CN114442406B - Device for protecting optical lens and manufacturing method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

The application provides a device for protecting an optical lens and a manufacturing method thereof. The optical lens has an optical axis. The device comprises: a first protective cover having a first state and a second state; and a control module that switches the first protective cover from being in the second state to being in the first state in response to the status instruction; wherein an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the first state is larger than an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state.

Description

Device for protecting optical lens and manufacturing method thereof

Technical Field

The present application relates to the field of protective devices, and more particularly to a device for protecting an optical lens, a lens module, a carrying device and a method of manufacturing a device for protecting an optical lens.

Background

Driving or riding an automobile is a travel mode often selected by people. The safety performance of an automobile is very important as a transportation means because the running safety of an automobile is closely related to the safety of a driver, or other occupants, or pedestrians in the vicinity of the automobile.

Along with the intellectualization of automobiles and the construction of the Internet of things, the vehicle-mounted lens capable of acquiring the external information of the vehicles is more and more widely used and plays an important role. The application of the vehicle-mounted lens on the automobile is very wide, so that the driving process is more efficient and convenient.

Because the automobile driving environment is complex, the vehicle-mounted lens, especially the externally used vehicle-mounted lens, needs to have stronger environment adaptability, and attention is usually paid to the fact that the vehicle-mounted lens has the performance of resisting temperature and humidity. However, during the running of the vehicle, the impact of sand particles is often experienced. When the sand and stone hit the surface (such as glass material) of the vehicle-mounted lens, abrasion, pits, even cracks and the like are easy to occur on the surface of the lens, and further the function failure of the vehicle-mounted lens can be caused. This greatly threatens the safety performance of the automobile.

Disclosure of Invention

An embodiment of the present application provides an apparatus for protecting an optical lens having an optical axis, the apparatus comprising: a first protective cover having a first state and a second state; and a control module that switches the first protective cover from being in the second state to being in the first state in response to the status instruction; wherein an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the first state is larger than an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state.

In one embodiment, the control module issues a drive signal in response to a status instruction; the apparatus further comprises: the driving module is used for responding to the driving signal to drive the first protective cover to switch from the second state to the first state.

In one embodiment, the first protective cover covers the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the first state.

In one embodiment, the projection of the first protective cover in the direction along the optical axis is located radially outside the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state.

In one embodiment, the control module includes a determination module for determining whether the status instruction satisfies a preset condition, and issuing the driving signal in response to the preset condition being satisfied.

In one embodiment, the control module includes at least one sensor; the status instructions include at least one of air grittiness, air pressure, movement speed of the device carrying the optical lens, movement direction of the device, humidity, or user operation triggering the sensor.

Illustratively, the user's operations include: at least one of pressing, toggling or touching.

Illustratively, the control module includes a determination module for determining whether the status instruction satisfies a preset condition, and issuing a drive signal in response to the preset condition being satisfied; the at least one sensor comprises a first sensor and a second sensor, wherein the first sensor is in communication connection with the judging module, and the second sensor is in communication connection with the driving module. The sensor can be used in combination for fool-proof function and special requirement of vehicle owners.

In one embodiment, the control module includes a positioning module; the status instruction includes the spatial location where the positioning module is located.

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: and the display module is used for displaying the state instruction.

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises an update-prompting module communicatively coupled to the photosensitive element of the optical lens for obtaining a degree of wear of the first protective cover and initiating a prompt to replace the first protective cover in response to the obtained degree of wear exceeding a threshold.

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: and the cleaning module is used for spraying the cleaning liquid to the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

In one embodiment, the material of the first protective cover is transparent or opaque.

In one embodiment, the device further comprises a second protective cover, wherein the second protective cover is positioned at one side of the first protective cover, which is away from the optical lens, when the second protective cover is in the first state; the first protective cover is made of transparent materials, and the second protective cover is made of opaque materials.

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: the cleaning module is arranged on the second protective cover and used for spraying cleaning liquid to the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

In one embodiment, the first protective cover comprises at least two covers; when the first protective cover is in a first state, at least two cover bodies are sealed and spliced; when the first protective cover is in the second state, at least two covers are at different radial positions of the optical axis of the optical lens.

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: the mounting seat is fixedly arranged on the outer side of the optical lens in the radial direction of the optical axis; the first protective cover is rotatably connected or slidably connected with the mounting seat.

In one embodiment, the first protective cover is rotatably connected with the mounting seat through a rotating shaft; the axis of the rotating shaft is located in the radial direction of the optical axis.

In one embodiment, the first protective cover is a flat plate or a curved spherical plate.

In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a lens module, which includes the aforementioned device and an optical lens.

The present application provides in a third aspect a carrying device comprising the apparatus as described above and an optical lens.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control module is fixedly connected to the optical lens, a lens module including the optical lens, or a body of the carrying device.

