JP2012029114A - Imaging apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus which easily changes the type of the connection cord used without impairing a dustproof function.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus comprises: an electronic circuit part 30 including an image pickup device 32 for obtaining a subject image formed by an imaging optical system 20; a housing 11 housing the electronic circuit part 30; and a connection cord 18 electrically connecting with the electronic circuit part 30 from the exterior of the housing 11. The housing 11 has a communication hole 13e which communicates the interior with the exterior. Further, a plate shaped cover member 41, made of metallic material, is attached to the housing 11 so as to sealingly block the communication hole 13e. A cord insertion hole 41b, which allows the connection cord 18 to be inserted therein, is provided at the cover member 41.

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device used as a digital camera, a digital video camera, or the like, and more particularly to an imaging device suitable for an in-vehicle camera or a surveillance camera.

  Conventionally, an imaging optical system having an optical element such as an imaging lens, an imaging element for acquiring a subject image formed thereby, and a subject image based on an electrical signal output from the imaging element An electronic circuit unit that generates digital image data and the like is housed in a housing, and the housing includes a connection cord for transmitting acquired image data from the electronic circuit unit. Are known. In such an imaging apparatus, there is known an apparatus that protects each mechanism housed in a housing from dust or the like by providing the housing with a dustproof function (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In this conventional imaging device, with the connection cord and the electronic circuit portion electrically connected, the connection end portion of the connection cord is covered with an insulating resin by molding, and the connection portion to the housing is defined. Forming. For this reason, in the imaging apparatus, it is possible to ensure the dustproof property of the connection end portion of the connection cord, and the connection portion covering the connection end portion can be dustproof to the housing by interposing an O-ring, for example. By attaching it, it is possible to ensure a dustproof function at a location where the connection cord is led into the housing.

  By the way, in the imaging apparatus, it is necessary to adapt the type of the connection cord to be used to the specifications of the own function and the output destination of the acquired image data. However, in the conventional imaging device described above, since the connection cord and the connection end are integrally formed, in order to change the type of connection cord to be used, a new connection cord and a corresponding connection end are provided. Therefore, it is necessary to change the mold for molding the connecting end portion.

  Here, in the above-described imaging device, in order to ensure the dustproof property between the housing and the connection end, the connection end has a shape corresponding to the housing and the connection end has an extremely high processing accuracy. Therefore, it is not easy to create a mold used for molding a connection end for a new type of connection cord. For this reason, in the conventional imaging device, it is difficult to change the type of connection cord to be used.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of easily changing the type of connection cord to be used without impairing the dustproof function.

  The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, an electronic circuit unit including an imaging element for obtaining a subject image formed by an imaging optical system, a housing that houses the electronic circuit unit, and an outside of the housing A connection cord electrically connected to the electronic circuit unit from one side, wherein the casing has a communication hole that communicates the inside and the outside, A cover member having a slit plate shape made of a metal material is attached so as to shield the communication hole in a sealing manner, and the cover member is provided with a cord insertion hole that allows the connection cord to be inserted. It is characterized by.

  An imaging device according to a second aspect is the imaging device according to the first aspect, wherein the cord insertion hole has an inner peripheral shape corresponding to an outer peripheral shape of the connection cord.

  The imaging device according to claim 3 is the imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cord insertion hole is provided with a sealing structure between the connection cord. Features.

  The imaging device according to claim 4 is the imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the communication hole is sized to include the cord insertion hole, The cord insertion hole is located inward of the communication hole when viewed from the direction of the photographing optical axis.

  The imaging device according to claim 5 is the imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the communication hole opens a flat outer wall surface. .

  The imaging device according to claim 6 is the imaging device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the sealing structure is directed inward from an inner peripheral edge portion of the cord insertion hole. The extended claw portion is formed by being crimped to the outer peripheral surface of the connection cord.

  The imaging device according to claim 7 is the imaging device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the sealing structure includes an inner peripheral edge portion of the cord insertion hole and the connection cord. The outer peripheral surface is welded and configured.

  The imaging device according to claim 8 is the imaging device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the sealing structure is filled between the cord insertion hole and the connection cord. It is characterized by being filled with a member.

  The imaging device according to claim 9 is the imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connection cord is used for electrical connection with the electronic circuit unit. A connector portion is provided, and the cover member is provided with an engaging projection that can contact the connector portion in order to prevent release of electrical connection with the electronic circuit portion in the connector portion. It is characterized by that.

  A vehicle-mounted camera according to a tenth aspect uses the imaging device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

  In the imaging device according to the present invention, the communication hole of the housing is sealed with a cover member, and the connection cord is inserted into the code insertion hole of the cover member, thereby sealing performance at a location where the connection cord is guided into the housing Since the connection cord can be connected to the electronic circuit while ensuring (dust-proof function), the sealing performance is ensured only by changing the code insertion hole of the cover member without changing the housing and cover member. However, since it can be adapted to various connection cords, the type of connection cord to be used can be easily changed.

  In the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, since the cover member is made of a metal material and has a plate shape, a cord insertion hole that allows the connection cord to be inserted can be easily formed.

  Furthermore, in the imaging device according to the present invention, it is only necessary to satisfy the processing accuracy for ensuring the sealing performance of only the cover member that is easily processed by exhibiting the shape of the slit plate from the metal material. Regardless of the type of connection cord used, the communication hole can be reliably sealed.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, if the cord insertion hole has an inner peripheral shape corresponding to the outer peripheral shape of the connection cord, the cord insertion hole can be more appropriately filled with the connection cord. Ensuring sealing performance between the hole and the connecting cord can be facilitated.

