Vehicle sensor temperature control

Abstract

The present disclosure provides "Vehicle Sensor Temperature Control." A vehicle includes an exterior surface; a sensor disposed on the exterior surface; a passenger compartment fixed relative to the exterior surface; an air duct that receives airflow from the passenger compartment; and a valve disposed in the air duct and movable between a first position that directs the airflow toward the sensor and a second position that directs the airflow toward the exterior of the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle sensors, and more specifically to temperature control of vehicle sensors. Background Technology

[0002] Autonomous vehicles incorporate a variety of sensors. Some sensors detect the vehicle's internal state, such as wheel speed, wheel orientation, and engine and transmission variables. Some sensors detect the vehicle's position or orientation, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors; accelerometers, such as piezoelectric or microelectromechanical systems (MEMS); gyroscopes, such as rate, ring laser, or fiber optic gyroscopes; inertial measurement units (IMUs); and magnetometers. Some sensors detect the external world, such as radar sensors, scanning laser rangefinders, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) devices, and image processing sensors (such as cameras). LiDAR devices detect the distance to an object by emitting a laser pulse and measuring the time it takes for the pulse to travel to and return from the object. Some sensors are communication devices, such as vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) or vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) devices. Sensor operation can be affected by temperature; for example, a sensor that is too hot may not operate properly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A vehicle includes an outer surface; a sensor disposed on the outer surface; a passenger compartment fixed relative to the outer surface; an air duct that receives airflow from the passenger compartment; and a valve disposed in the air duct and movable between a first position directing the airflow toward the sensor and a second position directing the airflow toward the exterior of the vehicle.

[0004] The outer surface may be a vehicle roof. The vehicle may also include a housing attached to the roof, the housing defining a chamber in which the sensor may be disposed. The air duct extends from the valve into the chamber.

[0005] The vehicle may further include an actuator movably coupled to the valve and a controller communicatively connected to the actuator. The controller may be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to a first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold. The controller may also be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to a second position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is in a condition other than above or below the temperature threshold.

[0006] The controller can be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is outside the temperature range. The controller can also be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is within the temperature range.

[0007] The controller can be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold and the pressure in the passenger compartment is above a pressure threshold.

[0008] The controller can be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold and the ignition of the vehicle is off.

[0009] The controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold and the passenger compartment is not occupied.

[0010] A controller includes a processor. The processor is programmed to, upon determining that the temperature of a sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold, instruct an actuator to move a valve of a vehicle to a first position, wherein the sensor is disposed on an outer surface of the vehicle, and the valve is movable between the first position, which directs airflow from the passenger compartment of the vehicle to the sensor, and a second position, which directs the airflow to the outside of the vehicle.

[0011] The controller can be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is in a condition other than above or below the temperature threshold.

[0012] The temperature threshold may be a first temperature threshold, and the controller may be programmed to: when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is higher than the first temperature threshold, instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position, and when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is lower than a second temperature threshold, instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position, wherein the first temperature threshold is higher than the second temperature threshold. The controller may also be programmed to: when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is lower than the first threshold temperature but higher than the second threshold temperature, instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position.

[0013] The controller can be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of the temperature thresholds and the pressure in the passenger compartment is above the pressure threshold.

[0014] The controller can be programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of the temperature thresholds and the ignition of the vehicle is off.

[0015] The controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of the temperature thresholds and the passenger compartment is not occupied.

[0016] One method includes instructing an actuator to move a valve of a vehicle to a first position when the temperature of a sensor is determined to be above or below one of a temperature threshold, wherein the sensor is disposed on an outer surface of the vehicle, and the valve is movable between the first position, which directs airflow from the passenger compartment of the vehicle to the sensor, and a second position, which directs the airflow to the outside of the vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a side view of an example vehicle with a cooling system for sensors.

[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the air duct of the cooling system, with the valve in the first position.

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the portion of the cooling system's air duct, wherein the valve is in the second position.

[0020] Figure 4 It is used for Figure 1 A block diagram of the control system for the cooling system.

