Elastic Sealing Member Positioning in Imaging Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sealing members in imaging apparatuses are unstable in position and do not allow for precise adjustment of the imaging element's position and tilt, potentially leading to interference with the photographing light range.
Innovation Solution
An elastic sealing member with position restricting portions is used between the optical member and the imaging element, featuring elastic loading portions that adjust the imaging element's position and tilt, and pressing portions that prevent foreign matter from reaching the light receiving surface, allowing for precise positioning and sealing without adhesives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing member is held by restricting the edges, then the sealing function is achieved, but the holding operation becomes difficult due to elastic deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing member is divided into a sealing portion and a holding portion, with the holding portion having a specific shape that enables easy gripping and holding operations while the sealing portion maintains the sealing function
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the sealing member have different properties: the sealing portion is designed for sealing effectiveness while the holding portion is designed with features that facilitate easy holding and manipulation
2Device complexity
If the position of the sealing member is determined only by elastic deformation of rubber, then the structure is simple, but the position stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
Position restricting portions are provided in advance on the sealing member to limit the movement range and prevent excessive displacement, ensuring position stability before assembly is completed
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member is designed with specific geometric parameters including position restricting portions that define acceptable movement boundaries, transforming the purely elastic positioning into a constrained positioning system
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustment screws are used to move the support plate, then the position and tilt adjustment is achievable, but the operation becomes troublesome and requires dedicated compression springs
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing member is designed to serve multiple functions: sealing, positioning, and facilitating adjustment operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated compression springs and simplifying the overall adjustment mechanism
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
The solution ensures accurate and stable positioning of the sealing member, preventing foreign matter intrusion and maintaining a tight seal between the optical member and the imaging element, enhancing the precision and operability of the imaging apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing member is formed by an elastic member, and includes a position restricting portion that is inserted between the outer peripheral edge portion of the optical member and the holding member in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging optical system and carries out positioning
Data Source
AI summary
The imaging apparatus holds an imaging element that converts a subject image that has been formed by an imaging optical system to an electric signal by a holding member. An optical member is disposed more toward the subject side than the imaging element and is installed on the holding member. A sealing member that is formed by an elastic material encloses the light receiving surface of the imaging element as a countermeasure for dust protection. A position restricting member provided on the sealing member carries out positioning by being inserted between the outer peripheral edge portion of the optical member and the holding member in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging optical system.