Patent Description:
In one current approach a lens may be mounted to a lens holder using an adhesive such as an epoxy adhesive. In such arrangements there is typically no electrical connection between the lens and the lens holder and issues with electromagnetic compatibility, EMC, and electrostatic discharge, ESD, may affect the imaging system when the lens holder is connected to a camera mounted to a printed circuit board, PCB. To address this problem, in one approach, a unibody lens has been proposed to provide a lens mounted to the PCB. However, such unibody lens arrangements are expensive and of limited application due to the form and structure thereof. Other solutions have been proposed based on the use of multiple design iterations to arrive at a suitable arrangement with improved noise and EMC performance. Due to constantly growing requirements from the customer regarding the camera performance including relating to signal frequency, <NUM> technology with high frequency and also taking into account of the demands for reduction of the camera unit size, antenna effects became more and more noticeable. Examples of prior art in this field include: <CIT> and <CIT>. Accordingly, there is a need to address the above issues and problems with EMC and to provide an alternative and improved imaging system having an improved lens mounting arrangement that addresses the problems with previous set-ups.

The specification provide exemplary arrangements which address the problems noted above associated with the previous imaging systems.

A first aspect of an imaging system (<NUM>) comprises:.

The arrangements of the specification advantageously provide for an electrical grounding between the lens and the PCB of the imaging system and addresses problems associated with prior imaging systems relating to noise and EMC issues. The imaging system comprises an electrically conducting element configured to provide an electrically conducting contact between the lens and the lens holder or the PCB. The electrically conducting element is configured for coupling to the imaging system such that it does not affect the optical alignment of the system. It can be assembled with flexibility to the imaging system.

In one example of general background interest, the electrically conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may be configured in use for coupling directly to the lens (<NUM>) and to one of the lens holder (<NUM>) or to the PCB (<NUM>) to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens (<NUM>) and the lens holder (<NUM>) or PCB (<NUM>). In one arrangement, the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is resilient. In one arrangement, the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises first and second engagement surfaces, said engagement surfaces biased to engage with corresponding portions of a bearing surface of the lens (<NUM>) and a bearing surface of the lens holder (<NUM>) or the PCB (<NUM>). The conducting element is resilient and does not affect the optical alignment of the lens to the lens holder and the imaging system at the adhesive layer. The properties and configuration of the conducting element are such that the electrically conducting coupling is provided independently of the attachment of the lens holder.

In one example of general background interest, the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured for coupling to the lens (<NUM>) and to the lens holder (<NUM>), wherein the lens holder (<NUM>) is further configured for coupling to the PCB (<NUM>) to provide an electrically grounded connection between the lens (<NUM>) and the PCB (<NUM>).

In one example of general background interest the conducting element is configured for coupling the lens to the lens holder which is further electrically coupled to the PCB. The electrical grounding of the lens to the PCB is provided via the conducting element and via the lens holder.

In one embodiment of the first aspect the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to be coupled externally to the lens and to the lens holder. The conducting element is configured to be located externally on the lens and lens holder which provides excellent flexibility in the provision and location of the conducting element. The conducting element may be configured for snap-fitting to the imaging system. It is further configured to provide a clamped engagement of corresponding engagement surfaces or contact portions to ensure the required contact for electrical conduction and to maintain, in a continuous manner, that contact and the electrical conducting connection between components of the imaging system.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the conducting element (<NUM>) is configured for coupling to the lens (<NUM>) and to the PCB (<NUM>) to provide an electrically grounded connection between the lens (<NUM>) and the PCB (<NUM>).

In one embodiment, the conducting element (<NUM>) is a resilient element comprised of a metal material, and comprising:.

Advantageously, the conducting element may be installed during assembly of the imaging system. It may be soldered in place on the PCB located about the optical axis and the imaging device. When the lens is mounted to the lens holder the conducting element contacts the lens at an external surface thereof. The active optical alignment process is continued without the conducting element having any effect thereon. The support has a generally annular form and is dimensioned to be located on the PCB surrounding the imaging device. The lens is coupled directly to the PCB. Advantageously, the coupling of the conducting element to the lens and lens holder or PCB does not affect the optical alignment. The conducting element is configured for coupling to the lens separately to and independently from the attachment of the lens to the lens holder and the optical alignment of the components of the imaging system. The conducting element is configured such that any contact or contact forces between the lens and PCB or lens holder do not affect the optical alignment of the imaging system. Advantageously the conducting element is also biased to directly engage both the lens and the lens holder or PCB in a positive engagement to maintain the electrically conducting coupling. The electrically conducting coupling is independent from the attachment of the lens and lens holder and the optically aligned coupling.

According to the invention, the lens (<NUM>) is attached to the lens holder (<NUM>) at an interface (I) between a first upper bearing surface (<NUM>) of the lens (<NUM>) and a second lower bearing surface (<NUM>) of the lens holder (<NUM>), wherein the lens (<NUM>) is attachable to the lens holder (<NUM>) at an adhesive layer (<NUM>) being located between the bearing surfaces at a first interface portion (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>);.

The imaging system has an optical axis and each of the imaging device, lens and lens holder being arranged along the optical axis, the lens holder is configured for assembly to the PCB to define a housing for the imaging device, the lens being mountable to the lens holder. Further in the arrangement the lens is configured to be attached to the lens holder using an adhesive such that the lens is optically aligned with the imaging device. The imaging system comprises one or more recesses located at the interface between the lens and the lens holder receiving a portion of the conducting element. There is flexibility in the location and in the form and dimensions of the one or more recesses. In a preferred arrangement a recess may be provided that extends circumferentially between the bearing surfaces at a portion of the interface near to the external peripheral walls of the lens and the lens holder. However, it will be appreciated that the one or more recesses may be provided located at different portions of the interface, or that in another arrangement the one or more recesses be circumferentially spaced apart.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, each recess (<NUM>, <NUM>') is at least partially defined by the adhesive layer (<NUM>), and portions of the first and second bearing surfaces (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the lens (<NUM>) and lens holder (<NUM>) adjacent to the adhesive layer (<NUM>), said bearing surfaces being spaced apart in the vertical direction (Z) by the adhesive layer (<NUM>) located therebetween.

The one or more recesses may be provided at a portion of the interface adjacent to the adhesive layer. In such a case, the recess is defined by the adhesive layer to the side and the bearing surfaces above and below. The one or more recesses may be formed between the lens and the lens holder at an external peripheral portion. In one arrangement, for example, the external peripheral portions at the external edges of the lens and lens holder may be formed or tapered to provide one or more recesses.