  In addition, since the cover member is made of a metal material and has a plate shape, an inner peripheral cord insertion hole corresponding to the outer peripheral shape of the connection cord can be easily formed.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, when the cord insertion hole is provided with a sealing structure between the cord and the connection cord, the sealing performance around the connection cord in the cord insertion hole is more reliable. Can be secured.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the communication hole is sized to include the cord insertion hole, and the code insertion hole is located inward of the communication hole when viewed from the photographing optical axis direction. Then, it is possible to easily change the type of the connection cord without causing a change in the housing including the communication hole and the cover member.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, if the communication hole opens a flat outer wall surface, the flat cover wall and the flat outer wall surface can contact each other. The communication hole can be easily sealed.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the sealing structure is configured such that a claw portion extending inward from the inner peripheral edge portion of the cord insertion hole is crimped to the outer peripheral surface of the connection cord. Then, the sealing performance around the connection cord in the cord insertion hole can be ensured with a simple configuration.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the sealing structure is configured by welding the inner peripheral edge portion of the cord insertion hole and the outer peripheral surface of the connection cord. The sealing performance around the connection cord can be ensured.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, when the sealing structure is configured such that a space between the cord insertion hole and the connection cord is filled with a filling member, the connection within the cord insertion hole is simple. The sealing performance around the cord can be ensured.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the connection cord is provided with a connector portion for electrical connection with the electronic circuit portion, and the cover member is electrically connected with the electronic circuit portion in the connector portion. In order to prevent the connection from being released, it is assumed that an engagement protrusion that can contact the connector is provided. The connector and the connection cord continuous therewith are connected to the electrical connection between the connector and the electronic circuit. Even if a force for releasing the general connection is applied, the electrical connection between the connector portion and the electronic circuit portion can be prevented from being released by the engaging protrusion.

  In the in-vehicle camera using the imaging device having the above-described configuration, the type of connection cord to be used can be easily changed without impairing the sealing performance, so that it can be mounted on any vehicle and can be visually recognized by the driver. Can help.

It is explanatory drawing seen from the front side for demonstrating the schematic structure of the imaging device 10 which concerns on this invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram viewed from the rear side for explaining a schematic configuration of the imaging apparatus 10. It is typical sectional drawing of the imaging device 10 obtained along the II line | wire of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of a part that guides a connection cord 18 in the imaging apparatus 10 into the housing 11 (rear housing unit 13) for each component. It is explanatory drawing seen from the back side for demonstrating the schematic structure of the cord attachment part 13c of the rear side housing | casing part 13. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a cover member 41. FIG. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a different kind of connection cord 18 and the code | cord | chord insertion hole 41b corresponding to it, (a) shows the example of the connection cord 18 'of a cross-sectional circular shape, (b) is a connection of rectangular cross-section. An example of the code 18 ″ is shown. It is typical sectional drawing of the imaging device 10 obtained along the II-II line | wire of FIG. It is sectional drawing similar to FIG. 8 for demonstrating the other sealing structure different from an Example. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 8 for explaining another sealing structure different from FIGS. 8 and 9. It is explanatory drawing seen from the back side for demonstrating the other sealing structure different from FIG.8, FIG.9 and FIG.10.

  Embodiments of an imaging device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  An image pickup apparatus 10 of this embodiment as an example of an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, in the imaging apparatus 10, the housing 11 exposes only the imaging optical system 20 (in FIG. 1, an objective lens (lens 21 a) to be described later and the front end portion of the retaining member 24. ) And the electronic circuit unit 30 (see FIG. 3), and the connection cord 18 is connected to the housing 11.

  In this embodiment, the housing 11 is configured by a front housing portion 12 that is the front side (subject side) and a rear housing portion 13 that is the rear side when viewed in the direction of the photographing optical axis OA. . In the housing 11, although not illustrated, the rear end surface 12 a of the front housing portion 12 is connected to the front end surface 13 a of the rear housing portion 13 with a sealing member (for example, an O-ring or a flat packing) interposed therebetween. And are connected by screwing or the like. For this reason, the housing | casing 11 has the sealing performance in a mutual connection location. The sealing performance referred to here has a dustproof function required from the viewpoint of maintaining at least the performance of the imaging device 10, and preferably has a waterproof function.

  The front housing 12 holds the imaging optical system 20 so as to surround the periphery of the objective lens (lens 21a) viewed in a direction (radial direction) orthogonal to the photographing optical axis OA. As shown in FIG. 3, the front housing portion 12 is provided with a columnar insertion hole 12 b through which the lens barrel 22 of the imaging optical system 20 can be inserted in the direction of the photographing optical axis OA. In the insertion hole 12b, an annular inward protruding portion 12c protruding inward from the inner peripheral wall surface is provided on the rear side (rear housing portion 13 side) as viewed in the direction of the photographing optical axis OA. . The insertion hole 12b is provided with the inward projecting portion 12c, thereby forming a stepped through-hole having two concentric circular shapes when viewed from the front side (subject side) in the front housing portion 12. .

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the rear housing portion 13 has a box shape with one end opened. The rear housing unit 13 is sized to accommodate the imaging optical system 20 and the electronic circuit unit 30 coupled to the lens barrel 22 behind the rear end surface 12a of the front housing unit 12 ( Depth dimension). The rear housing part 13 is provided with two attachment projections 13b and a cord attachment part 13c for attaching the imaging device 10 (housing 11) to a desired location on the rear end side. Both mounting protrusions 13b are bosses provided with screw holes (see FIG. 2). The cord attachment portion 13 c constitutes a place where the connection cord 18 is attached to the rear housing portion 13.

