Lens protection apparatus, photographing device and method for improving photographing of photographing device

Abstract

Provided in the present disclosure are a lens protection apparatus, a photographing device and a method for improving photographing. The lens protection apparatus comprises: a connector; an optical element, which is disposed on the connector and is arranged opposite a lens, wherein the optical element and the lens enclose to form a space, the connector is provided with at least one first hole, and the first hole is arranged between the space and an environment outside the lens; and a first film, which is arranged on the connector and covers at least part of the first hole. The first hole arranged in the connector is adapted to communicate the space with the environment outside the lens, and the first film covers at least part of the first hole, and can provide waterproof and dustproof effects. In addition, when the temperature in the space changes, the gas in the narrow space is more sensitive to temperature influence than the gas in the environment outside the lens. Therefore, the present solution enables gas mixed with water vapor to be discharged through the first film during pressure relief, or facilitates balancing of a pressure difference between the inside and the outside by means of pressure relief, such that the optical element or the lens is less prone to fogging.

Description

Lens protection devices, shooting equipment, and methods for improving shooting using shooting equipment. Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure pertains to the field of lens protection, and particularly relates to a lens protection device, shooting equipment, and a method for improving shooting using the shooting equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Shooting equipment equipped with a lens protection device creates a space that is essentially isolated from the external environment between the lens protection device and the lens. During the use of the shooting equipment, due to temperature changes caused by its operation, the temperature of the shooting equipment usually becomes higher than the external environment temperature after a period of use. This can easily cause water vapor in this space to condense on the surface of the lens protection device and / or the lens, resulting in unclear image quality or inconvenience for the user.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address at least one of the aforementioned and other technical problems in the prior art, this disclosure provides a lens protection device, an imaging device, and a method for improving shooting with the imaging device. Through a first hole on a connector and a first film at least covering the first hole, dust and moisture can be prevented from entering the space, while at least a portion of the air and entrained water vapor within the space can be discharged. Furthermore, because the lens protection device is detachable from the main body or lens of the imaging device, repeated installation of the lens protection device on the main body or lens of the imaging device can easily disrupt the sealing environment between the lens and the lens protection device, and / or lead to increased moisture and fogging problems, thereby affecting shooting quality or causing inconvenience for the user.

[0005] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a lens protection device for protecting the lens of a shooting device, comprising: a connector; an optical element disposed on the connector and disposed opposite to the lens, the optical element and the lens surrounding each other to form a space, the connector having at least one first hole disposed between the space and the environment outside the lens; and a first film disposed on the connector and covering at least a portion of the first hole.

[0006] The second aspect of this disclosure provides a lens protection device for protecting the lens of a shooting device, a connector, an optical element disposed on the connector and opposite to the lens, the optical element and the lens surrounding and forming a space, the distance of the space along the height direction of the connector being less than the distance of the space along the width direction of the connector, the air pressure in the space being configured to be balanced with the air pressure of the environment outside the lens, and light passing sequentially through the optical element, the space and the lens to achieve shooting.

[0007] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a shooting device, comprising: a main body; a lens disposed on the main body; and a lens protection device configured to enclose at least a portion of the lens.

[0008] A fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a shooting device, comprising: a main body having a connecting structure detachably connected to a lens protection device; and a lens disposed on the main body, wherein the lens protection device includes an optical element, the optical element and the lens surround to form a space, and the lens protection device has a first hole disposed between the space and the environment outside the lens.

[0009] A fifth aspect of this disclosure provides a shooting device, comprising: a main body having a connecting structure detachably connected to a lens protection device; and a lens disposed on the main body, the lens protection device including an optical element, the optical element and the lens surrounding to form a space; the main body having a first hole disposed between the space and the environment outside the lens.

[0010] The sixth aspect of this disclosure provides a method for improving shooting with a shooting device, the shooting device including a main body and a lens disposed on the main body, comprising: disposing a lens protection device to the main body, the lens protection device including an optical element, the optical element and the lens surrounding and forming a space; light passing sequentially through the optical element and the lens to achieve shooting; and balancing the air pressure of the space and the environment outside the lens.

[0011] As can be seen from the illustrative embodiments of this disclosure, the connector is suitable for mounting optical elements onto an external lens, forming a space between the optical element and the lens. A first hole on the connector connects this space to the environment outside the lens, and a first membrane at least partially covers this first hole, providing waterproofing and dustproofing. Furthermore, when the temperature within this space changes, the gas within the confined space is more sensitive to temperature changes than the gas in the environment outside the lens. Therefore, this solution can facilitate the discharge of gas carrying water vapor through the first membrane during pressure relief, or help equalize or balance the internal and external pressure differences through pressure relief, making the optical element or lens less prone to fogging. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 is an exploded view of the components of a lens protection device according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the lens protection device of the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 1;

[0014] Figure 3 is a model analysis diagram showing the pressure difference between the space of the lens protection device and the environment outside the lens in the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the optical elements of the lens protection device of the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 1, showing two light-transmitting bodies;

[0016] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a lens protection device according to another illustrative embodiment;

[0017] Figure 6 is a partially enlarged view of the first film of the lens protection device of the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 1, and also shows the second film;

[0018] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a photographing device according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of a photographing device according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the connection structure;

[0020] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an imaging device according to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the imaging device of the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 9, showing the first hole;

[0022] Figure 11 is a partially enlarged view of the first film of the lens protection device of the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 9, and also shows the second film;

[0023] Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the imaging device of the schematic embodiment shown in Figure 9, showing the third membrane;

[0024] Figure 13 is a flowchart of an improved shooting method using a shooting device according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] In the accompanying drawings, the reference numerals have the following specific meanings: 1. Lens protection device; 11. Optical element; 111. First light-transmitting body; 112. Second light-transmitting body; 113. Heat insulation layer; 12. Connector; 121. First part; 1211. Recessed part; 122. Second part; 123. First hole; 1231. Smaller hole; 1232. Larger hole; 1233. First end; 1234. Second end; 124. Membrane structure; 1241. Connecting part; 1242. First membrane; 1243. Second membrane; 1244. Third membrane; 125. Space; 126. Heating part; 13. Adhesive component; 14. Sealing component; 2. Main body; 21. Outer shell; 22. Imaging device; 23. Connecting structure; 24. First hole; 241. Smaller hole; 242. Larger aperture; 243, First end; 244, Second end; 25, Membrane structure; 251, Connecting part; 252, First membrane; 253, Second membrane; 254, Third membrane; 26, Space; 27, Heating part; 3, Environment outside the lens; 4, Lens. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0027] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0028] All terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0029] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, and C," the meaning should generally be interpreted according to the understanding of a person skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C. Similarly, when using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, or C," the meaning should generally be interpreted according to the understanding of a person skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C. Lenses are used to focus light from the target object onto the imaging device in the shooting equipment. During the use of the shooting equipment, lenses exposed to the equipment are prone to damage such as wear, dust accumulation, and moisture intrusion, resulting in scratches, dirt spots, and fogging caused by internally heated gases evaporating when they encounter cold glass at the corresponding dew point, thus affecting the imaging effect of the shooting equipment. Therefore, lens protection devices can be installed on the lens or shooting equipment to surround the front end of the lens or lens without affecting the lens's light-gathering effect, thereby effectively preventing lens damage.

[0030] Shooting equipment equipped with a lens protection device creates a space that is essentially isolated from the external environment between the lens protection device and the lens. During the use of the shooting equipment, due to temperature changes caused by its operation, the temperature of the shooting equipment usually becomes higher than the external environment temperature after a period of use. This can easily cause water vapor in this space to condense on the surface of the lens protection device and / or the lens, resulting in unclear image quality or inconvenience for the user.

[0031] Lens protection devices are designed to be mounted on shooting equipment to isolate at least the front end of the lens from the external environment, thereby protecting the lens. Shooting equipment equipped with lens protection devices creates a space between the lens protection device and the lens.

[0032] During the use of the shooting equipment, the temperature changes caused by the operation of the shooting equipment (such as the temperature changes caused by the heat generated by the operation of the imaging device) and the temperature difference of the environment outside the lens can easily cause water vapor in the space to condense on the surface of the lens protection device and / or the lens surface, resulting in poor imaging effect (such as unclear image).

[0033] To address the aforementioned shortcomings, some lens protection devices incorporate openings that connect the internal space to the external environment, reducing the pressure difference between the two environments and thus minimizing condensation. However, in practical use, these open openings actually increase the chance of liquids, gases, and dust entering the space, limiting the effectiveness of this method in preventing water and dust contamination. Other lens protection devices utilize auxiliary heating mechanisms to increase the internal temperature and reduce water vapor condensation. Furthermore, these devices often include valves that open and close in response to the auxiliary heating mechanism's operation, allowing some gas to escape when the space reaches a higher temperature. However, in practical use, these devices are not only structurally complex but also lack proactive adjustment capabilities; excessively high temperatures can even damage the lens.

[0034] In view of this, how to provide a lens protection device with a reasonable structure that can effectively prevent dust and water, reduce the probability of fogging of optical components or lenses, and actively expel some water vapor to the environment outside the lens has become an urgent technical problem to be solved.

[0035] The shake compensation device and imaging equipment of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the features of the following embodiments and implementations can be combined with each other.

[0036] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, this disclosure provides a lens protection device for protecting the lens of a shooting device, including a connector 12, an optical element 11, and a first film 1242. The optical element 11 is disposed on the connector 12 and opposite to the lens. The optical element 11 and the lens surround to form a space 125. The connector 12 has at least one first hole 123, which is located between the space 125 and the environment outside the lens. The air pressure within the space 125 is configured to be balanced with the air pressure of the environment outside the lens. Light passes sequentially through the optical element 11 and the lens 4 to achieve shooting. The first film 1242 is disposed on the connector 12 and covers at least a portion of the first hole 123.

[0037] In this embodiment, the connector 12 is suitable for mounting on the body or lens of the shooting device, and at least covers the front port of the lens (or even the entire lens) to protect the lens.

