SENSOR DEVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE

Abstract

Sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) for a motor vehicle, wherein the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises: - a sensor housing (3); - a sensor optic (2) arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing (3); and - a supply line (6) for a cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics (2); - having a lid mechanism: - a movable lid (5) for covering the sensor optics (2); and - a movement mechanism for moving the eyelid (5), wherein the supply line (6) is formed at least partially in or on the movement mechanism; characterized in that the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises: - a cleaning chamber (15) which is formed inside the sensor housing (3) behind the sensor optics (2), wherein - the cleaning chamber (15) can be filled with the cleaning fluid via the supply line (6), and - the sensor optics (2) is rotatably mounted in such a way that the sensor optics (2) in a rotated position protrudes at least partially into the cleaning chamber (15) for cleaning the sensor optics (2).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sensor device for a motor vehicle, and a motor vehicle with the sensor device.

[0002] Modern motor vehicles, especially automobiles, are increasingly being equipped with driver assistance systems.

[0003] Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are electronic, especially mechatronic, devices in motor vehicles designed to support the driver in certain driving situations. Safety aspects are often a primary focus, but increasing driving comfort is also a key consideration.

[0004] For vehicle assistance systems, corresponding sensors are installed in or on the exterior of the vehicle to collect environmental data, such as lidar sensors and exterior cameras. To ensure the functionality of these sensors and thus the vehicle assistance systems, they must be cleaned regularly or cyclically, usually automatically by the vehicle or initiated by the driver. Separate nozzle technologies are known for this purpose; these are located, for example, at the rear of the vehicle and require mechanical (e.g., detergent lines, mounting brackets) and electrical (e.g., power supply, control) connections and utilities.

[0005] This integration and separation of cleaning and sensor components is not ideal. The cleaning of sensors, such as cameras, is typically achieved by a relatively coarse and broad jet of water sprayed from the outside by a nozzle. This cleans the sensor itself, such as the lens, but also contaminates the wastewater and, for example, the vehicle's painted surfaces with each cleaning cycle, leaving streaks and potentially causing damage. Furthermore, the amount of washer fluid required is relatively high due to the nozzle spray pattern, compared to the actual amount needed for cleaning.

[0006] DE 10 2014 118 220 A1 describes a camera arrangement for a motor vehicle, consisting of a camera unit permanently mounted on the carrier with a lens that is kept clean by a cleaning unit supplied with cleaning fluid via a fluid line. A flap element, movable between a rest position and a cleaning position, is located in a recording chamber when not in use and covers the lens during cleaning to prevent cleaning fluid from being sprayed uncontrollably.

[0007] DE 10 2020 107 394 A1 describes an optical sensor device for a motor vehicle, consisting of a lens in a lens housing, which is attached via a mounting device and a spherical single-necked round-bottom piston that allows movement of the lens. A cleaning agent, in this case an ultrasonic cleaning agent, is connected to a high-frequency generator that excites the cleaning fluid in a cleaning reservoir, thus cleaning the lens. The cleaning fluid can be replaced via a closable opening or, alternatively, supplied with fresh fluid regularly via a line.

[0008] DE 10 2021 206 782 A1 describes a sensor cleaning system for cleaning a surface covering a sensor. The sensor cleaning system comprises a spray nozzle system for spraying at least two different cleaning fluids onto the surface covering the sensor.

[0009] DE 10 2013 213 415 A1 describes an optical monitoring device for a motor vehicle, in particular a monitoring camera with an optically transparent cover, a cleaning device for cleaning the transparent cover as needed, which includes a wiper that is arranged to be movable relative to the cover and has a motor drive unit for carrying out the relative movement.

[0010] DE 10 2017 221 530 A1 describes a device designed for environmental sensing, comprising a housing and at least one sensor arranged inside the housing. The housing has a transmit / receive window. The device has a cover that is transparent to the sensor signals and is designed to cover the transmit / receive window from the external environment of the device. The device has a cleaning unit for the cover, which is arranged on an outer surface of the housing and is movable relative to the housing by means of a drive unit. The cleaning unit has at least one first nozzle designed to spray a cleaning fluid onto the cover. Furthermore, the cleaning unit has at least one second nozzle designed to blow a gas onto the cover.

