Camera Module Heating Structure for Lens Condensation Removal

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera modules in automobiles face inefficiencies in heat transfer and condensation due to rapid temperature changes, leading to unsatisfactory images or product failure.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design with a heating member connected to a printed circuit board, featuring a groove and sealing member to retain heat and inhibit its escape, enhancing heating efficiency and condensation removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If heating wires are placed on the lens and glass to remove frost, then condensation removal capability is improved, but heat transfer efficiency deteriorates due to rapid heat cooling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecondensation removal capabilityVSAvoidheat transfer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a heating member as an intermediary element positioned between the light source and the lens. This heating member directly receives heat from the light source and transfers it to the lens, serving as a thermal mediator that improves heat transfer efficiency compared to placing heating wires directly on the lens surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the lighting function and heating function into a single system. The light source serves dual purposes: providing illumination for the camera and generating heat to prevent condensation on the lens. This merging eliminates the need for separate heating elements and improves overall system efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If the housing is designed as an entirely enclosed structure to prevent contamination, then protection against foreign objects is improved, but heat dissipation deteriorates causing heat to escape to the outside

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against contaminationVSAvoidheat retention
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating a specific thermal environment within the enclosed housing. The heating member is positioned in a localized area where heat needs to be concentrated (near the lens), while the rest of the enclosed housing maintains its protective function. This localized heating approach allows the housing to remain enclosed for protection while still achieving effective heat transfer to the lens.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Improved heating efficiency prevents heat loss and facilitates easier condensation removal from lenses, ensuring optimal image quality.

Implementation Method 1

heating member having one end thereof connected to the printed circuit board and the other end thereof disposed between the lens module and the upper part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

a groove facing the heating member is disposed in the lower surface of the upper part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal radiation trapping: Thermal Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS12554127B2Camera module
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • US12554127B2 patent drawing
  • US12554127B2 patent drawing
  • US12554127B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera module comprises: a first body comprising an upper part, and a side part downwardly extending from the upper part; a lens module disposed in the first body and having the upper surface thereof facing the lower surface of upper body; a printed circuit board comprising an image sensor facing the lens module; and a heating member having one end thereof connected to the printed circuit board and the other end thereof disposed between the lens module and the upper part, wherein a groove facing the heating member is disposed in the lower surface of the upper part.