In one embodiment, at least one recess (<NUM>') is at least partially defined by a groove (<NUM>) mechanically formed in one or both of the bearing surfaces of the lens and lens holder.

The one or more recesses may include at least one that is mechanically formed in one or both of the lens and the lens holder.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the conducting element (<NUM>) comprises a conducting adhesive or paste (<NUM>, <NUM>). In one arrangement, the conducting element (<NUM>) comprises a conducting adhesive or paste (<NUM>, <NUM>) provided in a conducting layer (<NUM>) in the recess (<NUM>, <NUM>') arranged such that engagement surfaces of the conducting layer are in contact with corresponding portions of bearing surfaces (<NUM>, <NUM>) of each of the lens and the lens holder at the recess (<NUM>, <NUM>) to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens and the lens holder.

The conducting element may be provided as a conducting adhesive or paste that is locatable between the bearing surfaces and adjacent to the adhesive layer. The properties of the conducting element are such that it does not affect the optical alignment of the system which is fixed at the adhesive layer. The conducting element is resilient and deforms for locating in contact with the bearing surfaces. The conducting element as defined, and the arrangement of the imaging system according to the claims, provide excellent flexibility in assembly and in the location thereof.

In one embodiment, the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>) may comprise:.

In one embodiment, in use, the support (<NUM>) of the conducting element (<NUM>) is receivable at an external portion (<NUM>) of the lens holder (<NUM>) and wherein the one or more contact arms (<NUM>) extend upwardly from the support in the direction of the lens (<NUM>). The conducting element has a form and dimensions for location on the lens holder. The conducting element is resilient and may be configured to expand for location on the lens holder and to contract to engage with the lens holder. The contact arms are biased to engage with the lens. In one arrangement, in use, the support (<NUM>) of the conducting element is receivable at an external portion (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the lens (<NUM>) and wherein the one or more contact arms (<NUM>) extend downwardly from the support in the direction of the lens holder (<NUM>). The conducting element has a form and dimensions for location on the lens holder. The conducting element is resilient and may be configured to expand for location on the lens and to contact to engage with the lens. The contact arms are biased to engage with the lens holder.

In one embodiment, the conducting element (<NUM>) may comprise:.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the engagement surface (<NUM>) comprises one or more protrusions (<NUM>) formed protruding inwardly relative to the engagement surface in the direction of the lens and lens holder, each protrusion being receivable in the recess (<NUM>, <NUM>').

In one embodiment, wherein the protrusion (<NUM>) comprises a ridge arranged extending circumferentially around the interface peripheral wall.

Various forms of conducting element are provided for coupling externally to the imaging system. Each advantageously provides excellent flexibility in use and in the manufacturing process. Further each advantageously provides a direct electrically conducting connection between the lens and the lens holder without affecting the optical alignment of the imaging system.

In one embodiment, wherein the support (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) has C-shaped form or an annular ring-shaped form and is configured to be located externally on the lens and/or the lens holder. The form of the conducting element can be varied. A conducting element of C-shaped or annular form provides for ease of location on the imaging system either by placement over a component of the imaging system or by receiving a component thereof through an opening. The extent of contact or contacting overlap provided between the conducting element and the lens and lens holder may also be varied with flexibility. In some arrangements the conducting element extends circumferentially (<NUM> degrees) around the corresponding component(s). However, the conducting element may also be configured to extended in the circumferential direction around a more limited portion of the corresponding component(s).

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the engagement surface comprises a protrusion (<NUM>, <NUM>) receivable in the recess (<NUM>, <NUM>) at the interface I.

In one embodiment, the conducting element is arranged according to one or more of the following:.

The support is resilient and is deformable for locating on the body of the lens and/or the lens holder and is biased to engage with the body of the lens and/or the lens holder.

The specification provides exemplary arrangements of a conducting element for providing an electrically conducting connection between a lens of an imaging system and at least one of a lens holder and a PCB.

In one example disclosed herein for context, there is provided an electrically conducting element for providing an electrical grounding of a lens (<NUM>) of an imaging system (<NUM>), the imaging system (<NUM>) comprising a plurality of components including an imaging device (<NUM>) mounted on the PCB (<NUM>), a lens (<NUM>), and a lens holder (<NUM>);.

In one embodiment of the second aspect, there is provided the electrically conducting element comprises a conducting paste or adhesive.

In one arrangement, the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises:.

In one example, the conducting element (<NUM>) comprises:.

As described, the specification provides various advantageous arrangements of conducting elements for providing an electrical grounding connection between a lens and a PCB of an imaging system.

The following drawings are provided as an example to explain further and describe various aspects of the present disclosure:.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals may be repeated among the Figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of the examples described herein. The examples may be practised without these details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the examples described. The description is not to be considered as limiting to the scope of the examples described herein.

The present specification relates to arrangements of an imaging system <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG> an imaging system <NUM> according to an exemplary arrangement of the specification is described. The imaging system <NUM> comprises a lens <NUM>, a lens holder <NUM>, and an imaging device <NUM>. In one arrangement, the imaging device <NUM> may be a camera or a PCB camera <NUM>. The imaging device <NUM> and components are mounted to a printed circuit board, PCB, <NUM>. During assembly, the PCB <NUM> comprising the imaging device <NUM> is assembled to the lens holder <NUM>. The lens <NUM> is mountable to the lens holder <NUM>, thus coupling it to the imaging device.

The optical axis, OA of the imaging system <NUM> is defined by the central vertical axis as indicated in <FIG> (Z-direction). Each of the lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM> and imaging device <NUM> are arranged about the central vertical axis/optical axis thereof. The optical axes OA of the camera and the lens are arranged in alignment. In manufacture and assembly of the imaging system <NUM>, high levels of precision are applied to ensure that the optical components are aligned to provide the required image quality. A correct and precise mounting of the lens in the lens holder, and of the imaging device relative to the lens holder and lens, are critical to providing the required optical arrangement. The lens <NUM> is attached to the lens holder <NUM> during an active alignment procedure to provide the required optical alignment of the lens and the camera. During this procedure, the lens is positioned in the lens holder and attached thereto using an adhesive <NUM> which is provided in an adhesive layer <NUM> at an interface I between the lens <NUM> and the lens holder <NUM>.

