake pedal, the steering angle of the steering wheel, the engine speed, or the rotational speed of the wheels. The drive system control unit 7100 performs calculation processing using the signals input from the vehicle state detection unit 7110 and controls the internal combustion engine, drive motor, electric power steering system, brake system, etc.

[0105] The body system control unit 7200 controls the operation of various devices mounted on the vehicle body according to various programs. For example, the body system control unit 7200 functions as a control device for a keyless entry system, a smart key system, a power window system, or various lamps such as headlights, reverse lights, brake lights, turn signals, or fog lights. In this case, the body system control unit 7200 may receive radio waves transmitted from a portable device that replaces a key or signals from various switches. The body system control unit 7200 receives these radio waves or signals and controls the vehicle's door lock system, power window system, lamps, etc.

[0106] The battery control unit 7300 controls the secondary battery 7310, which is the power source for the drive motor, according to various programs. For example, the battery control unit 7300 receives information such as battery temperature, battery output voltage, or remaining battery capacity from the battery device equipped with the secondary battery 7310. The battery control unit 7300 uses these signals to perform calculations and controls the temperature of the secondary battery 7310 or the cooling device provided in the battery device.

[0107] The external information detection unit 7400 detects information from outside the vehicle equipped with the vehicle control system 7000. For example, at least one of the imaging unit 7410 and the external information detection unit 7420 is connected to the external information detection unit 7400. The imaging unit 7410 includes at least one of the following: a Time of Flight (ToF) camera, a stereo camera, a monocular camera, an infrared camera, and other cameras. The external information detection unit 7420 includes at least one of the following: an environmental sensor for detecting the current weather or climate, or an ambient information detection sensor for detecting other vehicles, obstacles, or pedestrians around the vehicle equipped with the vehicle control system 7000.

[0108] The environmental sensor may be at least one of the following: a raindrop sensor for detecting rain, a fog sensor for detecting fog, a sunshine sensor for detecting the degree of sunlight, and a snow sensor for detecting snowfall. The ambient information detection sensor may be at least one of the following: an ultrasonic sensor, a radar device, and a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging, Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) device. These imaging unit 7410 and external information detection unit 7420 may be provided as independent sensors or devices, or as a device in which multiple sensors or devices are integrated.

[0109] Here, Figure 18 shows examples of the installation locations of the imaging unit 7410 and the external information detection unit 7420. The imaging units 7910, 7912, 7914, 7916, and 7918 are installed, for example, at least one of the following locations on the vehicle 7900: the front nose, side mirrors, rear bumper, back door, and the upper part of the windshield inside the passenger compartment. The imaging unit 7910 installed on the front nose and the imaging unit 7918 installed on the upper part of the windshield inside the passenger compartment mainly acquire images of the front of the vehicle 7900. The imaging units 7912 and 7914 installed on the side mirrors mainly acquire images of the sides of the vehicle 7900. The imaging unit 7916 installed on the rear bumper or back door mainly acquires images of the rear of the vehicle 7900. The imaging unit 7918 installed on the upper part of the windshield inside the passenger compartment is mainly used for detecting preceding vehicles, pedestrians, obstacles, traffic lights, traffic signs, or lanes.

[0110] Figure 18 shows an example of the imaging range of each imaging unit 7910, 7912, 7914, and 7916. Imaging range a shows the imaging range of imaging unit 7910 located on the front nose, imaging ranges b and c show the imaging ranges of imaging units 7912 and 7914 located on the side mirrors, respectively, and imaging range d shows the imaging range of imaging unit 7916 located on the rear bumper or back door. For example, by superimposing the image data captured by imaging units 7910, 7912, 7914, and 7916, an overhead view image of the vehicle 7900 can be obtained.

[0111] The external information detection units 7920, 7922, 7924, 7926, 7928, and 7930, which are installed on the front, rear, sides, corners, and the upper part of the windshield inside the vehicle 7900, may be, for example, ultrasonic sensors or radar devices. The external information detection units 7920, 7926, and 7930, which are installed on the front nose, rear bumper, back door, and the upper part of the windshield inside the vehicle 7900, may be, for example, LIDAR devices. These external information detection units 7920 to 7930 are mainly used for detecting preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles.

