Heating member and camera module comprising same

Abstract

A heating member according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a substrate; an insulating layer laminated on the substrate; a heating layer laminated on the insulating layer; a protective layer laminated on the heating layer; a plurality of electrodes disposed on the substrate in an inner region of the insulating layer; and a plurality of filling metal layers respectively disposed on the plurality of electrodes, wherein the plurality of filling metal layers are in a first state at a first temperature or lower and in a second state at a temperature higher than the first temperature.

Description

Heating element and camera module including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a heating element and a camera module including the same.

[0002] Recently, ultra-small camera modules are being developed and are widely used in small electronic products such as smartphones, laptops, and game consoles.

[0003] With the popularization of automobiles, micro cameras are widely used not only in small electronic devices but also in vehicles. For example, they are equipped with dashcam cameras for vehicle protection or objective data regarding traffic accidents, rear-view cameras that allow the driver to monitor blind spots behind the vehicle via a screen to ensure safety when reversing, and surrounding detection cameras that monitor the vehicle's vicinity.

[0004] The camera includes a lens, a lens barrel that accommodates the lens, an image sensor that converts an image of a subject gathered by the lens into an electrical signal, and a printed circuit board on which the image sensor is mounted. The housing forming the exterior of the camera is constructed with a structure in which the entire area is sealed to prevent internal components from being contaminated by foreign substances containing moisture.

[0005] In the case of camera modules, since they are placed on the exterior of the vehicle and are heavily affected by the outside air, frost, condensation, and ice frequently occur on the lenses during the winter. When frost, condensation, and ice occur on the lenses, there is a problem in that the performance of the camera module is significantly degraded.

[0006] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a heating element capable of preventing high-temperature heat generation caused by overcurrent and other causes.

[0007] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a camera module that can quickly remove frost or ice formed on the lens surface through a heating function and improve heat generation efficiency.

[0008] In addition, the invention provides a camera module capable of preventing high-temperature heat generation caused by overcurrent and other causes.

[0009] A heating element according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a substrate; an insulating layer laminated on the substrate; a heating layer laminated on the insulating layer; a protective layer laminated on the heating layer; a plurality of electrodes disposed on the substrate in an internal region of the insulating layer; and a plurality of filling metal layers each disposed on the plurality of electrodes, wherein the plurality of filling metal layers may be in a first state at a temperature below a first temperature and in a second state at a temperature higher than the first temperature.

[0010] In addition, the first state may be a solid state, and the second state may be a liquid state.

[0011] In addition, one surface of the plurality of filling metal layers may be in contact with the heating layer in the first state, and a gap may be formed between them and the heating layer in the second state.

[0012] In addition, the electrical connection between the plurality of filling metal layers and the heating layer can be cut off by the gap.

[0013] In addition, the plurality of filler metal layers can become the first state when the temperature in the second state becomes lower than or equal to the first temperature.

[0014] In addition, when the plurality of charged metal layers reach the first state, the plurality of charged metal layers can be electrically connected to the heating layer.

[0015] In addition, the first temperature may vary depending on the ratio of the metal or alloy forming the plurality of filler metal layers.

[0016] In addition, the plurality of electrodes are spaced apart from each other, and the distance between the plurality of electrodes may be shorter than the distance between the plurality of filling metal layers.

[0017] In addition, the heating layer is disposed on an insulating layer on which the filling metal layer is formed, and the plurality of filling metal layers can be embedded by the insulating layer, the heating layer, and the substrate.

[0018] In addition, the plurality of filler metal layers may be composed of bismuth (Bi), tin (Sn), lead (Pb), indium (In), cadmium (Cd), or alloys thereof.

[0019] A camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first body; a lens module disposed within the first body and including a barrel and a lens disposed within the barrel; a substrate module disposed within the first body; and a heating member having one end in contact with the surface of the lens and the other end connected to the substrate module, wherein the heating member comprises: a substrate; an insulating layer laminated on the substrate; a heating layer laminated on the insulating layer; a protective layer laminated on the heating layer; a plurality of electrodes disposed on the substrate in an internal region of the insulating layer; and a plurality of filling metal layers each disposed on the plurality of electrodes, wherein the plurality of filling metal layers may be in a first state at a temperature below a first temperature and in a second state at a temperature higher than the first temperature.

[0020] In addition, the plurality of filling metal layers may have a surface in contact with the heating layer in the first state, and a gap may be formed between them and the heating layer in the second state.

[0021] In addition, the electrical connection between the plurality of filling metal layers and the heating layer can be cut off by the gap.

[0022] In addition, the plurality of filler metal layers can become the first state when the temperature in the second state becomes lower than or equal to the first temperature.

[0023] In addition, when the plurality of charged metal layers reach the first state, the plurality of charged metal layers can be electrically connected to the heating layer.

[0024] The heating element according to the present embodiment forms a filling metal layer between the electrode and the heating layer, so that at a set temperature, the filling metal layer melts and electrically disconnects the electrode and the heating layer, thereby preventing overcurrent or high-temperature heating. In the present embodiment, by forming a filling metal layer to electrically disconnect the electrode and the heating layer, the current can be cut off without a separate fuse or circuit breaker, thereby preventing overheating.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating one region of a heating element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating A-A' of Figure 3.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heating element according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a heating element according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a heating element according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0033] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some of the described embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the components among the embodiments may be selectively combined or substituted.