The present application provides in a fourth aspect a method of manufacturing an apparatus for protecting an optical lens, comprising: providing a first protective cover having a first state and a second state at an optical lens having an optical axis, a vehicle-mounted lens module including the optical lens, or a carrying device carrying the optical lens, wherein an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens is larger when the first protective cover is in the first state than an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state; and providing a control module that switches the first protective cover from being in the second state to being in the first state in response to the status instruction.

In one embodiment, the step of setting a control module responsive to the status instruction includes: setting a control module for transmitting a driving signal in response to a status instruction; the method further includes providing a drive module that is responsive to the drive signal to drive the first protective cover to switch from being in the second state to being in the first state; a control module is provided that sends a drive signal to the drive module in response to a status instruction.

In one embodiment, the step of setting the control module includes: a positioning module is provided for obtaining the spatial position in which it is located.

In one embodiment, the step of setting the control module includes: at least one sensor is provided, wherein the sensor is configured to be triggered by air grittiness, air pressure, movement speed of the device carrying the optical lens, movement direction of the device, humidity or operation by a user. Illustratively, the user's operation includes pressing, toggling, or touching.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: a cleaning module is provided for spraying cleaning liquid onto the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

In one embodiment, the first protective cover is formed of a transparent material, the method further comprising: the second protection cover formed based on the transparent material or the opaque material is arranged, so that the second protection cover is positioned at one side of the first protection cover, which is away from the optical lens, when the second protection cover is in the first state.

The embodiment of the application provides a device for protecting an optical lens, wherein a first protection cover is positioned in front of the optical lens when the device is in a first state. The first protection cover has a certain impact resistance, and the damage of sand and stones to the optical lens can be avoided by arranging the protection cover in front of the optical lens and covering the optical lens. Further, the service life of the optical lens is prolonged, the imaging performance of the optical lens is improved, and the driving risk is reduced.

The first protective cover is detachably connected with the optical lens. It is also possible to replace relatively simply, which is impacted by sand with irreparable damage, and this problem can be better overcome by replacing the first protective cover.

In addition, the device for protecting the optical lens can also protect the optical lens under different use environments or different driving states. The device can prevent the influence of vapor or liquid on the optical lens, can also prevent the influence of dust on the imaging of the optical lens, and can even maintain the imaging function of the imaging lens while protecting the imaging lens.

Drawings

Other features, objects and advantages of the present application will become more apparent upon reading of the detailed description of non-limiting embodiments, made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

fig. 1 shows a schematic structural diagram of an in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a first protective cover in a second state according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of the first protective cover of FIG. 2 in a first state;

FIG. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of another first protective cover in a first state according to an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a prior art optical lens impacted by sand;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic block diagram of an optical lens after impact;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a protected optical lens impacted by sand in accordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 8 shows a schematic block diagram of an in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 9 shows a schematic block diagram of another in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the application;

fig. 10 shows a partial schematic structure of a carrying device according to an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 11 shows a schematic block diagram of another first protective cover in a second state in accordance with an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 12 shows a schematic configuration during switching of the first protective cover of FIG. 11 to be in a first state;

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram showing another in-vehicle lens module with a protection device according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 14 shows a schematic block diagram of another in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 15 shows a schematic block diagram of another in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 16 shows a schematic block diagram of another in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 17 shows a schematic block diagram of another in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the application;

FIG. 18 shows a schematic block diagram of another in-vehicle lens module according to an embodiment of the application;

Fig. 19 shows an enlarged view at a in fig. 18;

FIG. 20 shows a cross-sectional view of a corresponding one of the embodiments at A-A in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment corresponding to A-A in FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a schematic block diagram of the in-vehicle lens module with the protective cover in a first state;

FIG. 23 is a schematic block diagram showing the in-vehicle lens module with the protective cover in the second state;

FIG. 24 is a schematic block diagram showing the in-vehicle lens module with the protective cover in a third state;

Fig. 25 shows a schematic flow chart of a method of manufacturing an apparatus for protecting an optical lens according to an embodiment of the present application.

Detailed Description

For a better understanding of the application, various aspects of the application will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the detailed description is merely illustrative of exemplary embodiments of the application and is not intended to limit the scope of the application in any way. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification. The expression "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It should be noted that in the present specification, the expressions of first, second, third, etc. are only used to distinguish one feature from another feature, and do not represent any limitation on the feature. Accordingly, the first protective cover discussed below may also be referred to as a second protective cover without departing from the teachings of the present application. And vice versa.