[0038] The optical elements include at least one of the following: Filters, such as absorptive filters (filtering light by absorbing specific wavelengths) and interference filters (selecting specific wavelengths of light through interference); Wave plates, such as quarter-wave plates and half-wave plates; Lenses, such as convex lenses (convex lenses) (convex lenses) (diverging light) and concave lenses (diverging light); Mirrors; Plane mirrors (reflecting light without changing the divergence of the beam); Curved mirrors; Convex mirrors (diverging light, commonly used in wide-angle rearview mirrors); Concave mirrors (convex mirrors) (convex mirrors) (convex mirrors) (convex mirrors) (diverging light, commonly used in wide-angle rearview mirrors); Prisms; Triangular prisms (used for dispersing light or changing the direction of light propagation), Pentagonal prisms, Right-angle prisms (used for redirecting the light path). For ease of understanding, the embodiments of this disclosure use a plane mirror as an example.

[0039] To address the aforementioned shortcomings, a modeling analysis was conducted, as shown in Figure 3. Here, T0 represents the ambient temperature (K) when the lens protection device is installed; ρ0 represents the relative humidity (%RH) when the lens protection device is installed; T1 represents the temperature (uniform temperature) (K) of space 125, where space 125 includes the area enclosed by the optical element 11 and the lens 4, or it can be the area enclosed by the optical element 11, the connector 12, and the lens 4; T2 represents the temperature (uniform temperature) (K) of the optical element; T3 represents the ambient temperature (K) outside the lens; T4 represents the temperature (K) of the inner surface of the optical element; and t1 represents the thickness of the optical element.

[0040] With the lens protection device mounted on the lens or the main body of the shooting equipment, an approximately isolated space 125 is formed between the optical element 11 and the lens, relative to the external environment 3. The relationship between the states of the ideal gas within this space 125 is described according to the ideal gas law PV = nRT. The physical quantities represented by the symbols in the formula are as follows:

[0041] P is the pressure of a gas, commonly measured in Pascals (Pa) or standard atmospheres (atm).

[0042] V is the volume of a gas, commonly expressed in cubic meters (m³). 3 ) or liter (L), which is equivalent to the volume of gas in space 125.

[0043] n is the amount of substance of the gas, expressed in moles (mol).

[0044] R is the ideal gas constant, with a value of approximately 8.314 J / (mol·K).

[0045] T is the absolute temperature of a gas, and its unit is Kelvin (K).

[0046] Therefore, under the analysis model of this embodiment, the temperature and pressure of the gas in space 125 are positively correlated. The higher the temperature of the gas in space 125, the greater the air pressure in space 125, and the greater the pressure difference with the environment outside the lens, which in turn affects the dew point temperature of the optical element 11 or the lens, making it easier for fog to form.

[0047] This problem is even more pronounced in scenarios where the lens protection device and shooting equipment can be detached, because it is impossible to block external water vapor around the lens 4 during disassembly and to expel this water vapor during installation. As a result, when the air pressure inside space 125 is high, water vapor will condense on the optical element 11 or lens 4 to form fog, i.e., fogging problem occurs.

[0048] Therefore, in scenarios where the ambient temperature changes drastically, such as when entering a ski resort or subway from a high-temperature environment to a low-temperature environment, users are more likely to experience fogging issues with the optical element 11 or lens 4. This can lead to unclear image quality or inconvenience for users, as they need to clear the fog before taking another shot.

[0049] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a first hole 123 on the connector 12 connects the space 125 to the environment 3 outside the lens, thereby achieving approximately equal or balanced air pressure between the space 125 and the environment 3 outside the lens. This lowers the dew point of the optical element, maintaining it far below room temperature, such as 5 degrees Celsius or below zero degrees Celsius, making it less prone to fogging of the optical element or lens in the lens protection device. Furthermore, a first film 1242 at least partially covers the first hole 123 to prevent liquids and dust from entering the space 125 through the first hole, thus providing dustproof and waterproof protection.

[0050] Since the space 125 can be considered as being connected to the environment 3 outside the lens only through the first hole 123 (not considering the sealing problem between the connector 12 and the lens), it can be regarded as a relatively enclosed space 125 with a certain heat insulation effect. When a temperature change occurs within the space 125 (which could be caused by heat generated during the use of the shooting equipment, a change in the usage scenario of the shooting equipment, or a combination of both), the gas within the space 125 is more sensitive to temperature changes than the gas in the external space 125. This results in the air pressure within the space 125 being higher than the air pressure in the environment 3 outside the lens. Consequently, the pressure is released to the environment 3 outside the lens through the first hole 123 (for example, at 0°C, the pressure release of the space 125 is 6 times the pressure caused by the temperature rise; at 25°C, the pressure release of the space 125 is 11 times the pressure caused by the temperature rise). This allows some of the gas (such as air) and entrained water vapor within the space 125 to be discharged from the first membrane 1242 into the environment 3 outside the lens until the air pressure on both sides of the first membrane 1242 is approximately the same, thereby preventing fogging caused by water vapor condensing on the surface of the optical element 11 and / or the lens.

[0051] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG4, the optical element 11 includes at least one light-transmitting element. The thickness of each light-transmitting element (i.e., t1 as shown in FIG4) ranges from 1.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0052] In some illustrative embodiments, the thickness of each light-transmitting element is, but is not limited to, any value configured as 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, and 3.0 mm. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0053] Specifically, it should be appropriate to meet the thermal insulation, structural strength, optical requirements, and other design requirements of the optical components.

[0054] In some illustrative embodiments, the optical element 11 is adapted to provide necessary shielding and protection for the lens. Specifically, the optical element 11 includes, but is not limited to, a plane mirror. Furthermore, the light-transmitting material used in the optical element 11 includes, but is not limited to, any one of optical glass, plastics (such as polycarbonate, acrylic polymers, and polymethyl methacrylate), crystals, and other optical materials suitable for manufacturing optical elements. Thus, the optical element positioned in front of the lens has a certain degree of impact and shock resistance, preventing lens damage caused by drops and / or impacts to the shooting equipment. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0055] In addition to its protective function, the optical element 11 may also be made of other lenses with certain optical effects. For example, the optical element 11 may include, but is not limited to, any one of spherical mirrors, aspherical mirrors, convex optical elements, concave optical elements, coated lenses (such as UV lenses), and other lenses with optical effects.

[0056] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG4, the optical element 11 includes at least two light-transmitting elements, which are spaced apart. A heat-insulating layer is provided between adjacent light-transmitting elements.

[0057] In some illustrative embodiments, the optical element 11 includes a first light-transmitting body 111 and a second light-transmitting body 112 stacked together. Specifically, the two light-transmitting bodies (i.e., the first light-transmitting body 111 and the second light-transmitting body 112) are spaced apart and generally parallel to each other on the connector 12. Furthermore, the cavity formed between the two light-transmitting bodies can be evacuated or filled with a heat-insulating medium (such as an inert gas) to form a heat-insulating layer 113, thereby reducing heat exchange between the external environment and the space 125, and thus preventing fogging of the inner surface of the optical element 11 or the lens 4 due to rapid temperature changes.

[0058] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the connector 12 includes a first part 121 and a second part 122. An optical element 11 is disposed on the first part 121. The second part 122 is connected to the first part 121 and is adapted to be assembled with a lens so as to detachably connect the connector 12 to the lens.

[0059] Referring to FIG2, in some illustrative embodiments, one of the facing surfaces of the first part 121 and the second part 122 (the inner end surface of the first part and the outer end surface of the second part as shown in FIG2) has a recess, while the other has a protrusion that mates with the recess, so that the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be fitted together and connected. Further, the second part 122 has a support surface (the upper end surface as shown in FIG2) to support the optical element 11, while the first part 121 covers the outer edge of the optical element 11 and connects it to the second part 122, so that the lens protection device forms an integral structure (i.e., under non-external force disassembly, the optical element 11, the first part 121, and the second part 122 can remain connected for transfer or assembly onto other devices). The optical element 11 is, but is not limited to, being bonded to the support surface of the second part 122 by adhesive or double-sided adhesive. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to this.

[0060] For example, the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be formed from the same material in one piece.

[0061] In this implementation, the first part 121 and the second part 122 adopt a separate structure, which is simpler in terms of process and has a correspondingly lower processing cost than the one-piece molding method. Furthermore, the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be adapted to different design purposes (which will be described in detail in later embodiments).

[0062] Referring to FIG2, in some illustrative embodiments, the end of the second portion 122 opposite to the first portion 121 (the lower end shown in FIG2) forms a coupling end. Specifically, this coupling end is configured to engage with another coupling end (not shown) provided on the front port of the lens or the body of the imaging device.

[0063] For example, the connecting end provided in the second part 122 and the other connecting end can be connected by a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, a blade-type connection, or any other connection method suitable for connecting the lens protection device to the shooting equipment.

[0064] Furthermore, the second part 122, on the mating surface facing the lens (the lower surface shown in Figure 2), is also provided with a sealing element 14. Specifically, this sealing element 14 is, but is not limited to, bonded to the mating surface by an adhesive element 13 (such as double-sided tape or adhesive provided in an adhesive groove), and when the connector 12 is assembled in the shooting device, it tightly presses against the surface of the lens to form a seal between the connector 12 and the lens. This improves the sealing performance at the connection point between the connector 12 and the lens, further enhancing the waterproof and dustproof effect.

[0065] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first part 121 is made of a first material, and the second part 122 is made of a second material. The thermal conductivity of the first material is less than that of the second material.

[0066] In some illustrative embodiments, the second part 122 may include, but is not limited to, being made of metal to connect with the lens or the main body of the shooting device and / or form a contact with the lens mount. Furthermore, the first part 121 may include, but is not limited to, being overmolded with at least one of thermoplastic, thermosetting, and rubber materials (if two or more materials are used, it may be made by multi-color injection molding) outside the second part 122.

[0067] In this embodiment, a first part 121 made of a material with low thermal conductivity is located outside the second part 122 to surround at least a portion of the second part 122 (the upper end as shown in FIG. 2). This exposed first part 121 is available for the user to hold and use, thus insulating the heat of the second part 122 from being transferred to the outside and preventing the user from being burned. In addition, the rubber-coated first part 121 also has a wider range of textures and color choices than the second part 122 made of metal, thereby improving the aesthetics of the product.

[0068] Referring to FIG2, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first hole 123 is disposed on at least one of the first part 121 and the second part 122.

[0069] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG2, the first hole 123 is provided along the height direction of the connector 12 (the x direction shown in FIG2). For example, the first hole 123 penetrates the first part 121 and / or the second part 122 along the height direction of the connector 12.

[0070] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first portion 121 is configured as a generally annular structure, and a recess 1211 is formed on the inner edge of the first portion 121. A first hole 123 is formed on the second portion 122, and in orthographic projection along the optical axis of the lens, the projection of the first hole 123 coincides with the projection of the recess 1211.