[0034] In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a meaning that is generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. Terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in advance, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0035] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0036] In this specification, the singular form may include the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text, and when described as "at least one of A and B and C (or more than one)," it may include one or more of all combinations that can be formed from A, B, and C.

[0037] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are used merely to distinguish the components from other components and are not intended to limit the essence, order, or sequence of the components.

[0038] And, where it is stated that a component is 'connected', 'combined', or 'connected' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly 'connected', 'combined', or 'connected' to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected', 'combined', or 'connected' due to another component located between the component and the other component.

[0039] Furthermore, when described as being formed or placed "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or placed between the two components. Additionally, when expressed as "above" or "below," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to a single component.

[0040]

[0041] As used below, 'optical axis direction' is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens. Meanwhile, 'optical axis direction' may correspond to 'vertical direction', 'z-axis direction', etc.

[0042] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, a vehicle (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body (2), a door (3), a glass (4), a headlamp (5), a taillamp (6), and a camera module (10).

[0045] The body (2) may be an exterior member of the vehicle (1). The body (2) may have various forms, such as a frame type or a monocoque type. One or more doors (3) may be attached to the side of the body (2). In addition, glass (4) may be attached to the front and rear (where the pillar is formed) of the upper part of the body (2) and to the doors (3). A headlamp (5) may be mounted on the front of the lower part of the body (2). A taillamp (6) may be mounted on the rear of the lower part of the body (2).

[0046] A camera module (10) may be installed on the side of the body (2) or on the front of one or more doors (3). The camera module (10) may be installed in front of the glass (4) attached to the door (3). That is, in the vehicle (1) of the present embodiment, the side mirror may be replaced with the camera module (10).

[0047] The camera module (10) can capture images of both rear sides of the vehicle. Images captured by the camera module (10) can be electrically connected to a display unit (not shown) through an electronic control unit (ECU), etc. Therefore, images captured by the camera module (10) can be controlled by the electronic control unit (ECU) and played back on the display unit.

[0048] An interior space for a driver may be formed inside the body (2). A display unit may be installed inside the body (2). The display unit may output an image captured by the camera module (10). The display unit may be installed on a dashboard (not shown) inside the body (2).

[0049] The installation form of the camera module (10) in the vehicle (1) described above is exemplary, and the camera module (10) can be used in one or more of the front camera, side camera, rear camera and black box of the vehicle (1).

[0050]

[0051] Hereinafter, a heating element and a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a plan view showing one region of a heating element according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing A-A' of FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heating element according to a state where the current is cut off.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, a camera module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first body (100), a second body (200), a lens module (300), a lens holder (400), a substrate module (500), and a heating element (700).

[0054] The first body (100) can form the outer shape of the camera module (10). The first body (100) can be named any one of a front body, an upper housing, or a first housing. A space can be formed inside the first body (100) to accommodate a lens module (300), a lens holder (400), and a substrate module (500).

[0055] The first body (100) may include a body portion (110) and a protrusion (120). The body portion (110) and the protrusion (120) may be formed integrally.

[0056] The body portion (110) may be formed of a metal material. The body portion (110) may be placed on the second body (200). The body portion (110) may be joined to the second body (200). The lower end of the body portion (110) may be fixed on the second body (200). The body portion (110) may be joined to the second body (200) by welding. Alternatively, the body portion (110) may be joined to the second body (200) by adhesive or fusion.

[0057] The body portion (110) may be formed in a rectangular shape with an open bottom. At this time, the corners of the body portion (110) may be formed rounded. The body portion (110) may include a top plate (112) and a first side plate (114) extending downward from the edge of the top plate (112). The top plate (112) may be formed in a rectangular shape. The top plate (112) may extend outward from the lower outer surface of the protrusion (120). The first side plate (114) may extend downward from the outer edge of the top plate (112). The first side plate (114) may be provided in multiple numbers. The first side plate (114) may include four side plates. The first side plate (114) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. For example, the first side plate (114) may include a first-1 side plate and a first-2 side plate, a first-3 side plate positioned opposite the first-1 side plate, and a first-4 side plate positioned opposite the first-2 side plate. The first side plate (114) may include first-1 to first-4 corners positioned between the first-1 to first-4 side plates, respectively. Each of the first-1 to first-4 corners may have a rounded shape in at least a portion.

[0058] A space portion separated from other areas may be formed on the inner side of the body portion (110). The space portion has an open bottom and its upper portion may be covered through the protrusion portion (120) and the lower surface of the lens module (300).

[0059] The first body (100) may include a protrusion (120). The protrusion (120) may be formed of a metal material. The protrusion (120) may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The protrusion (120) may be placed on the body part (110). The protrusion (120) may extend upward from the upper surface of the body part (110). The protrusion (120) may be formed integrally with the body part (110). As a variation, the protrusion (120) may be coupled to the body part (110). In this case, the protrusion (120) may be fixed to the body part (110) by an adhesive. The protrusion (120) may accommodate a lens module (300) inside. A space for coupling the lens module (300) may be formed in the center of the protrusion (120). A lens module (300) can be placed in the space within the protrusion (120).

[0060] The camera module (10) may include a second body (200). The second body (200) may be named a rear body, a lower housing, a second housing, or a rear cover. The second body (200) may be formed in a rectangular shape with an open top. The second body (200) may be formed of a metal material. The second body (200) may be placed below the first body (100). The second body (200) may be combined with the first body (100). The second body (200) may form an internal space through combination with the first body (100). The second body (200) may include a space portion with an open top surface.