In the drawings, the thickness, size, and shape of the components have been slightly adjusted for convenience of description. The figures are merely examples and are not drawn to scale. For example, the size of the protective cover, the size of the lens, the size of the motor, and the like are not in proportion to actual production. As used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," and the like are used as terms of a table approximation, not as terms of a table degree, and are intended to account for inherent deviations in measured or calculated values that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "having," "containing," and/or "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Furthermore, when a statement such as "at least one of the following" appears after a list of features that are listed, the entire listed feature is modified instead of modifying a separate element in the list. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the application, use of "may" means "one or more embodiments of the application. Also, the term "exemplary" is intended to refer to an example or illustration.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including engineering and technical terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present application pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

It should be noted that, without conflict, the embodiments of the present application and features of the embodiments may be combined with each other. In addition, unless explicitly defined or contradicted by context, the particular steps included in the methods described herein need not be limited to the order described, but may be performed in any order or in parallel. The application will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings in connection with embodiments.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic structural diagram of an in-vehicle lens module 1 with a protection device according to an embodiment of the present application. Referring to fig. 1, an in-vehicle lens module 1 provided in an embodiment of the present application includes: an optical lens 10 and a device 20 for protecting the optical lens 10. The optical lens 10 of the vehicle-mounted lens module 1 can be protected by the device 20, so that the vehicle-mounted lens module has longer service life and better imaging performance compared with an unprotected optical lens.

The device 20 includes a first protective cover 200. Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 is a folded cover. The folding cover comprises a plurality of fan ribs and a cover body arranged on the fan ribs. Optionally, the cover body is opened and closed along with the fan rib, so that the folding cover has a first state of covering the optical lens 10 and a second state of exposing the optical lens 10. Or the folding cover has a first state of covering the entire optical lens 10 and a second state of covering a part of the optical lens 10. Or the folding cover has a first state of covering the entire optical lens 10 and a second state of exposing the optical lens 10. In summary, the footprint of the folded cover in the first state is larger than the footprint of the folded cover in the second state, with respect to the entrance surface of the optical lens 10, in the direction along the optical axis of the optical lens 10.

Specifically, the first protection cover 200 may be located in the light incident side direction of the optical lens 10.

The device 20 may also be used for protecting the optical lens 10 provided on other carriers, for example. For example, the unmanned aerial vehicle is provided with the optical lens 10, and the unmanned aerial vehicle can also be affected by wind sand, water vapor and the like in the use processes of low-altitude flight, landing and the like. The device 20 may also be used to protect the optical lenses 10. The device 20 may also be used to protect, for example, an optical lens 10 provided in an inspection robot used outdoors or outdoors. Similarly, the in-vehicle lens module 1 may be a lens module mounted on another device or a carrier. The lens module can be integrally used as an externally-hung part to be directly installed, and can also be integrally designed with equipment or a carrier.

Further, the apparatus 20 includes a control module 400. The control module 400 switches the first protective cover 200 from being in the second state to being in the first state in response to the status instruction. The control module 400 may directly control the first protective cover 200 or indirectly control the first protective cover 200. In an exemplary manner, the control module 400 includes a pull rod and the status instruction includes a pull by the user. The user can directly manipulate the first protective cover by pulling the pull rod.

The apparatus 20 for protecting an optical lens 10 according to an embodiment of the present application includes: a first protective cover 200.

Referring to fig. 2 and 3, the protected optical lens 10 has an optical axis, and an incident side and an imaging side along the optical axis. Visible in fig. 2 is the light entry side and the object side of the lens 111 closest to the light entry side in the optical lens 10 can be seen.

The first protective cover 200 has a first state and a second state and is switchable between the first state and the second state. As shown in fig. 2, when the first protective cover 200 is in the second state, it exposes the optical lens 10 in the optical axis direction, or, the projection of the first protective cover 200 onto the optical lens 10 in the direction of the optical axis is located radially outside the optical lens 10. Specifically, at least a part of the incident light path of the optical lens 10 is exposed.

As shown in fig. 3, the first protective cover 200 covers the optical lens 10 in the optical axis direction when in the first state. In other words, the projection of the first protective cover 200 in the cross section of the optical axis covers at least a part of the projection of the optical lens 10 in the cross section of the optical axis. Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 may move continuously with respect to the optical lens 10 and stay at any position along the movement path. The exemplary first protective cover 200 is a curved plate, such as a spherical plate. The first protective cover 200 is in sealing engagement with the optical lens 10 when in the first state.

Illustratively, referring to fig. 4, when the first protective cover 200 is in the first state, it covers a portion of the optical lens 10 in the optical axis direction. Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 is an arcuate plate. For example, the arc direction lies in a vertical plane.

Further, the first protective cover 200 covers the optical lens 10 when in the first state. Specifically, it may be hermetically connected to the lower side of the optical lens 10. Alternatively, the first protective cover 200 may abut or be sealingly connected with the optical lens 10. The first protective cover 200 may also be suspended relative to the optical lens 10.

The first protective cover 200 may be switched from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state. The first protective cover 200 may be maintained in the first state or in the second state.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 further includes a drive module 300 and a control module 400.

The driving module 300 is at least used for driving the first protection cover 200 to switch from being in the second state to being in the first state; of course, it may also be used to drive the first protective cover 200 from being in the first state to being in the second state. In some exemplary embodiments, the drive module 300 may include a reset mechanism, such as by the force of a spring, to provide the first protective cover 200 with the ability to maintain either the first state or the second state.