  The connection cord 18 supplies power to the electronic circuit unit 30 (an electronic component 33 to be described later) or transmits image data acquired by the image pickup device 32 mounted on the electronic circuit unit 30. The connection cord 18 is selected to be compatible with its own function and the specifications of the output destination of the acquired image data. The function here refers to, for example, whether the image pickup apparatus 10 simply outputs image data acquired, or changes in optical settings of the image pickup optical system 20 (focal length adjustment, presence / absence of an optical filter, etc.) It is determined by the configuration of the imaging optical system 20 and the configuration of an electronic component 33 (predetermined electronic circuit configured there) described later of the electronic circuit unit 30. The specification of the output destination of the image data is determined, for example, by the style of the power supply line in the vehicle to be installed and the style of the monitor as the display unit when the imaging device 10 is used as an in-vehicle camera, and is installed in the ATM. When used as a monitoring camera, it is determined by the monitoring monitor format and the image data storage format.

  In this embodiment, the connecting cord 18 is formed by arranging five wires having a circular cross section in parallel (see FIG. 2), and each wire is formed by covering a core wire portion 18a with a core wire covering portion 18b. (See FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, the connecting cord 18 is provided with a connector portion 18c at one end on the housing 11 side. In addition, as a connection cord, for example, as shown in FIG. 7A, a cross-section orthogonal to the extending direction is formed of a single circular wire (see connection cord 18 '), As shown in FIG. 7B, the cross section orthogonal to the extending direction is formed of a single rectangular wire (see connection cord 18 ″). The connection cord 18 is attached to the cord attachment portion 13c of the rear casing 13 in a state of having a sealing performance with the outside of the casing 11, and this configuration will be described in detail later. An imaging optical system 20 is accommodated in the housing 11.

  The imaging optical system 20 forms an image at an arbitrary position for image acquisition, has at least one or more optical elements, and depends on the optical performance required in the imaging apparatus 10 (imaging optical system 20). Configured as appropriate. The imaging optical system 20 is configured by an optical element group 21 made up of a plurality of optical elements being housed in a cylindrical lens barrel 22. In this embodiment, the optical element group 21 is formed by a plurality of optical elements (lenses, diaphragms, etc.) along the photographing optical axis OA from the lens 21a as the objective lens located closest to the subject (object). Yes. In FIG. 3, in order to simplify the drawing, a plurality of optical elements other than the lens 21a in the optical element group 21 are shown as a single optical element 21p. In this specification, the optical axis in the imaging optical system 20, that is, the rotationally symmetric axis of the lens 21a and the optical element 21p, which is the central axis position of the optical element group 21 (lens barrel 22), is represented by It is assumed that 10 photographing optical axes OA.

  The imaging optical system 20 is configured by holding the optical element group 21 in the lens barrel 22 as described above. The lens barrel 22 has a cylindrical shape so as to hold the optical element group 21 inward, and the outer shape of the lens barrel 22 is relatively radial at one end side that is the front side (subject side) (the optical axis OA taken in the radial direction). Stepped shape with a large outer diameter dimension). The outer diameter of the lens barrel 22 is such that the front-side enlarged diameter part can be inserted into the enlarged-hole part of the insertion hole 12b of the front-side housing part 12 and cannot be inserted inward of the inward projecting part 12c. The reduced diameter portion has an outer diameter dimension that allows the inward protrusion 12c to be inserted inward.

  In the lens barrel 22, a screw groove 22a as a lens barrel side screw groove is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion. The screw groove 22a can be screwed into a screw groove 25a of the front nut-like member 25, a screw groove 26a of the rear nut-like member 26, and a screw groove 35a of the coupling member 35 of the electronic circuit unit 30 described later.

  In the lens barrel 22, a holding hole 22 b that penetrates the center position along the photographing optical axis OA direction is provided to hold the optical element group 21. In the holding hole 22b, the front side (subject side) has a large inner diameter portion in which a lens 21a as the optical element group 21 can be fitted, and the rear side has an inner diameter dimension smaller than that of the large inner diameter portion. The small inner diameter portion of the inner diameter shape is adapted to the remaining optical element 21p. An inner edge protrusion 22c for preventing the optical element group 21 fitted and housed from falling off is provided on the rear side (image sensor 32 side) of the small inner diameter portion, that is, on the rear end of the lens barrel 22. In the lens barrel 22, the optical element 21p, the sealing member 23, and the lens 21a are inserted into the holding hole 22b of the lens barrel 22 in this order from the opening on the large inner diameter side (subject (object) side), and the optical element Group 21 is accommodated. The sealing member 23 is an annular seal member.

  The optical element group 21 inserted into the holding hole 22b is prevented from falling off from the opening on the large inner diameter side by the retaining member 24. The retaining member 24 has a cylindrical shape with a size and shape that can surround the outer peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion of the lens barrel 22, and a front end portion (an end portion on the subject side) is a front surface of the lens 21a. It is set as the diameter dimension which can contact | abut to a peripheral part (outside position of an effective area) from the outside (front side). Further, the retaining member 24 is provided with a screw groove at the rear end portion, and can be screwed with the screw groove provided on the outer peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion of the lens barrel 22. In the state where the optical element group 21 is properly inserted into the holding hole 22b, the retaining member 24 is screwed into the above-described two screw grooves, so that the lens 21a is placed on the rear side of the lens barrel 22 (an imaging element 32 described later). It attaches to the said lens-barrel 22 so that the enlarged diameter part of the lens-barrel 22 may be covered, pressing to the side. Thereby, the sealing member 23 arrange | positioned between the rear surface of the lens 21a and the large internal diameter part of the holding hole 22b is compressed appropriately. For this reason, in the imaging optical system 20, entry of dust and the like from the periphery of the lens 21a into the inside of the lens barrel 22 (holding hole 22b) is prevented by the appropriately compressed sealing member 23. Has performance. Thus, in the imaging optical system 20, the optical element group 21 (the lens 21a serving as the objective lens) is held in a sealed manner by the lens barrel 22, and has a desired optical performance. An electronic circuit unit 30 (an imaging element 32 described later) is disposed at the imaging position of the optical element group 21 of the imaging optical system 20.

