Multi-Camera Lens Heating Module for Auto Defogging and Waterproofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current single-camera modules require manual activation of heaters and lack the ability to automatically adjust for visual range, necessitating improvements for enhanced functionality and waterproof performance.
Innovation Solution
A multi-camera module with integrated heating modules, including temperature sensors and control elements, that automatically heats lenses when temperature drops below a set point, ensuring automatic defrosting/defogging and housed within a waterproof structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a heater is manually activated in a single-camera module, then the lens can be defrosted/defogged, but the system lacks automatic heating capability and requires user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The heating module automatically activates and deactivates based on temperature sensor feedback without requiring manual user intervention. The control element continuously monitors the lens temperature and autonomously controls the heating element, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature sensor provides continuous feedback to the control element about the lens temperature. This feedback loop enables the control element to automatically adjust the heating element's operation, turning it on when the temperature drops below a threshold and turning it off when the threshold is reached, achieving automatic temperature regulation.
2Reliability
If heating components are exposed in a single-camera module, then manual access is possible, but waterproof performance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The heating module integrates multiple components (heating element, temperature sensor, control element, and electrical connector) into a single sealed unit that is then integrated into the camera module. This merging of components into a unified sealed structure eliminates gaps and interfaces that could compromise waterproofing while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating module uses a sealed housing structure that encloses all electrical and heating components, creating a waterproof barrier. This sealed shell protects the internal components from moisture while allowing the module to be integrated into the camera system, maintaining both protection and functionality.
3Reliability
If a sealed housing structure is used to protect components, then waterproof performance is improved, but the complexity of integrating multiple components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating module is designed as a separate, self-contained sealed unit that houses all its internal components (heating element, temperature sensor, control element). This segmentation allows each component to be integrated into the sealed structure systematically, reducing the overall complexity of integrating multiple separate components into the camera module while maintaining waterproof protection.
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 multi-camera module provides automatic heating and improved waterproofing, suitable for advanced driver assistance systems, particularly in Level 5 vehicles, by maintaining optimal lens conditions without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element, close to or in contact with the front lens of the lens module, and electrically connected to the control element of the circuit board through the electrical connector
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor, close to the front lens, and electrically connected to the control element of the circuit board through the electrical connector, in which the temperature sensor is configured to measure a temperature close to the front lens
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-camera module includes a housing, camera modules and heating modules. Each of the camera modules includes: a lens holder; a circuit board, disposed on a back surface of the lens holder and having a control element; and a lens module, partially disposed in the lens holder and having a front lens. Each of the heating modules includes: an electrical connector, electrically connected to the control element; a heating element, close to or in contact with the front lens, and electrically connected to the control element through the electrical connector; and a temperature sensor, close to the front lens, and electrically connected to the control element through the electrical connector, in which the temperature sensor is configured to measure a temperature close to the front lens. When the temperature is lower than a set temperature, the control element turns on the heating element.