The driving module 300 drives the first protective cover 200 in response to the driving signal. Specifically, the drive module 300 may drive the first protective cover 200 to switch from being in the second state to being in the first state in response to the first drive signal; the first protective cover 200 is driven to switch from being in the first state to being in the second state in response to the second driving signal.

The control module 400 transmits a driving signal to the driving module 300 in response to the status instruction. Specifically, the control module 400 transmits the first driving signal in response to the first state instruction. The second drive signal may also be sent in response to a second state instruction. Status instructions generally refer to instructions transmitted to device 20 by the outside of device 20. The status instructions may include environmental information, the operating status of the carrier carrying the in-vehicle lens module 1, or instructions issued by an operator of the apparatus 20, etc.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control module 400 includes a determination module 401. The judging module 401 is configured to judge whether the status instruction meets a preset condition. Specifically, the status instructions received by the control module 400 may be converted into status signals. And the judging module 401 is used for judging the status signal. In response to the status instruction meeting the preset condition, the judgment module 401 issues a driving signal. Specifically, in response to the status instruction meeting the preset condition, the determination module 401 issues a first driving signal. And in response to the status instruction not meeting the preset condition, the determining module 401 may issue a second driving signal.

In the device 20 provided by the application, the first protection cover 200 which can move relative to the optical lens 10 is arranged, and in particular, different types of mechanisms can be arranged to connect the first protection cover 200 with the optical lens 10 so that the first protection cover 200 has different states relative to the optical lens 10.

Further, a driving module 300 is provided which is generally fixed with respect to the optical lens 10 to drive the first protection cover 200; a control module 400 is also provided. Further, the control module 400 receives the status command, and can switch the status of the first protection cover 200. Having a first protective cover 200 in a different state may allow the device 20 to have a different effect with respect to the optical lens 10.

The device 20 provided by the present application can be adapted to different environments, and the first protective cover 200 can have waterproof, dustproof or anti-impact effects, etc., and accurately switch states to achieve these effects. And when the optical lens 10 is not required to be protected, the first protective cover 200 can be in the second state so that the optical lens 10 has the best imaging effect. The optical lens 10 protected by the device 20 has long service life, and the mirror surface of the lens 111 closest to the light incident side of the optical lens 10 receives less impact, so that better imaging quality can be maintained.

Referring to FIG. 1, in an exemplary embodiment, the control module 400 includes a first sensor 403. In particular, a plurality of sensors of different types may be included. Such as a sensor for detecting air grittiness, a sensor for detecting external air pressure, wind pressure, or a sensor for detecting humidity.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control module 400 includes a second sensor 404. When the second sensor 404 is a button, the status instruction includes a push of the button. With the in-vehicle lens module 1, the environment in which the vehicle is traveling may often vary, and the driver can anticipate to some extent what is about to be the environment into which the vehicle is going, so by providing the button, the driver can be caused to actively switch the state in which the first protection cover 200 is placed, and the optical lens 10 can be protected prophylactically. Illustratively, the second sensor 404 may be a handle, a touch screen, a voice control module, or the like, and the status instruction may include a toggle, a touch, a preset tone, or the like, i.e., the status instruction may be a user operation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second sensor 404 may also be various types of sensors included in the first sensor 403.

By detecting the air grittiness, it can be determined whether the environment in which the optical lens 10 is located is relatively harsh. The first sensor 403 of the control module 400 may be considered to receive the status command, and may be considered to be a first status command if the air gritty satisfies the predetermined condition, and the driving module 300 may further switch the first protection cover 200 from the second state to the first state. If the air grit level does not meet the predetermined condition, the first protection cover 200 may be kept in the second state to expose the optical lens 10; the second state command may also be considered as a second state command, and the driving module 300 is further required to drive the first protection cover 200 to switch from the first state to the second state.

By detecting the external air pressure (or wind pressure), it can be judged whether or not the impact received by the optical lens 10 is strong. If the external air pressure satisfies the preset condition, for example, exceeds the pressure threshold, the first sensor 403 of the control module 400 receives the status command, and the driving module 300 switches the first protection cover 200 from the second state to the first state.

When the first protective cover 200 can be sealed and attached to the optical lens 10, it can be determined whether the optical lens needs to be waterproof by detecting the environmental humidity. When the humidity is greater than the preset value, the first sensor 403 of the control module 400 may be considered to receive the status command, and the driving module 300 may further switch the first protection cover 200 from the second state to the first state. The first protection cover 200 in the first state may protect the optical lens 10 from moisture.