  The electronic circuit unit 30 is configured by mounting an imaging element 32, an electronic component 33, and a connector component 34 on a substrate 31. The imaging device 32 is a solid-state imaging device configured using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), or the like, and is placed on the light receiving surface 32a through the imaging optical system 20 (optical element group 21). The formed subject image is converted into an electrical signal (image data) and output. In order to efficiently exhibit the optical performance set as the image pickup optical system 20 (optical element group 21), the image pickup element 32 has a substantial effect on the subject image formed by the image pickup optical system 20 (optical element group 21). The position with respect to the imaging optical system 20 (its barrel 22) is set so as to be appropriately positioned on the light receiving surface 32a forming the light receiving region.

  The electronic component 33 forms a predetermined electronic circuit on the substrate 31. The electronic circuit controls the operation of the image sensor 32, generates digital image data corresponding to the subject image based on the electrical signal output from the image sensor 32, and the like, and uses the digital image data as a predetermined signal (for example, NTSC). It is converted into (Analog signal of National Television System Committee) and output to the connection cord 18. In addition, the substrate (31) for the configuration of the electronic circuit may be provided in multiple layers as long as it enables the image pickup apparatus 10 to be reduced in size while satisfying the required performance. What is necessary is just to set suitably in consideration of the number, size shape, etc. of each electronic component to mount.

  The connector component 34 is disposed on the substrate 31 in order to electrically connect a predetermined electronic circuit (electronic component 33) configured on the substrate 31 and the connection cord 18. The connector part 34 is adapted to a connector portion 18c provided in the selected connection cord 18 (connection cord), and can be electrically connected to the connector portion 18c, that is, the connection cord 18. ing.

  In the electronic circuit unit 30, a coupling member 35 is provided on the surface of the substrate 31 on which the imaging element 32 is mounted. The coupling member 35 couples the substrate 31 on which the imaging element 32 is mounted to the lens barrel 22 so that the imaging position of the imaging optical system 20 (optical element group 21) is on the light receiving surface 32a of the imaging element 32. It is. In this embodiment, the coupling member 35 has a cylindrical shape with an L-shaped cross section that allows insertion of the reduced diameter portion of the lens barrel 22 inward and allows the imaging element 32 to be positioned inward. A thread groove 35a as a coupling member side thread groove is provided on the inner peripheral surface. The screw groove 35 a can be screwed with the screw groove 22 a provided on the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion of the lens barrel 22. The coupling member 35 is fixed to the substrate 31 by screwing with a screw member (not shown) in a state where the rear end surface is in contact with the substrate 31 so as to surround the imaging element 32. Two nut-like members 25, 26 are provided for fixing the electronic circuit unit 30 (coupling member 35) to the lens barrel 22 (reduced diameter portion) and for fixing the front housing 12 and the lens barrel 22. It has been.

  Both nut-like members 25 and 26 are annular members that allow insertion into the reduced diameter portion of the lens barrel 22, and screw grooves 22 a provided on the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion of the lens barrel 22 on the inner peripheral surface. Are provided with screw grooves 25a, 26a. The front nut-like member 25 disposed on the diameter-enlarged portion side in the lens barrel 22 fixes the front housing portion 12 and the lens barrel 22. Further, the rear nut-like member 26 disposed on the inner edge protrusion 22c side in the lens barrel 22 fixes the electronic circuit portion 30 (coupling member 35) to the lens barrel 22 (reduced diameter portion).

  In this imaging apparatus 10, a sealing member 27 is interposed between the inward protruding portion 12 c of the insertion hole 12 b of the front housing portion 12 and the large diameter portion of the lens barrel 22, and the lens barrel 22 (its screw) By appropriately rotating (tightening) the front nut-like member 25 (the screw groove 25a) screwed into the groove 22a) with respect to the lens barrel 22, the front housing portion 12 and the lens barrel 22 are pressed and fixed. Is done. The sealing member 27 is an annular seal member. The sealing member 27 is appropriately compressed by the front housing portion 12 and the lens barrel 22 that are in pressure contact with each other. For this reason, the front casing 12 and the lens barrel 22 (imaging) from the outer surface side of the front casing 12 (the side on which the lens 21a serving as the objective lens is exposed) are appropriately sealed by the sealing member 27. Invasion of dust and the like with the optical system 20) is prevented, and sealing performance is provided.

  Further, in the imaging apparatus 10, after the position of the imaging element 32 with respect to the imaging optical system 20 (optical element group 21) is set in a state where focus adjustment has been performed, and after being screwed into the lens barrel 22 (its screw groove 22 a). By appropriately rotating (tightening) the side nut-like member 26 (the screw groove 26a) with respect to the lens barrel 22, the lens barrel 22 and the coupling member 35, that is, the imaging element 32 are fixed.

  Next, a configuration for securing the sealing performance in the cord attachment portion 13c of the rear housing portion 13 which is a portion for guiding the connection cord 18 into the housing 11 will be described. In the imaging device 10, as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the sealing performance at a location where the cover member 41 is attached to the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear case portion 13 and the connection cord 18 is led into the case 11. Is secured.

  As described above, the cord attachment portion 13c constitutes a location where the connection cord 18 is attached to the rear housing portion 13, and defines a sealing contact surface 13d as shown in FIG. ing. The sealing contact surface 13d is a flat outer wall surface located on the rear end side of the rear housing part 13, and the surface contact of the cover member 41 is possible. A communication hole 13e that can be shielded by the cover member 41 is provided in the sealing contact surface 13d.