[0011] Against the background of this prior art, the purpose of the present disclosure is to specify a device that is suitable to enrich the prior art.

[0012] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent and subordinate claims each contain optional further developments of the disclosure.

[0013] The task is then solved by a sensor device for a motor vehicle. The sensor device comprises a sensor housing, sensor optics arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing, and a supply line for a cleaning fluid (optionally water and / or windshield washer fluid, e.g., from the motor vehicle) for cleaning the sensor optics (and / or an outer surface of the sensor optics).

[0014] The sensor device includes a lid assembly and a cleaning chamber.

[0015] The lid assembly features a movable (e.g., pivotable and / or rotatable) lid to cover the sensor optics and a movement mechanism for (optionally mechanical) movement of the lid. The supply line is integrated, at least partially, into or attached to the movement mechanism.

[0016] The cleaning chamber is located inside the sensor housing behind the (rotatably mounted) sensor optics. The cleaning chamber can be filled with cleaning fluid via the supply line. The sensor optics are rotatably mounted such that, in a rotated position (e.g., relative to a normal position), they project at least partially into the cleaning chamber for cleaning purposes. The normal position can correspond to the operating position of the sensor optics, e.g., during normal operation of the sensor device. In the normal position, an outer surface of the sensor optics can be located against the outer wall of the sensor housing and / or a cross-section of the sensor optics can be aligned parallel to the outer wall.

[0017] The sensor optics can be an optical element. Optionally, the sensor device can be configured to couple light out of the sensor device via the optical element and / or couple light into the sensor device. Optionally, the sensor optics can be designed in the form of an optical lens and optionally referred to as a sensor lens. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor optics can include or consist of an optical element without refractive properties.

[0018] The sensor device described above offers a number of advantages. Among other things, the sensor device has an integrated cleaning device or cleaning function for cleaning the sensor optics. In other words, no separate cleaning device or cleaning components are necessary for cleaning the sensor optics.

[0019] Furthermore, the lid device can advantageously perform a dual function, whereby the lid of the lid device can keep the sensor optics closed or covered to prevent contamination and / or damage to the sensor optics when the sensor device is not required. At the same time, the lid device can be designed to guide the cleaning fluid and thus also be part of the cleaning function.

[0020] Possible further developments of the sensor device described above are explained in detail below.

[0021] The sensor device may, for example, include a lidar sensor and / or a camera and / or may be designed as a lidar sensor device and / or a camera device.

[0022] The sensor device can include sensor electronics that are adjacent to and / or in contact with the sensor optics (e.g., on a surface of the sensor optics opposite its outer surface). Alternatively, the sensor electronics can be integrated into the sensor optics. The sensor electronics can, for example, include a light-sensitive sensor element.

[0023] The lid can have a lip, optionally a rubber lip, which can be guided across an outer surface of the sensor optics for cleaning by moving the lid, optionally vertically and / or horizontally (e.g., when the sensor device is mounted in or on a motor vehicle). The lip can be designed such that it can be guided across the entire outer surface of the sensor optics by moving the lid. The outer surface of the sensor optics can be a surface of the sensor optics that, in the normal (or operating) position of the sensor optics, is located on an outer surface of the outer wall of the sensor housing.

[0024] Thus, the cleaning function of the sensor device can advantageously mimic nature, where in nature the (e.g., human) eyelid, in conjunction with a gland in the eye, produces a film of moisture in the eye, which can be removed by eyelid movement to improve vision or to expel foreign bodies. Similarly, or based on nature, the cleaning function of the sensor optics can be implemented by the eyelid in conjunction with the lip of the sensor device.

[0025] The lip can be replaceable on the lid or integrated as a single unit with the lid. The lip can function as a wiper, guide element, and / or sealing surface for the sensor optics, optionally for the outer surface of the sensor optics.

[0026] The movement mechanism can include (at least) one pivoting arm for pivoting the lid. The (at least one) pivoting arm can be connected to the lid at one end and rotatably mounted at the other. The supply line can be formed at least partially within the pivoting arm.

[0027] The second end can, for example, be rotatably mounted on or in a pivot bearing (or suspension) and / or have a pivot bearing. The second end can be rotatably mounted on the sensor housing. The lid assembly can, for example, include a rotary drive for (optionally automated) rotation of the swivel arm at the second end.