Illustratively, when the optical lens 10 is mounted on an automobile as a part of the in-vehicle lens module 1, it is disposed, for example, in the front of the automobile. The first sensor 403 may also include a sensor for detecting the speed of movement of the car or a sensor for detecting the direction of movement. The sensor for detecting the moving speed is generally provided at the power system of the automobile, and the aforementioned sensor for detecting the air grittiness, the external air pressure or the humidity may be provided at the optical lens 10, the in-vehicle lens module 1, or the body of the automobile according to the actual design shape, the installation space, or the like.

When the running speed is fast, for example exceeds a speed threshold, the first sensor 403 may be considered to have received a status command. Too fast a running speed causes an excessive relative movement speed of the optical lens 10 and the oncoming gravel, and by making the first protection cover 200 cover the optical lens 10 in the optical axis direction, the optical lens can be protected. When the vehicle is traveling forward, it can be considered that the first sensor 403 has received a status instruction to protect the optical lens 10 provided in front of the vehicle.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control module 400 includes a positioning module 402. The status instruction includes a spatial position at which the optical lens is located. Vehicles such as automobiles can travel to areas of different climatic environments, such as deserts, seasides, ice, or highways. By accessing the positioning module 402 to, for example, a satellite positioning system, the formal environment of the car can be determined. When the status instruction received by the positioning module 402 meets the preset condition, the first protection cover 200 can be controlled to switch states to adapt to the driving environment.

Illustratively, the positioning module 402, the first sensor 403, and the second sensor 404 may be communicatively coupled to the determination module 401. The second sensor 404 may also be directly connected to the driving module 300 in a communication manner, so that the foolproof function of the apparatus 20 can be realized when the judging module 401 fails.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 further includes a display module 500. The display module 500 may be used to display a status instruction, or display the status of the first protective cover 200, or display status information received by the first sensor 403 and the positioning module 402 to an operator, so that the operator can determine whether the second sensor 404, such as a button, needs to be triggered.

In an exemplary embodiment, the material of the first protective cover 200 is a transparent material or an opaque material. The first protection cover 200 made of opaque material is suitable for protecting the optical lens 10 when the optical lens 10 is not in operation, for example, the automobile is parked outdoors, and the first protection cover 200 is in the first state, so that wind sand or water vapor can be prevented, and the photosensitive element 101 can be prevented from being stimulated by external illumination. The first protective cover 200 made of transparent material is suitable for protecting the optical lens 10 when the optical lens 10 works, and external light can enter the optical lens 10 through the transparent first protective cover 200 to form images.

Referring to fig. 5 to 6, the conventional optical lens 10 is impacted by sand, and the mirror surface of the lens 111 closest to the light incident side is left with an impact mark, and even cracks, breakage, or the like are generated. Damage to the lens 111 may reduce the imaging performance of the optical lens 10. Referring to fig. 1 and 7, the apparatus 20 for protecting an optical lens 10 according to the present application includes a first protection cover 200, and sand collides with the first protection cover 200, so that the lens 111 is protected. The first protective cover 200 may also scratch and break with the increase of the service time. By providing the first protection cover 200 detachably connected to the optical lens 10, the user can replace the first protection cover 200 that is too severely damaged.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 further includes an update-prompting module 600. The update-prompting module 600 is communicatively connected to the photosensitive element 101 of the optical lens 10 and may be communicatively connected to the display module 500 or the control module 400. The update-prompting module 600 is configured to obtain a degree of wear of the first protective cover 200 and initiate a prompt to replace the first protective cover 200 in response to the obtained degree of wear exceeding a threshold.

When the first protective cover 200 is made of opaque material, the severely damaged first protective cover 200 transmits light. When the first protective cover 200 is made of transparent material, excessive stray light can be generated in the imaging of the optical lens 10, and even imaging cannot be performed when the damage is serious. By communicatively connecting the update-prompting module 600 with the photosensitive element 101 of the optical lens 10, the wear degree of the first protective cover 200 can be obtained, so as to actively prompt the user to replace the first protective cover 200.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 further includes a cleaning module 700. For spraying cleaning liquid to the first protective cover 200 or wiping the first protective cover 200. The cleaning module 700 may be disposed on the optical lens 10, the in-vehicle lens module 1, or a carrier device carrying the optical lens 10, for example. In severe weather such as dust haze, wind sand, or rain, the first protective cover 200 may be polluted by the environment, and the cleaning module 700 may remove dirt on the first protective cover 200, thereby maintaining the protection and imaging functions in the service life.

Illustratively, the cleaning module 700 is used to spray a cleaning solution to the first shield 200 or wipe the first shield 200 when the first shield 200 is in the first state. Illustratively, when the first cover 200 is in the second state, the cleaning module 700 may be used to spray a cleaning solution to the optical lens 10 having the waterproof property to remove dirt on the surface of the optical lens 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 further includes a second protective cover 800. The second protection cover 800 may also have a first state and a second state under the driving of the driving module 300. More specifically, the second protection cover 800 may be located on a side of the first protection cover 200 facing away from the optical lens 10 when in the first state. I.e. the second protective cover 800 covers the first protective cover 200. At this time, the first protective cover 200 may be made of a transparent material, and the second protective cover 800 may be made of an opaque material.

