Remote control webcams are increasingly being used to document construction sites and weather stations, but also for surveillance monitoring of public buildings. In outdoor applications, the cameras must be able to withstand the direct effects of wind and weather, so protecting their sensitive electronics poses a particular challenge.
avisec AG of Remetschwil, Switzerland, is now protecting its sensitive webcams and single-lens reflex cameras with a mass-produced, weatherproof housing for professional surveillance cameras (http://yellow.webcam). Emaform AG manufactures the housing’s two complexly shaped components from Baydur® 66 FR-1, a rigid polyurethane integral skin foam system from Covestro. Emaform has been a leader for molded polyurethane foam parts in Switzerland for more than 30 years.
Best properties, efficient production
The polyurethane system satisfies all requirements in terms of geometry, weight, strength and fire protection. The metal housings used previously made it impossible to implement desired design features. The polyurethane system also offers the most economical solution for meeting surface requirements while delivering the best properties together with the desired design and functionality. Customers also appreciate the geographic proximity as well as the quality and flexibility of its suppliers.
Last but not least, the housing is highly resistant to wind and weather. To test for tightness, avisec subjected the camera to a water immersion test. No water penetrated the housing in any position while submerged to a depth of 30 centimeters for 24 hours.
High degree of vertical integration, easy operation
The two polyurethane housing components were designed for easy access to the camera without having to change its position. Once the housing hood is removed, the electronics and camera inside the housing are readily accessible and can be easily operated even by a layman.
Some inserts are directly embedded in the foam, glass components are fixed with adhesive and various add-on parts are attached with screws. The black lower section of the housing is integrally colored; the upper section features a two-component coating and can be imprinted, if desired. The company’s vertical range of manufacture and optimized packaging allows the company to supply complete assemblies and ensures efficient replacement-parts management.