[0112] Returning to Figure 17, the explanation continues. The external information detection unit 7400 causes the imaging unit 7410 to capture images of the area outside the vehicle and receives the captured image data. The external information detection unit 7400 also receives detection information from the connected external information detection unit 7420. If the external information detection unit 7420 is an ultrasonic sensor, radar device, or LIDAR device, the external information detection unit 7400 emits ultrasonic waves or electromagnetic waves and receives information on the received reflected waves. Based on the received information, the external information detection unit 7400 may perform object detection processing such as detecting people, vehicles, obstacles, signs, or characters on the road surface, or distance detection processing. Based on the received information, the external information detection unit 7400 may perform environmental recognition processing to recognize rainfall, fog, or road surface conditions. Based on the received information, the external information detection unit 7400 may calculate the distance to an object outside the vehicle.

[0113] Furthermore, the external information detection unit 7400 may perform image recognition processing or distance detection processing to recognize people, vehicles, obstacles, signs, or characters on the road surface based on the received image data. The external information detection unit 7400 may perform distortion correction or alignment processing on the received image data, and may also synthesize image data captured by different imaging units 7410 to generate an overhead view image or a panoramic image. The external information detection unit 7400 may also perform viewpoint transformation processing using image data captured by different imaging units 7410.

[0114] The in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 detects information inside the vehicle. The in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 is connected to, for example, a driver status detection unit 7510 that detects the driver's state. The driver status detection unit 7510 may include a camera that images the driver, a biosensor that detects the driver's biometric information, or a microphone that collects sounds inside the vehicle. The biosensor is installed, for example, on the seat or steering wheel and detects the biometric information of an occupant sitting in the seat or a driver holding the steering wheel. Based on the detection information input from the driver status detection unit 7510, the in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 may calculate the driver's level of fatigue or concentration, or determine whether the driver is dozing off. The in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 may perform processing such as noise cancellation on the collected audio signals.

[0115] The integrated control unit 7600 controls the overall operation of the vehicle control system 7000 according to various programs. An input unit 7800 is connected to the integrated control unit 7600. The input unit 7800 is implemented by a device that can be operated by the passenger, such as a touch panel, buttons, a microphone, a switch, or a lever. The integrated control unit 7600 may also receive data obtained by voice recognition of voice input from the microphone. The input unit 7800 may be, for example, a remote control device using infrared or other radio waves, or an externally connected device such as a mobile phone or PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) that is compatible with the operation of the vehicle control system 7000. The input unit 7800 may be, for example, a camera, in which case the passenger can input information by gesture. Alternatively, data obtained by detecting the movement of a wearable device worn by the passenger may be input. Furthermore, the input unit 7800 may include, for example, an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on the information input by the passenger using the above input unit 7800 and outputs it to the integrated control unit 7600. Passengers and others can input various data or instruct the vehicle control system 7000 to perform processing operations by operating this input unit 7800.

[0116] The storage unit 7690 may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing various programs executed by a microcomputer, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for storing various parameters, calculation results, or sensor values. The storage unit 7690 may also be implemented using a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or a magneto-optical storage device.

[0117] The general-purpose communication interface 7620 is a general-purpose communication interface that mediates communication between the external environment 7750 and various devices present in the external environment 7750. The general-purpose communication interface 7620 may implement cellular communication protocols such as GSM (Global System of Mobile communications), WiMAX (registered trademark), LTE (registered trademark) (Long Term Evolution), or LTE-A (LTE-Advanced), or other wireless communication protocols such as wireless LAN (also known as Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) and Bluetooth (registered trademark). The general-purpose communication interface 7620 may connect, for example, to devices (e.g., application servers or control servers) located on an external network (e.g., the Internet, a cloud network, or a carrier-specific network) via a base station or access point. Furthermore, the general-purpose communication I / F 7620 may connect to terminals located near the vehicle (for example, terminals belonging to the driver, pedestrians, or shops, or MTC (Machine Type Communication) terminals) using, for example, P2P (Peer To Peer) technology.