[0071] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first part 121 is configured as an approximately annular structure with an inner circle and an outer square. Specifically, the inner diameter of the circular hole formed on its inner edge is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the adapted lens, so as to tightly cover the lens when assembled with it.

[0072] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the side of the second part 122 facing the first part 121 forms a stepped structure. The optical element 11 is fitted into the first-level stepped structure (the uppermost stepped structure shown in Figure 3) and supported on a support surface. Furthermore, there is a height difference (in the x direction shown in Figure 2) between the next-level stepped structure and the support surface, and a first hole 123 penetrates the stepped structure to connect the space 125 defined below the optical element 11 with the environment outside the lens.

[0073] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG2, a first membrane 1242 is disposed within a first hole 123.

[0074] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the end of the first hole 123 located outside the space 125 (the lower end shown in Figure 2) forms an annular groove recessed into the second part 122. Specifically, a membrane structure 124 having a first membrane 1242 is disposed within this groove. Further, the membrane structure 124 also includes an annular connecting portion 1241 located outside the first membrane 1242 to connect the first membrane 1242 to the second part 122, and to make the first membrane 1242 face the first hole 123. Even further, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 is configured to be less than or equal to the aperture of the first hole 123 (for example, a circular hole; if the first hole 123 is a non-circular hole, then the cross-sectional area of ​​the first membrane 1242 is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the non-circular hole). The connecting portion 1241 includes, but is not limited to, using annular double-sided adhesive to bond the first membrane 1242 to the first hole 123.

[0075] In one illustrative embodiment, the diameter of the first aperture 123 is, but is not limited to, configured to be 4 mm to 5 mm, such as 4 mm, 4.1 mm, 4.2 mm, 4.3 mm, 4.4 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.6 mm, 4.7 mm, 4.8 mm, 4.9 mm, and 5 mm. Further, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 is, but is not limited to, configured to be 1 mm to 2 mm, such as 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, and 2 mm. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0076] For example, the diameter of the first aperture 123 can also be configured to be 2 mm, 3 mm, 6 mm or other arbitrary values. Correspondingly, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 can also be configured to be 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm or other arbitrary values.

[0077] In this embodiment, the first membrane 1242 is disposed within the first hole 123, allowing the first membrane 1242 to be hidden within the second part 122. This not only improves the overall integrity of the first membrane 1242 and the connector 12, making it more aesthetically pleasing, but also effectively prevents the first membrane 1242 from detaching due to frequent contact with the outside during use.

[0078] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG2, in orthographic projection along the optical axis of the lens, the projection of the first aperture 123 is close to the edge of the projection of the first part 121. The shortest distance between the edge of the first aperture 123 and the edge of the first part 121 is 0.1 mm to 5 mm.

[0079] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG2, the edge of the first hole 123 is configured such that the shortest distance from the edge of the first part 121 (which can be regarded as the connector 12) is 0.1 mm to 5 mm, i.e., 0.1 mm ≤ d1 ≤ 5 mm. Furthermore, the edge of the first hole 123 is also configured such that the shortest distance from the optical axis of the lens (which can be regarded as the center line of the lens protection device) is 20 mm to 50 mm, i.e., 20 mm ≤ d2 ≤ 50 mm.

[0080] In one illustrative embodiment, the edge of the first hole 123 is configured such that the shortest distance from the edge of the first part 121 is, but is not limited to, configured as 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2. Any value among 2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.1 mm, 3.2 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.4 mm, 3.5 mm, 3.6 mm, 3.7 mm, 3.8 mm, 3.9 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.1 mm, 4.2 mm, 4.3 mm, 4.4 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.6 mm, 4.7 mm, 4.8 mm, 4.9 mm, and 5.0 mm.

[0081] In one illustrative embodiment, the edge of the first aperture 123 is further configured such that the shortest distance from the optical axis of the lens is, but is not limited to, any value among 20 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm, 23 mm, 24 mm, 25 mm, 26 mm, 27 mm, 28 mm, 29 mm, 30 mm, 31 mm, 32 mm, 33 mm, 34 mm, 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, and 50 mm. It should be understood that embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0082] The shortest distance between the edge of the first hole and the edge of the first part (i.e., the connector) and / or the shortest distance between the edge of the first hole and the optical axis of the lens should be adapted to the actual size of the shooting equipment and the lens configured for the shooting equipment, so as to meet the overall design requirements.

[0083] In some illustrative embodiments, a plurality of first holes 123 may be provided on the connector 12. For ease of representation, they are referred to as second holes. In detail, at least one first hole 123 and at least one second hole are provided at intervals on the connector 12.

[0084] For example, at least a portion of the first hole 123 and at least a portion of the second hole may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line of the connector 12 (which can also be regarded as the optical axis of the lens). Specifically, it may be axially symmetrical and / or centrally symmetrical.

[0085] Referring to FIG5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first hole 123 is provided along the width direction of the connector 12 (the y-direction as shown in FIG5). Specifically, the first hole 123 penetrates the wall of the first part 121 or the second part 122 along the width direction of the connector 12 (the y-direction as shown in FIG5).

[0086] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG3, a through-hole 123 is provided on the wall of the first part 121, and a through-hole 123 is also provided on the wall of the second part 122. Specifically, the first holes 123 formed by the first part 121 and the second part 122 are connected end-to-end, so that the space 125 below the optical element 11 is connected to the environment outside the lens. Furthermore, a first film 1242 (or a film structure 124 including the first film 1242) may also be disposed within the first hole 123, in a manner similar to the above-described embodiments, and will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0087] In some other illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the first membrane 1242 may also be disposed at the first end 1233 of the first hole 123.

[0088] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 is configured to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the first hole 123 (taking a circular hole as an example). Furthermore, the first membrane 1242 is disposed outside the first hole 123 and completely covers one end of the first hole 123 (refer to the left end of the first hole 123 shown in FIG3).

[0089] In this embodiment, compared to the method of placing the first membrane 1242 inside the first hole 123, the assembly accuracy requirement is lower and the installation is easier.

[0090] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG5, the lens protection device further includes a heating element 126. The heating element 126 is disposed on the connector 12 and configured as a heating space 125.

[0091] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the heating element 126 includes, but is not limited to, employing heating wires and / or heating plates. Specifically, the heating element 126 is, but is not limited to, disposed on the connector 12 and connected to an external circuit, which may be an external power supply or integrated into the circuitry of the imaging device. Furthermore, the heating power of the heating element 126 can be configured to be adjustable (e.g., adjusting the current magnitude or the number of heating wires) to more precisely regulate the temperature of the optical element 11, thereby more quickly regulating the gas pressure within the space 125 and the ambient air pressure outside the lens.

[0092] Referring to FIG6, the lens protection device further includes at least one second film 1243. The second film 1243 is stacked with the first film 1242.

[0093] In some illustrative embodiments, the membrane structure 124 includes a first membrane 1242, a second membrane 1243, and an annular connecting portion 1241. Specifically, the connecting portion 1241 is located between the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243 to connect the stacked first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243. In some embodiments, a gap may be formed between the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243. The number of layers of the second membrane 1243 includes, but is not limited to, any number configured as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more layers, preferably to meet corresponding design requirements.

[0094] In this embodiment, the gap formed by the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243 creates a transition cavity, thereby preventing gas backflow caused by the gas pressure in the environment outside the lens being greater than the gas pressure inside the space 125 (for example, in a scenario where the shooting device is quickly moved to a high-temperature environment after shooting in a low-temperature environment). In the event of gas backflow, the gap between the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243 has a stabilizing and buffering effect, ensuring that gas entering from the outside remains only within this transition cavity and does not continue to enter the space 125 defined by the lens protection device through the first membrane 1242.

[0095] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG5, the lens protection device further includes a third film 1244. The third film 1244 is disposed at the second end 1234 of the first hole 123, and the second end 1234 and the first end 1233 are located at opposite ends of the first hole 123.

[0096] Similar to the above embodiments, in addition to stacking at least one second membrane 1243 on the first membrane 1242, a transition cavity (which can be considered as the entire area within the first hole 123) can also be formed by respectively setting the first membrane 1242 and the third membrane 1244 at opposite ends of the first hole 123 (as shown in FIG. 5). It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0097] For example, a second membrane 1243 may be stacked on top of a first membrane 1242, and a first membrane 1242 and a third membrane 1244 may be disposed at both ends of a first hole 123, and both may be used simultaneously.

[0098] In some illustrative embodiments, at least one of the first membrane 1242, the second membrane 1243, and the third membrane 1244 is a waterproof and breathable membrane. Specifically, this includes, but is not limited to, materials with porous structures such as polypropylene film, polyethylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, and polyurethane film.

[0099] In this embodiment, the first, second, and third membranes 1244 disposed in the first hole 123 are made of thin films that prevent droplets from passing through while allowing water vapor to pass through. This effectively prevents liquid from entering the space 125 through the first hole 123, and allows the gas and entrained water vapor in the space 125 to be effectively discharged outward under the action of pressure difference, ultimately achieving equal or balanced air pressure between the space 125 and the ambient air pressure outside the lens, making the optical elements or lens less prone to fogging.

[0100] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG3, the first hole 123 is a stepped hole, the diameter of the larger hole 1232 is in the range of 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, and the diameter of the smaller hole 1231 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole 1232 and the smaller hole 1231 constitute a stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole 1232 is larger than the diameter of the smaller hole 1231.

[0101] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG3, the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231 is configured with, but is not limited to, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, and 2.0 mm. The diameter of the larger aperture 1232 is configured with, but is not limited to, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6.0 mm. Wherein, when the aperture of the larger aperture 1232 is configured from 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231 must be smaller than the aperture of the larger aperture 1232. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0102] For example, the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231 can be configured to any value that is less than 0.5 mm or greater than 2.0 mm.

[0103] For example, the aperture of the larger aperture 1232 can be configured to be less than 1.0 mm and greater than any value of the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231.

[0104] For example, the first hole 123 can have two or more stepped structures.

[0105] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, this disclosure provides another lens protection device for protecting the lens of a shooting device, including a connector 12 and an optical element 11, which are disposed on the connector 12 and opposite to the lens 4. The optical element 11 and the lens 4 surround to form a space 125.

