The sealing process of waterproof USB camera modules mainly involves the selection of sealing materials, the design of interface and connector structures, the installation of sealing structures, and sealing performance testing, etc. The following is a detailed description:
Selection and application of sealing materials
Waterproof sealing materials: When making waterproof structures, it is necessary to select appropriate waterproof materials, such as silicone sealant, which has excellent sealing performance and high-temperature resistance. In addition, other synthetic materials such as polyurethane or acrylate can also be considered. Before making the waterproof structure, evenly apply the selected waterproof sealing material to the interfaces of the connectors and accessories, ensuring that all interfaces are covered to prevent water infiltration.
Waterproof coating: Applying a waterproof coating on the surface of interfaces and connectors can form a protective film, preventing water and moisture from directly contacting the circuit board and metal components, thereby enhancing the waterproof performance of the interfaces.
The sealing structure design of interfaces and connectors
Sealing rings and sealants: By setting sealing rings around the interface or using materials such as sealants, the interface is completely isolated from the external environment to prevent water from seeping in. For instance, in a waterproof sealing structure for a camera, a sealing ring is provided on the annular plate. Sealing grooves are set on both the left and right sides of the sealing ring. The right end of the fixed shell and the left end of the connecting shell are both in contact with the sealing grooves, which is conducive to better contact between the fixed shell and the connecting shell and the sealing ring, thereby enhancing the sealing effect.
Interface structure improvement: Optimize the internal structure of the interface to reduce the possibility of water entering. For instance, by adopting a tighter connection design or adding sealing gaskets, the waterproof level of the interface can be enhanced. The USB Type-C interface can improve the waterproof level of the interface by optimizing the internal structure of the interface, such as adopting a tighter connector design and adding sealing gaskets.
Drainage structure design: A well-designed drainage structure can effectively remove accumulated water and further enhance the waterproofing effect.
Installation and fixation of the sealing structure
Assembly and fitting: After applying the waterproof sealing material, assemble the connector with the corresponding parts, ensuring there is no gap between the connector and the parts to guarantee the waterproof effect. For example, assemble the camera lens, circuit board, data cable and camera cavity into a semi-finished waterproof camera.
Fixation and sealing: Use appropriate tools and equipment to fix and seal the connectors and components. For example, screws or glue can be used to reinforce the interface between the connector and the parts. For instance, in a waterproof sealing structure for a camera, the pressure block is pushed inward and the annular plate is inserted into the annular groove. As the annular plate moves to the right, the pressure block extends into the through hole under the elastic force of the spring and comes into contact with the waterproof cover, achieving a quick connection between the fixed shell and the connecting shell. The connection between the two is sealed by a sealing ring to prevent rainwater from seeping in.
Sealing performance test
Inflation test method: Air is filled into the camera cavity, and the semi-finished waterproof camera is placed in water to observe if there are continuous bubbles emerging. This is used to test the sealing performance of the camera and isolate the substandard products with continuous bubbles emerging. For instance, air is injected into the camera cavity through an air valve. The air valve can prevent the air inside the camera cavity from leaking out. The air pressure inside the camera cavity is 0.3-0.8MPa. Then, the semi-finished waterproof camera is immersed in water to observe if there are continuous bubbles emerging, which is used to test the sealing performance of the camera.
Vacuuming and inert gas filling detection method: Evacuate the air inside the camera cavity of a camera with qualified sealing performance, then fill the camera cavity with inert gas. Seal the installation hole of the filling valve with waterproof sealant, and the waterproof camera product that has been sealed is obtained. For example, the air in the camera cavity of a semi-finished waterproof camera with qualified sealing performance is evacuated to a vacuum degree of -0.02-0.04MPa. Nitrogen is filled into the camera cavity with a pressure of 0.3-0.8MPa. The inflation valve can prevent the nitrogen in the camera cavity from leaking out. Finally, seal the inflation end of the inflation valve installation hole with waterproof sealant, and the waterproof camera product with complete sealing can be obtained.