[0021] Figure 5 It is used for operation Figure 1 A process flow diagram of an example cooling system. Detailed Implementation

[0022] refer to Figures 1 to 3 An example vehicle 30 includes outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54; a sensor 32 disposed on one of the outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54; a passenger compartment 34 fixed relative to the outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54; an air duct 36 receiving airflow from the passenger compartment 34; and a valve 38 disposed in the air duct 36 and movable between a first position directing airflow toward the sensor 32 and a second position directing airflow toward the exterior of the vehicle 30.

[0023] Vehicle 30 conserves energy by recapturing waste energy, particularly air in passenger compartment 34 that has been heated to a temperature higher than ambient or cooled to a temperature lower than ambient. Exhaust gas from passenger compartment 34 can be directed to sensor 32 as needed to heat or cool sensor 32, or can be discharged from vehicle 30. After occupants have left vehicle 30, vehicle 30 can increase airflow to heat or cool sensor 32.

[0024] refer to Figure 1 Vehicle 30 may be an autonomous vehicle. The computer may be configured to operate vehicle 30 completely or to a lesser extent independently of human driver intervention. The computer may be programmed to operate the propulsion system, braking system, steering system, and / or other vehicle systems. For the purposes of this disclosure, autonomous operation means that the computer controls the propulsion system, braking system, and steering system; semi-autonomous operation means that the computer controls one or two of the propulsion system, braking system, and steering system, and the human driver controls the remaining parts; and non-autonomous operation means that the human driver controls the propulsion system, braking system, and steering system.

[0025] Vehicle 30 includes body 40. Vehicle 30 can be a unibody construction, wherein the frame and body 40 of vehicle 30 are single components, such as... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. Alternatively, vehicle 30 may be a non-load-bearing body structure, wherein a frame (not shown) supports body 40, which is a component separate from the frame. The frame and body 40 may be made of any suitable material (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.).

[0026] The body 40 includes body panels 42, 44, and 46, which partially define the exterior of the vehicle 30. The body panels 42, 44, and 46 may have an A-grade finish, such as a finely finished surface exposed to the customer's view and free from unsightly blemishes and defects. The body panels 42, 44, and 46 include, for example, a roof 42, an engine hood 44, etc. A door 48 may be movably mounted to the body 40.

[0027] The body 40 supports windows 50, 52, and 54, including, for example, the windshield 50, the rear window 52, ​​and the side windows 54. Windows 50, 52, and 54 can be made of any suitable durable transparent material, including glass such as laminated or tempered glass, or plastic such as Plexiglas® or polycarbonate.

[0028] For the purposes of this disclosure, an “outer surface” of vehicle 30 is a surface disposed outside and opposite to vehicle 30. For example, body panels 42, 44, 46 and windows 50, 52, 54 are outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54. Roof 42 is one of outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54.

[0029] The housing 56 for sensor 32 can be attached to one of outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54. For example, housing 56 can be attached to a vehicle roof 42, which can provide sensor 32 with an unobstructed view of the area surrounding vehicle 30. Housing 56 can surround and define a chamber 58; for example, housing 56 can define the top and sides of chamber 58. Outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54 (e.g., vehicle roof 42) can partially define chamber 58, or housing 56 can define the bottom and top of chamber 58. Housing 56 can protect the contents of chamber 58 from external elements such as wind, rain, debris, etc. Housing 56 can be made of, for example, plastic or metal.

[0030] Vehicle 30 includes sensor 32. Sensor 32 can detect the position and / or orientation of vehicle 30. For example, sensor 32 may include a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor; an accelerometer, such as a piezoelectric or microelectromechanical system (MEMS); a gyroscope, such as a rate, ring laser, or fiber optic gyroscope; an inertial measurement unit (IMU); and a magnetometer. Sensor 32 can detect objects and / or features of the external world, such as other vehicles, road lane markings, traffic lights and / or signs, pedestrians, etc. For example, sensor 32 may include a radar sensor, a scanning laser rangefinder, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) device, and an image processing sensor (such as a camera). Sensor 32 may include communication devices, such as vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) or vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) devices.