[0118] The dedicated communication interface 7630 is a communication interface that supports communication protocols developed for use in vehicles. The dedicated communication interface 7630 may implement standard protocols such as WAVE (Wireless Access in Vehicle Environment), DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications), or cellular communication protocols, which are combinations of lower-layer IEEE 802.11p and upper-layer IEEE 1609. The dedicated communication interface 7630 typically performs V2X communication, a concept that includes one or more of the following: vehicle-to-vehicle communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, vehicle-to-home communication, and vehicle-to-pedestrian communication.

[0119] The positioning unit 7640 performs positioning by receiving, for example, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signals from GNSS satellites (for example, GPS signals from GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites) and generates location information including the vehicle's latitude, longitude, and altitude. The positioning unit 7640 may also determine its current location by exchanging signals with a wireless access point, or it may acquire location information from a terminal such as a mobile phone, PHS, or smartphone that has a positioning function.

[0120] The beacon receiver 7650 receives radio waves or electromagnetic waves transmitted from, for example, a radio station installed on a road, and acquires information such as the current location, traffic congestion, road closures, or travel time. The functions of the beacon receiver 7650 may also be included in the dedicated communication interface 7630 described above.

[0121] The in-vehicle equipment interface 7660 is a communication interface that mediates connections between the microcomputer 7610 and various in-vehicle equipment 7760 located inside the vehicle. The in-vehicle equipment interface 7660 may establish a wireless connection using wireless communication protocols such as wireless LAN, Bluetooth®, NFC (Near Field Communication), or WUSB (Wireless USB). Furthermore, the in-vehicle equipment I / F 7660 may establish a wired connection such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), or MHL (Mobile High-definition Link) via connection terminals (and, if necessary, cables) not shown. The in-vehicle equipment 7760 may include, for example, at least one of the following: a mobile device or wearable device owned by a passenger, or an information device brought into or installed in the vehicle. The in-vehicle equipment 7760 may also include a navigation device that searches for a route to any destination. The in-vehicle equipment I / F 7660 exchanges control signals or data signals with these in-vehicle equipment 7760s.

[0122] The in-vehicle network interface 7680 is an interface that mediates communication between the microcomputer 7610 and the communication network 7010. The in-vehicle network interface 7680 transmits and receives signals and other data in accordance with a predetermined protocol supported by the communication network 7010.

[0123] The microcomputer 7610 of the integrated control unit 7600 controls the vehicle control system 7000 according to various programs based on information acquired via at least one of the general-purpose communication I / F 7620, dedicated communication I / F 7630, positioning unit 7640, beacon receiver 7650, in-vehicle equipment I / F 7660, and in-vehicle network I / F 7680. For example, the microcomputer 7610 may calculate control target values ​​for the drive force generator, steering mechanism, or braking device based on acquired information from inside and outside the vehicle, and output control commands to the drive system control unit 7100. For example, the microcomputer 7610 may perform coordinated control aimed at realizing ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) functions, including vehicle collision avoidance or impact mitigation, following driving based on distance between vehicles, maintaining vehicle speed, vehicle collision warning, or vehicle lane departure warning. Furthermore, the microcomputer 7610 may perform cooperative control for purposes such as autonomous driving, where the vehicle drives autonomously without driver intervention, by controlling the drive force generating device, steering mechanism, or braking device, etc., based on the acquired information about the vehicle's surroundings.

[0124] The microcomputer 7610 may generate three-dimensional distance information between the vehicle and surrounding structures, people, and other objects based on information acquired via at least one of the general-purpose communication I / F 7620, dedicated communication I / F 7630, positioning unit 7640, beacon receiver 7650, in-vehicle equipment I / F 7660, and in-vehicle network I / F 7680, and create local map information including surrounding information of the vehicle's current location. The microcomputer 7610 may also predict dangers such as vehicle collision, proximity of pedestrians, or entry into a closed road based on the acquired information, and generate a warning signal. The warning signal may be, for example, a signal to generate a warning sound or to illuminate a warning lamp.