  The communication hole 13e is a through hole that communicates the inner side and the outer side of the rear housing part 13 (housing 11), and at least the connection cord 18 having the largest outer shape that is assumed to be selected. The size is such that it can be inserted. In this embodiment, the communication hole 13e has a size as large as possible on the assumption that the communication hole 13e can be shielded by the cover member 41. Since the imaging device 10 is required to be downsized, the size of the casing 11 that determines the overall size is limited, and therefore the rear casing 13 This is because there is a limit to the size of the. In this embodiment, the cord attachment portion 13c is formed so as to protrude from the rear housing portion 13 below the two attachment projections 13b. The cord attachment portion 13c is provided with screw holes 13f on both sides of the communication hole 13e.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the cover member 41 is a plate-like member made of a metal material, and has a size larger than that of the communication hole 13e when viewed in the photographing optical axis OA direction (see FIG. 4). . The cover member 41 can be attached to the sealing contact surface 13d of the cord attachment portion 13c so as to seal the communication hole 13e of the cord attachment portion 13c. In this embodiment, the cover member 41 seals the communication hole 13e by being pressed against the sealing contact surface 13d while interposing a plate-shaped sealing member 42 (see FIG. 4) made of an elastic material. While shielding. In addition, since the sealing member 42 supplementarily improves the sealing performance between the sealing contact surface 13d and the cover member 41 (communication hole 13e), the required sealing performance. Depending on the degree, it may be provided as appropriate. In this embodiment, the cover member 41 is attached to the sealing contact surface 13d by screwing the screwing member 43 inserted through the screw insertion hole 41a into the screw hole 13f (see FIG. 4). . Accordingly, the communication hole 13e is sealed by the cover member 41 in the cord attachment portion 13c.

  The cover member 41 is provided with a cord insertion hole 41b through which the connection cord 18 is inserted. The cord insertion hole 41 b is a through-hole for inserting the connection cord 18 from the outside of the cover member 41 through the communication hole 13 e of the rear casing 13 to the rear casing 13, that is, the inner side of the casing 11. It is a hole. The cord insertion hole 41b has a size smaller than that of the communication hole 13e, and is provided so as to be located inward of the communication hole 13e when viewed from the direction of the photographing optical axis OA. The cord insertion hole 41b (the inner peripheral shape thereof) corresponds to the outer peripheral shape of the selected connection cord 18. According to this outer peripheral shape, at least the shape and size that allow the connection cord 18 to be inserted, and that follows the contour shape of the connection cord 18 as seen in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the connection cord 18 It means that. For example, in the case of the connecting cord 18 ′ having a circular cross-sectional shape, the cord insertion hole is a circular through hole (see reference numeral 41 b ′ in FIG. 7A) having a diameter slightly larger than the circular cross-section. In the case of the connection cord 18 ″ having a rectangular cross-sectional shape, a rectangular through hole (see reference numeral 41b ″ in FIG. 7B) having an outer dimension slightly larger than the rectangular cross-section is used.

  In the present embodiment, the cord insertion hole 41b is configured such that the selected connection cord 18 (connection cord) is formed by juxtaposing five wires having a circular cross section (see FIGS. 2 and 4). A rectangular long hole that comprehensively surrounds the five wires. Further, in this embodiment, the cord insertion hole 41b is configured by partially notching the cover member 41, and the notched piece-like portion is bent to form the engaging protrusion 41c. Yes. The engaging protrusion 41c extends toward the front side in the direction of the photographing optical axis OA, and in a state where it is assembled as will be described later, the tip 41d is a connector portion 18c (the case portion) of the connection cord 18. And facing each other with a predetermined interval (see FIG. 8). The predetermined interval is such that the electrical connection with the connector component 34 of the substrate 31 is released even if the connector portion 18c of the connection cord 18 is pulled rearward (in the cover member 41 side) in the photographing optical axis OA direction. It has a size that never happens.

  Since the cord insertion hole 41b is adapted to the outer peripheral shape of the selected connection cord 18, the front side of the cover member 41 (sealing contact) is filled with the inserted connection cord 18. Sealing performance is provided between the rear surface side) and the rear surface side. In the present embodiment, the cord insertion hole 41b is provided with a sealing structure between the cord 13 and the connecting cord 18 in a state where the connecting cord 18 is inserted, so that the front side of the cover member 41 (sealing contact) is provided. It is supposed to have a more reliable sealing performance between the rear surface side) and the rear surface side. In the present embodiment, the connection cord 18 is inserted into the cord insertion hole 41b and the periphery thereof is filled with a waterproofing adhesive 44 (so-called caulking), so that the periphery of the connection cord 18 in the cord insertion hole 41b is more reliable. Sealing performance is ensured. That is, in this embodiment, the sealing structure is configured by caulking with the waterproofing adhesive 44 as the filling member.

  Next, an example of the assembly procedure (method) of the imaging apparatus 10 will be described.

  In the imaging device 10, as shown in FIG. 3, first, an optical element 21p and a sealing member 23 are passed from the opening on the large inner diameter side (subject (object) side) of the lens barrel 22 to the holding hole 22b of the lens barrel 22. And the lens 21 a are inserted in this order, and the retaining member 24 is screwed into the large inner diameter portion of the lens barrel 22 to constitute the imaging optical system 20. A sealing member 27 is interposed between the large-diameter portion of the lens barrel 22 and the inward protruding portion 12c of the insertion hole 12b of the front housing portion 12, and the lens barrel 22 is inserted into the insertion hole 12b. The front nut-like member 25 (the screw groove 25a) screwed into the lens barrel 22 (the screw groove 22a) is appropriately rotated (tightened) with respect to the lens barrel 22, and the imaging optical system 20 is moved to the front housing portion. 12 to hold.