[0106] The distance of space 125 along the height direction of connector 12 (e.g., the x direction shown in Figure 2) is less than the distance of space 125 along the width direction of connector 12 (e.g., the y direction shown in Figure 2); the air pressure in space 125 is configured to be balanced with the air pressure of environment 3 outside the lens, and light passes through optical element 11, space 125 and lens 4 in sequence to achieve shooting.

[0107] Therefore, space 125 will have a roughly flat structure.

[0108] In this embodiment, the connector 12 is suitable for mounting on the main body 2 or lens 4 of the shooting device, and at least covering the front port of the lens (or even covering the entire lens) to protect the lens.

[0109] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a first hole 123 on the connector 12 connects the space 125 to the environment 3 outside the lens, thereby achieving approximately equal or balanced air pressure between the space 125 and the environment 3 outside the lens. This lowers the dew point of the optical element, maintaining it far below room temperature, such as 5 degrees Celsius or below zero degrees Celsius, making it less prone to fogging of the optical element or lens in the lens protection device. Furthermore, a first film 1242 at least partially covers the first hole 123 to prevent liquids and dust from entering the space 125 through the first hole, thus providing dustproof and waterproof protection.

[0110] Since the space 125 can be considered as being connected to the environment 3 outside the lens only through the first hole 123 (not considering the sealing problem between the connector 12 and the lens), it can be regarded as a relatively enclosed space 125 with a certain heat insulation effect. When a temperature change occurs within the space 125 (which could be caused by heat generated during the use of the shooting equipment, a change in the usage scenario of the shooting equipment, or a combination of both), the gas within the space 125 is more sensitive to temperature changes than the gas in the external space 125. This results in the air pressure within the space 125 being higher than the air pressure in the environment 3 outside the lens. Consequently, the pressure is released to the environment 3 outside the lens through the first hole 123 (for example, at 0°C, the pressure release of the space 125 is 6 times the pressure caused by the temperature rise; at 25°C, the pressure release of the space 125 is 11 times the pressure caused by the temperature rise). This allows some of the gas (such as air) and entrained water vapor within the space 125 to be discharged from the first membrane 1242 into the environment 3 outside the lens until the air pressure on both sides of the first membrane 1242 is approximately the same, thereby preventing fogging caused by water vapor condensing on the surface of the optical element 11 and / or the lens.

[0111] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG4, the optical element 11 includes at least one light-transmitting element. The thickness of each light-transmitting element (i.e., t1 as shown in FIG4) ranges from 1.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0112] In some illustrative embodiments, the thickness of each light-transmitting element is, but is not limited to, any value configured as 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, and 3.0 mm. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0113] Specifically, it should be appropriate to meet the thermal insulation, structural strength, optical requirements, and other design requirements of the optical components.

[0114] In some illustrative embodiments, the optical element 11 is adapted to provide necessary shielding and protection for the lens. Specifically, the optical element 11 includes, but is not limited to, a plane mirror. Furthermore, the light-transmitting material used in the optical element 11 includes, but is not limited to, any one of optical glass, plastics (such as polycarbonate, acrylic polymers, and polymethyl methacrylate), crystals, and other optical materials suitable for manufacturing optical elements. Thus, the optical element positioned in front of the lens has a certain degree of impact and shock resistance, preventing lens damage caused by drops and / or impacts to the shooting equipment. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0115] In addition to its protective function, the optical element 11 may also be made of other lenses with certain optical effects. For example, the optical element 11 may include, but is not limited to, any one of spherical mirrors, aspherical mirrors, convex optical elements, concave optical elements, coated lenses (such as UV lenses), and other lenses with optical effects.

[0116] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG4, the optical element 11 includes at least two light-transmitting elements, which are spaced apart. A heat-insulating layer is provided between adjacent light-transmitting elements.

[0117] In some illustrative embodiments, the optical element 11 includes a first light-transmitting body 111 and a second light-transmitting body 112 stacked together. Specifically, the two light-transmitting bodies (i.e., the first light-transmitting body 111 and the second light-transmitting body 112) are spaced apart and generally parallel to each other on the connector 12. Furthermore, the cavity formed between the two light-transmitting bodies can be evacuated or filled with a heat-insulating medium (such as an inert gas) to form a heat-insulating layer 113, thereby reducing heat exchange between the external environment and the space 125, and thus preventing fogging of the inner surface of the optical element 11 or the lens 4 due to rapid temperature changes.

[0118] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the connector 12 includes a first part 121 and a second part 122. An optical element 11 is disposed on the first part 121. The second part 122 is connected to the first part 121 and is adapted to be assembled with a lens so as to detachably connect the connector 12 to the lens.

[0119] Referring to FIG2, in some illustrative embodiments, one of the facing surfaces of the first part 121 and the second part 122 (the inner end surface of the first part and the outer end surface of the second part as shown in FIG2) has a recess, while the other has a protrusion that mates with the recess, so that the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be fitted together and connected. Further, the second part 122 has a support surface (the upper end surface as shown in FIG2) to support the optical element 11, while the first part 121 covers the outer edge of the optical element 11 and connects it to the second part 122, so that the lens protection device forms an integral structure (i.e., under non-external force disassembly, the optical element 11, the first part 121, and the second part 122 can remain connected for transfer or assembly onto other devices). The optical element 11 is, but is not limited to, being bonded to the support surface of the second part 122 by adhesive or double-sided adhesive. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to this.

[0120] For example, the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be formed from the same material in one piece.

[0121] In this implementation, the first part 121 and the second part 122 adopt a separate structure, which is simpler in terms of process and has a correspondingly lower processing cost than the one-piece molding method. Furthermore, the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be adapted to different design purposes (which will be described in detail in later embodiments).

[0122] Referring to FIG2, in some illustrative embodiments, the end of the second portion 122 opposite to the first portion 121 (the lower end shown in FIG2) forms a coupling end. Specifically, this coupling end is configured to engage with another coupling end (not shown) provided on the front port of the lens or the body of the imaging device.

[0123] For example, the connecting end provided in the second part 122 and the other connecting end can be connected by a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, a blade-type connection, or any other connection method suitable for connecting the lens protection device to the shooting equipment.

[0124] Furthermore, the second part 122, on the mating surface facing the lens (the lower surface shown in Figure 2), is also provided with a sealing element 14. Specifically, this sealing element 14 is, but is not limited to, bonded to the mating surface by an adhesive element 13 (such as double-sided tape or adhesive provided in an adhesive groove), and when the connector 12 is assembled in the shooting device, it tightly presses against the surface of the lens to form a seal between the connector 12 and the lens. This improves the sealing performance at the connection point between the connector 12 and the lens, further enhancing the waterproof and dustproof effect.

[0125] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first part 121 is made of a first material, and the second part 122 is made of a second material. The thermal conductivity of the first material is less than that of the second material.

[0126] In some illustrative embodiments, the second part 122 may include, but is not limited to, being made of metal to connect with the lens or the main body of the shooting device and / or form a contact with the lens mount. Furthermore, the first part 121 may include, but is not limited to, being overmolded with at least one of thermoplastic, thermosetting, and rubber materials (if two or more materials are used, it may be made by multi-color injection molding) outside the second part 122.

[0127] In this embodiment, a first part 121 made of a material with low thermal conductivity is located outside the second part 122 to surround at least a portion of the second part 122 (the upper end as shown in FIG. 2). This exposed first part 121 is available for the user to hold and use, thus insulating the heat of the second part 122 from being transferred to the outside and preventing the user from being burned. In addition, the rubber-coated first part 121 also has a wider range of textures and color choices than the second part 122 made of metal, thereby improving the aesthetics of the product.

[0128] Referring to FIG3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first hole 123 is disposed on at least one of the first part 121 and the second part 122.

[0129] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG3, the first hole 123 is provided along the height direction of the connector 12 (the x direction shown in FIG2). For example, the first hole 123 penetrates the first part 121 and / or the second part 122 along the height direction of the connector 12.

[0130] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the first portion 121 is configured as a generally annular structure, and a recess 1211 is formed on the inner edge of the first portion 121. A first hole 123 is formed on the second portion 122, and in orthographic projection along the optical axis of the lens, the projection of the first hole 123 coincides with the projection of the recess 1211.

[0131] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the first part 121 is configured as an approximately annular structure with an inner circle and an outer square. Specifically, the inner diameter of the circular hole formed on its inner edge is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the adapted lens, so as to tightly cover the lens when assembled with it.

[0132] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the side of the second part 122 facing the first part 121 forms a stepped structure. The optical element 11 is fitted into the first-level stepped structure (the uppermost stepped structure shown in Figure 3) and supported on a support surface. Furthermore, there is a height difference (in the x direction shown in Figure 2) between the next-level stepped structure and the support surface, and a first hole 123 penetrates the stepped structure to connect the space 125 defined below the optical element 11 with the environment outside the lens.

[0133] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG2, a first membrane 1242 is disposed within a first hole 123.

[0134] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the end of the first hole 123 located outside the space 125 (the lower end shown in Figure 2) forms an annular groove recessed into the second part 122. Specifically, a membrane structure 124 having a first membrane 1242 is disposed within this groove. Further, the membrane structure 124 also includes an annular connecting portion 1241 located outside the first membrane 1242 to connect the first membrane 1242 to the second part 122, and to make the first membrane 1242 face the first hole 123. Even further, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 is configured to be less than or equal to the aperture of the first hole 123 (for example, a circular hole; if the first hole 123 is a non-circular hole, then the cross-sectional area of ​​the first membrane 1242 is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the non-circular hole). The connecting portion 1241 includes, but is not limited to, using annular double-sided adhesive to bond the first membrane 1242 to the first hole 123.

[0135] In one illustrative embodiment, the diameter of the first aperture 123 is, but is not limited to, configured to be 4 mm to 5 mm, such as 4 mm, 4.1 mm, 4.2 mm, 4.3 mm, 4.4 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.6 mm, 4.7 mm, 4.8 mm, 4.9 mm, and 5 mm. Further, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 is, but is not limited to, configured to be 1 mm to 2 mm, such as 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, and 2 mm. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0136] For example, the diameter of the first aperture 123 can also be configured to be 2 mm, 3 mm, 6 mm or other arbitrary values. Correspondingly, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 can also be configured to be 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm or other arbitrary values.

[0137] In this embodiment, the first membrane 1242 is disposed within the first hole 123, allowing the first membrane 1242 to be hidden within the second part 122. This not only improves the overall integrity of the first membrane 1242 and the connector 12, making it more aesthetically pleasing, but also effectively prevents the first membrane 1242 from detaching due to frequent contact with the outside during use.