[0061] The second body (200) may include a bottom plate (220). The bottom plate (220) may face the top plate (112) of the first body (100) in the optical axis direction. The bottom plate (220) may be spaced apart from the top plate (112) of the first body (100) in the optical axis direction. The bottom plate (220) may be parallel to the top plate (112) of the first body (100). The bottom plate (220) may be formed in a square shape. At this time, the corners of the bottom plate (220) may include a round shape in at least a part.

[0062] The second body (200) may include a second side plate (210). The second side plate (210) may extend from the bottom plate (220). The second side plate (210) may extend upward from the outer edge of the bottom plate (220). A shield member (not shown) may be disposed on the second side plate (210). The shield member may be in surface contact with the inner surface of the second side plate (210). The upper end of the second side plate (210) may be joined to the first body (100). The inner surface of the second side plate (210) may be arranged to wrap around the outer surface of the first side plate (114). The inner surface of the second side plate (210) and the outer surface of the first side plate (114) may be joined to each other by at least one of welding, adhesive, or fusion.

[0063] The second body (200) may include a connector outlet (290). The connector outlet (290) may have a shape that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the bottom plate (220). A connector (not shown), which will be described later, may be disposed inside the connector outlet (290). The upper end of the connector may be coupled to the lower surface of the substrate module (500) and may extend downward. The connector outlet (290) may be formed of a metal material. The connector outlet (290) may be in the shape of a hollow pipe so that at least a portion of the connector is disposed inside.

[0064] The camera module (10) may include a lens module (300). The lens module (300) may be coupled to the first body (100). The lens module (300) may be coupled to a hole in the protrusion (120). The lens module (300) may be positioned such that at least a portion is placed inside the protrusion (120), and the remaining portion protrudes upward from the first body (100).

[0065] The lens module (300) may include a barrel (310) and one or more lenses (330) accommodated within the barrel (310). The lenses (330) may be positioned facing the image sensor in the optical axis direction within the substrate module (500) to be described later. The lenses (330) may be aligned with the image sensor in the optical axis direction. The lenses (330) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged spaced apart from each other along the optical axis direction within the barrel (310). The lenses (330) may include an outermost lens (340) and a rear lens (390) positioned behind the outermost lens (340). Although FIG. 2 illustrates the rear lens (390) as a single lens, this is not limited thereto, and the rear lenses (390) may also be provided in multiple numbers and arranged along the optical axis direction within the barrel (310). At least a portion of the outermost lens (340) may protrude upward from the camera module (10).

[0066] The barrel (310) may include a space on the inside with upper and lower openings. A lens (330) may be placed in the space of the barrel (310). The barrel (310) may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The barrel (310) may be made of metal.

[0067] The barrel (310) may include a first body (312) and a second body (316). The first body (312) and the second body (316) may be formed as a single body. The outer surface of the first body (312) and the outer surface of the second body (316) may form a plane in the direction of the optical axis. The second body (316) may have a shape in which a portion of the upper surface of the first body (312) protrudes upward. Based on the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the thickness of the first body (312) may be greater than the thickness of the second body (316). Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of ​​the placement area of ​​the lens (330) formed within the first body (312) may be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the placement area of ​​the lens (330) formed within the second body (316). A stepped portion may be disposed in the space within the barrel (310) forming the inner surface of the first body (312), with a shape that protrudes inwardly more than other areas. A rear lens (390) may be disposed in the space within the first body (312), and an outermost lens (340) may be disposed in the space within the second body (316). At least a portion of the rear lens (390) may protrude upward from the barrel (310), and another portion may be disposed in the space within the second body (316).

[0068] In the second body (316), a through hole or through groove may be formed so as to penetrate from the inner surface to the outer surface of the second body (316) based on a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, through which the connecting part (730) of the heating member (700) described later passes.

[0069] The lens module (300) may include a retainer (380). The retainer (380) may be attached to the outer surface of the barrel (310). The retainer (380) may be screw-coupled to the barrel (310). Alternatively, the retainer (380) and the barrel (310) may be coupled to each other via epoxy. The retainer (380) may be attached to the top of the barrel (310). At least a portion of the retainer (380) may be positioned within the first body (100). The incident surface of the outermost lens of the lens (330) may protrude upward above the upper surface of the retainer (380).

[0070] The combined structure of the barrel (310) and the retainer (380) described above is exemplary, and the camera module (10) can be implemented as an integrated structure in which the barrel (310) and the retainer (380) are one body.

[0071] The retainer (380) may have a ring-shaped cross-section. The retainer (380) may be positioned so that at least a portion covers the edge of the outermost lens (340). The retainer (380) may be positioned to wrap around the edge of the outermost lens (340). The retainer (380) may be positioned to cover the edge of the incident surface of the outermost lens (340). The retainer (380) may be in contact with a portion of the incident surface of the outermost lens (340). A coupling groove (360) for coupling with the retainer (380) may be formed on the incident surface of the outermost lens (340). This will be described later.

[0072] The retainer (380) may include a first region (382) in which the lower surface supports the incident surface of the outermost lens (340), and a second region (384) extending downward from the edge of the first region (382). The second region (384) may be positioned between the barrel (310) and the first body (100). The first region (382) and the second region (384) may be positioned perpendicular to each other.

