Lens Barrel Heating Structure for Waterproof Camera Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules with heating coils exposed to the environment are prone to water ingress, affecting heating efficiency and occupying valuable space, while connectors for power supply complicate miniaturization and increase manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design with an electric heating apparatus integrated within the lens barrel, using a flexible circuit board or wire for internal connections, and a sealed structure to prevent water ingress, allowing for compact design and efficient heating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the heating coil is wound and exposed to the periphery of the lens, then the heating function can be achieved, but the heating coil cannot be waterproof and external airflows affect the heating effect
Solution Approach 1:
The heating coil is extracted from the external periphery of the lens and relocated to the internal space of the lens barrel. This extraction resolves the waterproof issue by removing the heating element from direct environmental exposure, while the heating function is preserved through internal positioning near the lens group.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating coil is nested within the lens barrel structure, utilizing the internal space of the existing lens assembly. This nesting approach eliminates the need for external heating components and connectors, achieving waterproofing while maintaining compact design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is used to connect the conductive line and the power-supply circuit board, then plugging and unplugging function is achieved, but the connector occupies large area and volume, not facilitating miniaturization
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive line is merged directly with the circuit board through welding or conductive adhesive, eliminating the need for separate connectors. This integration reduces the volume occupied by connection components while maintaining electrical connectivity and plugging/unplugging functionality at the module level.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens barrel structure serves multiple functions: it houses the lens group, provides structural support, and now also accommodates the heating coil and integrates the power connection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connector components, reducing overall module volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is used for connection, then plugging and unplugging is achieved, but manufacturing costs are relatively high
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is merged into the lens barrel and circuit board assembly, eliminating the need for separate connector components. This reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining plugging and unplugging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive line uses simple, cost-effective materials such as copper wire or conductive adhesive instead of expensive connector components. This approach reduces material costs and simplifies the manufacturing process, achieving acceptable durability for the intended application lifecycle.
4Temperature
If the heating coil is exposed to the periphery of the lens, then heating function is achieved, but the heating coil occupies valuable space
Solution Approach 1:
The heating coil is nested within the internal space of the lens barrel, utilizing otherwise wasted volume. This positioning achieves the heating function without occupying additional external space, as the heating element is accommodated within the existing structural envelope of the lens assembly.
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 stable imaging by direct and efficient heating of the lens, reduces space occupation, and maintains a compact form factor while minimizing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The electric heating apparatus includes an electric connecting portion and an electric heating portion... to realize electric heating of the lens
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module having a heating function is provided, including a lens, an electric heating apparatus, a circuit board, and a housing. The lens includes a lens barrel and a lens group mounted in the lens barrel, the electric heating apparatus includes an electric connecting portion and an electric heating portion, and the electric heating portion is located in the lens barrel. The circuit board is provided with a second conductive connector, and a first conductive connector is connected to the second conductive connector. A through hole is provided on a barrel wall of the lens barrel, and the lens barrel is penetrated out by the electric connecting portion through the through hole. The lens is mounted at a position of a lens element mounting portion, and the circuit board is disposed in a housing.