[0028] The supply line can extend to the first end of the swivel arm and have an outlet at its first end for dispensing the cleaning fluid onto an inner surface of the lid that faces the outer surface of the sensor optics (e.g., at least when the lid partially or completely covers the sensor optics). The outlet can be arranged and / or designed such that dispensing the cleaning fluid creates a film of cleaning fluid between the lid and the sensor optics (e.g., similar to the human eye).

[0029] This arrangement allows the cleaning fluid to be used advantageously in an optimal way, and therefore, due to the small amount of wastewater (i.e., the cleaning fluid used for cleaning), as little contamination as possible is produced on the vehicle by the wastewater after cleaning.

[0030] It is conceivable that the movement mechanism has several, e.g., two, pivot arms. Furthermore, the lid and / or (at least) one pivot arm can be interchangeable (or replaceable).

[0031] The swivel arm can be positioned laterally on the lid and / or the sensor housing (e.g., when the sensor device is mounted in or on the vehicle). The motion detector can, for example, have two swivel arms, which can be positioned on two opposite sides of the lid and / or the sensor housing.

[0032] The pivoting lid can be pivoted between a covered position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) covered by the lid, and an open position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) uncovered. The pivoting lid can assume multiple positions between the covered and open positions and / or be located outside the sensor housing in all positions.

[0033] The lid (e.g., pivotable) can be made of rubber, plastic, metal, and / or a (multi-material) composite. The lid can be made of a hard and / or flexible material.

[0034] The lid (e.g. pivotable) can have a curved and / or concave (and / or hollow) shape that is adapted (at least partially) to the shape of the outer surface of the sensor optics.

[0035] The movement mechanism can include a drive mechanism for rotating the lid. The drive mechanism can be located within the sensor housing, and the supply line can terminate with an outlet for dispensing the cleaning fluid at or within the drive mechanism.

[0036] The lid can be rotatable into the sensor housing and, in a position where the sensor optics are not completely covered by the lid, can be located at least partially behind the sensor optics within the sensor housing.

[0037] The lid (e.g., rotatable) can be made of a flexible material and may be made of, for example, rubber and / or a (multi-material) composite.

[0038] The (e.g. rotatable) lid can have a curved and / or concave (and / or hollow) shape, which is shaped and / or designed in such a way that the lid encloses at least part of the sensor optics (and optionally also the sensor electronics arranged on the sensor optics) in every rotational position of the lid and / or the lips lie against the sensor optics (and / or the sensor electronics) in every rotational position of the lid.

[0039] The rotatable lid can rotate between a covered position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) covered by the lid, and an open position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) uncovered. The pivotable lid can assume multiple positions between the covered and open positions. It is conceivable that, in the covered position, the lid could be located completely outside the sensor housing and / or, in the open position, completely inside the sensor housing.

[0040] The drive mechanism can have a drive chamber into which the cleaning fluid can flow via the outlet.

[0041] The drive mechanism can include a drive element that is mechanically connected to the lid (e.g., via a drive shaft and / or pivot shaft) for rotating the lid and is driven by the inflowing cleaning fluid. The drive element can be an impeller, which can be mechanically connected to the lid, for example, via a pivot shaft or drive shaft (and / or as a suspension on a rotation axis of the lid). Alternatively, or additionally, the drive element can include or be an actuator (e.g., an electric one).

[0042] The outlet may have a nozzle and / or a narrowing towards the drive chamber, e.g. for the flow of cleaning fluid at a minimum pressure and / or in a direction of the drive element.

[0043] The drive mechanism can have an outlet opening that is designed on the drive chamber in such a way that the cleaning fluid can be released on an inside of the lid that faces the outer surface of the sensor optics.

[0044] The drive element can be equipped to rotate the lid and simultaneously act as a pump for the cleaning fluid through the outlet opening.

[0045] The outlet opening can be arranged and / or designed in such a way that a film of cleaning fluid can be created between the lid and the sensor optics by releasing the cleaning fluid.

[0046] This arrangement of the rotatable lid, analogous to the arrangement of the sensor device with the pivotable lid, allows the cleaning fluid to be used advantageously in a consumption-optimized manner, and thus, due to the low wastewater after cleaning, as little soiling as possible is generated on the vehicle.