[0073] The camera module (10) may include a lens holder (400). The lens holder (400) may be positioned between the first body (100) and the barrel (310). The lens holder (400) may be positioned to surround the outer surface of the barrel (310). The lens holder (400) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a hollow that penetrates from the upper surface to the lower surface. Screw threads or screw grooves may be formed on the inner surface of the lens holder (400). Screw grooves or screw threads may be formed on the outer surface of the barrel (310) facing the inner surface of the lens holder (400). The barrel (310) may be screw-coupled within the lens holder (400).

[0074] A substrate coupling portion may be formed on the lower surface of the lens holder (400) to which the first substrate (510) of the substrate module (500) to be described later is coupled. The substrate coupling portion may have a groove shape that is concave upward from other areas.

[0075] The lens holder (400) may be omitted. In this case, the substrate module (500) may be coupled to the space within the first body (100).

[0076] The camera module (10) may include a substrate module (500). The substrate module (500) may be placed in a space within the camera module (10). The substrate module (500) may be placed between the first body (100) and the second body (200).

[0077] The substrate module (500) may include a first substrate (510), a second substrate (520), and a connecting substrate (not shown).

[0078] The first substrate (510) may be a printed circuit board (PCB). An image sensor may be placed on the upper surface of the first substrate (510). The image sensor may be placed on the first substrate (510) and positioned to face the lens (330) within the lens module (300) in the direction of the optical axis. The first substrate (510) may be placed within the substrate coupling portion of the lens holder (400).

[0079] The second substrate (520) may be a printed circuit board (PCB). The second substrate (520) may be spaced apart from the first substrate (510) in the direction of the optical axis. The second substrate (520) may be placed below the first substrate (510). A connector (not shown) may be attached to the lower surface of the second substrate (520). The upper end of the connector may be soldered to the lower surface of the second substrate (520).

[0080] A terminal (525) may be disposed on the lower surface of the second substrate (520). The terminal (525) may be electrically and physically connected to the lower surface of the heating element (700) to be described later.

[0081] The second substrate (520) can be electrically connected to the first substrate (510). The second substrate (520) and the first substrate (510) can be electrically connected through a connecting substrate. The connecting substrate may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The upper and lower ends of the connecting substrate are connected to the first substrate (510) and the second substrate (520), respectively, so that the first substrate (510) and the second substrate (520) can be electrically connected.

[0082] The substrate module (500) may further include a shield can (not shown) disposed between the first substrate (510) and the second substrate (520). Through the shield can, the first substrate (510) and the second substrate (520) may be separated in the direction of the optical axis.

[0083] The following describes the heat generation structure of the lens according to the embodiment.

[0084] The camera module (10) may include a heating element (700). The heating element (700) may provide heat to the surface of the lens (330). The heating element (700) may provide heat to the surface of the outermost lens (340) among the plurality of lenses (330). Accordingly, frost formed on the surface of the outermost lens (340) may be removed.

[0085] One end of the heating element (700) may be connected to the surface of the outermost lens (340), and the other end may be connected to the substrate module (500).

[0086] The outermost lens (340) disposed on the barrel (310) may include an incident surface (342) into which light is incident, an exit surface (344) opposite to the incident surface (342) into which the incident light is emitted toward an image sensor, and a connecting surface (346) connecting the incident surface (342) and the exit surface (344). The connecting surface (346) may form the lower surface of the lens (330). The connecting surface (346) may form the side surface of the lens (330). One end of the heating element (700) may be coupled to the connecting surface (346). The connecting surface (346) may be disposed outside the area forming the field of view of the outermost lens (340).

[0087] The heating element (700) may be in the shape of a film. The heating element (700) may be a substrate on which a circuit pattern is formed. The heating element (700) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0088] The heating element (700) may include an upper portion (710), a lower portion (720), and a connecting portion (730). The upper portion (710) is positioned at the top of the heating element (700) and may be coupled to the lens (330). The upper portion (710) has a ring-shaped cross-section and may be coupled to the connecting surface (346). The upper portion (710) may generate heat by providing power. The upper portion (710) may have a circular shape corresponding to the shape of the lens (330) or the barrel (310). The coupling structure of the upper portion (710) and the lens (330) will be described later.

[0089] The lower portion (720) is positioned at the bottom of the heating element (700) and can be coupled with the substrate module (500). The lower portion (720) can be coupled to the lower surface of the second substrate (520) of the substrate module (500). The lower portion (720) can be coupled to a terminal (525) positioned on the lower surface of the second substrate (520). Accordingly, power can be supplied from the substrate module (500) to the heating element (700), or a driving signal can be transmitted and received.

[0090] The connecting portion (730) can connect the upper portion (710) and the lower portion (720). The connecting portion (730) may include a region that is bent at least once. At least a portion of the connecting portion (730) may be positioned between the outer surface of the barrel (310) and the inner surface of the first body (100). A hole (not shown) may be formed in the barrel (310) to allow the connecting portion (730) to pass through.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the width (W3-2) of the electrode of the connection portion (730) may be larger than the width (W3-1) of the electrode of the upper portion (710). Accordingly, the loss of power provided from the substrate module (500) can be minimized.