The <NUM> has a lens body <NUM> of generally cylindrical form. When assembled to the PCB <NUM>, a proximal end <NUM> of the lens body is located proximate to the imaging device and a distal end faces <NUM> outwardly in the direction of the scene to be imaged. The lens body <NUM> comprises a lens mount <NUM>. The lens mount <NUM> is arranged between the proximal <NUM>-<NUM> and distal <NUM>-<NUM> portions of the lens body. The lens mount <NUM> is defined by a collar that extends circumferentially around the lens body <NUM>. In the arrangement shown, the lens mount <NUM> has an annular ring-shaped form. Lens mount <NUM> has a lower surface <NUM>, an upper surface <NUM>, and an external peripheral side wall <NUM> extending therebetween. The side wall <NUM> comprises a lower peripheral edge <NUM> and an upper peripheral edge <NUM>. The radial extent from the lens body <NUM> to the peripheral side wall <NUM> is R1. The lower surface defines a contact surface <NUM>, also referred to a bearing surface <NUM>, configured in use for coupling to a corresponding contact surface <NUM>, or bearing surface <NUM>, of the lens holder <NUM>. The lens mount, lens holder and the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> thereof, are formed for conformity and coupling.

Lens holder <NUM> comprises a lens holder body <NUM> having an upper wall <NUM> and depending outer side walls <NUM>. The upper wall <NUM> comprises an outwardly facing external surface <NUM>. A lower opening <NUM> is defined by lower peripheral edge surfaces <NUM> of the outer side walls <NUM>. The lens holder <NUM> defines a housing <NUM>. When the imaging system <NUM> is assembled, components thereof including a portion of the lens and the imaging device are located within the interior of the housing <NUM>. The PCB <NUM>, to which imaging device <NUM> is mounted, is receivable within the lens holder <NUM> at the lower opening <NUM> thereof.

The lens holder <NUM> further comprises a lens support <NUM> comprising a lens receiver <NUM> for receiving the proximal portion <NUM>-<NUM> of the lens body <NUM>. The lens support <NUM> is configured for mounting the lens <NUM> to the lens holder <NUM>. The lens support <NUM> comprises a lens support wall <NUM> that extends between an upper opening <NUM> and a lower opening <NUM>. An upper portion <NUM>-<NUM> of the support wall extends upwardly relative to the upper wall <NUM> of the housing and a lower portion <NUM>-<NUM> depends relative thereto. The lens support wall <NUM> in the arrangement of the drawings is of a generally cylindrical form having an external peripheral surface <NUM> and an internal peripheral surface <NUM>. The internal peripheral surface <NUM> of the wall <NUM> defines the lens receiver <NUM>. The lens support <NUM> comprises an upper surface <NUM> located around opening <NUM>. The upper surface <NUM> defines the contact surface <NUM> or bearing surface <NUM> at which the lens holder <NUM> is coupled to the lens mount <NUM> of the lens <NUM>. As illustrated in the examples of <FIG> and <FIG> and applicable also to the exemplary arrangement of <FIG>, the upper contact surface <NUM> has a ring-shaped or annular form and extends between an inner peripheral edge <NUM> and an outer peripheral edge <NUM>. The contact surface <NUM> has an inner radius R2 and an outer radius R3.

The manufacturing and assembly process includes <NUM> main assembly steps. The lens holder <NUM> and PCB <NUM> are assembled together. The lens <NUM> is mounted to the lens holder <NUM> such that the lens and camera are arranged along the optical path of the imaging system. The PCB <NUM> is receivable in the lens holder <NUM>. The PCB and lens holder are formed for conformity.

The interface between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM> comprises adhesive layer <NUM> comprising the adhesive <NUM> located between the lower contact surface <NUM> of the lens mount <NUM> and the upper contact surface <NUM> of the lens support <NUM>. The adhesive <NUM> is used to attach the lens to the lens holder. As noted above, the lens is attached to the lens holder during an active alignment process. It is critical that the lens <NUM> is at the correct optical alignment relative to the imaging device when fixed to the lens holder <NUM>. When the required alignment is achieved, the lens is fixed to the lens holder. The adhesive <NUM> may be curable or fixed in another suitable way to form the adhesive layer <NUM>. As shown with reference to <FIG> and <FIG> the adhesive190/adhesive layer <NUM> may be provided for location at the interface between the surfaces of the mount and the lens support. Adhesive <NUM> in the exemplary arrangement is an epoxy adhesive. Other suitable adhesives having the required properties may also be used. The adhesive <NUM> in use stabilizes the connection between the lens and the lens holder for thermal cycling with micron level tolerance. The position of the lens relative to the lens holder and the optical alignment thereof is not affected for example by heating by virtue of the properties of the adhesive. The adhesive <NUM> is non-conducting and therefore there is no electrically conducting connection between the lens mount <NUM> and the lens holder <NUM> at the interface I. Further at this stage of the assembly where the lens is attached, as described to the lens holder, there is no electrically conducting connection between the lens and the PCB. It will be appreciated that the adhesive or adhesive layer may be provided in different forms suitable for providing the required attachment and alignment of the components.

The imaging system <NUM>, further comprises a conducting element <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> is configured to provide an electrically conducting contact between the lens and the PCB to provide an electrical grounding of the lens to the PCB.

Referring to <FIG>, the conducting element <NUM> comprises a support <NUM> of annular form having an upper surface <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM>. The support <NUM> comprises one or more contact arms <NUM> which extend upwardly therefrom and are circumferentially spaced apart around the support. The support <NUM> may for example be C-shaped or O-shaped a closed ring form. Each contact arm <NUM> comprises a lower support connection end <NUM> and an upper end <NUM>, and a contact <NUM> arranged therebetween. The contact arm <NUM> is arranged at rest such that the arms is inclined at an angle a less than <NUM> degrees relative to the support <NUM> and such that the contact <NUM> is tensioned inwardly relative to the support. The contact <NUM> is configured to engage with a corresponding contact location of a bearing surface. The contact <NUM> is arranged at an angle to the contact arm, and oriented generally vertically to clamp to a vertically oriented bearing surface.

In use, the support <NUM> is located such that the lower surface <NUM> is in contact with the PCB <NUM> and the support extends about the imaging device <NUM>. The one or more contact arms <NUM> extend generally upwardly in the direction of the lens <NUM>. Each contact arm <NUM> is resilient and tensioned inwardly relative to the support <NUM>, such that in use, the contact arm is biased in the direction of the lens body <NUM>. The support, contact arm and contact have a form and dimensions to provide engagement of the contact with the lens body in an electrically conducting contact.

The support <NUM> has a generally annular form (for example O or C-shaped) and a diameter greater than that of the lens body. The support is further dimensioned such that when located on the PCB it extends about or surrounds the imaging device. Further the conducting element <NUM> is configured to be located engaged on the PCB generally between the lens holder and the imaging device and between the lens holder and the lens body. The conducting element is configured to directly provide an electrically conductive coupling of the lens body to the PCB. The form and dimensions of the support are such that it is configured to be soldered directly onto the PCB. In the exemplary arrangement illustrated, the conducting element <NUM> has a plurality of contact arms <NUM> arranged circumferentially spaced apart about the support - this arrangement allows for a corresponding plurality of contacts between the lens body and PCB that are evenly distributed about the lens body. In preferred arrangements, the conducting element <NUM> may comprise <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> or more contact arms <NUM> spaced apart at equal intervals about the support <NUM>.