[0047] The sensor optics can be rotatable by 180° (e.g. from the normal position) and / or rotatable in such a way that an outer surface of the sensor optics is, optionally completely, located within the cleaning chamber in the rotated position of the sensor optics.

[0048] The (rotatable) sensor optics (and optionally the sensor electronics) can be housed in a rotating body. This rotating body can, for example, be designed as a frame in which the sensor optics (optionally with the sensor electronics) are mounted.

[0049] The sensor optics can be rotatable about a vertical axis of the sensor optics (and / or the sensor device, e.g., when the sensor device is mounted in or on the vehicle) and / or about a cross-sectional axis of the sensor optics. The sensor optics can, for example, be rotatable horizontally and / or vertically when the sensor device is mounted in or on the vehicle.

[0050] The sensor device can include a rotary drive, e.g., an electric motor, for rotating the sensor optics. The rotary drive can be located in or on the sensor housing and / or mechanically connected to the sensor optics via a mechanical connection, e.g., a rotating shaft.

[0051] The cleaning chamber can have a controllable and / or closable drain for the cleaning fluid. This allows, advantageously, as much of the cleaning fluid as possible to be drained away for further use after cleaning the sensor optics.

[0052] The cleaning chamber can be designed as a cavity within the sensor housing. The cavity can, for example, be partially bordered on one side by the sensor optics (and / or the sensor electronics).

[0053] The inlet can terminate at or within the cleaning chamber and / or have an outlet. The outlet can have a nozzle and / or a narrowing towards the cleaning chamber.

[0054] The cleaning chamber (and / or a side or wall of the cleaning chamber) may have an opening in which the sensor optics are (at least partially) rotatably mounted. The sensor optics (and / or optionally the sensor electronics) can close the opening, optionally fluid-tight, when the sensor optics are either in their normal (or operating) position or in a position rotated 180° from their normal position. The opening may have a sealing lip and / or a sealing ring for fluid-tight closure of the opening by the sensor optics.

[0055] The supply line can be connected to or attached to a windshield washer system of the motor vehicle, e.g. as a branch from a front and / or rear windshield wiper device of the motor vehicle.

[0056] The cleaning chamber and / or the supply line can be designed to fill the cleaning chamber with the cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics when the sensor optics are in the position rotated 180° from the normal position.

[0057] The sensor device can be designed as a structural unit and / or as a module.

[0058] The sensor device may include a control unit and / or be connectable to a control unit of the motor vehicle via signal technology.

[0059] The control unit can be designed to control the supply of cleaning fluid to the line, e.g., to open and / or close the line. The supply of cleaning fluid and / or the cleaning of the sensor optics can be automated (e.g., during operation of the vehicle) regularly and / or cyclically, and / or can be triggered manually (e.g., via an input unit in the vehicle).

[0060] The control unit can be configured to open the supply line and / or release the cleaning fluid onto the inside of the lid to perform cleaning of the sensor optics (and / or the outer surface of the sensor optics). The control unit can also be configured to actuate the (pivoting and / or rotatable) lid, guiding the lip at least once over the outer surface of the sensor optics, optionally the entire surface, as soon as the cleaning fluid has been released onto the inside of the lid and / or a film of cleaning fluid has formed between the lid and the sensor optics.

[0061] Alternatively, or additionally, the control unit can be designed to rotate the (rotatable) sensor optics 180° from its normal position, so that the outer surface of the sensor optics, optionally completely, is located within the cleaning chamber. The control unit can be designed to fill the cleaning chamber with cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics as soon as the sensor optics have been rotated 180° (from their normal position). After cleaning the sensor optics, the control unit can be designed to open the drain to allow the cleaning fluid to escape and to rotate the sensor optics back to its normal position once the cleaning fluid has drained away.

[0062] The control unit can be part of the driver assistance system or represent the system itself. The control device can, for example, be an electronic control unit (ECU). The electronic control unit can be an intelligent, processor-controlled unit that can communicate with other modules via a central gateway (CGW) and can potentially form the vehicle's electrical network via fieldbuses such as CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus, FlexRay, and / or Automotive Ethernet, e.g., together with telematics control units and / or environmental sensors.