[0138] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG2, in orthographic projection along the optical axis of the lens, the projection of the first aperture 123 is close to the edge of the projection of the first part 121. The shortest distance between the edge of the first aperture 123 and the edge of the first part 121 is 0.1 mm to 5 mm.

[0139] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG2, the edge of the first hole 123 is configured such that the shortest distance from the edge of the first part 121 (which can be regarded as the connector 12) is 0.1 mm to 5 mm, i.e., 0.1 mm ≤ d1 ≤ 5 mm. Furthermore, the edge of the first hole 123 is also configured such that the shortest distance from the optical axis of the lens (which can be regarded as the center line of the lens protection device) is 20 mm to 50 mm, i.e., 20 mm ≤ d2 ≤ 50 mm.

[0140] In one illustrative embodiment, the edge of the first hole 123 is configured such that the shortest distance from the edge of the first part 121 is, but is not limited to, configured as 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2. Any value among 2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.1 mm, 3.2 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.4 mm, 3.5 mm, 3.6 mm, 3.7 mm, 3.8 mm, 3.9 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.1 mm, 4.2 mm, 4.3 mm, 4.4 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.6 mm, 4.7 mm, 4.8 mm, 4.9 mm, and 5.0 mm.

[0141] In one illustrative embodiment, the edge of the first aperture 123 is further configured such that the shortest distance from the optical axis of the lens is, but is not limited to, any one of 20 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm, 23 mm, 24 mm, 25 mm, 26 mm, 27 mm, 28 mm, 29 mm, 30 mm, 31 mm, 32 mm, 33 mm, 34 mm, 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, and 50 mm. It should be understood that embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0142] The shortest distance between the edge of the first hole and the edge of the first part (i.e., the connector) and / or the shortest distance between the edge of the first hole and the optical axis of the lens should be adapted to the actual size of the shooting equipment and the lens configured for the shooting equipment, so as to meet the overall design requirements.

[0143] In some illustrative embodiments, a plurality of first holes 123 may be provided on the connector 12. For ease of representation, they are referred to as second holes. In detail, at least one first hole 123 and at least one second hole are provided at intervals on the connector 12.

[0144] For example, at least a portion of the first hole 123 and at least a portion of the second hole may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line of the connector 12 (which can also be regarded as the optical axis of the lens). Specifically, it may be axially symmetrical and / or centrally symmetrical.

[0145] Referring to FIG5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first hole 123 is provided along the width direction of the connector 12 (the y-direction as shown in FIG5). Specifically, the first hole 123 penetrates the wall of the first part 121 or the second part 122 along the width direction of the connector 12 (the y-direction as shown in FIG5).

[0146] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG3, a through-hole 123 is provided on the wall of the first part 121, and a through-hole 123 is also provided on the wall of the second part 122. Specifically, the first holes 123 formed by the first part 121 and the second part 122 are connected end-to-end, so that the space 125 below the optical element 11 is connected to the environment outside the lens. Furthermore, a first film 1242 (or a film structure 124 including the first film 1242) may also be disposed within the first hole 123, in a manner similar to the above-described embodiments, and will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0147] In some other illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the first membrane 1242 may also be disposed at the first end 1233 of the first hole 123.

[0148] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the diameter of the first membrane 1242 is configured to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the first hole 123 (taking a circular hole as an example). Furthermore, the first membrane 1242 is disposed outside the first hole 123 and completely covers one end of the first hole 123 (refer to the left end of the first hole 123 shown in FIG3).

[0149] In this embodiment, compared to the method of placing the first membrane 1242 inside the first hole 123, the assembly accuracy requirement is lower and the installation is easier.

[0150] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG5, the lens protection device further includes a heating element 126. The heating element 126 is disposed on the connector 12 and configured as a heating space 125.

[0151] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the heating element 126 includes, but is not limited to, employing heating wires and / or heating plates. Specifically, the heating element 126 is, but is not limited to, disposed on the connector 12 and connected to an external circuit, which may be an external power supply or integrated into the circuitry of the imaging device. Furthermore, the heating power of the heating element 126 can be configured to be adjustable (e.g., adjusting the current magnitude or the number of heating wires) to more precisely regulate the temperature of the optical element 11, thereby more quickly regulating the gas pressure within the space 125 and the ambient air pressure outside the lens.

[0152] Referring to FIG6, the lens protection device further includes at least one second film 1243. The second film 1243 is stacked with the first film 1242.

[0153] In some illustrative embodiments, the membrane structure 124 includes a first membrane 1242, a second membrane 1243, and an annular connecting portion 1241. Specifically, the connecting portion 1241 is located between the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243 to connect the stacked first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243. In some embodiments, a gap may be formed between the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243. The number of layers of the second membrane 1243 includes, but is not limited to, any number configured as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more layers, preferably to meet corresponding design requirements.

[0154] In this embodiment, the gap formed by the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243 creates a transition cavity, thereby preventing gas backflow caused by the gas pressure in the environment outside the lens being greater than the gas pressure inside the space 125 (for example, in a scenario where the shooting device is quickly moved to a high-temperature environment after shooting in a low-temperature environment). In the event of gas backflow, the gap between the first membrane 1242 and the second membrane 1243 has a stabilizing and buffering effect, ensuring that gas entering from the outside remains only within this transition cavity and does not continue to enter the space 125 defined by the lens protection device through the first membrane 1242.

[0155] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG5, the lens protection device further includes a third film 1244. The third film 1244 is disposed at the second end 1234 of the first hole 123, and the second end 1234 and the first end 1233 are located at opposite ends of the first hole 123.

[0156] Similar to the above embodiments, in addition to stacking at least one second membrane 1243 on the first membrane 1242, a transition cavity (which can be considered as the entire area within the first hole 123) can also be formed by respectively setting the first membrane 1242 and the third membrane 1244 at opposite ends of the first hole 123 (as shown in FIG. 5). It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0157] For example, a second membrane 1243 may be stacked on top of a first membrane 1242, and a first membrane 1242 and a third membrane 1244 may be disposed at both ends of a first hole 123, and both may be used simultaneously.

[0158] In some illustrative embodiments, at least one of the first membrane 1242, the second membrane 1243, and the third membrane 1244 is a waterproof and breathable membrane. Specifically, this includes, but is not limited to, materials with porous structures such as polypropylene film, polyethylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, and polyurethane film.

[0159] In this embodiment, the first, second, and third membranes 1244 disposed in the first hole 123 are made of thin films that prevent droplets from passing through while allowing water vapor to pass through. This effectively prevents liquid from entering the space 125 through the first hole 123, and allows the gas and entrained water vapor in the space 125 to be effectively discharged outward under the action of pressure difference, ultimately achieving equal or balanced air pressure between the space 125 and the ambient air pressure outside the lens, making the optical elements or lens less prone to fogging.

[0160] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG3, the first hole 123 is a stepped hole, the diameter of the larger hole 1232 is in the range of 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, and the diameter of the smaller hole 1231 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole 1232 and the smaller hole 1231 constitute a stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole 1232 is larger than the diameter of the smaller hole 1231.

[0161] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG3, the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231 is configured with, but is not limited to, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, and 2.0 mm. The diameter of the larger aperture 1232 is configured with, but is not limited to, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6.0 mm. Wherein, when the aperture of the larger aperture 1232 is configured from 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231 must be smaller than the aperture of the larger aperture 1232. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0162] For example, the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231 can be configured to any value that is less than 0.5 mm or greater than 2.0 mm.

[0163] For example, the aperture of the larger aperture 1232 can be configured to be less than 1.0 mm and greater than any value of the aperture of the smaller aperture 1231.

[0164] For example, the first hole 123 can have two or more stepped structures.

[0165] Referring to FIG7, some embodiments of this disclosure also provide an imaging device, including a main body 2, a lens 4, and a lens protection device 1. The lens protection device 1 is configured to enclose at least a portion of the lens 2. Optionally, the lens protection device 1 may be the lens protection device 1 described in the above embodiments.

[0166] In some illustrative embodiments, the main body 2 includes a housing 21 and an imaging device 22 disposed within the housing 21 (located within the main body 2). Specifically, the housing 21 consists of six rectangular surfaces: a front, left, right, back, top, and bottom. However, in other embodiments, the housing 21 may take different shapes. The housing 21 of the imaging device is typically made of a rigid material such as plastic, aluminum, steel, or fiberglass. Furthermore, the imaging device may have additional features, such as additional buttons, different interface features, interchangeable lenses 4, a cold shoe, and a hot shoe.

[0167] Other features of this embodiment have become apparent in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. This embodiment makes the optical elements or lens of the lens protection device less prone to fogging, and improves the sealing of the connection between the connector and the lens, thereby further enhancing the waterproof and dustproof effect and making it more convenient for users.

[0168] In some illustrative embodiments, the imaging device 22 in the main body 2 includes a circuit board and an imaging sensor, the imaging sensor being disposed on the circuit board. Further, the imaging sensor is configured to capture images, and the circuit board is configured to provide control signals to the imaging sensor.

[0169] Among them, imaging sensors include, but are not limited to, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS), charge-coupled device (CCD), active pixel sensor (APS), N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) sensor and any other sensor used to acquire visible light or spectral bands outside the visible light and form an image.

[0170] In some illustrative embodiments, the imaging device also includes other means, such as electronic components. Specifically, it may include an image processor or a camera-on-a-chip (SoC), which may be mounted on one or more circuit boards within the device body. The device communicates with external devices via wired or wireless communication links, such as I / O interfaces. These communication links can be direct or indirect connections through other devices or networks, such as the Internet. In some implementations, the communication links may be wireless connections such as Wi-Fi, infrared, Bluetooth, cellular networks, ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), and ANT+. Simultaneously, it may also include wired connections such as HDMI, USB, digital video interfaces, display port interfaces, Ethernet, and Thunderbolt.

[0171] The capturing device can transmit images (such as panoramic images or portions thereof) to an external user interface device via a communication link. This external device can store, process, and display these images. The external user interface device can be a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, laptop, personal computing device, etc. These devices can receive user input and interact with the image capturing device via the communication link.

[0172] In some illustrative embodiments, the imaging sensor has a mounting end and an imaging end. Specifically, the imaging sensor is connected to a circuit board via the mounting end, while the imaging end faces away from the mounting end. Furthermore, a lens is positioned facing the imaging end to focus light from the target object onto the imaging end.