The support of the arrangement of <FIG> further comprises a substantially flat or planar ring form having an inner peripheral edge and an outer peripheral edge. The web of the support is substantially flat or planar defining the ring or annular form support. The lower surface of which defines a bearing surface for contacting the PCB. The support is located spaced apart from the lens body and the at least one contact arm of the support is arranged to contact the lens body at an external contact area thereof. The inner peripheral edge of the support defines an inner opening in which the imaging device is located. The form of the support, having a planar web provides a stable support at the PCB. The outer edge defines the outer periphery of the support. The contact arms are located projecting from the outer edge in the direction of the centre of the support. In use, the lower surface of the support is engaged with the planar surface of the PCB. The planar ring form provides for a stable location of the conducting element on the PCB such that the lower surface of the support is arranged in contact with a corresponding portion of an upper surface the PCB.

The conducting element has a lightweight and streamlined form which is configured to provide a stable connection between the lens body and PCB. The support is configured for fixing to the PCB to provide a stable anchoring thereof within the imaging system, while also spaced apart from the optical elements including the lens body and imaging device. The imaging system is provided as an optically aligned system and the arrangement of the conducting element allows for an electrically conducting coupling between the lens and the PCB without affecting the stability or alignment of the optical element. The arrangement also provides for increased ease in assembly - the lens is attached to the lens holder and relative to the imaging device such that the optical elements are precisely aligned as required. The conducting element is configured such that the conducting connection may be provided after the optical alignment step of assembly and further such that the conducting element does not affect the optical alignment of the imaging system as the conducting element is configured to be located externally to the optical elements.

The conducting element <NUM> defines a lens grounding element. The conducting element <NUM> is in effect a conducting spring element configured to provide an electrical grounding connection between the lens and the PCB. The conducting element is resilient. The conducting element comprises a metal and is configured to be electrically conducting.

In use and during manufacture, in an exemplary method conducting element <NUM> as shown in the drawings is soldered to the PCB as another component. When the PCB is assembled with lens holder, the conducting element is provided located at the lens receiver. During the active alignment process conducting element <NUM> contacts the lens and provides an electrical contact between PCB and lens. In the arrangement shown, in use the support <NUM> is arranged in an electrically conducting contact with the PCB and the contact <NUM> of the contact arms <NUM> is engaged in conducting contact with the lens <NUM>. The engagement between the contact <NUM> and a corresponding portion of a bearing surface of the lens is achieved by the configuration, dimensions and form of conducting element, and the biasing of the contact arms.

The conducting element <NUM> advantageously addresses problems and issues due to noise and/or EMC in previous imaging system arrangements, by providing an electrical grounding coupling of the lens to the PCB. Further, by virtue of the configuration of the conducting element <NUM>, having resilient contact arms <NUM>, the conducting element does not affect the alignment process and does not affect the optical alignment of the system. The conducting element as configured has tolerance that provides an excellent flexibility and ease of application in manufacture and use.

The imaging system <NUM> comprising the conducting element <NUM> is advantageously configured such that an electrical grounding connection is provided between lens and lens holder and that the lens is grounded to the PCB.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an alternative arrangement of an imaging system <NUM> according to the specification is described. The arrangement includes a conducting element <NUM>. The imaging system <NUM> according to <FIG> has features in common with imaging system <NUM> including the lens, lens holder, imaging device and the PCB, and the same reference numbers have been used in the drawings where appropriate. Reference is made to the description provided above with respect to imaging system <NUM> of <FIG>, much of which applies also to the imaging system <NUM>.

Imaging system <NUM> comprises a lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM>, imaging device <NUM> and PCB <NUM>. As described above with reference to <FIG>, the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM> of the arrangement of <FIG> are attached at an adhesive layer <NUM> formed of adhesive <NUM> during an active alignment process. The lens and lens holder are attached at the adhesive layer <NUM> arranged between contact surface <NUM> of lens mount <NUM> and contact surface <NUM> of lens support <NUM> of the lens holder. The adhesive layer <NUM> is arranged such that the lens is oriented and aligned optically, as required within the imaging system. The adhesive is non-conducting and provides a stable connection at the interface between the lens and lens holder to maintain the optical arrangement. The interface I between the lens and lens support is the interface formed between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>. The adhesive layer <NUM> of adhesive <NUM> is located extending between at least portions of each of the surfaces.

The imaging system <NUM> further comprises a conducting element <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> of <FIG> defines a lens grounding element configured to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM>. The lens holder is further connected to the PCB to provide an electrical ground of the lens to the PCB via the lens holder.

The conducting element <NUM> comprises a conductive adhesive <NUM> or a conductive paste <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> is configured to be arranged in contact with both the lower bearing surface <NUM> of the lens mount <NUM> and the upper bearing surface <NUM> of the lens support <NUM>. Conducting element <NUM> effectively defines a conducting layer <NUM> arranged to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens and lens holder. In use when the conducting layer <NUM> is located in the interface I between the bearing surfaces of the lens mount and the lens support, the conducting element comprises a first upper contact surface <NUM>, arranged in contact with the lens mount, and a second lower contact surface <NUM> arranged in contact with the lens support. The contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the conducting element <NUM> are also referred to in the specification as engagement surfaces.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a first adhesive layer <NUM> of adhesive <NUM> is located between the surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> coupling the lens and lens holder together with the required optical alignment and arrangement. In addition, to the first adhesive layer <NUM> a second conducting layer <NUM> is also provided. In the exemplary arrangement of the drawings the layers <NUM> and <NUM> arranged radially side by side. The innermost layer is the adhesive layer <NUM>. The adhesive layer <NUM> is located substantially at an inner radial portion <NUM>-<NUM>/<NUM>-<NUM> of the interface between the contact surfaces. The conducting element <NUM> is located substantially at the outer radial portion <NUM>-<NUM>/<NUM>-<NUM>. In each case a layer of the material, the adhesive <NUM> or the conducting element <NUM> is provided between the lens and lens holder in the Z direction. The adhesive layer and the conducting element are both arranged to contact each of the opposing bearing surfaces.