[0092] The upper portion (710) may include a plurality of electrodes spaced apart in the radial direction. Likewise, the connecting portion (730) may include a plurality of electrodes each connected to a plurality of electrodes. The spacing (W2-1) between the plurality of electrodes in the upper portion (710) may be larger than the spacing (W2-2) between the plurality of electrodes in the connecting portion (730). Accordingly, power loss can be minimized in the connecting portion (730) by using relatively wide electrodes, and the thermal efficiency of the heating area can be improved in the upper portion (710) by maximizing the spacing (W2-1) between the plurality of electrodes.

[0093] Between the connecting part (730) and the upper part (710), there may be a region where the width of the electrode decreases. Since a crack may occur due to a rapid change in current amount when the width of the electrode (W3-2) in the connecting part (730) decreases rapidly to the width of the electrode (W3-1) in the upper part (710), in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, a region where the width between the connecting part (730) and the upper part (710) gradually decreases can be formed to prevent cracking.

[0094] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the upper portion (710) is connected to the connecting portion (730), and the other end of the upper portion (710) can be separated from the connecting portion (730) by a first separation distance (d1). Accordingly, assembly reliability can be ensured when attaching the heating element (700) to the lens (330). The other end of the upper portion (710) and the end of the electrode inside the upper portion (710) can be separated by a second separation distance (d2). Accordingly, the electrode inside the upper portion (710) can be prevented from being exposed to the outside, thereby improving the heat transfer reliability of the heating element (700).

[0095] Here, to ensure assembly reliability, the first separation distance (d1) may be smaller than the second separation distance (d2). Additionally, the radial width (W1) between the electrode positioned radially outward among the plurality of electrodes within the upper part (710) and the outer surface of the upper part (710) may be smaller than the second separation distance (d2). Furthermore, the radial spacing (W2-1) between the plurality of electrodes within the upper part (710) may be larger than the first separation distance (d1).

[0096]

[0097] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the heating element (700) may include a substrate (713), an electrode (720), a plurality of filling metal layers (716, 711), a heating layer (718), and a protective layer (717).

[0098] The substrate (713) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate (713) may be named as a substrate. The substrate (713) may be in the form of a film. The material of the substrate (713) may be polyimide or PET.

[0099] The electrode (720) may be disposed on the surface of the substrate (713). The electrode (720) may be disposed on the upper surface of the substrate (713). The electrode (720) may include a plurality of electrodes with different polarities. The electrode (720) may include a first electrode (721) of a first polarity and a second electrode (722) of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity. The first electrode (721) and the second electrode (722) may be mounted on the substrate (713). The first electrode (721) and the second electrode (722) may be arranged to be spaced apart in a first direction. In the drawing, the first direction may be a horizontal direction perpendicular to the up-down direction. The electrode (720) may be formed in the inner region of the insulating layer (714) stacked on the substrate (713).

[0100] The side of the first electrode (721) may be positioned further inward than one side of the substrate (713).

[0101] The side of the second electrode (722) may be positioned further inward than the other side of the substrate (713).

[0102] The radial distance (W1) between any one of the plurality of electrodes (720) and the inner or outer surface of the substrate (713) may be smaller than the distance (W2-1) between the plurality of electrodes (720). Accordingly, the heat transfer efficiency may be higher in the direction of the lens (330) than in the side of the heating element (718).

[0103] The electrode (720) can be formed by patterning copper (Cu) on the substrate (713). However, it is not limited thereto and can be formed using a metal material with high conductivity.

[0104]

[0105] A plurality of charging metal layers (716, 711) may be disposed on an electrode (720). The charging metal layers (716, 711) may be disposed between the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718). The charging metal layers (716, 711) may be electrically connected by direct contact with the electrode (720). The charging metal layers (716, 711) may be formed inside a dielectric layer (714). The charging metal layers (716, 711) may be electrically connected by direct contact with the heating layer (718). The first charging metal layer (716) may be formed to correspond to the first electrode (721), and the second charging metal layer (711) may be formed to correspond to the second electrode (722). A plurality of charging metal layers (716, 711) may each be disposed on a plurality of electrodes (720).

[0106] A plurality of filling metal layers (716, 711) can be formed by forming an insulating layer (714) on a substrate (713) on which an electrode (720) is formed, then removing only the area where the electrode (720) is formed by a photo process to form a groove (715), and then filling the groove (715) with liquid metal.

[0107] The groove (715) can be formed in the same shape as the electrode (720) of the upper part (710). At one end where the electrode (720) is connected to the connecting part (730) in the upper part (710), the groove (715) may not be formed, and an insulating layer (714) may be formed. An insulating layer (714) may be formed between the other end of the upper part (710) and the end of the electrode within the upper part (710). The groove (715) may be formed in the same shape as the electrode (720), but an insulating layer (714) may be formed at one end and the end of the upper part (710) so that the groove (715) does not flow outward even if the filling metal (716) is melted.

[0108] The groove (715) can be formed in the insulating layer (714) at a distance of the first gap (W1) from the edge of the substrate (713).

[0109] Additionally, since grooves (715) are formed on the first electrode (721) and the second electrode (722) respectively, the grooves (715) can be formed at a distance of the second interval (W2-1). The grooves (715) can be formed at a distance of the second interval (W2-1), which is the distance between the first electrode (721) and the second electrode (722). Each filling metal layer (716, 711) can be formed at a distance of the second interval (W2-1), which is the distance between the first electrode (721) and the second electrode (722).