[0063] It is conceivable that the control unit manages functions relevant to the vehicle's driving behavior, such as the steering, engine control, power transmission, and / or the braking system. Furthermore, driver assistance systems, such as a parking assistant, adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keeping assist, lane change assist, traffic sign recognition, light signal recognition, hill start assist, night vision assist, and / or intersection assist, can be controlled by the control unit.

[0064] The above can be summarized in other words and in a possible more concrete elaboration of the revelation as described below, whereby the following description is to be interpreted as not being restrictive for the revelation.

[0065] One version of the present revelation may be modeled on nature. In living beings, the visual function is performed by the eyes. The cleaning of the eye lens to improve vision or remove foreign bodies occurs in 100% of cases by an eyelid in conjunction with a film of moisture in the eye and a separate gland in the eye.

[0066] Inspired by nature, this variant allows for cleaning with a lid, which can be relatively simple to implement technically. The sensor, e.g., a camera, can be covered with a simple mechanical lid. The lid can be integrated into the camera, meaning it can be attached to the camera with one or two hinges and, for example, be replaceable. The lid can be made of rubber or plastic with a rubber lip, or it can be a separate multi-material composite component. When the camera is not in use, the lid can be closed or remain closed (analogous to nature) to protect the camera from dirt and / or potentially enhance the vehicle's appearance (since the camera is less visible or not visible at all).

[0067] The water supply line (e.g., a branch from the rear window wiper) can be connected to the camera as an inlet. Wastewater can then drain to the outside. The water supply can be activated cyclically by the vehicle or manually by the driver. During cleaning, the lens cover can be moved vertically or horizontally with its rubber lip over the camera or sensor lens. The water supplied behind the lens cover, along with the rubber lip, ensures sufficient cleaning of the camera. Multiple wipes of the lens cover per stroke are conceivable (e.g., three times, similar to the windshield washer fluid on a vehicle's windshield).

[0068] This cleaning function can optimize windshield washer fluid consumption and, due to the reduced wastewater, also cause minimal external soiling of the vehicle. Furthermore, a separate cleaning device can be omitted.

[0069] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, cleaning can be achieved by swiveling a sensor (e.g., camera) or lens by 180°, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The camera can be connected to the windshield washer system. Behind the camera lens (in the camera housing) there can be a cavity that can serve as a washing chamber. The washing chamber can be connected to the windshield washer inlet. A drain can also be provided at the end of the washing chamber through which the washer fluid can be removed after cleaning.

[0070] The camera lens can be mounted on a rotatable bearing and, during the cleaning cycle, swiveled 180° by an electric motor, e.g., around its vertical axis. When the camera lens is deflected, i.e., swiveled 180°, it can be rinsed or cleaned by a flowing cleaning solution at appropriate pressure in the camera's internal cleaning chamber. After the rinsing cycle, the camera can be swiveled back to its starting position.

[0071] Furthermore, a motor vehicle will be provided that includes the sensor device described above.

[0072] The motor vehicle can be a passenger car, in particular an automobile, or a commercial vehicle, such as a truck.

[0073] The sensor device can be located on or inside an exterior (and / or outer skin) of the motor vehicle.

[0074] The sensor device can be designed as part of a vehicle assistance system or vehicle assistance systems of the motor vehicle.

[0075] The vehicle may be automated, e.g., by taking into account sensor data from the sensor device. The vehicle may be designed to take over longitudinal and / or lateral control, at least partially and / or at least temporarily, during automated driving by means of a control device and / or the control unit.

[0076] Automated driving can be implemented in such a way that the movement of the vehicle is (largely) autonomous. Automated driving can be controlled, at least partially and / or temporarily, by a control device and / or the control unit.

[0077] What has been described above with reference to the sensor device also applies analogously to the motor vehicle and vice versa.

[0078] The following are optional embodiments with reference to Fig. 1 to 8 described. Fig. Figures 1 to 3 schematically show a sensor device according to a first embodiment as disclosed, Fig. Figures 4 to 6 schematically show the sensor device according to a second embodiment, and Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 schematically shows the sensor device according to a third embodiment.