The inner radial portion <NUM>-<NUM> and the outer radial portion <NUM>-<NUM> are concentric and arranged radially side by side between the inner peripheral wall of the lens holder and the outer peripheral walls of the lens body and lens holder.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, it is noted that the location of the adhesive layer <NUM> substantially at the inner radial portions <NUM>-<NUM>/<NUM>-<NUM> of the interface between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> effectively defines a recess <NUM>. Recess <NUM> has a depth DRecess (Z-direction) defined by the depth DADH of the adhesive layer <NUM>. The recess <NUM> is located at the interface I substantially between outer radial portions <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> of the contact surfaces. The recess <NUM> is defined by the adhesive layer <NUM>, and the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens holder and lens. The contact surfaces are separated by the adhesive layer <NUM> which is located therebetween and are also arranged spaced apart at those portions of the contact surface that are adjacent to the adhesive layer, in the examples shown at the contact surfaces <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> is located in a least a portion of the recess <NUM>. In the arrangement of <FIG>, the conducting element <NUM> is arranged in a layer <NUM> that extends in an angular direction circumferentially between the lens and lens holder. As noted above the adhesive layer <NUM> comprising adhesive <NUM> may have a form of the type as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

It will be appreciated that various arrangement of the layer <NUM> may be provided for example the layer <NUM> may extend along an arc, or one or more arcs, each having an angular extent less than <NUM> degrees, such that the layer <NUM> is arranged at one or more locations between the surfaces. It will be appreciated that various alternative arrangements of the conducting element <NUM> and the adhesive layer <NUM> may be provided. For example, the conducting element <NUM> may be applied as one or more beads <NUM> of the conducting adhesive <NUM> or paste <NUM> located at spaced apart intervals or selected locations between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>, adjacent to the adhesive layer <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the dimensions including depth and radial extent of the adhesive layer <NUM> and the recess <NUM> may vary at different locations of the interface between the lens and lens holder, to allow for the location and alignment of the optical components and taking into account tolerances. The adhesive layer is preferably configured to extend circumferentially (<NUM> degrees) between the contact surfaces.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, according to the exemplary arrangement a groove <NUM> is be provided between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>. The groove <NUM> is configured to accommodate the conducting element <NUM> between the lens and lens holder. The groove <NUM> is formed in the contact surface <NUM>. The groove <NUM> is defined by the outer radial portion <NUM>-<NUM>' (lower contact surface portion) and of the contact surface <NUM> which is provided recessed from, or stepped down, relative to the inner radial portion <NUM>-<NUM> of the contact surface <NUM> (upper contact surface portion) at a riser <NUM>. The groove <NUM> is arranged extending circumferentially around the contact surface <NUM> of lens support <NUM> at the outer radial portion <NUM>-<NUM>' of the contact surface <NUM> located nearer to the outer peripheral edge <NUM>.

The groove <NUM> when provided is configured to accommodate conducting element <NUM> that is locatable between the lens and lens holder to provide an electrically conducting connection therebetween. The groove <NUM> is formed mechanically. The groove <NUM> effectively provides additional space, in addition to that provided by recess <NUM>, for accommodating the conductive element <NUM>. By virtue of the arrangement of the features and the greater separation distance between the contact surfaces <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>' at the recessed portions <NUM>-<NUM>', <NUM> of the groove <NUM>. The groove <NUM> together with the recess <NUM> define space to accommodate the conducting element <NUM> between the lower contact surface <NUM> of the lens mount and the lower recessed portion <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper contact surface <NUM> of the lens support. The additional volume available to accommodate the conducting element (in comparison with an arrangement that does not include a groove <NUM>) is dependent on the depth Z(G) of the groove <NUM> as defined by the height of the riser <NUM> and the radial extent of the lower contact surfaces <NUM>-<NUM> (R2-R3).

The arrangement of the imaging system <NUM> of <FIG> provides advantages including the following: in effect, the conductive element <NUM> defines an additional layer <NUM> comprised of the conductive adhesive <NUM> or the conductive paste <NUM> arranged about the lens chimney or body <NUM> between lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM>. The layer <NUM> is provided in addition to the adhesive layer <NUM>. During assembly, the additional layer <NUM> of conductive adhesive <NUM> or conductive paste <NUM> is dispensed into the groove <NUM> between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM> to couple the lens and the PCB. This conductive adhesive <NUM> or conductive paste <NUM> provides an electrically grounding connection between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM> which is connected to the PCB.

The adhesive <NUM> has the required properties such that in use the adhesive layer <NUM> stabilizes the coupling between the lens and the lens holder for thermal cycling with micron level tolerance. Therefore, the coupling of the lens and lens holder at the adhesive layer <NUM> provides precision alignment of the components. The conducting element <NUM>, in this exemplary arrangement comprised of a conducting paste or adhesive is configured to be resilient. The properties of the conducting element <NUM> are such that it does not affect the arrangement and alignment of the components as provided at the adhesive layer <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> is resilient and deformable for location in the recess <NUM> and/or recess <NUM> and groove <NUM> and resilient to engage with corresponding portions of the bearing surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens and lens holder.

The drawings illustrate a number of exemplary arrangements of the interface between the surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, it was described that a mechanical groove <NUM> may be provided formed at the surface <NUM>. It will be appreciated that in alternative arrangements, the form and location of the groove <NUM> may varied. The groove <NUM> may comprise one or more groove portions <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-n formed circumferentially spaced apart around the receiver, instead of a groove portion <NUM> that is arranged to extend continuously around the annular contact surface of the lens support.

It will be appreciated that in alternative arrangements the groove may be formed at the surface <NUM> or at both surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>. While in the arrangements of the drawings the adhesive layer <NUM> and the conducting layer <NUM> are illustrated to have exemplary forms and dimensions in the vertical and radial directions - it will be appreciated that the form and dimensions of both may vary for example depending on the form of the adhesive layer to provide optical alignment. In one example, the adhesive layer <NUM> may be arranged to extend across the surface areas (full radial extent) at portions of the interface of the lens and lens support, but to extend across a limited radial extent at other portions to form spaced apart recesses <NUM>. In an alternative arrangement recess <NUM> may be formed by providing a tapered edge at one or more portions of one or both or the external peripheral edges <NUM> and <NUM> of the bearing surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens mount <NUM> and lens support <NUM>.

Overall the arrangement of the imaging system <NUM> and the conducting element <NUM> provide advantages including the following: Lens holder <NUM> (housing) is coupled to the lens <NUM> at the adhesive layer <NUM> during the active alignment process to couple the lens and lens holder as required optically. In addition to the adhesive layer <NUM> the conducting element <NUM> is provided. The conducting element <NUM> is defined by a second layer <NUM> of conductive adhesive <NUM>/conductive paste <NUM> which is dispensed in the groove <NUM> between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM>. This conductive element <NUM> provides the grounding connection between the lens and lens holder which is later connected to the PCB. The arrangement of the lens system <NUM> comprising the conducting element <NUM> advantageously addresses the issues relating to EMC arising with previous arrangements.

