Hollow Thermoelectric Element for Camera Lens Frosting and Sensor Overheating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera modules, especially those used outdoors, face issues with frosting of the lens unit and overheating of the image sensing unit, leading to malfunctions and image distortion due to exposure to cold temperatures and operational heating.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design incorporating a thermoelectric element in a hollow shape that heats the exposed portion of the lens unit to prevent frosting and cools the image sensing unit to prevent overheating, using a Peltier effect with DC power to manage temperature extremes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lens unit is exposed to the outside for photographing, then the camera module can capture images, but the lens unit is sensitive to surrounding temperature and may be covered with frost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local heating to the lens unit by positioning the thermoelectric element's heating surface adjacent to the lens unit. This localized thermal treatment prevents frost formation on the lens unit without affecting other components, resolving the contradiction between maintaining external exposure for imaging and preventing temperature-related harm.
2Productivity
If the camera module is operated, then images can be captured, but parts such as the image sensing unit may overheat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies localized cooling to the image sensing unit by positioning the thermoelectric element's cooling surface adjacent to it. This enables selective temperature control during operation, allowing the image sensing unit to be cooled without affecting other operational components, thus preventing overheating while maintaining productivity.
3Reliability
If a thermoelectric element is used to heat the lens unit and cool the image sensing unit, then frosting and overheating are prevented, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single thermoelectric element that performs dual functions: heating the lens unit and cooling the image sensing unit. By making this one component multi-functional, the patent achieves reliable temperature control for both components without proportionally increasing device complexity, as one element replaces what would otherwise require separate heating and cooling systems.
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
Effectively removes frost from the lens unit and prevents overheating of the image sensing unit, thereby preventing performance degradation and failure of the camera module due to environmental and operational temperature issues.
Implementation Method 1
using a Peltier effect with DC power to manage temperature extremes
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of a camera module can comprise: a lens unit; a holder coupled to the lens unit; a cover member arranged on the top of the holder, and encompassing the lens unit; an image sensing unit arranged on the lower part of the lens unit and the holder; and a thermoelement formed in a hollow shape and encompassing the lens unit, and arranged such that one surface thereof faces the image sensing unit.