[0110] The filling metal layer (716, 711) may be formed of bismuth (Bi), tin (Sn), lead (Pb), indium (In), cadmium (Cd), or an alloy thereof. However, it is not limited to these and may be made of other types of metal, and may include other additives in addition to the metal.

[0111] The filling metal layer (716, 711) can be formed by melting a metal or alloy and then filling the groove (715) with the metal in a liquid state.

[0112] For example, in the case of an alloy composed of 50 wt% (weight percent) or more and less than 52 wt% tin (Sn) and 48 wt% or more and less than 50 wt% indium (In), it may have a melting point of about 120 degrees. The alloy may be heated to 120 degrees or higher to fill the groove (715) with the liquid Sn / In alloy.

[0113] In addition, an alloy composed of 45 wt% or more and less than 50 wt% bismuth (Bi), 22 wt% or more and less than 34 wt% tin (Sn), and 20 wt% or more and less than 28 wt% lead (Pb) may have a melting point of about 100 degrees. The alloy may be heated to 100 degrees or more to fill the groove (715) with a liquid Bi / Sn / Pb alloy.

[0114] After the alloy in the liquid state is filled into the groove (715), the alloy in the liquid state is cooled according to the ambient temperature, and a first state filling metal layer (716, 711) can be formed. Here, the first state can be a solid state. After the alloy in the liquid state is cooled, an etching or grinding process to flatten the upper surface of the insulating layer (714) and the filling metal layer (716, 711) may be additionally performed as needed.

[0115] The type or ratio of the alloy used in the filling metal layer (716, 711) may vary depending on the set temperature of the product used. That is, the type or ratio of the alloy can be adjusted according to the product in which the heating element (700) is used, so that an alloy suitable for the set temperature can be used as the filling metal layer (716, 711).

[0116] For example, in the case of a first alloy composed of 50 wt% or more and less than 52 wt% tin (Sn) and 48 wt% or more and less than 50 wt% indium (In), it has a melting point of about 120 degrees.

[0117] In addition, the second alloy, composed of 45 wt% or more and less than 50 wt% bismuth (Bi), 22 wt% or more and less than 34 wt% tin (Sn), and 20 wt% or more and less than 28 wt% lead (Pb), has a melting point of about 100 degrees.

[0118] In addition, In has a melting point of approximately 157 degrees, the 51.0In / 32.5Bi / 16.5Sn(wt%) alloy has a melting point of approximately 60 degrees, the 50.0Bi / 26.7Pb / 13.3Sn / 10.0Cd(wt%) alloy has a melting point of approximately 70 degrees, the 50.0Bi / 25.0Sn / 2.0Pb(wt%) alloy has a melting point of approximately 98 degrees, and the 46.0Bi / 34.0Sn / 20.0Pb(wt%) alloy has a melting point of approximately 96 degrees.

[0119] The heating layer (718) can generate heat through the electrode (720) and the filling metal layer (716, 711) by means of power provided from the substrate module (500). When the heat generated by the heating layer (718) reaches a first temperature, the material filled in the filling metal layer (716, 711) melts, and a gap (G) can be formed between the filling metal layer (716, 711) and the heating layer (718), as shown in FIG. 5. Here, the first temperature may be equal to the set temperature.

[0120] Here, the first temperature may be a target temperature for each product used. For example, a heating element (700) including a heating layer (718) made of a first alloy may be used in a vehicle camera. Additionally, a heating element (700) including a heating layer (718) made of a second alloy may be used in a vehicle camera. However, it is not limited thereto, and the filling metal layer (718) may be formed of an alloy with a melting temperature of about 100 to 120 degrees.

[0121] At this time, the first temperature of the vehicle camera may be 120 degrees, which is the temperature at which the first alloy melts, or 100 degrees, which is the temperature at which the second alloy melts. When the first alloy or the second alloy is applied to the vehicle camera, the filler metal layer (716, 711) may melt at a temperature of approximately 120 degrees or approximately 100 degrees. The filler metal layer (716, 711) melts into a second state, which is a liquid metal state, and a gap (G) may be formed between the filler metal layer (716, 711) and the heating layer (718). The gap (G) may be an air gap.

[0122] A gap (G) is formed between the charging metal layer (716, 711) and the heating layer (718), so that the charging metal layer (716, 711) and the heating layer (718) can be separated from each other. When a gap (G) is formed between the charging metal layer (716, 711) and the heating layer (718), the current between the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718) can be cut off by the gap (G). In addition, the power supplied from the substrate module (500) can be cut off.

[0123] The temperature of the heating layer (718) can be reduced by cutting off the current. As the temperature of the heating layer (718) decreases, it becomes below the first temperature, and the liquid metal can be cooled and solidified to return to the first state, and the filling metal layer (716, 711) can electrically connect the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718) again. By the filling metal layer (716, 711), the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718) are again in contact and connected, so the heating layer (718) can generate heat again.

[0124] A charging metal layer (716) is formed between the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718), so that at a first temperature, the charging metal layer (716, 711) melts and electrically disconnects the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718), thereby preventing overcurrent or high-temperature heating. In this embodiment, by forming the charging metal layer (716, 711) to electrically disconnect the electrode (720) and the heating layer (718), the current can be cut off without a separate fuse or circuit breaker, thereby preventing overheating.