With reference to <FIG>, imaging systems <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> according to further exemplary arrangements of the present specification are described. Conducting elements <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> respectively are provided, the conducting elements are configured to provide an electrical coupling the lens to the lens holder. The lens holder is configured for connection to the PCB to provide an electrical grounding of the lens to the PCB of the imaging systems. In the drawings, the form and features, of the imaging systems <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are similar to those of imaging systems <NUM> and <NUM> described above and the same reference numbers have been used in the drawings, where appropriate. Imaging systems <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> have many features in common with the features of the imaging system <NUM> including the lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM>, imaging device <NUM> and PCB <NUM>, and reference is made to the description above of these features which is relevant also to these arrangements.

Referring to <FIG>, imaging system <NUM> according to an exemplary arrangement of the specification is described.

Imaging system <NUM> comprises a lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM>, imaging device <NUM> and PCB <NUM>. The lens <NUM> is attached to the lens holder <NUM> during an active alignment process. The lens and lens holder are attached an adhesive layer <NUM> arranged between contact surface <NUM> of lens mount <NUM> and contact surface <NUM> of lens support <NUM> of the lens holder. The adhesive layer <NUM> is arranged such that the lens <NUM> is optically oriented and aligned as required within the imaging system <NUM>. The adhesive <NUM> is non-conducting and provides a stable connection at the interface I between the lens and lens holder to maintain the optical arrangement. The interface I between the lens and lens support is the interface formed between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>. The adhesive layer <NUM> of adhesive <NUM> is located extending between at least portions of the contact surfaces of each.

The imaging system <NUM> further comprise a conducting element <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> of <FIG> defines a lens electrical grounding element configured for connection externally between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM>. Conducting element <NUM> is configured to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens <NUM> and the lens holder <NUM>. The lens holder <NUM> is coupled to the PCB <NUM> during assembly of the imaging device <NUM> providing an electrically grounding connection between the lens <NUM> and PCB <NUM> via the lens holder <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, and initially in particular <FIG>, the conducting element <NUM> comprises a support <NUM>. The support <NUM> has a generally annular or ring-shaped form and comprises a support wall <NUM>. The support wall <NUM> is generally vertically oriented and has an upper edge surface <NUM>, a lower surface <NUM>, an internal peripheral wall <NUM> and external peripheral wall <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> comprises one or more contact arms <NUM> extending upwardly from the support <NUM> and circumferentially spaced apart around it.

In use, when the lens is located coupled to lens holder, and the conducting element <NUM> is located at the external peripheral wall <NUM> of the lens support <NUM>, the conducting element <NUM> is arranged such that the one or more contact arms <NUM> extend generally upwardly relative to the lens holder to the lens. The contact arms may be configured to extend to the interface I or to extend to the outer peripheral surface <NUM> of the lens mount <NUM> beyond the interface, such that the interface I between the lens mount <NUM> and the lens support <NUM> is bridged.

The layer <NUM> of adhesive <NUM> provided between the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> may at least in part define one or more recesses <NUM> by providing a spacing or separation of said surfaces near the adhesive layer <NUM>. The recess <NUM> may alternatively or at least partly be a mechanically formed recess, similarly to the recess <NUM>, described with reference to <FIG> above.

Each contact arm <NUM> comprises a contact <NUM> arranged to engage with the lens and lens holder at the interface I. The contact <NUM> comprises a protrusion <NUM> configured in use to protrude into a portion of the recess <NUM> near the outer peripheral edge of the interface I. When the protrusion <NUM> is located in recess <NUM> the contact <NUM> is engaged with both the upper bearing surface <NUM> of the lens and the lower bearing surface <NUM> of the lens holder by virtue of the resilient properties and the biasing of the contact arm <NUM> which acts to clamp the contact <NUM> and protrusion at the recess <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> as described, provides an electrically conducting contact between the lens and lens holder, in addition to the non-conducting coupling at the adhesive layer.

While the support <NUM> of the arrangement shown has an O-shaped closed ring form, it will be appreciated that a conducting element of suitable alternative form may be provided. The support <NUM> may for example have a c-shaped /open or partial ring form. The support <NUM> may be resilient to allow for expansion for locating in place on the lens support <NUM> and biased to engage with it when located thereon. The contact arms <NUM> are biased to engage the contact <NUM> at the recess <NUM>. The form and dimensions of the contact arms, the contact <NUM> and protrusion <NUM>, are selected to provide for location of the contact <NUM> and <NUM> in the recess <NUM>, in use. Overall, the effective electrical grounding of the lens to the PCB is provided in two-parts as follows - the lens is electrically connected to the lens holder which is electrically connected to the PCB. The conducting element <NUM> is a conducting spring element provided for electrically ground the lens to the PCB.

The problems discussed above with reference to existing arrangements including EMC are solved by the arrangement described including the conducting element <NUM> configured to ensure an electrically conducting contact between the lens and the lens holder.

The conducting element may be applied during assembly of the imaging device by placing over the lens and the lens mount.

To ensure the electrical contact between lens and lens holder the contact <NUM> may be located by virtue of the dimensions and form of the contact arms in the recess <NUM> provided located at the connection between the lens and the lens holder. As shown in the drawings a recess <NUM> may be provided at the periphery of the interface between the lens and lens holder between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> to receive a contact of the contact arm. The contact arm is resilient. By virtue of the configuration, the contact <NUM>, <NUM> effectively is biased to engage the lens and lens holder at the recess, and/or to snap fit into the recess.

Referring to <FIG> in an exemplary arrangement, it is illustrated, similarly to the arrangement of <FIG>, that the adhesive layer <NUM> may located substantially at first radially extending portion <NUM>-<NUM> of the contact surface and the recess <NUM> located at a second radially extending portion <NUM>-<NUM>. In the arrangement of the drawings the adhesive layer <NUM> and the recess <NUM> are provided extending circumferentially about the interface. The arrangement of the drawings is for illustration purposes only and form and dimensions of the adhesive layer, and the form, dimensions, and location of the one or more recess <NUM> may be varied. For example, the radial extent of both the adhesive layer and resulting recess may be varied.

With reference to the assembly of the imaging system. The conducting element <NUM> may be applied to the lens holder lens chimney prior to the active alignment process and may inserted into place in the recess <NUM> after curing of the adhesive <NUM> of the adhesive layer <NUM>. To ensure the electrical contact between lens and lens holder, the recess <NUM> may be created when the lens is coupled to the lens holder. In addition, or alternatively, a groove <NUM> may be provided formed mechanically on the components. Then electrical contact is provided by the lens holder contact with the PCB.