The optical lens 10 may be protected by the second protection cover 800 when the optical lens 10 is not in operation. When the optical lens 10 operates, the optical lens 10 may be protected by the first protection cover 200. For example, when the optical lens 10 is protected by the first protection cover 200, the second protection cover 800 may be switched from the second state to the first state according to a state command.

Illustratively, the cleaning module 700 is disposed on the second protective cover 800.

Referring to fig. 8, a cleaning module 700 includes a spray head 701 and a wiper strip 702. The wiping strip 702 is disposed between the second protective cover 800 and the first protective cover 200, and is fixedly connected to the second protective cover 800. When the first protective cover 200 is in the first state of covering the optical lens 10, the wiping strip 702 moves with the second protective cover 800 switching state, and can wipe the outer surface of the first protective cover 200 when moving. The spray head 701 may be disposed at the support 900, and the support 900 protrudes from the optical lens 10 in the optical axis direction, so that the sprayed cleaning solution can be guaranteed to be well washed to the second protection cover 800, the first protection cover 200 or the lens 111. For example, the stand 900 may be provided as a third protective cover.

Referring to fig. 9, in an exemplary embodiment, the first protective cover 200 includes two covers, a first cover 201 and a second cover 202. When the first protective cover 200 is in the first state, i.e. the first cover 201 and the second cover 202 are combined to cover the optical lens 10, and the two covers are sealed and spliced. When the first protective cover 200 is in the second state, i.e. both the first cover 201 and the second cover 202 are exposed to the optical lens 10 (at least the lens 111 is exposed), the two covers may be at different radial positions of the optical axis of the optical lens 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first protective cover 200 includes three covers or more.

In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 further includes a mount. The mount may have a mounting space for mounting the optical lens 10. Illustratively, the mount is fixedly provided on the outer side of the optical lens 10 in the radial direction of the optical axis. The first protective cover 200 is rotatably or slidably coupled to the mounting base.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first protective cover 200 is rotatably coupled to the mounting base via a rotation shaft; the axis of the rotating shaft is located in the radial direction of the optical axis.

Referring to fig. 18 to 20, the first protective cover 200 is disposed on the mount 21. The first protective cover 200 is in a position during switching between the first state and the second state.

Referring to fig. 19, the first protective cover 200 includes a joint block 203 and a connecting rod 204. The engagement block 203 is fixedly connected to the body of the first protective shield 200. The connecting rod 204 is detachably and fixedly connected with the engagement block 203, and the connecting rod 204 is used for being in power connection with the driving module 300. Illustratively, the connecting rod 204 is located within a cross section of the optical axis. Illustratively, the axis of the connecting rod 204 is located radially of the optical axis.

The driving module 300 drives the first protection cover 200 to switch from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state through the connecting rod 204.

Referring to fig. 20, illustratively, the connecting rod 204 is in interference connection with the engagement block 203.

Referring to fig. 21, illustratively, a connecting rod 204 is threadably coupled to the engagement block 203.

Referring to fig. 22 to 24, in an exemplary embodiment, the driving apparatus 300 includes a driver 302 and a transmission 303. The first end of the transmission member 303 is rotatably connected to the first protection cover 200, and the rotation axis is located radially outside the optical lens 10. A second end of the transmission 303 is in dynamic communication with the driver 302. The driver 302 is used to drive the first end of the transmission 303 to retract.

Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 is drivingly rotated relative to the transmission 303 to switch from a first state covering the optical lens 10 to a second state exposing the optical lens 10.

Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 has a fulcrum with respect to the optical lens 10 when in the first state or the second state. The first protective cover 200 forms a leverage mechanism. When the transmission member 303 is extended, the first protection cover 200 is driven to rotate to switch between the first state and the second state.

Referring to fig. 24, the first end of the transmission rod 303 is illustratively located further from the front end of the optical lens 10 than the position of the end in fig. 23, while driving the first protection cover 200 to switch from the second state to the third state. When the first protective cover 200 is in the third state, it is located outside the angle of view of the optical lens 10.

The application also provides a carrying device comprising the optical lens 10 and the device 20. Or comprises the aforementioned vehicle-mounted lens module 1 with the protection device.

The control module 400 is fixedly connected to the optical lens 10, the vehicle-mounted lens module 1 including the optical lens, or the main body 2 of the carrying device.

Referring to fig. 10, the first protective cover 200 is movable with respect to the main body 2.

Referring to fig. 11, in an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 20 includes a mount 210 protruding from the optical lens 10 in the optical axis direction. The first protective cover 200 is slidably coupled to the mounting base 210. The first protective cover 200 may have a second state exposing the lens 111 of the optical lens 10 closest to the light entrance side. Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 is a flat plate.