[0125] The filling metal layer (716, 711) can be formed thicker than the thickness (t1) of the electrode (720), and the thickness (t3) of the gap (G) formed by the melting of the filling metal layer (716, 711) can be formed thinner than the thickness (t2) of the filling metal layer (716). The gap (G) can have a thickness sufficient to electrically block the space between the filling metal layer (716, 711) and the heating layer (718), and the thickness (t2) of the filling metal layer (716, 711) can be formed by taking into account the volume difference between solidification and melting so that the gap (G) can be sufficiently formed.

[0126]

[0127] A heating layer (718) may be placed on a filling metal layer (716, 711). A heating layer (718) may be placed between the filling metal layer (716, 711) and the protective layer (717). A heating layer (718) may be placed in contact with the filling metal layer (716, 711). A heating layer (718) may be formed to completely cover the filling metal layer (716, 711). A heating layer (718) may be placed on an insulating layer (714) on which the filling metal layer (716, 711) is formed, in contact with the filling metal layer (716, 711).

[0128] The heating layer (718) is formed to completely cover the filling metal layers (716, 711), so that the filling metal layers (716, 711) can be embedded by the heating layer (718), the insulating layer (714), and the electrode (720). The heating layer (718) is formed with a length that can completely cover the plurality of filling metal layers (716, 711), so that the plurality of filling metal layers (716, 711) made of liquid metal can operate stably.

[0129] The heating layer (718) may be made of a conductive material that increases conductivity. The heating layer (718) may be made of a carbon heating element such as carbon black (CB), carbon nanotube (CNT), or graphene. The heating layer (718) may be made of an alloy such as nichrome. The heating layer (718) may be made of a metal oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO). However, it is not limited to this and may be formed of other materials that can improve conductivity, such as graphite or fullerene.

[0130]

[0131] A protective layer (717) may be disposed on a substrate (713), an electrode (720), an insulating layer (714) on which a filling metal layer (716, 711) is formed, and a heating layer (718). The protective layer (717) may be formed on the upper surface of the heating layer (718) in the shape of a film. The protective layer (717) covers the upper surface of the substrate (713), the electrode (720), the insulating layer (714) on which a filling metal layer (716, 711) is formed, and the heating layer (718), and can protect the substrate (713), the electrode (720), the insulating layer (714) on which a filling metal layer (716, 711) is formed, and the heating layer (718) from various external factors.

[0132] The protective layer (717) can be formed of a material of polyimide.

[0133]

[0134] The adhesive layer (719) can be placed on the protective layer (717).

[0135] The adhesive layer (719) may include any one of an adhesive material, an adhesive, or an adhesive tape having adhesive properties. For example, the adhesive layer (719) may be a thermosetting material. Accordingly, the heating element (700) can be bonded to the lens (330) by curing.

[0136] In this embodiment, the protective layer (717) and the adhesive layer (719) are placed separately, but when the protective layer (717) is removed, the adhesive layer (719) can be placed in contact with the heating layer (718).

[0137] The thermal conductivity of the adhesive layer (719) may be greater than the conductivity of the protective layer (717). Therefore, heat can be concentrated on the lens (330) through the adhesive layer (719).

[0138] Meanwhile, a release film (not shown) may be placed on the adhesive layer (719), and the strength of the heating element may be reinforced through the release film.

[0139]

[0140] FIGS. 6 to 7 are cross-sectional views of a heating element according to a second embodiment.

[0141] In this embodiment, other parts are identical to the first embodiment, except for differences in the arrangement structure of the filling metal layer, electrode, and heating layer. Therefore, below, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described, and for the remaining parts, the description according to the first embodiment will be used.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 6, the heating element (700) may include a substrate (1713), an electrode (1720), a first filling metal layer (1716), a second filling metal layer (1711), a heating layer (1718), and a protective layer (1717).

[0143] The first electrode (1721) and the second electrode (1722) may be formed at a distance of a first length (W1) from the edge of the substrate (1713). The radial distance between any one of the plurality of electrodes (1720) and the inner or outer surface of the substrate (1713) may be the first length (W1). The radial distance from the edge of the outer surface of the substrate (1713) to the first electrode (1721) may be the first length (W1). The radial distance from the edge of the inner surface of the substrate (1713) to the second electrode (1722) may be the first length (W1).

[0144] The length from the edge of the substrate (1713) to the plurality of electrodes (1720) can be formed as a first length (W1). The length from the edge of the outer surface of the substrate (1713) to the first filling metal layer (1716) can be formed to be longer than the first length (W1). The length from the edge of the inner surface of the substrate (1713) to the second filling metal layer (1711) can be formed to be longer than the first length (W1).

[0145] The radial distance from the edge of the outer surface of the substrate (1713) to the first filling metal layer (1716) may be formed to be longer than the first length (W1). The radial distance from the edge of the inner surface of the substrate (1713) to the second filling metal layer (1711) may be formed to be longer than the first length (W1). The radial distance between any one of the filling metal layers and the inner or outer surface of the substrate (1713) may be greater than the first length (W1).

[0146] The first electrode (1721) and the second electrode (1722) may be spaced apart by a second length (W2-1), and the distance (W8) between the first charging metal layer (1716) and the second charging metal layer (1711) may be spaced greater than the second length (W2-1).

[0147] The width (W3-1) of the first electrode (1721) and the second electrode (1722) may be formed wider than the width (W4) of the first charging metal layer (1716) and the second charging metal layer (1711). The width (W4) of the plurality of charging metal layers (1716, 1711) may be formed narrower than the width (W3-1) of the plurality of electrodes (1720). The radial length (W3-1) of the electrode (1720) may be formed longer than the radial length (W4) of the plurality of charging metal layers (1716, 1711).