Referring to <FIG>, an imaging system <NUM> according to a further arrangement of the specification, is described.

As shown in <FIG>, imaging system <NUM> comprises a lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM>, imaging device <NUM> and PCB <NUM>. The interface I between the lens and lens support is the interface formed between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens and lens holder <NUM> respectively. The lens <NUM> is attached to the lens holder <NUM> during an active alignment process. The lens and lens holder are attached an adhesive layer <NUM> arranged between contact surface <NUM> of lens mount <NUM> and contact surface <NUM> of lens support <NUM> of the lens holder. The adhesive layer <NUM> is arranged such that the lens <NUM> is optically oriented and aligned as required within the imaging system <NUM>. The adhesive <NUM> is non-conducting and provides a stable connection at the interface I between the lens and lens holder to maintain the optical arrangement. The adhesive <NUM> has the required physical properties to provide a stable coupling of the lens and lens holder. The adhesive <NUM> is non-conducting.

The imaging system <NUM> further comprises a conducting element <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> of <FIG> defines a lens grounding element configured for connection externally between the lens <NUM> and lens holder <NUM>. Conducting element <NUM> is configured to provide an electrically conducting contact between the lens <NUM> and the lens holder <NUM>. The lens holder <NUM> is coupled to the PCB <NUM> during assembly of the imaging device <NUM> providing an electrically grounding connection between the lens <NUM> and PCB <NUM> via the lens holder <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, and initially in particular <FIG>, the conducting element <NUM> comprises a support <NUM>. The support <NUM> has a generally annular or ring-shaped form and comprises a support wall <NUM>. The support wall <NUM> is generally oriented in a horizontal plane (X-Y directions) and has an upper wall surface <NUM>, a lower wall surface <NUM>, an internal peripheral edge <NUM> and external peripheral edge <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> comprises one or more contact arms <NUM> extending downwardly relative to the support <NUM> and circumferentially spaced apart around it.

In use, when the lens is located and attached to the lens support, and the conducting element <NUM> is located at the upper surface <NUM> and peripheral side wall <NUM> of the lens mount <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> is arranged such that the one or more contact arms <NUM> extend generally downwardly relative to the lens mount to the lens support. The contact arms <NUM> may be configured to extend to the interface I or to extend to the outer peripheral surface <NUM> of the lens support <NUM> beyond the interface, such that the interface I between the lens mount <NUM> and the lens support <NUM> is bridged.

The layer <NUM> of adhesive <NUM> provided between the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> may at least in part define one or more recesses <NUM> by providing a spacing of the surfaces near the adhesive layer <NUM>, similarly to that described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. The recess <NUM> may alternatively or at least partly comprise one or more mechanically formed recesses, similarly to the recess <NUM> described with reference to <FIG> above.

Each contact arm <NUM> comprises a contact <NUM> arranged to engage with the lens and lens holder at the interface. The contact <NUM> comprises a protrusion <NUM> configured in use to protrude into a recess <NUM> near the outer peripheral edge of the interface I between the surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens mount <NUM> and the holder <NUM>. When the protrusion <NUM> is located in a recess <NUM> the contact <NUM> and protrusion <NUM> are engaged with both the upper bearing surface <NUM> of the lens and the lower bearing surface <NUM> of the lens support by virtue of the resilient properties and the biasing of the contact arm <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> as described, provides an electrically conducting contact between the lens and lens holder, in addition to the non-conducting contact at the adhesive layer.

While the support <NUM> of the arrangement shown has an O-shaped closed ring form, it will be appreciated that a conducting element of suitable alternative form may be provided. The support <NUM> may for example have a c-shaped /open or partial ring form or. The support <NUM> may be resilient to allow for expansion for locating in place on the lens mount <NUM> and biased to engage with the lens and lens support <NUM> when located thereon. The contact arms <NUM> are biased to engage the contact <NUM> with the lens support and the lens at the recess <NUM>. The form and dimensions of the contact arms and the form and location of the contact <NUM> or protrusion <NUM> are selected to provide for location of the contact <NUM>/<NUM> in the recess <NUM> when the support is located on the lens mount <NUM>, in use. Overall, the effective electrical grounding of the lens to the PCB is provided in two-parts as follows - the lens is electrically connected to the lens holder which is electrically connected to the PCB. The conducting element <NUM> is a conducting spring element provided for electrically ground the lens to the PCB.

As shown in the drawings a recess <NUM> may be provided at the periphery of the interface between the lens and lens holder between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> to receive a contact of the contact arm. Each contact arm <NUM> is resilient. By virtue of the configuration, the contact <NUM>, <NUM> effectively is biased to engage the lens and lens holder at the recess, and/or to snap fit into the recess. The contacts of the conducting element <NUM> are clamped to corresponding portions of the bearing surfaces of lens and lens holder.

The problems discussed above with reference to existing arrangements including EMC are solved by the arrangement described including the conducting element <NUM> configured to ensure an electrically conducting contact between the lens and the lens holder. The conducting element <NUM> may be applied during assembly of the imaging device by placing over the lens and the lens mount.

It will be appreciated that as described above with reference to <FIG>, the form and dimensions of the adhesive layer, and the form, dimensions, and location of the one or more recesses <NUM> may be varied.

With reference to the assembly of the imaging system <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> may be applied to the lens mount prior to the active alignment process and may inserted into place in the recess <NUM> after curing of the adhesive <NUM> of the adhesive layer <NUM>. To ensure the electrical contact between lens and lens holder, the recess <NUM> may be created when the lens is coupled with the lens holder. or alternatively may be formed mechanically.

The arrangement of the lens system <NUM> provides for an electrical contact between the lens and lens holder. Further the electrical grounding of the lens is provided by the lens holder contact with the PCB.

The conducting element <NUM> may be applied during assembly of the imaging device by placing over the lens and the lens mount. To ensure the electrical contact between lens and lens holder the contact <NUM>, may be located by virtue of the dimensions and form of the contact arms, in the recess <NUM> provided located at the connection interface between the lens and the lens holder. As shown in the drawings recess <NUM> is located at the periphery of the interface between the lens and lens holder between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an imaging system <NUM> according to a further arrangement of the specification, is described. Imaging system <NUM> comprises a lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM>, imaging device <NUM> and PCB <NUM>. The interface I between the lens and lens support is the interface formed between the contact surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens and lens holder <NUM> respectively. The lens is attached to the lens holder during an active alignment process. The lens and lens holder are attached at adhesive layer <NUM> arranged between contact surface <NUM> of lens mount <NUM> and contact surface <NUM> of lens support <NUM> of the lens holder. The adhesive layer <NUM> is arranged such that the lens <NUM> is optically oriented and aligned as required within the imaging system <NUM>. The adhesive <NUM> is non-conducting and provides a stable connection at the interface I between the lens and lens holder to maintain the optical arrangement. The adhesive <NUM> has the required physical properties to provide a stable coupling of the lens and lens holder.