Referring to fig. 12, the first protective cover 200 has a first state covering the optical lens 10, and is switchable between the first state and a second state by sliding. The mounting base 210 may be in sealing connection with the optical lens, and when the first protective cover 200 is in the first state, the first protective cover 200 may be in sealing fit with the mounting base 210, and the first protective cover 200, the mounting base 210 and the optical lens 20 form a waterproof or dustproof sealed space.

Referring to fig. 13 and 1, a vehicle-mounted lens module 1 of the present application includes an optical lens 10 and a device 20 for protecting the optical lens 10. The device 20 includes a mount 21, a first protective cover 200, a motor 301, a second sensor 404, and a first wire 405. Wherein the second sensor 404 is a button, the mount 21 may be a lens barrel, and the mount 21 has a mounting space for mounting the optical lens 10. The first protection cover 200 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 21, and the axis of the rotational connection is radial to the optical lens 10. The motor 301 is in power connection with the first protective cover 200 and is used for driving the first protective cover 200 to rotate. Specifically, a transmission mechanism may be provided between the motor 301 and the first protective cover 200. The transmission and motor 301 are used to form the drive module 300. The motor 301 is also electrically connected to the second sensor 404 by a first wire 405. The second sensor 404 may be adapted to be arranged in, for example, a cab, electrically connected to the motor 301 via a long first wire 405. An operator may switch the first protective cover 200 between different states by triggering the second sensor 404 (e.g., pressing a button) to control the motor 301 and thus the first protective cover 200 to rotate.

Referring to fig. 14 and 1, a vehicle-mounted lens module 1 of the present application includes an optical lens 10 and a device 20 for protecting the optical lens 10. The device 20 includes a mount 21, a first protective cover 200, a motor 301, a first sensor 403, and a second wire 406. The first sensor 403 may be fixed to the mount 21 in the in-vehicle lens module 1. The first sensor 403 may detect the air grittiness, humidity, air pressure, or the like of the outside. The first sensor 403 is electrically connected to the motor 301 through a second wire 406, and thus the first sensor 403 may transmit a driving signal to the motor 301. Illustratively, the first protective cover 200 may be coupled to the mounting block 21 by a reset device.

Referring to fig. 13, 14, 15 and fig. 1, a vehicle lens module of the present application includes a second sensor 404 and a first sensor 403. Illustratively, the signals from the second sensor 404 have a higher priority than the signals from the first sensor 403.

Referring to fig. 16, the optical lens 10 is illustratively mounted to a mount 21. The means 20 for protecting the optical lens 10 comprises a first sensor 403 fixedly arranged to the optical lens 10.

Referring to fig. 17, an in-vehicle lens module 1 including an optical lens 10 is exemplarily mounted on a main body 2 of an automobile. The means 2 for protecting the optical lens 10 comprise a first sensor 403. The first sensor 403 may be provided on the main body 2. Specifically, the first sensor 403 may be used to measure the air pressure outside the body 2 of the automobile. For example, the first sensor 403 may be mounted at other locations of the body 2 of the automobile, such as the interior, and thus may be used to measure the running speed of the automobile.

The present application also provides a method 1000 of manufacturing a device for protecting an optical lens, comprising:

S1010, disposing a first protective cover having a first state and a second state at an optical lens having an optical axis, a vehicle-mounted lens module including the optical lens, or a carrier device carrying the optical lens, and causing an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis overlaps the optical lens to be larger when the first protective cover is in the first state than an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis overlaps the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state.

S1020, a control module is arranged to switch the first protection cover from the second state to the first state in response to the state instruction.

In an exemplary embodiment, the step S1020 further includes:

a control module is provided that sends a drive signal to the drive module in response to a status instruction.

Further, the method 1000 further comprises:

A drive module is provided that is responsive to the drive signal to drive the first protective cover to switch from being in the second state to being in the first state.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first protective cover is formed of a transparent material.

In an exemplary embodiment, further comprising:

The second protection cover formed based on the transparent material or the opaque material is arranged, so that the second protection cover is positioned at one side of the first protection cover, which is away from the optical lens, when the second protection cover is in the first state.

A cleaning module is provided for spraying cleaning liquid onto the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

In an exemplary embodiment, S1030 further includes:

And setting a judging module for judging whether the state instruction meets the preset condition. The preset condition may be a distinction of yes or no, and may be a preset threshold interval. The judging module can also set different priorities for the plurality of state instructions, and determines and outputs driving signals of the corresponding state instructions according to the priorities.

A button is provided for pressing. The status instruction to which the button is responsive may be a push of the button.

A positioning module is provided for obtaining the spatial position in which it is located. The status instruction to which the positioning module is responsive may be a spatial position of its own satellite-based positioning system.

Sensors triggered by air grittiness, air pressure, movement speed of the device carrying the optical lens, movement direction of the device or humidity are provided. The status instructions received by the sensor and enabling the control module to send out the driving signals may include: higher air grits, higher air pressure, faster movement speed, higher humidity, and direction of movement toward the light entry side.