  Next, the image pickup device 32, the electronic component 33, and the connector component 34 are mounted on the substrate 31, and the substrate 31 is positioned so that the image pickup device 32 is in a state in which the focus adjustment is performed with respect to the image pickup optical system 20. . The substrate 31 thus positioned is screwed into the lens barrel 22 (its screw groove 22a), and the rear nut-like member 26 (its screw groove 26a) is appropriately rotated (tightened) with respect to the lens barrel 22, thereby the lens barrel. 22 is fixed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 4, the connection cord 18 is inserted through the cord insertion hole 41 b of the cover member 41 and the cord insertion hole 42 a of the sealing member 42, and the cover member 41 is inserted so that the sealing member 42 is interposed therebetween. Press against the sealing contact surface 13d. The cover member 41 is attached to the sealing contact surface 13d by screwing the screwing member 43 inserted into the screw insertion hole 41a into the screw hole 13f. Then, the periphery of the connection cord 18 is caulked with a waterproofing adhesive 44 in the cord insertion hole 41b. In this manner, the connection cord 18 is connected in a sealing manner to the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing portion 13.

  Thereafter, the connector portion 18 c of the connection cord 18 attached to the rear housing portion 13 is electrically connected to the connector component 34 of the substrate 31 of the electronic circuit portion 30 attached to the front housing portion 12.

  Next, the electronic circuit unit 30 attached to the front housing unit 12 and connected to the connection cord 18 is relatively inserted into the rear housing unit 13 along the photographing optical axis OA, and the front housing The portion 12 and the rear housing portion 13 are connected in a sealing manner (see FIG. 3 and the like). Thereby, the imaging device 10 (see FIG. 3) having a sealing performance to the imaging optical system 20 and the electronic circuit unit 30 from the outside on the back side of the front casing 12 is assembled by the casing 11. This assembling method is not limited to the present embodiment.

  The imaging device 10 can be attached to a desired location via both attachment protrusions 13b of the rear housing part 13. Although not shown, the imaging device 10 can be used as an in-vehicle camera that is mounted so as to take an image of the rear of the vehicle by being installed near a bumper or number plate in the rear of the vehicle. At this time, although not shown in the figure, an image acquired by the imaging device 10 is displayed on a monitor as a display unit of the navigation system so that an occupant, particularly a driver, acquires the imaging device 10 in the vehicle cabin. The rear image of the vehicle can be recognized on the monitor. That is, the imaging device 10 can be configured as a visual assistance mechanism that appropriately assists visual recognition by the driver by being used as an in-vehicle camera.

  As described above, the imaging device 10 has a small configuration as a whole and the imaging optical system 20 and the electronic circuit unit 30 are accommodated in the housing 11 having sealing performance in all directions. In other words, the front casing 12 and the rear casing 13 have a sealing member (not shown) interposed between them to ensure sealing performance at the joint location between the lens 21a and the mirror. The inner side of the tube 22 (holding hole 22b) is secured by the sealing member 23, and the sealing member 27 is provided between the front housing 12 and the lens barrel 22 (imaging optical system 20). Sealing performance is ensured.

  Further, the communication hole 13e of the sealing contact surface 13d of the cord attachment portion 13c of the rear housing part 13 ensures sealing performance by the cover member 41 being pressed against the sealing contact surface 13d. Has been. In particular, in this embodiment, since the sealing member 42 is interposed, higher sealing performance is ensured. The cord insertion hole 41b of the cover member 41 is basically filled with the connection cord 18, so that sealing performance is secured. In particular, in the present embodiment, since the periphery of the connection cord 18 is caulked with the waterproofing adhesive 44 (sealing structure), higher sealing performance is ensured.

  Therefore, in the imaging device 10 according to the present invention, the communication hole 13e of the rear housing part 13 is sealed with the cover member 41, and the connection cord 18 is inserted through the code insertion hole 41b of the cover member 41 in a filling manner. Therefore, the communication hole 13e can be sealed with the cover member 41 regardless of the type of the connecting cord 18 to be used.

  Further, in the imaging device 10, since the space between the cord insertion hole 41 b of the cover member 41 and the connection cord 18 is sealed with a sealing structure, the cover member 41 communicates regardless of the type of the connection cord 18 to be used. The hole 13e can be sealed more reliably.

  Furthermore, in the imaging device 10, the cord insertion hole 41 b having an inner circumferential shape corresponding to the outer circumferential shape of the selected connection cord 18 is formed in the cover member 41, so that it corresponds to the selected connection cord 18. Since there is no need to change the rear casing 13, that is, the casing 11 and the cover member 41 (their configurations), the type of connection cord 18 to be used can be easily changed. In other words, the imaging device 10 can cope with the change in the type of the connection cord 18 to be used only by changing only the cord insertion hole 41b in the cover member 41. It is not necessary to change the members only for changing the connection cord 18, and the versatility of many parts can be improved.

  In the imaging device 10, since the space between the cord insertion hole 41 b formed in the cover member 41 and the connection cord 18 is sealed by a sealing structure, the cord insertion hole 41 b and the cord insertion hole 41 b The space between the connection cord 18 can be more reliably sealed.

  In the imaging device 10, since the sealing structure is configured by caulking with the waterproof adhesive 44 as a filling member, the sealing performance around the connection cord 18 in the cord insertion hole 41 b can be achieved with a simple configuration. Can be secured.

  In the imaging device 10, since the cover member 41 has a plate shape, the cord insertion hole 41 b having an inner peripheral shape corresponding to the outer peripheral shape of the selected connection cord 18 can be easily formed. For this reason, the types that can be selected as the connection cord 18 can be increased, and the selected connection cord 18 can be inserted in a sealing manner.

  In the imaging device 10, the cord insertion hole 41 b (the inner peripheral shape) of the cover member 41 is adapted to the outer peripheral shape of the connection cord 18, so that the cord insertion hole 41 b is more appropriately connected by the connection cord 18. Filling is possible, and sealing performance between the cord insertion hole 41b and the connection cord 18 can be ensured.

  In the imaging device 10, the code insertion hole 41 b (the inner peripheral shape) of the cover member 41 corresponds to the outer peripheral shape of the connection cord 18. It is possible to easily ensure more reliable sealing performance between the two.