The imaging system <NUM> further comprises a conducting element <NUM>. The conducting element <NUM> of <FIG> defines a lens electrical grounding element. Conducting element <NUM> is configured to provide an electrically conducting contact between the lens <NUM> and the lens holder <NUM>. The lens holder <NUM> is further coupled to the PCB <NUM> during assembly of the imaging device <NUM> providing an electrically grounding connection between the lens <NUM> and PCB <NUM> via the lens holder <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, and initially in particular <FIG>, the conducting element <NUM> is described. The conducting element <NUM> comprises a support <NUM>. The support <NUM> comprises a support wall <NUM> having an upper edge surface <NUM>, a lower edge surface <NUM>, an internal peripheral wall surface <NUM> and external peripheral wall surface <NUM>. The internal peripheral wall comprises a contact portion <NUM> or engagement surface <NUM>. The contact portion <NUM> as shown in the exemplary arrangement of <FIG> comprises a protrusion <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> comprises a ridge arranged extending circumferentially around the interface peripheral wall. The ridge <NUM> is located, in the vertical direction Z, centrally on the wall, between a first upper wall portion <NUM>-<NUM> and a second lower wall portion <NUM>-<NUM>.

It will be appreciated that the protrusion or ridge may have a different alternative form to that shown in the drawings. For example the conducting element may comprise one or more protrusion or ridges circumferentially spaced apart on the internal surface of the support.

The conducting element <NUM> has a C-shaped form, the support wall extending between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> with an opening <NUM> therebetween. The support wall <NUM> is oriented in a generally vertical plane (Z direction) and is configured for attachment externally to the external peripheral surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens and lens holder at the interface I. The conducting element <NUM> is resilient and expandable to allow location at the interface I between the lens and lens holder, and biased to contract to engage the contact portion <NUM> and ridge <NUM> at the interface I.

As shown in <FIG>, the view of the end <NUM> of the exemplary arrangement shows the support <NUM> having a V-shaped form in cross-section, the upper wall portion <NUM>-<NUM> and lower wall portion <NUM>-<NUM> both inclined relative to the ridge <NUM>. The conducting element is thus formed for engagement with the external portion of the interface I at the recess <NUM>.

In use, when the lens is located on, and attached to the lens support, and the conducting element <NUM> is located at the interface I, the ridge <NUM> is located in the recess <NUM> and portions of the internal peripheral wall surface <NUM> are arranged bridging the interface and in contact with the lens mount <NUM> and the lens support <NUM>.

When the protrusion <NUM> is located in the recess <NUM> the contact portion <NUM> and protrusion <NUM> are engaged with lens and lens holder by virtue of the resilient properties and the biasing of the conducting element. The conducting element <NUM> as described, provides an electrically conducting contact between the lens and lens holder, in addition to the non-conducting contact at the adhesive layer <NUM>.

The layer <NUM> of adhesive <NUM> provided between the surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> may at least in part define one or more recesses <NUM> by providing a spacing or separation of the surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens mount and the lens support adjacent to the adhesive layer <NUM>, similarly to that described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. The recess <NUM> may alternatively or in addition at least partly comprise one or more mechanically formed recesses <NUM> similar to the recess <NUM> described with reference to <FIG> above.

The conducting element <NUM> may in one exemplary arrangement comprises a spring element which is applied after the assembly of the imaging by attaching the C-shape spring element from the side of the camera. To ensure the electrical contact between lens and lens holder the arrangement is located at the recess which was created the lens was connected to the lens holder or alternative or additionally formed on the mechanical parts. Further an electrical contact is provided by the lens holder being contacted to the PCB.

Shown in <FIG> is a cross-section of the imaging system of <FIG>. The imaging system <NUM> comprises a lens <NUM>, lens holder <NUM>, imaging device <NUM> and PCB <NUM>. It can be seen in cross-section that the conducting element <NUM> is seated in the recess <NUM> at the interface of the lens and the lens mount.

Taking account of the arrangement of the lens and lens holder, the adhesive layer <NUM> formed using the epoxy adhesive for lens attachment is an insulating layer. The lens <NUM> is comprised of a metal such as brass or aluminium, and as such noise collected by the lens from the environment may be transmitted to the imaging device and the imaging device components during use. The provision of the imaging system according to the specification and comprising the conducting element mitigates the risk of transmission of noise to the PCB. The imaging system according addresses the risk of camera malfunction due to the effects of noise on the imaging device components and provides an improved and alternative imaging system arrangement.

The arrangement of the claims provided a stack optical system in which the lens is provided located on a lens support relative to the imaging device. The arrangement of the claims provides for an electrical grounding connection between the lens and the PCB. The electrical grounding connection is provided and configured such that the optical alignment of the components is not affected by the electrically conducting element. The electrically conducting element may be located to contact the lens at an external surface. The electrically conducting element may be configured for located at or proximal to the interface between the components.

Claim 1:
An imaging system (<NUM>) comprising:
an imaging device (<NUM>) mounted on a PCB (<NUM>) of the imaging system;
a lens (<NUM>); and
a lens holder (<NUM>);
wherein the imaging system further comprises:
an electrically conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) configured to provide an electrical grounding connection between the lens and the PCB (<NUM>); further wherein the lens (<NUM>) is attached to the lens holder (<NUM>) at an interface (I) between a first upper bearing surface (<NUM>) of the lens (<NUM>) and a second lower bearing surface (<NUM>) of the lens holder (<NUM>),
wherein the lens (<NUM>) is attachable to the lens holder (<NUM>) at an adhesive layer (<NUM>) located between the bearing surfaces at a first interface portion (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>), wherein the adhesive layer (<NUM>) is non-conducting and configured to provide a stabilized coupling between lens and the lens holder for precision alignment of the optically active components; wherein at least one recess (<NUM>, <NUM>') is provided at a second interface portion (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>) between the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface; and
wherein the conducting element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured for engagement with the bearing surfaces (<NUM>, <NUM>) of each of the lens and the lens holder at the at least one corresponding recess (<NUM>, <NUM>) to provide an electrically conducting connection between the lens and lens holder, wherein the conducting element is resilient and of annular or C-shape form, deformable for location in the recess.