[0125] The audio-image output unit 7670 transmits at least one of audio and image output signals to an output device capable of visually or audibly notifying the vehicle's occupants or those outside the vehicle. In the example in Figure 17, the output devices are exemplified as an audio speaker 7710, a display unit 7720, and an instrument panel 7730. The display unit 7720 may include, for example, at least one of an onboard display and a head-up display. The display unit 7720 may have an AR (Augmented Reality) display function. The output device may also be other devices other than these, such as headphones, wearable devices such as glasses-type displays worn by occupants, projectors, or lamps. If the output device is a display device, the display device visually displays the results obtained from various processes performed by the microcomputer 7610 or information received from other control units in various formats such as text, images, tables, and graphs. If the output device is an audio output device, the audio output device converts the audio signal, consisting of reproduced audio data or sound data, into an analog signal and outputs it audibly.

[0126] In the example shown in Figure 17, at least two control units connected via the communication network 7010 may be integrated into a single control unit. Alternatively, each control unit may be composed of multiple control units. Furthermore, the vehicle control system 7000 may include other control units not shown. Also, in the above description, some or all of the functions performed by one control unit may be assigned to other control units. In other words, as long as information is transmitted and received via the communication network 7010, predetermined calculation processing may be performed by any of the control units. Similarly, a sensor or device connected to one control unit may be connected to another control unit, and multiple control units may transmit and receive detection information to each other via the communication network 7010.

[0127] Furthermore, the computer programs for realizing each function (e.g., imaging function) of the imaging device 1 according to this embodiment, as described with reference to Figure 1, can be implemented in any of the control units. A computer-readable recording medium containing such a computer program can also be provided. Examples of recording media include magnetic disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, and flash memory. Alternatively, the computer programs may be distributed, for example, via a network, without using a recording medium.

[0128] In the vehicle control system 7000 described above, the imaging device 1 according to this embodiment, as described with reference to Figure 1, can be applied to devices such as the external information detection unit 7400 and the internal information detection unit 7500 shown in the application example in Figure 17. For example, the imaging device 1 can be applied to the imaging unit 7410, the external information detection unit 7420, the driver state detection unit 7510, and so on.

[0129] Furthermore, at least some of the components of the imaging device 1 according to this embodiment, as described using Figure 1 (for example, the control unit for the image sensor 21), may be implemented in a module for the integrated control unit 7600 shown in Figure 17 (for example, an integrated circuit module composed of a single die). Alternatively, at least some of the components of the imaging device 1 according to this embodiment, as described using Figure 1, may be implemented by a plurality of control units of the vehicle control system 7000 shown in Figure 17.

[0130] <7. Addendum> The technology can also be configured as follows: (1) An in-vehicle imaging device comprising: a housing composed of a first member and a second member; an image sensor provided inside the housing; a first welded member fixed to the first member; and a second welded member fixed to the second member, wherein the first welded member and the second welded member are welded together. (2) The in-vehicle imaging device according to (1), wherein the first welded member is fitted and fixed to the first member, and the second welded member is fitted and fixed to the second member. (3) The in-vehicle imaging device according to (2), wherein the first welded member is fixed by frictional force with the first member due to the contraction of the first welded member, and the second welded member is fixed by frictional force with the second member due to the contraction of the second welded member. (4) The planar shape of the first welded member and the second welded member is ring-shaped, as described in (1) or (2). (5) The first welded member is fixed to the end of the first member on the side of the second member, the second welded member is fixed to the end of the second member on the side of the first member, the end of the first member on the side of the second member and the end of the second member on the side of the first member are not in contact, and the first welded member and the second welded member are in contact, as described in any one of (1) to (4). (6) The first welded member and the second welded member are formed from the same or different metal materials, as described in any one of (1) to (5). (7) The first member and the second member are formed from the same or different metal materials, as described in (6). (8) The interface between the first welded member and the second welded member is formed in an uneven shape, the in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (1) to (7). (9) The uneven shape is provided on a part of the interface, the in-vehicle imaging device according to (8). (10) The uneven shape is comb-shaped, the in-vehicle imaging device according to (8) or (9). (11) The uneven shape is a shape that alternates between flat and curved surfaces, the in-vehicle imaging device according to (8) or (9).(12) The in-vehicle imaging device according to (8) or (9), wherein the uneven shape is sawtooth-shaped. (13) The in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (8) to (12), wherein the interface surface includes a plurality of protrusions. (14) The in-vehicle imaging device according to (13), wherein the height of each of the plurality of protrusions is the same. (15) The in-vehicle imaging device according to (13), wherein the height of each of the plurality of protrusions is different. (16) The in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (13) to (15), wherein the width of each of the plurality of protrusions is the same. (17) The in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (13) to (15), wherein the width of each of the plurality of protrusions is different. (18) The in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (13) to (17), wherein the shape of each of the plurality of protrusions is the same. (19) An in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (13) to (17), wherein the shapes of each of the plurality of protrusions are different. (20) A method for manufacturing an in-vehicle imaging device, comprising: fixing a first welded member to a first member and fixing a second welded member to a second member; combining the first member to which the first welded member is fixed and the second member to which the second welded member is fixed to form a housing that incorporates an image sensor; and welding the first welded member and the second welded member. (21) An electronic device comprising an in-vehicle imaging device according to any one of (1) to (19).

