Camera Lens Waterproofing via Integrated Outer Cover and Air Vent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera lens waterproofing solutions require additional components like optical lens pieces, breathable films, and desiccant bags, increasing material and assembly costs, and may suffer from condensation and water vapor issues.
Innovation Solution
A camera-lens waterproofing device comprising a shell, camera lens, and outer cover with a first-layer waterproof structure formed by the outer cover and a second-layer structure by the cover ring, eliminating the need for external lens pieces or breathable layers, and incorporating a hidden air vent for vapor discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional components like optical lens pieces, breathable films, and desiccant bags are used for waterproofing, then waterproofing reliability is improved, but material cost and assembly cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the waterproofing function and vapor discharge function into a single integrated outer cover structure. The outer cover includes both the waterproof breathable film and the air vent in one component, eliminating the need for separate desiccant bags and multiple assembly steps, thus reducing complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The outer cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides waterproofing through the breathable film, enables vapor discharge through the air vent, and structurally protects the camera lens. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, lowering both material and assembly costs
2Productivity
If an air vent is designed for vapor discharge, then vapor discharge efficiency is improved, but water droplet backflow risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of water droplet backflow into a beneficial design by making the air vent hidden and positioned strategically. The vent allows vapor discharge while its concealed position and the hydrophobic properties of the breathable film prevent water droplet intrusion, turning a potential weakness into a strength
3Productivity
If a breathable structure is designed, then vapor discharge is improved, but material cost and assembly cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The breathable film and air vent are integrated into a single outer cover component that can be installed in one assembly step. This merging eliminates the need for separate installation of breathable layers and vents, significantly reducing assembly cost and time while maintaining effective vapor discharge functionality
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces material and assembly costs, enhances vapor discharge, and prevents backflow of water droplets, achieving effective waterproofing without external coatings or consumables, and potentially reaching IPX6 waterproofing grade.
Implementation Method 1
a waterproof breathable film (for preventing condensation of water vapor)
Implementation Method 2
an air vent is also designed on the general optical lens piece to discharge internal hot air
Implementation Method 3
the waterproof breathable film is additionally provided
Data Source
AI summary
A camera-lens waterproofing device is provided, including a shell, a camera lens, a cover ring and an outer cover. A mounting hole is formed in a surface of the shell. The camera lens includes a body and a lens. One end of the body is disposed to the mounting hole, and the other end of the body extends out of the mounting hole. The lens is located at the other end of the body. The cover ring is connected to the body in a sleeving manner and fixed on the mounting hole. The outer cover is fixed at a periphery of the lens in a sleeving manner to form a first-layer waterproof structure and disposed on the surface of the shell, and covers the exterior of the cover ring. The cover ring abuts between the camera lens and the shell to form a second-layer waterproof structure.