[0031] At least one of the sensors 32 is disposed on one of the outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, for example, on the roof 42. The sensor 32 may be directly attached to the roof 42, or the sensor 32 may be attached to a housing 56, which in turn is directly attached to the roof 42. The sensor 32 is disposed inside the housing 56, i.e., in a chamber 58. The housing 56 may have one or more openings 60, and the sensor 32 may have a field of view through the opening.

[0032] Vehicle 30 includes a passenger compartment 34 for accommodating occupants (if any) of vehicle 30. The passenger compartment 34 includes one or more front seats disposed at the front of the passenger compartment 34; and one or more rear seats disposed behind the front seats (not shown). The passenger compartment 34 is disposed within the vehicle body 40. The passenger compartment 34 is fixed relative to at least some of the outer surfaces 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54 (e.g., roof 42, hood 44, windshield 50, rear window 52, ​​etc.).

[0033] Climate control system 62 provides heating and / or cooling for passenger compartment 34 of vehicle 30. Climate control system 62 may include a compressor, condenser, receiver-dryer, thermal expansion valve, evaporator, blower, fan, air duct, vent, blades, temperature sensor 80, and other components known for heating or cooling the vehicle interior. As is known, climate control system 62 may operate to cool passenger compartment 34 by absorbing heat from passenger compartment 34 and dissipating heat from vehicle 30 by transferring refrigerant through a thermal cycle. As is known, climate control system 62 may include a heater core that operates as a radiator for the engine of vehicle 30 by transferring some waste heat from the engine to passenger compartment 34. Climate control system 62 may include electric heaters, such as resistance heaters, positive temperature coefficient heaters, electric heat pumps, etc.

[0034] Duct 36 receives airflow from passenger compartment 34. Duct 36 may have a tubular shape that allows air to pass through. Duct 36 includes an inlet branch 64 for receiving airflow from passenger compartment 34, an external outlet branch 66, and a sensor outlet branch 68. External outlet branch 66 extends from inlet branch 64 and is fluidly connected to the exterior of vehicle 30, for example, to an exhaust port 70 that allows airflow to exit vehicle 30. Sensor outlet branch 68 extends from inlet branch 64 to chamber 58. Inlet branch 64 connects to external outlet branch 66 and sensor outlet branch 68 at a bifurcation 72.

[0035] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3Valve 38 is disposed within air duct 36. For example, valve 38 may be disposed at branch 72. Valve 38 is movable between a first position directing airflow toward sensor 32 and a second position directing airflow toward the outside of vehicle 30. In the first position, valve 38 may cover the external outlet branch 66 and keep the sensor outlet branch 68 open, i.e., blocking airflow from inlet branch 64 to external outlet branch 66 while allowing airflow from inlet branch 64 to sensor outlet branch 68. In the second position, valve 38 may cover the sensor outlet branch and keep the external outlet branch 66 open, i.e., blocking airflow from inlet branch 64 to sensor outlet branch 68 while allowing airflow from inlet branch 64 to external outlet branch 66. Valve 38 may be moved to positions other than the first and second positions. For example, valve 38 may be rotated between the first and second positions, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in the diagram. Alternatively, valve 38 may slide between a first position and a second position, or may move between the first position and the second position in some other way.

[0036] Actuator 74 is coupled to valve 38 and arranged to move valve 38 between a first position and a second position. Actuator 74 can be any type that generates a dimension or direction of motion in which valve 38 can move, such as an electric motor, piezoelectric actuator, servo mechanism, solenoid, stepper motor, etc.

[0037] refer to Figure 4 The vehicle 30 includes a controller 76. The controller 76 is a microprocessor-based controller, i.e., a computing device. The controller 76 includes a processor, memory, etc. The memory of the controller 76 includes memory for storing instructions executable by the processor and memory for electronically storing data and / or databases. The controller 76 may be the same computer used for autonomous or semi-autonomous operation of the vehicle 30, or it may be a separate computer.

[0038] The controller 76 can transmit and receive data via a communication network 78, such as a controller area network (CAN) bus, Ethernet, WiFi, local area network (LIN), on-board diagnostic connector (OBD-II), and / or any other wired or wireless communication network. The controller 76 can be communicatively connected to the climate control system 62, actuator 74, temperature sensor 80, pressure sensor 82, occupancy sensor 84, and other components via the communication network 78.