[0079] The Fig. Figures 1 to 8 show three embodiments of the sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C for a motor vehicle. These embodiments can be combined with one another, and it is also conceivable that individual aspects of one embodiment may also be provided in another embodiment.

[0080] For better comparison, the sensor devices 1A, 1B, 1C are oriented identically with respect to the respective coordinate systems shown in the figures, with the X-direction being parallel to the line of sight SR of the sensor devices 1A, 1B, 1C. The Y-direction and Z-direction run perpendicular and perpendicular, respectively, to the line of sight SR, where the Y-direction can correspond to a latitude direction and the Z-direction to a height direction of the sensor devices 1A, 1B, 1C, for example, in a mounted state in or on a motor vehicle.

[0081] The sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C comprises a sensor housing 3, a sensor optic 2 arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing 3, and a supply line 6 for a cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optic 2. In the Fig. In the first embodiment of the sensor device 1A, as described in sections 1 to 3, the lid assembly comprises a lid assembly. The lid assembly has a movable lid 5 for covering the sensor optics 2 and a movement mechanism for moving the lid 5, wherein the supply line 6 is formed at least partially in or on the movement mechanism.

[0082] The lid 5 has a lip 4, e.g. a rubber lip, which can be guided over an outer surface of the sensor optics 2 for cleaning the sensor optics 2 by moving the lid 5.

[0083] The lid 5 can be pivoted over the sensor optics 2 to selectively cover or open the sensor optics 2. For this purpose, the movement mechanism includes a pivoting arm 7 for pivoting the lid 5. The pivoting arm 7 is connected to the lid 5 at one end and rotatably mounted at the other end, e.g., on a suspension or a pivot bearing 8.

[0084] In Fig. 1. The lid 5 can be lowered to cover the sensor optics 2 or pivoted upwards to open (or uncover) the sensor optics 2 or the field of view of the sensor optics 2. The pivot bearing 8 can be mounted, for example, on a mounting structure (not shown), such as a frame, and / or on the vehicle. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the sensor housing 3 and the length of the pivot arm 7 are dimensioned such that the pivot bearing 8 can be mounted on the sensor housing 3.

[0085] As shown, the lid 5 can have a curved or concave shape that is (at least partially) adapted to the shape of the outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can, for example, be made of a hard or rigid material so that the lips 4 rest against the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 in every pivot position of the lid 5.

[0086] The supply line 6 of the sensor device 1A is formed at least partially within the swivel arm 7. The supply line 6 can extend to the first end of the swivel arm 7 and have an outlet 12 at its first end for releasing the cleaning fluid onto an inner side of the lid 5 that faces the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 (at least when the sensor optics 2 are partially or completely covered by the lid 5).

[0087] During the cleaning of the sensor optics 2, or rather its outer surface, the cleaning fluid is discharged via the supply line 6 at the outlet 12, allowing the cleaning fluid to spread between the inside of the lid 5 and the outer surface of the sensor optics 2, thus forming a film of cleaning fluid. The lid 5 is then actuated to pivot, thereby guiding the lip 4 over the entire outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can pivot multiple times between a covered position, in which the sensor optics 2 is completely covered by the lid 5, and an open position, in which the sensor optics are not covered. This ensures that the lip 4 is guided over the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 multiple times, thereby removing as much of the cleaning fluid as possible from the sensor optics 2 (i.e., cleaning the outer surface of the sensor optics 2).

[0088] In the Fig. Figures 4 to 6 show a second embodiment of the sensor device 1B, which, similar to the first embodiment (sensor device 1A), has a lid assembly with a movable lid 5 and a movement mechanism. Furthermore, the lid 5 also has a lip 4 which can be guided over an outer surface of the sensor optics 2 for cleaning purposes by moving the lid 5.

[0089] In this second embodiment, the lid 5 can be guided over the sensor optics 2 by rotation, in order to selectively cover or open the sensor optics 2. For this purpose, the movement mechanism has a drive mechanism for rotating the lid 5, the drive mechanism being arranged in the sensor housing 3.

[0090] The lid 5 of the sensor device 1B can be rotatable into the sensor housing 3 and can be positioned in a position in which the sensor optics 2 are not completely covered by the lid 5, at least partially behind the sensor optics 2 within the sensor housing 3.