[0131] 1 Imaging device 2 Housing 10 Lens unit 10A Internal space 11 Lens barrel 12 Holder 12a End 12b Rough / uneven portion 20 Front substrate 20a Through hole 20A Front surface 20B Rear surface 21 Image sensor 22 Connector 23 Filter 30 Joining member 31 First welding member 31a Opening 31b Rough / uneven portion 32 Second welding member 32a Opening 32b Rough / uneven portion 40 Substrate spacer 50 Rear substrate 50A Front surface 50B Rear surface 51 Connector 52 Connector 60A Heat dissipation member 60B Heat dissipation member 70 Connector unit 71 Case 71a End 71b Rough / uneven portion 72 Connector part 100 Laser irradiation section 101 Laser light 150 Interface 151 Flat surface 152 Curved surface 200 Weld marks

Claims

1. An in-vehicle imaging device comprising: a housing composed of a first member and a second member; an image sensor provided inside the housing; a first welded member fixed to the first member; and a second welded member fixed to the second member, wherein the first welded member and the second welded member are welded together.

2. The in-vehicle imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the first welded member is fitted and fixed to the first member, and the second welded member is fitted and fixed to the second member.

3. The in-vehicle imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the first welded member is fixed by frictional force with the first member due to the contraction of the first welded member, and the second welded member is fixed by frictional force with the second member due to the contraction of the second welded member.

4. The planar shape of the first welded member and the second welded member is ring-shaped, as described in claim 1.

5. The in-vehicle imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the first welded member is fixed to the end of the first member on the second member side, the second welded member is fixed to the end of the second member on the first member side, the end of the first member on the second member side and the end of the second member on the first member side are not in contact, and the first welded member and the second welded member are in contact.

6. The in-vehicle imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the first welded member and the second welded member are formed from the same or different metal materials.

7. The in-vehicle imaging device according to claim 6, wherein the first member and the second member are formed from the same or different metal materials.

8. The interface between the first welded member and the second welded member is formed in an uneven shape, as described in claim 1.

9. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the uneven shape is provided on a part of the interface surface.

10. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the uneven shape is comb-toothed.

11. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the uneven shape is a shape that alternates between flat and curved surfaces.

12. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the uneven shape is a sawtooth shape.

13. The in-vehicle imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the interface includes a plurality of protrusions.

14. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the height of each of the multiple protrusions is the same.

15. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the heights of each of the plurality of protrusions are different.

16. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the width of each of the plurality of protrusions is the same.

17. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the widths of each of the plurality of protrusions are different.

18. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the shape of each of the plurality of protrusions is the same.

19. The vehicle-mounted imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the shapes of each of the plurality of protrusions are different.

20. A method for manufacturing an in-vehicle imaging device, comprising: fixing a first welded member to a first member and fixing a second welded member to a second member; combining the first member to which the first welded member is fixed and the second member to which the second welded member is fixed to form a housing that incorporates an image sensor; and welding the first welded member and the second welded member.

Images