[0039] Each temperature sensor 80 detects the temperature of the surrounding environment or an object in contact with it. The temperature sensor 80 can be any device that produces a temperature-related output, such as a thermometer, bimetallic strip, thermistor, thermocouple, resistance thermometer, silicon bandgap temperature sensor, etc. The temperature sensors 80 are disposed, for example, in the passenger compartment 34, chamber 58, etc. The temperature sensor 80 in chamber 58 can be in contact with one of the sensors 32.

[0040] Pressure sensor 82 can be disposed in passenger compartment 34 and positioned to measure atmospheric pressure inside passenger compartment 34. Pressure sensor 82 can be any type capable of detecting pressures within a range typically found in passenger compartment 34, such as piezoresistive strain gauges, capacitive diaphragms, electromagnetic diaphragms, piezoelectric, fiber optic, potential, resonant, thermal, ionization, etc.

[0041] Occupancy sensor 84 is configured to detect seat occupancy. Occupancy sensor 84 may be a visible light or infrared camera pointing at the seat, a weight sensor inside the seat, a sensor that detects whether the seat belt is fastened or unfastened, or other suitable sensors.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a process flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 500 for controlling the temperature of sensor 32. Typically, in process 500, if the temperature of sensor 32 is outside the temperature range (described below with respect to box 515) and passenger compartment 34 is capable of providing airflow from the passenger compartment 34 or airflow caused by pressure within passenger compartment 34, controller 76 directs airflow from passenger compartment 34 to sensor 32, as described in more detail below. The memory of controller 76 stores executable instructions for performing the steps of process 500.

[0043] Process 500 begins in block 505, where controller 76 receives temperature data from temperature sensor 80, which indicates the temperature of one of the sensors 32 in chamber 58 and the temperature of passenger cabin 34.

[0044] Next, in block 510, controller 76 receives pressure data from pressure sensor 82, which indicates the pressure in passenger compartment 34 (e.g., in MPa).

[0045] Next, in decision block 515, controller 76 determines whether the temperature of sensor 32 is outside the temperature range. The temperature range spans from a first temperature threshold down to a second temperature threshold. The first temperature threshold is higher than the second temperature threshold. (The adjectives “first” and “second” are used throughout this document as identifiers and are not intended to indicate importance or order.) The first temperature threshold is selected as a temperature above which sensor 32 may overheat and / or malfunction. The second temperature threshold is selected as a temperature below which sensor 32 may malfunction or operate inefficiently or slowly due to being too cold. The first and second temperature thresholds are also selected to be far enough apart that valve 38 does not change position too frequently, for example, causing occupant annoyance or causing actuator 74 or valve 38 to wear too quickly. When it is determined that the temperature of sensor 32 is within the temperature range, i.e., below the first temperature threshold and above the second temperature threshold, process 500 returns to block 505 to continue monitoring temperature and pressure data. When it is determined that the temperature of sensor 32 is outside the temperature range, i.e., above the first temperature threshold or below the second temperature threshold, process 500 continues to decision block 520.

[0046] In decision block 520, controller 76 receives data from the ignition system of vehicle 30 and determines whether the ignition system is on or off. If the ignition system is off, process 500 proceeds to block 560.

[0047] If ignition is on, then in decision box 525, controller 76 determines whether airflow should be supplied from climate control system 62 to passenger cabin 34. Controller 76 may determine airflow supply based on whether the occupants of passenger cabin 34 have input a command to climate control system 62 for airflow to passenger cabin 34. Alternatively or additionally, controller 76 may determine whether the temperature of passenger cabin 34 is greater than a threshold difference from the cabin temperature target. The threshold difference can be selected to prevent frequent activation and deactivation of climate control system 62, thus avoiding premature wear or occupant annoyance. The cabin temperature target can be set via occupant command or can be a stored default value selected for occupant comfort. If airflow is to be supplied to passenger cabin 34, climate control system 62 supplies airflow, and process 500 proceeds to box 535.