[0091] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a state in which the lid 5 covers approximately half of the sensor optics 2 or its outer surface. The lid 5 can be rotated by means of the drive mechanism such that it moves upwards or downwards (over the sensor optics 2) in the directions indicated by the double arrow, thereby covering the sensor optics 2 (at least partially or completely) or opening the sensor optics 2 or its field of view.

[0092] As shown, the lid 5 can have a curved or concave shape and, for example, be made of a flexible material, so that the lid 5 encloses at least part of the sensor optics 2 and optionally also at least part of the sensor electronics 9 arranged on the sensor optics 2 in every rotational position of the lid 5, with the lip(s) 4 resting against the sensor optics 2 or the sensor electronics 9 in every rotational position.

[0093] Fig. Figure 6 shows the sensor device 1B, similar to Fig. 5, in a front view, where the sensor housing 3 and the sensor optics 2 are not shown to illustrate the drive mechanism. In other words, in Fig. Figure 6 shows only the lid 5 with its drive mechanism.

[0094] The drive mechanism of sensor device 1B comprises a drive chamber 10 and a drive element 11. The cleaning fluid can flow into the drive chamber via the outlet 12. The drive element 11 is mechanically connected to the lid 5 via the mechanical connection 13 for the purpose of rotating the lid 5. The drive element 11, which can be designed, for example, as a paddle wheel, is driven by the inflowing cleaning fluid.

[0095] Furthermore, an external outlet opening 14 is formed on the drive chamber 10 such that the cleaning fluid can be discharged on an inner side of the lid 5, which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The outlet opening 14 can, for example, be a passage that leads through an outer wall of the drive chamber 10 and a section of the lid 5 and is formed, for example, at or adjacent to the mechanical connection 13.

[0096] During cleaning of the sensor optics 2 or its outer surface, the cleaning fluid is released through the outlet opening 14, e.g., without pressure, so that the cleaning fluid can spread between the inside of the lid 5 and the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 (and / or the sensor electronics 9) and thus form a film of cleaning fluid. The lid 5 is then controlled to rotate, thereby guiding the lip 4 over the entire outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can rotate multiple times between a covered position, in which the sensor optics 2 is completely covered by the lid 5, and an open position, in which the sensor optics are not covered, in order to repeatedly guide the lip 4 over the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 and thus remove as much of the cleaning fluid as possible from the sensor optics 2.

[0097] In the Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows a third embodiment of the sensor device 1C, which is characterized, among other things, by the fact that the sensor optics 2 (optionally together with or separately from the sensor electronics 9) is rotatably mounted.

[0098] The sensor device 1C includes a cleaning chamber 15, which is formed inside the sensor housing 3 behind the sensor optics 2. The cleaning chamber 15 can be filled with the cleaning fluid via the supply line 6 or the outlet 12 of the supply line 6.

[0099] The sensor optics 2 are rotatably mounted such that, in a rotated position, they project at least partially into the cleaning chamber 15 for cleaning purposes. For example, the sensor optics 2 can be rotatable by 180° and / or rotatable such that an outer surface of the sensor optics 2 is located within the cleaning chamber 15 in the rotated position.

[0100] The cleaning chamber 15 can be designed as a cavity within the sensor housing 3, which is at least partially bounded on one side by the sensor optics 2 (and / or the sensor electronics 9). For this purpose, the cleaning chamber 15 can have an opening in which the sensor optics 2 are rotatably arranged. Accordingly, the sensor optics 2 can rotate within this opening and, in a rotated position, project at least partially into the cleaning chamber 15.

[0101] The sensor optics 2 (and / or optionally the sensor electronics 9) can close the opening, optionally in a fluid-tight manner, when the sensor optics 2 is either in its normal position or, for cleaning purposes, in a position rotated by 180°. A sealing lip or a sealing ring 17 can be provided to ensure a fluid-tight closure of this opening by the sensor optics 2.

[0102] Fig. Figure 7 shows, by way of example, the sensor optics 2 in a position in which the sensor optics are rotated by 90° from its normal position or operating position.

[0103] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, a rotary drive 18, e.g. an electric motor, for rotating the sensor optics 2 can be provided in or on the sensor housing 3, which can be mechanically connected to the sensor optics 2, e.g. via a rotating shaft 19.