[0173] Referring to Figure 8, one embodiment of this disclosure also provides another imaging device, including a main body 2 and a lens 4. The main body 2 is provided with a connecting structure 23, which is detachably connected to the lens protection device 1. The lens 4 is disposed on the main body 2, and the lens protection device 1 includes an optical element 11. The optical element 11 and the lens 4 surround to form a space 125, and the lens protection device 1 is provided with a first hole, which is disposed between the space 125 and the environment 3 outside the lens. Optionally, the lens protection device 1 can be the lens protection device 1 in the above embodiments.

[0174] In most shooting scenarios, the lens protection device 1 can remain on the lens to protect the front element from scratches, dust, and stains. However, in certain specific usage scenarios, the lens protection device 1 needs to be removed from the main body 2 to meet corresponding shooting and maintenance requirements. For example, to avoid lens flare, reduce autofocus error, avoid filter flare, long exposure photography, and lens maintenance and cleaning.

[0175] In this embodiment, the lens protection device 1 is detachably mounted on the main body 2 via the connecting structure 23, providing flexibility and allowing for easy assembly of the main body 2 and the lens protection device 1 to suit various shooting device usage scenarios. With the lens protection device mounted on the lens or the main body of the shooting device, a space 125 is formed between the optical element 11 and the lens, approximately isolated from the external environment 3, as shown in Figure 3.

[0176] The relationships between the states of an ideal gas within space 125 are described using the ideal gas law PV = nRT. The physical quantities represented by the symbols in the formula are as follows:

[0177] P is the pressure of a gas, commonly measured in Pascals (Pa) or standard atmospheres (atm).

[0178] V is the volume of a gas, commonly expressed in cubic meters (m³). 3 ) or liter (L), which is equivalent to the volume of gas in space 125.

[0179] n is the amount of substance of the gas, expressed in moles (mol).

[0180] R is the ideal gas constant, with a value of approximately 8.314 J / (mol·K).

[0181] T is the absolute temperature of a gas, and its unit is Kelvin (K).

[0182] Therefore, under the analysis model of this embodiment, the temperature and pressure of the gas in space 125 are positively correlated. The higher the temperature of the gas in space 125, the greater the air pressure in space 125, and the greater the pressure difference with the environment outside the lens, which in turn affects the dew point temperature of the optical element 11 or the lens, making it easier for fog to form.

[0183] Based on the implementation of this embodiment, this problem is more obvious in the use scenario where the lens protection device 1 and the main body 2 can be detached, because it is impossible to block external water vapor around the lens 4 during disassembly and to expel this water vapor during installation. As a result, when the air pressure in the space 125 is high, water vapor will condense on the optical element 11 or the lens 4 to form fog, that is, fogging problem occurs.

[0184] Therefore, in this embodiment, a first hole is also provided in the lens protection device 1 to connect the space 125 and the environment 3 outside the lens, thereby reducing the air pressure difference between the space and the environment outside the lens, thus reducing the occurrence of condensation.

[0185] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the imaging device further includes a heating unit 126, configured to heat the space or optical elements.

[0186] In some illustrative embodiments, the heating element 126 may be disposed in the lens protection device and configured as the heating space 125.

[0187] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the heating element 126 includes, but is not limited to, employing heating wires and / or heating plates. Specifically, the heating element 126 is, but is not limited to, disposed on the connector 12 and connected to an external circuit, which may be an external power supply or integrated into the circuitry of the imaging device. Furthermore, the heating power of the heating element 126 can be configured to be adjustable (e.g., adjusting the current magnitude or the number of heating wires) to more accurately and quickly regulate the temperature within the space 125 (e.g., the surface temperature of the optical element 11 of the lens protection device 1 and / or the temperature of the front lens element). Under the effect of temperature regulating the gas pressure within the space, the gas pressure within the space 125 is further adjusted to match the ambient air pressure outside the lens, thereby avoiding or even reducing condensation caused by gas introduced into the space 125 during lens protection device 1 installation and removal.

[0188] In one illustrative embodiment, the connection structure 23 includes, but is not limited to, a threaded structure. Specifically, the main body 2 is provided with an interface for mating with the lens protection device 1. This interface has external threads, and the corresponding lens protection device 1 has internal threads for threaded connection with the interface, thereby connecting the lens protection device to the main body 2. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0189] For example, the connecting structure 23 can also adopt a bayonet and a locking block structure, that is, one of the lens protection device 1 and the main body 2 is provided with a bayonet, and the other is provided with a locking block that cooperates with the bayonet.

[0190] For example, the connecting structure 23 may also be a sleeve, an adhesive, or any other structure suitable for assembling the lens protection device 1 onto the main body 2.

[0191] Other features of this embodiment have become apparent in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. This embodiment makes the optical elements or lens of the lens protection device less prone to fogging, and improves the sealing of the connection between the connector and the lens, thereby further enhancing the waterproof and dustproof effect. The detachable design also makes it more convenient for users.

[0192] Referring to Figures 9 to 12, some embodiments of this disclosure also provide another imaging device, including a main body 2 and a lens 4. The main body 2 is provided with a connecting structure 23, which is detachably connected to a lens protection device 1. The lens 4 is disposed on the main body 2, and the lens protection device 1 includes an optical element, which and the lens 4 surround to form a space 26. The main body 2 is provided with a first hole 24, which is located between the space 26 and the environment 3 outside the lens. The air pressure in the space 26 is configured to be balanced with the air pressure of the environment 3 outside the lens, and light passes sequentially through the optical element 11 and the lens 4 to achieve imaging. Optionally, the lens protection device 1 can be the lens protection device 1 in the above embodiments.

[0193] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the first hole 24 is provided along the height direction (x direction as shown in Figure 10) or the width direction (y direction as shown in Figure 10) of the body 2.

[0194] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG10, a first membrane 252 is disposed on the body 2 and covers at least a portion of the first hole 24.

[0195] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG10, a first membrane 252 is disposed within a first hole 24.

[0196] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in Figures 9, 10, and 12, a first hole 24 extending along the width direction (the y-direction shown in Figure 10) is provided on the wall of the connecting structure 23 of the main body 2. Further, a first membrane 252 (or a membrane structure 25 including the first membrane 252) may be disposed within the first hole 24, in a manner similar to the embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0197] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG10, the lens protection device further includes a heating element 27. The heating element 27 is disposed on the main body 2 and configured to heat the space or optical element.

[0198] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG10, a heating element 27 is disposed on the connecting structure 23, specifically on the inner wall of the connecting structure 23, and configured to heat the space 26. The heating element 27 includes, but is not limited to, using heating wires and / or heating plates. Specifically, the heating element 27 is connected to an external circuit, which can be an external power supply or integrated into the circuitry of the imaging device. Furthermore, the heating power of the heating element 27 can be configured to be adjustable (e.g., adjusting the current magnitude or the number of heating wires) to more precisely adjust the temperature of the optical element 11 and / or the front lens of the lens, thereby more quickly adjusting the gas pressure within the space 26 to the ambient air pressure outside the lens.

[0199] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG11, the imaging device further includes at least one second film 253, which is stacked with the first film 252.

[0200] Referring to FIG11, the lens protection device further includes at least one second film 253. The second film 253 is stacked on top of the first film 252.

[0201] In some illustrative embodiments, the membrane structure 25 includes a first membrane 252, a second membrane 253, and an annular connecting portion 251. Specifically, the connecting portion 251 is located between the first membrane 252 and the second membrane 253 to connect the stacked first membrane 252 and the second membrane 253. In some embodiments, a gap may be formed between the first membrane 252 and the second membrane 253. The number of layers of the second membrane 253 includes, but is not limited to, any number configured as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more, depending on the design requirements.

[0202] In this embodiment, the gap formed by the first membrane 252 and the second membrane 253 creates a transition cavity, thereby preventing gas backflow caused by the gas pressure in the environment outside the lens being greater than the gas pressure inside the space 26 (for example, in a scenario where the shooting device is quickly moved to a high-temperature environment after shooting in a low-temperature environment). In the event of gas backflow, the gap between the first membrane 252 and the second membrane 253 has a stabilizing and buffering effect, ensuring that gas entering from the outside remains only within this transition cavity and does not continue to enter the space 26 defined by the lens protection device through the first membrane 252.

[0203] According to some other embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in FIG12, a first membrane 252 may be disposed at a first end 243 of a first hole 24.

[0204] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the imaging device further includes a third membrane 254. The third membrane 254 is disposed at the second end 244 of the first hole 24, and the second end 244 and the first end 243 are located at both ends of the first hole 24 (at both ends in the left-right direction as shown in FIG12).

[0205] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG12, the diameter of the first membrane 252 is configured to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the first hole 24 (taking a circular hole as an example). Furthermore, the first membrane 252 is disposed outside the first hole 24 and completely covers one end of the first hole 24 (refer to the left end of the first hole 24 shown in FIG12).

[0206] In this embodiment, compared to the method of placing the first membrane 252 inside the first hole 24, the assembly accuracy requirement is lower and the installation is easier.

[0207] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG12, the main body 2 further includes a third membrane 254. The third membrane 254 is disposed at the second end 244 of the first hole 24, and the second end 244 and the first end 243 are located at opposite ends of the first hole 24.

[0208] Similar to the above embodiments, in addition to stacking at least one second membrane 253 on the first membrane 252, a transition cavity (which can be considered as the entire area within the first hole 24) can also be formed within the first hole 24 by respectively setting the first membrane 252 and the third membrane 254 at opposite ends of the first hole 24 (as shown in FIG. 12). It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0209] For example, a second membrane 253 may be stacked on top of a first membrane 252, and a first membrane 252 and a third membrane 254 may be disposed at both ends of a first hole 24, and both may be used simultaneously.

[0210] In some illustrative embodiments, at least one of the first membrane 252, the second membrane 253, and the third membrane 254 is a waterproof and breathable membrane. Specifically, this includes, but is not limited to, materials with porous structures such as polypropylene film, polyethylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, and polyurethane film.

[0211] In this embodiment, the first membrane 252, the second membrane 253, and the third membrane 254 disposed in the first hole 24 are made of thin films that prevent droplets from passing through while allowing water vapor to pass through. This effectively prevents liquid from entering the space 26 through the first hole 24, and allows the gas and entrained water vapor in the space 26 to be effectively discharged outward under the action of pressure difference, ultimately achieving equal or balanced air pressure between the space 26 and the ambient air pressure outside the lens, making the optical elements or lens less prone to fogging.