[0048] If no airflow is to be supplied to passenger compartment 34, then in decision block 530, controller 76 determines whether the pressure in passenger compartment 34 is higher than a pressure threshold. A pressure threshold is selected such that there is a sufficient pressure difference between passenger compartment 34 and the outside of vehicle 30 greater than the negligible amount of airflow that will occur through duct 36. If the pressure in passenger compartment 34 is lower than the pressure threshold, process 500 proceeds to block 550.

[0049] Next, if the pressure in passenger compartment 34 exceeds a pressure threshold, or if airflow needs to be supplied to passenger compartment 34 after decision block 525, in block 535, controller 76 instructs actuator 74 to move valve 38 to a first position, thus directing airflow through duct 36 to housing 56, specifically to sensor 32 in chamber 58 of housing 56. The airflow is either from airflow entering passenger compartment 34 from climate control system 62 or caused by the pressure difference between passenger compartment 34 and housing 56.

[0050] Next, in decision block 540, controller 76 determines whether the temperature of sensor 32 is outside the temperature range, as described above regarding decision block 515. If controller 76 determines that the temperature of sensor 32 is still outside the temperature range, process 500 returns to block 505 to continue directing airflow to sensor 32 until the temperature of sensor 32 is within the temperature range.

[0051] Next, if controller 76 determines that the temperature of sensor 32 is within the temperature range (i.e., within), in decision block 545, controller 76 determines whether to provide airflow from climate control system 62 to passenger cabin 34, as described above regarding decision block 525. If airflow is not to be provided to passenger cabin 34, the process proceeds to block 555.

[0052] Next, if airflow is to be supplied to the passenger compartment 34, or if the pressure in the passenger compartment 34 falls below a pressure threshold after decision block 530, in block 550, controller 76 instructs actuator 74 to move valve 38 to a second position, thus directing airflow to the outside of vehicle 30 through duct 36. The airflow is either from the airflow entering the passenger compartment 34 from climate control system 62 or caused by the pressure difference between the passenger compartment 34 and the outside of vehicle 30. After block 550, process 500 ends.

[0053] After decision box 545, if airflow is not to be supplied to passenger compartment 34, controller 76 instructs climate control system 62 to stop directing airflow to passenger compartment 34. After box 555, process 500 ends.

[0054] Following decision block 520, if the ignition is off, controller 76 receives occupancy data from occupancy sensor 84. The format of the occupancy data depends on the type of occupancy sensor 84. For example, if occupancy sensor 84 is a camera, the occupancy data could be image data. As another example, if occupancy sensor 84 is a weight sensor, the occupancy data could be data indicating the weight of each seat. For a third example, if occupancy sensor 84 detects whether the seatbelt is fastened, the occupancy data could be a binary signal indicating whether the seatbelt is fastened for each seat.

[0055] Next, in decision box 565, controller 76 determines whether passenger compartment 34 is occupied, i.e., whether at least one occupant is in passenger compartment 34. For example, if the occupancy data is an image, controller 76 can use a known object detection algorithm to determine whether an occupant is sitting in at least one seat. As another example, if the occupancy data is the weight of a seat, controller 76 can determine whether the weight of any seat exceeds a weight threshold, which can be selected such that, for example, 95% of occupants would exceed the weight threshold. For a third example, if the occupancy data is a buckle binary signal, controller 76 can determine whether at least one of the binary signals indicates that the seatbelt is fastened. If passenger compartment 34 is occupied, process 500 ends.

[0056] Next, if passenger cabin 34 is not occupied, in frame 570, controller 76 instructs climate control system 62 to blow air toward passenger cabin 34.

[0057] Next, in block 575, controller 76 instructs actuator 74 to move valve 38 to a first position, thus directing airflow through duct 36 to housing 56, as described above with respect to block 535. After block 575, process 500 ends.

[0058] Typically, the described computing systems and / or devices may employ any of a variety of computer operating systems, including, but not limited to, the following versions and / or types: Ford Sync® applications; AppLink / Smart Device Connectivity Middleware; Microsoft Automotive® operating system; Microsoft Windows® operating system; Unix operating system (e.g., Solaris® operating system released by Oracle Corporation of Redwood Coast, California); AIX UNIX operating system released by International Business Machines Corporation of Armonk, New York; Linux operating system; Mac OSX and iOS operating systems released by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, California; BlackBerry operating system released by BlackBerry Ltd. of Waterloo, Canada; and Android operating system developed by Google and the Open Handset Alliance; or the QNX® in-vehicle infotainment platform provided by QNX Software Systems, Inc. Examples of computing devices include, but are not limited to, in-vehicle computers, computer workstations, servers, desktop computers, laptops, notebook computers, or handheld computers, or some other computing systems and / or devices.