  In the imaging device 10, the flat attachment contact surface 13 d is provided on the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing 13, and the cover member 41 has a flat plate shape. Since the surface contact between the contact surface 13d and the cover member 41 is possible, the communication hole 13e can be easily sealed by the cover member 41.

  In the imaging device 10, the communication hole 13 e of the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing portion 13 is sized so that at least the connection cord 18 having the largest external shape that is assumed to be selected can be inserted. Therefore, it is possible to easily change the type of the connection cord 18 that is used without causing a change in the rear casing 13 including the communication hole 13e, that is, the casing 11.

  In the imaging device 10, since the communication hole 13 e of the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing portion 13 is made as large as possible on the assumption that it can be shielded by the cover member 41, The types that can be selected as the connection cord 18 can be increased without incurring changes to the side housing 13 (housing 11) and the cover member 41.

  In the imaging device 10, since the communication hole 13 e of the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing portion 13 is made as large as possible on the assumption that it can be shielded by the cover member 41, Without incurring changes to the side housing 13 (housing 11) and the cover member 41, the degree of freedom of the arrangement position as viewed in the radial direction of the connector part 34 connected to the connection cord 18 (connector 18c) can be increased. The degree of freedom in designing the electronic circuit unit 30 can be increased.

  In the imaging device 10, the cover member 41 made of a metal material separate from the connection cord 18 is pressed against the sealing contact surface 13 d, whereby the communication hole 13 e of the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing portion 13 is formed. Since it is the structure to seal, the kind of connection cord 18 to be used can be changed easily. This is due to the following. In the case where the connection end of the connection cord is coated with an insulating resin by molding to form a connection portion to the housing as in the conventional case, the connection end is molded by changing the connection cord. Although it is necessary to change the mold, it is necessary to create a mold for molding the connection end because extremely high processing accuracy is required at the connection end to ensure sealing performance. It's not easy. On the other hand, in the imaging device 10 according to the present invention, only the cover member 41, which is made easy by processing the shape of a slit plate from a metal material, satisfies extremely high processing accuracy for ensuring sealing performance. Therefore, the communication hole 13e can be reliably sealed regardless of the type of the connecting cord 18 to be used. And since the cord insertion hole 41b according to the connection cord (18) to be used should just be formed in the cover member 41, the kind of the connection cord 18 to be used can be changed easily.

  In the imaging apparatus 10, since the cover member 41 is formed in a plate shape from a metal material, the strength around the communication hole 13e in the rear housing portion 13 is ensured while facilitating the processing for the cord insertion hole 41b. can do.

  In the imaging apparatus 10, since the cover member 41 is made of a metal material, it is possible to easily perform drilling, bending, and the like, so that the engagement protrusion 41c can be easily formed.

  In the imaging apparatus 10, since the engagement protrusion 41 c is provided on the cover member 41, even if a force that pulls outward (force to pull out from the housing 11) acts on the connection cord 18, the engagement protrusion 41 c. Since the front end portion 41d of the portion 41c abuts on the connector portion 18c (the case portion) of the connection cord 18, the electrical connection between the connector portion 18c and the connector component 34 of the board 31 is prevented. Can do.

  In the imaging device 10, since the cover member 41 is made of a metal material, the function of sealing the communication hole 13 e of the cord attachment portion 13 c of the rear housing portion 13 and the sealing insertion of the connection cord 18 are provided. In addition to the function that enables the above, it is possible to have a heat dissipation function, an electromagnetic shielding function, and a frame ground function. The heat dissipation function means that the heat generated in the electronic circuit unit 30 (mainly the electronic component 33) is released to the outside by utilizing the excellent thermal conductivity of the metal material. Securing the performance of the electronic circuit formed in the above. In addition, the electromagnetic shielding function is based on the excellent electrical conductivity of the metal material, and is electrically connected to the reference potential or ground level in the electronic circuit formed in the electronic circuit unit 30. It means that electromagnetic waves are emitted to the surface and the influence of electromagnetic waves on the electronic circuit from the periphery is prevented. Further, the frame ground function stabilizes the operation of the electronic circuit by electrically connecting to the reference potential in the electronic circuit formed in the electronic circuit unit 30 by utilizing the excellent conductivity of the metal material. That means. As for these things, the connection end portion of the connection cord is covered with an insulating resin by molding to form a connection portion to the housing as in the conventional case, and does not have thermal conductivity or conductivity. Therefore, it cannot be realized.

  Therefore, in the imaging device 10 according to the present invention, the type of connection cord to be used can be easily changed without impairing the dustproof function. For this reason, since the change of an own function and the freedom degree of an output destination can be raised, an application range can be expanded.

  In the above-described embodiments, the imaging apparatus 10 as an example of the imaging apparatus according to the present invention has been described. However, an electronic circuit unit including an imaging element for obtaining a subject image formed by the imaging optical system; An imaging apparatus comprising: a housing that houses the electronic circuit unit; and a connection cord that is electrically connected to the electronic circuit unit from the outside of the housing, wherein the housing includes an inner side and an outer side. A cover member having a slit plate shape made of a metal material is attached to the cover member so as to seal the communication hole in a sealing manner. Any imaging device or vehicle-mounted camera provided with a cord insertion hole that allows the connection cord to pass therethrough is not limited to the above-described embodiment.

  In the above-described embodiment, the screw member 43 inserted through the screw insertion hole 41a is screwed into the screw hole 13f of the cord attachment portion 13c, so that the cover member 41 is engaged with the sealing contact surface 13d. As long as the cover member 41 is attached to the sealing contact surface 13d so as to seal the communication hole 13e, it may be bonded by an adhesive, for example. It is not limited to.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the sealing structure (coking by the waterproof adhesive 44) is provided around the connection cord 18 in the cord insertion hole 41b. However, the sealing structure is provided in the cord insertion hole 41b. Since the sealing performance around the connection cord 18 is supplementarily improved, the sealing performance required by filling the cord insertion hole 41b with the connection cord 18 can be obtained. For example, the sealing structure may not be provided, and is not limited to the above-described embodiment.