[0104] The in the Fig. The double arrows shown in Figure 8 illustrate that the sensor optics 2 can be rotatable horizontally and / or vertically. Furthermore, other directions of rotation are also conceivable, e.g., around a cross-sectional axis of the sensor optics 2.

[0105] Furthermore, the cleaning chamber 15 can have a controllable and / or closable drain 16 for the cleaning fluid, so that the cleaning fluid can be reused after cleaning the sensor optics 2.

[0106] During cleaning of the sensor optics 2 or its outer surface, the rotatable sensor optics 2 are rotated 180° from their normal position so that the outer surface of the sensor optics 2, optionally completely, is positioned in the cleaning chamber 15. The cleaning chamber is then filled with the cleaning fluid. After cleaning, e.g., after a predetermined period following filling the cleaning chamber with the cleaning fluid, the drain 16 is opened to allow the cleaning fluid to drain out, and then the sensor optics 2 are rotated back to their normal position. Reference symbol list 1A, 1B, 1C Sensor device 2 Sensor optics 3 Sensor housings 4 Lip 5 lids 6 Supply line 7 Swivel arm 8 swivel bearings 9 Sensor electronics 10 Drive chamber 11 Drive element 12 Outlet 13 mechanical connection 14 Outlet opening 15 Cleaning chamber 16 Procedure 17 Sealing ring 18 Rotary drive 19 Rotary shaft

Claims

[1] Sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) for a motor vehicle, wherein the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises: - a sensor housing (3); - a sensor optic (2) arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing (3); and - a supply line (6) for a cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics (2); - having a lid mechanism: - a movable lid (5) for covering the sensor optics (2); and - a movement mechanism for moving the eyelid (5), wherein the lead (6) is formed at least partially in or on the movement mechanism; characterized by , that the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises: - a cleaning chamber (15) which is formed inside the sensor housing (3) behind the sensor optics (2), wherein - the cleaning chamber (15) can be filled with the cleaning fluid via the supply line (6), and - the sensor optics (2) is rotatably mounted in such a way that the sensor optics (2) in a rotated position protrudes at least partially into the cleaning chamber (15) for cleaning the sensor optics (2). [2] Sensor device (1A; 1B) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the lid (5) has a lip (4) which can be guided to clean the sensor optics (2) by moving the lid (5) over an outer surface of the sensor optics (2). [3] Sensor device (1A) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the movement mechanism has a pivoting arm (7) for pivoting the lid (5), which is connected to the lid (5) at a first end and is rotatably mounted at a second end, wherein the supply line (6) is formed at least partially within the pivoting arm (7). [4] Sensor device (1A) according to claim 3, characterized by, that the supply line (6) extends to the first end of the swivel arm (7) and has an outlet (12) at the first end for releasing the cleaning fluid on an inside of the lid (5) which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics (2). [5] Sensor device (1B) according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by , that the movement mechanism has a drive mechanism for rotating the lid (5), wherein the drive mechanism is arranged in the sensor housing (3) and the supply line (6) terminates with an outlet (12) for releasing the cleaning fluid at or in the drive mechanism. [6] Sensor device (1B) according to claim 5, characterized by , that the lid (5) is rotatable into the sensor housing (3) and is arranged in a position in which the sensor optics (2) are not completely covered by the lid (5) within the sensor housing (3) at least partially behind the sensor optics (2). [7] Sensor device (1B) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by , that the drive mechanism has: - a drive chamber (10) into which the cleaning fluid can flow via the outlet (12); - a drive element (11) which is mechanically connected to the lid (5) for rotating the lid (5) and can be driven by the inflowing cleaning fluid; and - an outlet opening (14) which is designed on the drive chamber (10) in such a way that the cleaning fluid can be discharged on an inner side of the lid (5) which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics (2). [8] Sensor device (1C) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the sensor optics (2) is rotatable by 180° and / or is rotatable such that an outer surface of the sensor optics (2) is arranged inside the cleaning chamber (15) in the rotated position of the sensor optics (2). [9] Sensor device (1C) according to one of claims 1 or 8, characterized by that the cleaning chamber (15) has a controllable and / or closable drain (16) for the cleaning fluid. [10] motor vehicle, characterized by , that the motor vehicle comprises the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images