[0212] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first hole 24 is a stepped hole, the diameter of the larger hole 242 is in the range of 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, and the diameter of the smaller hole 241 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole 242 and the smaller hole 241 constitute a stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole 242 is larger than the diameter of the smaller hole 241.

[0213] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG10, the first hole 24 is a stepped hole, the diameter of the larger hole 242 is in the range of 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, and the diameter of the smaller hole 241 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole 242 and the smaller hole 241 constitute a stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole 242 is larger than the diameter of the smaller hole 241.

[0214] In some illustrative embodiments, as shown in FIG3, the aperture of the smaller aperture 241 is configured with, but is not limited to, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, and 2.0 mm. The diameter of the larger aperture 242 is configured with, but is not limited to, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6.0 mm. Wherein, when the aperture of the larger aperture 242 is configured from 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, the aperture of the smaller aperture 241 must be smaller than the aperture of the larger aperture 242. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0215] For example, the aperture of the smaller aperture 241 can be configured to any value that is less than 0.5 mm or greater than 2.0 mm.

[0216] For example, the diameter of the larger hole 242 can be configured to be less than 1.0 mm and greater than any value of the diameter of the smaller hole 241.

[0217] For example, the first hole 24 can have two or more stepped structures.

[0218] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the main body 2 is provided with at least one second hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens, at a different position on the main body 2 than the first hole 24.

[0219] In some illustrative embodiments, a plurality of first holes 24 may be provided on the body 2. For ease of representation, they are referred to as second holes. In detail, at least one first hole 24 and at least one second hole are provided at intervals on the body 2.

[0220] For example, at least a portion of the first hole 24 and at least a portion of the second hole may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line of the main body 2 (which can also be regarded as the optical axis of the lens). Specifically, it may be axially symmetrical and / or centrally symmetrical.

[0221] In this embodiment, by providing a first hole 24 and a second hole on the main body 2, that is, by providing multiple first holes 24, the space defined between the optical element and the lens can be connected to the environment 3 outside the lens through multiple channels (i.e., first holes 24), thereby achieving air pressure balance between the space and the environment outside the lens more quickly. In particular, when multiple first holes 24 are symmetrically arranged along the optical axis of the lens, the shooting device can also be visually symmetrical, thus making the shooting device more aesthetically pleasing.

[0222] Referring to FIG13, this disclosure also provides a method for improving shooting, applicable to any of the above-described shooting devices, the shooting device including a main body and a lens disposed on the main body. The method for improving shooting includes: disposing a lens protection device on the main body, the lens protection device including an optical element, the optical element and the lens surrounding and forming a space; light passing sequentially through the optical element and the lens to achieve shooting; and balancing the air pressure of the space and the environment outside the lens.

[0223] In this implementation, mounting the lens protection device onto the main body isolates at least the front end of the lens from the external environment, thus protecting the lens. The shooting device equipped with the lens protection device creates a space between the lens protection device and the lens that is approximately isolated from the external environment.

[0224] When the lens protection device is initially assembled onto the main body (which can be considered the moment the lens protection device is installed on the main body), the pressure of the space and the environment outside the lens can be considered equal; therefore, the pressure difference between the space and the environment outside the lens can be considered zero at this time. During the use of the shooting equipment, due to the temperature changes caused by the operation of the shooting equipment (such as temperature changes caused by the heat generated by the operation of the imaging device) and the temperature difference of the environment outside the lens, the gas inside the aforementioned space is more affected by temperature changes, thus creating a pressure difference with the environment outside the lens.

[0225] According to the second law of thermodynamics, the entropy of an isolated system always increases over time. Entropy is a measure of the energy distribution in a system; it can be understood as a quantitative indicator of the degree of disorder or chaos within the system. For gases like air, this means that natural processes tend to transition from an ordered state (low entropy) to a disordered state (high entropy). Processes such as heat conduction, convection, and radiation in air all conform to this trend. Therefore, combining the ideal gas law PV = nRT, when the shooting equipment is in use or the external environment changes rapidly, a large temperature difference will occur between the shooting equipment and the external environment. This will lead to an unequal pressure inside the container (which can be considered as the space surrounded by the lens and optical elements) and outside the environment (the environment outside the lens). The fluid (i.e., the gas inside the space) will flow from the high-pressure area to the low-pressure area until the pressure on both sides is balanced. Therefore, based on the above method, during the process of balancing the air pressure of the environment outside the lens in the space, some of the gas and water vapor in the space can be spontaneously discharged, thereby preventing water vapor from condensing on the surface of the optical elements and / or lens in the space, so as to improve the shooting effect of the shooting equipment (such as more clear images). Furthermore, due to pressure balance, the dew point of the optical components or lens of the shooting equipment is lower and kept away from environments such as room temperature, thus making it less prone to problems such as fogging. This eliminates the need for users to remove and install lens protection devices, making it more convenient to use the shooting equipment.

[0226] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the lens protection device further includes a connector and a first membrane. An optical element is disposed on the connector, which has a first hole. The first hole connects the space to the environment outside the lens to balance the air pressure between the space and the environment outside the lens. The first membrane filters the gas passing through the first hole.

[0227] In some embodiments of this disclosure, "equilibrium" refers to a stable state between different parts of a physical system, where a variable, such as air pressure, reaches a uniform distribution and remains constant. When referring to air pressure equilibrium between the internal and external environments of a lens, it specifically means: Pressure Equilibrium: The air pressure inside the lens is equal to the air pressure of the external environment. This equilibrium prevents unnecessary mechanical stress, optical distortion, or seal failure due to pressure differences. Physical Stability: When air pressure is balanced, the device is not affected by external air pressure fluctuations, thus ensuring the consistency of mechanical structure and function. For example, the lens will not shift due to pressure differences, and the seal will not fail due to excessively high or low internal pressure. Prevention of Condensation and Damage: Pressure imbalance can lead to condensation induced by temperature changes; this risk is significantly reduced if the internal and external air pressures are balanced. Condensation can cause lens fogging, affecting image quality and even damaging circuitry or optical components.

[0228] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a first membrane is disposed within a first hole, filtering gas passing through the first hole within the first hole. Alternatively, it is disposed at the first end of the first hole, filtering gas passing through the first hole at the first end. This achieves pressure balance while effectively removing water vapor from the space.

[0229] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the lens protection device further includes a second membrane, which surrounds the first membrane to form a gap, trapping at least a portion of the gas entering from the environment outside the lens. This achieves pressure balance while simultaneously allowing water vapor to escape from the space and preventing water vapor from the environment outside the lens from re-entering the space.

[0230] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the lens protection device further includes a third membrane disposed at the second end of the first aperture, with the second end and the first end located at opposite ends of the first aperture. This membrane retains at least a portion of the gas entering the first aperture from the environment outside the lens. This allows for better pressure balance while simultaneously expelling water vapor from the space and preventing water vapor from the environment outside the lens from re-entering the space.

[0231] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the connector includes a first part and a second part. The first part supports optical elements; the second part is detachably connected to a lens or shooting device. This allows for the detachable connection between the lens protection device connector and the shooting device, providing convenience for the user.

[0232] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a first hole is disposed in at least one of the first part and the second part. Gas is guided to flow through the first part and / or the second part. This allows the gas to achieve pressure balance in a predetermined direction, and by providing only a small first hole, the overall appearance of the lens protection device is not compromised, making the presence of the first hole less noticeable to the user, thus making the shooting equipment with the lens protection device more aesthetically pleasing.

[0233] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the first hole is provided along the height direction of the connector. Gas is guided to flow along the height direction of the connector and discharged to the environment outside the lens. This achieves pressure balance while effectively removing water vapor from the space.

[0234] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the first part is constructed as a generally annular structure, with a recess formed on the inner edge of the first part, and a first hole located on the second part. This guides the gas to flow in a direction generally parallel to the optical axis of the lens. In this way, pressure balance can be achieved while effectively expelling water vapor from the space.

[0235] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the first hole is provided along the width direction of the connector. Gas is guided to flow along the width direction of the connector and discharged to the environment outside the lens. This achieves pressure balance while effectively removing water vapor from the space.

[0236] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the first part is made of a first material, and the second part is made of a second material; the thermal conductivity of the first material is less than that of the second material. The first part blocks at least a portion of the heat from the second part from being transferred outward.

[0237] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the optical element includes at least two light-transmitting bodies spaced apart. This isolates at least a portion of the heat transfer between the space and the environment outside the lens. Thus, the first part exposed on the outside is available for user gripping, preventing heat transfer from the second part to the outside and thus preventing burns to the user. Furthermore, the rubber-coated first part offers a wider range of textures and color choices compared to a second part made of metal, thereby enhancing the product's aesthetics.

[0238] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the lens protection device further includes a heating element to heat the space or optical element. This allows for adjustment of the temperature of the optical element 11, thereby more quickly adjusting the gas pressure within the space 125 to match the ambient air pressure outside the lens, achieving pressure balance.

[0239] In some detailed embodiments, the method for improving image capture using an imaging device includes the following operations:

[0240] Operation S100: A lens protection device is mounted on the main body of the shooting device to form a space between the lens and the optical elements of the lens protection device, and the gas pressure of the space is approximately balanced with that of the environment outside the lens.

[0241] Operation S110: In response to changes in the environment caused by user operation and / or the use of the shooting equipment, a pressure difference is created between the space and the environment outside the lens;

[0242] Operation S120: Based on the pressure difference between the space and the environment outside the lens, some of the gas on the high-pressure side flows to the low-pressure side through the first hole set in the lens protection device until the gas pressure in the space and the environment outside the lens are roughly balanced.

[0243] In this way, air pressure balance can be achieved.

[0244] In some illustrative embodiments, the method for improving shooting with a shooting device further includes:

[0245] Operation S130: In response to user operation, heat the gas in the space to increase the speed at which the gas is discharged from the space to the environment outside the lens.

[0246] In some illustrative embodiments, the above operation S120: based on the pressure difference between the space and the environment outside the lens, a portion of the gas on the high-pressure side flows to the low-pressure side through the first hole provided by the lens protection device until the gas pressure in the space and the environment outside the lens are restored to approximately equilibrium, including:

[0247] Operation S121: When the gas pressure inside the space is greater than the gas pressure outside the lens, part of the gas inside the space is discharged to the outside environment through the first hole provided by the lens protection device.