[0148] A plurality of charged metal layers (1716, 1711) may be disposed on the electrode (1720). A plurality of charged metal layers (1716, 1711) may be disposed between the electrode (1720) and the heating layer (1718). A plurality of charged metal layers (1716, 1711) may be electrically connected by direct contact with the electrode (1720). A plurality of charged metal layers (1716, 1711) may be formed inside the dielectric layer (1714). A plurality of charged metal layers (1716, 1711) may be electrically connected by direct contact with the heating layer (1718).

[0149] A plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) can be formed by forming an insulating layer (1714) on a substrate (1713) on which an electrode (1720) is formed, then removing only the area where the electrode (1720) is formed by a photo process to form a groove (1715), and then filling the groove (1715) with liquid metal. The width (W4) of the groove (1715) can be formed to be narrower than the width (W3-1) of the electrode (1720).

[0150] The groove (1715) can be formed in the same shape as the electrode (1720) of the upper part (1710). At one end where the electrode (1720) of the upper part (1710) is connected to the connecting part (1730), the groove (1715) may not be formed, and an insulating layer (1714) may be formed. An insulating layer (1714) may be formed between the other end of the upper part (1710) and the end of the electrode within the upper part (1710). The groove (1715) can be formed in the same shape as the electrode (1720), but an insulating layer (1714) can be formed at one end and the end of the upper part (1710) so that the groove (1715) does not flow outward even if the filling metal (1716) is melted.

[0151] The width (W4) of the groove (1715) can be formed narrower than the width (W3-1) of the electrode (1720). The width (W4) of the filling metal layer (1716) can be formed narrower than the width (W3-1) of the electrode (1720). The radial length (W4) of the plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) can be formed narrower than the radial length (W3-1) of the electrode (1720).

[0152] In the radial direction, the total width of the first electrode (1721) and the second electrode (1722) can be formed to be longer than the total width (W6) of the first filling metal layer (1716) and the second filling metal layer (1711).

[0153]

[0154] A heating layer (1718) may be disposed on a plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711). A heating layer (1718) may be disposed between a plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) and a protective layer (1717). A heating layer (1718) may be disposed to be in contact with a plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711). A heating layer (1718) may be formed to completely cover a plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711). A heating layer (1718) may be disposed on an insulating layer (1714) on which a plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) are formed, in contact with a plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711). The heating layer (1718) is formed to completely cover the plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711), so that the plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) can be buried by the heating layer (1718), the insulating layer (1714), and the electrode (1720).

[0155] The width (W7) of the heating layer (1718) may be formed wider than the total width (W6) of the first filling metal layer (1716) and the second filling metal layer (1711). The total radial length (W6) of the plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) may be formed shorter than the radial length (W7) of the heating layer (1718). The heating layer (1718) is formed with a length that can completely cover the plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711), so that the plurality of filling metal layers (1716, 1711) made of liquid metal can operate stably.

[0156] The heating layer (1718) can be formed at a distance of a predetermined length (W5) from the edge of the substrate (1713). A protective layer (1717) can be disposed on the side of the heating layer (1718) to protect the heating layer (1718). A protective layer (1717) can be disposed with a predetermined thickness (W5) between both ends of the heating layer (1718) and the edge of the substrate (1713). The heating layer (1718) can be formed in a structure in which its side and top surfaces are surrounded by the protective layer (1717). Accordingly, heat generated from the heating layer (1718) can be prevented from being lost to the outside, thereby minimizing heat loss and increasing heat generation.

[0157]

[0158] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without changing its technical concept or essential features. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. Substrate; An insulating layer laminated on the above substrate; A heating layer laminated on the above insulating layer; A protective layer laminated on the above heating layer; A plurality of electrodes disposed on the substrate in the internal region of the insulating layer; and It includes a plurality of filling metal layers each disposed on the plurality of electrodes, and A heating element having a plurality of filling metal layers that are in a first state at a first temperature or lower and in a second state at a temperature higher than the first temperature.

2. In Paragraph 1, A heating element in which the first state is a solid state and the second state is a liquid state.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of filler metal layers, In the first state above, one surface is in contact with the heating layer, and A heating element having a gap formed between it and the heating layer in the second state above.

4. In Paragraph 3, A heating element in which the plurality of filling metal layers and the heating layer are electrically disconnected by the gap.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of filler metal layers, A heating element that becomes the first state when the temperature in the second state is lower than or equal to the first temperature.

6. In Paragraph 5, When the above plurality of filling metal layers reach the first state, The above plurality of filling metal layers are a heating element electrically connected to the heating layer.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above first temperature is, A heating element that varies according to the ratio of metals or alloys forming the plurality of filling metal layers.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of electrodes are spaced apart from each other, and A heating element in which the distance between the plurality of electrodes is shorter than the distance between the plurality of filling metal layers.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above heating layer is, The above-mentioned filling metal layer is disposed on an insulating layer formed thereon, and The plurality of filling metal layers are a heating element embedded by the insulating layer, the heating layer, and the substrate.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of filling metal layers are heating elements composed of bismuth (Bi), tin (Sn), lead (Pb), indium (In), cadmium (Cd), or alloys thereof.

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