The embodiment of the application also provides a method for protecting the optical lens, which comprises the following steps:

the control module responds to the state instruction and sends a driving signal to the driving module;

The driving module changes the first protective cover from a second state in which the optical lens is exposed in the optical axis direction to a first state in which the optical lens is covered in the optical axis direction in response to the driving signal.

The above description is only illustrative of the preferred embodiments of the present application and of the principles of the technology employed. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the scope of the application is not limited to the specific combination of the above technical features, but also encompasses other technical solutions which may be formed by any combination of the above technical features or their equivalents without departing from the spirit of the application. Such as the above-mentioned features and the technical features of the present application (but not limited to) having similar functions are replaced with each other.

Claims (23)

1. An apparatus for protecting an optical lens, the optical lens having an optical axis,

Characterized by comprising the following steps:

a first protective cover having a first state and a second state;

A control module that issues a drive signal in response to a status instruction; and

A driving module that drives the first protective cover to switch from being in the second state to being in the first state in response to the driving signal;

wherein an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens is larger than an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the first state;

The control module includes:

The judging module is used for judging whether the state instruction meets a preset condition or not and responding to the condition meeting the preset condition to send out the driving signal;

the first sensor is in communication connection with the judging module, the second sensor is in communication connection with the driving module, and the priority of signals sent by the second sensor is higher than that of signals sent by the first sensor.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first protective cover covers the optical lens when the first protective cover is in a first state.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a projection of the first protective cover in a direction along the optical axis is located radially outward of the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein,

The status instructions include at least one of air grittiness, air pressure, speed of movement of a device carrying the optical lens, direction of movement of the device, humidity, or user operation triggering the sensor.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the user operation comprises: at least one of pressing, toggling or touching.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control module comprises a positioning module;

The state instruction comprises a spatial position of the positioning module.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: and the display module is used for displaying the state instruction.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an update-prompting module in communication with the photosensitive element of the optical lens for obtaining a degree of wear of the first protective cover and initiating a prompt to replace the first protective cover in response to the obtained degree of wear exceeding a threshold.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: and the cleaning module is used for spraying cleaning liquid to the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first protective cover is a transparent material or an opaque material.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second protective cover positioned on a side of the first protective cover facing away from the optical lens when in the first state;

The material of first safety cover is transparent material, the material of second safety cover is transparent material or opaque material.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising: the cleaning module is arranged on the second protective cover and used for spraying cleaning liquid to the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the first protective cover comprises at least two covers;

When the first protective cover is in the first state, the at least two cover bodies are sealed and spliced;

When the first protective cover is in the second state, the at least two covers are at different radial positions of the optical axis of the optical lens.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: the mounting seat is fixedly arranged on the outer side of the optical lens in the radial direction of the optical axis;

the first protective cover is rotationally connected or slidingly connected with the mounting seat.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the first protective cover is a flat plate or a curved plate.

16. A lens module comprising the device of any one of claims 1 to 15 and an optical lens.

17. A carrying device comprising an apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15 and an optical lens.

18. The carrier device of claim 17, wherein the control module is fixedly connected to the optical lens, a lens module comprising the optical lens, or a body of the carrier device.

19. A method of manufacturing an apparatus for protecting an optical lens, comprising:

Providing a first protective cover having a first state and a second state at an optical lens having an optical axis, a lens module including the optical lens, or a carrying device carrying the optical lens, wherein an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens is larger when the first protective cover is in the first state than an area of a region where a projection in a direction along the optical axis coincides with the optical lens when the first protective cover is in the second state;

setting a control module for transmitting a driving signal in response to a status instruction; and

Setting a driving module which responds to the driving signal and drives the first protective cover to be switched from the second state to the first state;

Wherein, the step of setting the control module comprises:

A judging module for judging whether the state instruction meets a preset condition and responding to the preset condition to send out the driving signal;

the method comprises the steps of setting a first sensor and a second sensor, wherein the first sensor is in communication connection with the judging module, the second sensor is in communication connection with the driving module, and the priority of signals sent by the second sensor is higher than that of signals sent by the first sensor.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the step of setting the control module comprises:

a positioning module is provided for obtaining the spatial position in which it is located.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the sensor is configured to be triggered by air grittiness, air pressure, speed of movement of a device carrying the optical lens, direction of movement of the device, humidity, or operation by a user.

22. The method of claim 19, wherein the method further comprises:

a cleaning module is provided for spraying cleaning liquid onto the first protective cover or wiping the first protective cover.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein the first protective cover is formed of a transparent material;

The method further comprises the steps of:

And setting a second protective cover formed based on a transparent material or an opaque material, so that the second protective cover is positioned on one side of the first protective cover, which is opposite to the optical lens, when in the first state.