[0248] In some illustrative embodiments, the above operation S120: based on the pressure difference between the space and the environment outside the lens, a portion of the gas on the high-pressure side flows to the low-pressure side through the first hole provided by the lens protection device until the gas pressure in the space and the environment outside the lens are restored to approximately equilibrium, including:

[0249] Operation S122: When the gas pressure inside the space is lower than the gas pressure outside the lens, some of the gas from the outside environment remains in the first hole.

[0250] It should also be noted that the directional terms mentioned in the embodiments, such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," and "right," are only for reference in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Throughout the drawings, the same elements are represented by the same or similar reference numerals. Conventional structures or constructions will be omitted where they may cause confusion in understanding this disclosure.

[0251] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Although various embodiments have been described above, this does not mean that the measures in the various embodiments cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Various substitutions and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A lens protection device for protecting a lens of a photographing apparatus, wherein, include: Connectors; An optical element is disposed on the connector and opposite to the lens. The optical element and the lens surround and form a space. The connector has at least one first hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens. A first membrane is disposed on the connector and covers at least a portion of the first hole.

2. The lens protection device of claim 1, wherein, The first membrane is disposed within the first hole; Alternatively, it can be located at the first end of the first hole.

3. The lens protection device of claim 2, wherein, It also includes at least one second membrane, which is stacked with the first membrane.

4. The lens protecting device according to claim 2, wherein, It also includes a third membrane disposed at the second end of the first hole, the second end being located at both ends of the first hole.

5. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The connector includes: The first part, wherein the optical element is disposed in the first part; and The second part, connected to the first part, is adapted to be assembled with the lens to detachably connect the connector to the lens or shooting device, wherein the lens is disposed on the shooting device.

6. The lens protection device of claim 5, wherein, The first hole is provided in at least one of the first part and the second part.

7. The lens protecting device according to claim 6, wherein, The first hole is provided along the height direction of the connector.

8. The lens protecting device according to claim 5, wherein, The first part is constructed as a generally annular structure, and a recess is formed on the inner edge of the first part; The first hole is located in the second part, and in orthographic projection along the optical axis of the lens, the projection of the first hole coincides with the projection of the recessed part.

9. The lens protecting device according to claim 7, wherein, In orthographic projection along the optical axis of the lens, the projection of the first hole is close to the edge of the projection of the first part; The shortest distance between the edge of the first hole and the edge of the first part is 0.1 mm to 5 mm.

10. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 6, wherein The first hole is provided along the width direction of the connector.

11. The lens protection device according to any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein, The first part is made of a first material, and the second part is made of a second material; The thermal conductivity of the first material is less than that of the second material.

12. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The optical element includes at least one light-transmitting body, the thickness of which ranges from 1 mm to 3 mm.

13. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The optical element includes at least two light-transmitting elements, which are spaced apart. The adjacent light-transmitting elements are provided with a heat insulation layer.

14. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein It also includes a heating element disposed on the connector and configured to heat the space or the optical element.

15. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first hole is a stepped hole, with the diameter of the larger hole ranging from 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm and the diameter of the smaller hole ranging from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole and the smaller hole together form the stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole is greater than the diameter of the smaller hole.

16. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The connector is provided with at least one second hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens, at a different position on the connector than the first hole.

17. A lens protection apparatus for protecting a lens of a photographing device, wherein, include: Connectors; An optical element is disposed on the connector and is positioned opposite to the lens, the optical element and the lens forming a space together; The distance of the space along the height direction of the connector is less than the distance of the space along the width direction of the connector; the air pressure in the space is configured to be balanced with the air pressure of the environment outside the lens, and the light passes through the optical element, the space and the lens in sequence to achieve shooting.

18. The lens protection device of claim 17, wherein, The connector is provided with at least one first hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens.

19. The lens protecting device according to claim 18, wherein, It also includes a first membrane disposed on the connector and covering at least a portion of the first hole.

20. The lens protecting device of claim 19, wherein, The first membrane is disposed within the first hole; Alternatively, it can be located at the first end of the first hole.

21. The lens protection device of claim 20, wherein, It also includes at least one second membrane, which is stacked with the first membrane.

22. The lens protection device of claim 20, wherein, It also includes a third membrane disposed at the second end of the first hole, the second end being located at both ends of the first hole.

23. The lens protecting apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The connector includes: The first part, wherein the optical element is disposed in the first part; and The second part, connected to the first part, is adapted to be assembled with the lens to detachably connect the connector to the lens or shooting device, wherein the lens is disposed on the shooting device.

24. The lens protecting device according to claim 23, wherein, The first part is made of a first material, and the second part is made of a second material; The thermal conductivity of the first material is less than that of the second material.

25. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, The optical element includes at least two light-transmitting elements, which are spaced apart. The adjacent light-transmitting elements are provided with a heat insulation layer.

26. The lens protecting apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, It also includes a heating element disposed on the connector and configured to heat the space or the optical element.

27. The lens protecting apparatus of claim 18, wherein, The first hole is a stepped hole, with the diameter of the larger hole ranging from 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm and the diameter of the smaller hole ranging from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole and the smaller hole together form the stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole is greater than the diameter of the smaller hole.

28. The lens protecting apparatus of claim 18, wherein, The connector is provided with at least one second hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens, at a different position on the connector than the first hole.

29. A photographing apparatus, comprising: include: main body; The lens is mounted on the main body; and The lens protection device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16 or 17 to 28, wherein the lens protection device is configured to enclose at least a portion of the lens.

30. A photographing apparatus, comprising: include: The main body is provided with a connecting structure, which is detachably connected to the lens protection device; and A lens is disposed on the main body. The lens protection device includes an optical element. The optical element and the lens surround and form a space. The lens protection device is provided with a first hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens.

31. The photographing apparatus according to claim 30, wherein It also includes a heating element configured to heat the space or the optical element.

32. A photographing apparatus, comprising: include: The main body is provided with a connecting structure, which is detachably connected to the lens protection device; and A lens is disposed on the main body, and the lens protection device includes an optical element, the optical element and the lens surrounding and forming a space; The main body is provided with a first hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens.

33. The photographing apparatus according to claim 32, wherein Also includes: A first membrane is disposed on the body and covers at least a portion of the first pore.

34. The photographing apparatus according to claim 33, wherein Also includes: The first membrane is disposed within the first hole; Alternatively, it can be located at the first end of the first hole.

35. The photographing apparatus according to claim 34, wherein It also includes at least one second membrane, which is stacked with the first membrane.

36. The photographing apparatus according to claim 34, wherein It also includes a third membrane disposed at the second end of the first hole, the second end being located at both ends of the first hole.

37. The photographing apparatus according to claim 32, wherein The first hole is provided along the height or width direction of the main body.

38. The photographing apparatus according to claim 32, wherein It also includes a heating element disposed in the main body and configured to heat the space or the optical element.

39. The photographing apparatus according to claim 32, wherein The first hole is a stepped hole, with the diameter of the larger hole ranging from 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm and the diameter of the smaller hole ranging from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The larger hole and the smaller hole together form the stepped hole, and the diameter of the larger hole is greater than the diameter of the smaller hole.

40. The photographing apparatus according to claim 32, wherein The main body is provided with at least one second hole, which is located between the space and the environment outside the lens, at a different position on the main body than the first hole.

41. A method of improving a photograph, for a photographing apparatus, the photographing apparatus including a main body and a lens disposed at the main body, wherein, include: A lens protection device is provided to the main body, the lens protection device including an optical element, the optical element and the lens surround forming a space; Light passes sequentially through the optical element and the lens to achieve image capture; Balance the air pressure of the space with that of the environment outside the lens.

42. The method of improving a shot according to claim 41, wherein, The lens protection device further includes a connector and a first film, the optical element is disposed on the connector, and the connector is provided with a first hole; The first hole connects the space and the environment outside the lens to balance the air pressure between the space and the environment outside the lens; The first membrane filters the gas passing through the first pore.

43. The method of improving a shot according to claim 42, wherein, The first membrane is disposed in the first pore, and the gas passing through the first pore is filtered within the first pore; Alternatively, it can be positioned at the first end of the first hole, allowing gas passing through the first hole to be filtered at the first end.

44. The method of improving a shot according to claim 42, wherein, The lens protection device further includes a second film, which surrounds the first film to form a gap; At least a portion of the gas that enters from the environment outside the lens is retained.

45. The method of improving a shot according to claim 42, wherein, The lens protection device further includes a third film disposed at the second end of the first hole, with the second end and the first end located at opposite ends of the first hole; At least a portion of the gas that enters the first hole from the environment outside the lens is retained.

46. The method of improving a shot according to claim 42, wherein, The connector includes a first part and a second part; The first part supports the optical element; The second part is detachably connected to the lens or shooting device.

47. The method of improving a shot according to claim 46, wherein, The first hole is provided in at least one of the first part and the second part; The gas is guided to flow through the first part and / or the second part.

48. The method of improving a shot according to claim 46, wherein, The first hole is provided along the height direction of the connector; The gas is guided to flow along the height direction of the connector and discharged into the environment outside the lens.

49. The method of improving a shot according to claim 46, wherein, The first part is constructed as a generally annular structure, and a recess is formed on the inner edge of the first part. The first hole is located on the second part. The guiding gas flows in a direction approximately parallel to the optical axis of the lens.

50. The method of improving a shot according to claim 46, wherein, The first hole is provided along the width direction of the connector; The gas is guided to flow along the width of the connector and discharged into the environment outside the lens.

51. The method of improving a shot according to any one of claims 46 to 50, wherein, The first part is made of a first material, and the second part is made of a second material; the thermal conductivity of the first material is less than that of the second material. The first part blocks at least a portion of the heat from the second part from being transferred outward.

52. The method of improving a shot according to claim 41, wherein, The optical element includes at least two light-transmitting elements, which are spaced apart. Insulates at least a portion of the heat transfer between the space and the environment outside the lens.

53. The method of improving a shot according to claim 41, wherein, The lens protection device also includes a heating element; Heating the space or the optical element.

54. The method of improving a shot according to claim 42, wherein, Also includes In response to user operation and / or changes in the environment used by the shooting device, a pressure difference is created between the space and the environment outside the lens; Based on the pressure difference between the space and the environment outside the lens, at least a portion of the gas on the high-pressure side flows to the low-pressure side through the first hole provided by the lens protection device until the gas pressure in the space and the environment outside the lens is restored to approximately equilibrium.

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