  In the above-described embodiment, the housing is configured by sealingly connecting the front housing portion 12 and the rear housing portion 13, but houses the electronic circuit portion 30 including the imaging element 32 and If the connection cord 18 is connected from the outside to the electronic circuit unit 30, the communication hole (13e) is sealed with the cover member (41) and the code insertion hole (41b) of the cover member is sealed. Since the effect of facilitating the change of the type of the connection cord used without impairing the dust-proof function can be obtained by adopting a configuration in which the connection cord (18) is inserted in a filling manner, the present invention is limited to the above-described embodiment. It is not something.

  In the above-described embodiment, as an application example of the imaging device 10, the use of the imaging device 10 as an in-vehicle camera that configures a visual assistance mechanism that appropriately assists visual recognition by the driver is described. The present invention can be widely applied as an in-vehicle camera as a drive recorder for recording images, a monitoring camera in a vehicle interior of a vehicle, a monitoring camera mounted on an ATM, and the like, and is not limited to the above-described embodiments.

  In the above-described embodiment, the sealing structure is configured by caulking with the waterproof adhesive 44 as the filling member, but a more reliable sealing performance in the periphery of the connection cord 18 in the cord insertion hole 41b is ensured. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. As other sealing structures, for example, as shown in FIG. 9, a claw portion 41e formed around the cord insertion hole 41b is crimped to the connection cord 18, or as shown in FIG. 10, the cord insertion hole 41b The connection cord 18 is welded to the connection cord 18 (see the welding portion 41f), and as shown in FIG. 11, the connection cord 18 is inserted into the cord insertion hole 41b, and the periphery thereof is covered with an elastic sealing member 45 as a filling member. For example, filling. The elastic sealing member 45 is, for example, a material having flexible elasticity capable of being in close contact with the periphery of the connection cord 18 without crushing the connection cord 18 to such an extent that the function of the connection cord 18 is impaired. It is composed of a sponge-like rubber material or a sponge-like resin material. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the elastic sealing member 45 is provided in a pair so as to narrow the connection cord 18 while filling the cord insertion hole 41b, and the connection cord 18 is interposed between them. By disposing, the connection cord 18 can be inserted, and can be in close contact with the periphery of the connection cord 18. Note that the claw portion 41e (see FIG. 9) that can be crimped to the connection cord 18 may extend outward from the housing 11 (rear housing portion 13). It is not limited.

  In the above-described embodiment, the engagement protrusion 41c that prevents the electrical connection between the connector 18c and the connector part 34 from being released from the cover member 41 (prevents the connector 18c from coming off from the connector part 34) is provided. However, since the cover member 41 is made of a metal material, it can be easily drilled or bent, so that it may have other functions. It is not limited to.

  In the above-described embodiment, the engaging projection 41c is provided on both sides (short sides) of the cord insertion hole 41b that is a long hole, but the tip 41d of the engaging projection 41c is the connection cord 18's. Any device can be used as long as it prevents contact with the connector part 34 of the board 31 by coming into contact with the connector part 18c (its case part). It is not limited.

  In the above-described embodiment, the communication hole 13e opens the rear end surface of the rear housing part 13, but communicates the inside and the outside of the housing 11 so that the connection cord 18 can be inserted. As long as it is, it is not limited to the above-described embodiment.

  As mentioned above, although the imaging device of the present invention has been described based on the embodiment, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes, additions, and the like can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Permissible.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Imaging device 11 Housing | casing 13 Back side housing | casing part 13d Contact surface for sealing 13e (as a flat outer wall surface) 13e Communication hole 18 Connection cord 18c Connector part 20 Imaging optical system 30 Electronic circuit part 32 Imaging element 41 Cover member 41b Code insertion hole 41c Engaging projection 41e Claw part 41f Welding part 44 Waterproof adhesive (as filling member) 45 Elastic sealing member (as filling member) OA Imaging optical axis

JP 2009-38438 A

Claims (10)

An electronic circuit unit including an image sensor for obtaining a subject image formed by the imaging optical system, a housing for housing the electronic circuit unit, and the electronic circuit unit electrically from the outside of the housing A connection cord to be connected, and an imaging device comprising:
The housing has a communication hole that communicates the inside and the outside,
A cover member that exhibits a slit plate shape from a metal material is attached to the housing while sealingly blocking the communication hole.
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cover member is provided with a cord insertion hole that allows the connection cord to be inserted.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cord insertion hole has an inner peripheral shape corresponding to an outer peripheral shape of the connection cord.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a sealing structure is provided between the cord insertion hole and the connection cord. The communication hole is sized to include the cord insertion hole,
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cord insertion hole is positioned inward of the communication hole when viewed from the photographing optical axis direction.   The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the communication hole opens a flat outer wall surface.   The said sealing structure is comprised by the crimping | compression-bonding to the outer peripheral surface of the said connection code | cord | chord which the nail | claw part extended toward the inward from the inner peripheral edge part of the said code insertion hole is characterized by the above-mentioned. The imaging device according to claim 5.   The said sealing structure is comprised by welding the inner peripheral part of the said code penetration hole, and the outer peripheral surface of the said connection cord, The Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned. Imaging device.   The imaging device according to claim 3, wherein the sealing structure is configured such that a space between the cord insertion hole and the connection cord is filled with a filling member. . The connection cord is provided with a connector portion for electrical connection with the electronic circuit portion,
The cover member is provided with an engaging protrusion capable of abutting on the connector part in order to prevent the electrical connection with the electronic circuit part in the connector part from being released. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. An in-vehicle camera using the imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images