[0059] Computing devices typically include computer-executable instructions, which can be executed by one or more computing devices such as those listed above. Computer-executable instructions can be compiled or interpreted by computer programs created using a variety of programming languages ​​and / or techniques, which, individually or in combination, include, but are not limited to, Java™, C, C++, Matlab, Simulink, Stateflow, Visual Basic, JavaScript, Perl, HTML, etc. Some of these applications can be compiled and executed on virtual machines such as the Java Virtual Machine, the Dalvik Virtual Machine, etc. Typically, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) receives instructions from, for example, memory, computer-readable media, etc., and executes these instructions to perform one or more processes, including one or more of the processes described herein. Various computer-readable media can be used to store and transfer such instructions and other data. Files in a computing device are typically collections of data stored on computer-readable media, such as storage media, random access memory, etc.

[0060] Computer-readable media (also known as processor-readable media) include any non-transitory (e.g., tangible) medium that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer (e.g., by the computer's processor). Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile and volatile media. Non-volatile media can include, for example, optical discs or magnetic disks, and other permanent storage. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes main memory. Such instructions can be transmitted by one or more transmission media, including coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers, including lines containing a system bus coupled to the processor of the ECU. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tape, any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs, any other optical media, punched cards, paper tape, any other physical media with a perforated pattern, RAM, PROM, EPROM, lightning-fast erasable programmable read-only memory, any other memory chip or cassette tape, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0061] The databases, data repositories, or other data stores described herein may include various mechanisms for storing, accessing / retrieving a variety of data, including hierarchical databases, a set of files in a file system, application databases in proprietary formats, relational database management systems (RDBMS), etc. Each such data store is typically contained within a computing device employing a computer operating system such as one of those mentioned above, and is accessed / retrieved via a network in any one or more of various ways. File systems are accessible from the computer operating system and may include files stored in various formats. In addition to languages ​​used for creating, storing, editing, and executing stored procedures, relational database management systems typically use Structured Query Language (SQL), such as the PL / SQL language mentioned above.

[0062] In some examples, system elements may be implemented as computer-readable instructions (e.g., software) on one or more computing devices (e.g., servers, personal computers, etc.) and stored on an associated computer-readable medium (e.g., disks, storage, etc.). A computer program product may include such instructions stored on a computer-readable medium for performing the functions described herein.

[0063] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements. Furthermore, some or all of these elements may be changed. Regarding the media, processes, systems, methods, heuristics, etc., described herein, it should be understood that although the steps of such processes are described as occurring in a specific order, such processes can be practiced by performing the steps in an order other than that described herein. It should also be understood that some steps may be performed simultaneously, other steps may be added, or some steps described herein may be omitted. In other words, the description of processes herein is provided for the purpose of illustrating certain embodiments and should in no way be construed as limiting the claims.

[0064] Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Many embodiments and applications, different from the examples provided, will be apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the above description. The scope of the invention should not be determined by reference to the foregoing description, but rather by reference to the appended claims together with the full scope of their equivalents. Future developments are conceivable and anticipated in the art discussed herein, and the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. In summary, it should be understood that the invention is capable of modifications and variations and is limited only by the following claims.

[0065] Unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, all terms used in the claims are intended to be given their ordinary and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. In particular, unless the claims explicitly limit the recitation to the contrary, the use of singular articles such as “a,” “the,” “the,” etc., should be interpreted as one or more of the elements indicated in the recitation.

[0066] This disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it will be understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive in nature and not restrictive. In light of the foregoing teachings, many modifications and variations of this disclosure are possible, and this disclosure may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described.

[0067] According to the present invention, a vehicle is provided having: an outer surface; a sensor disposed on the outer surface; a passenger compartment fixed relative to the outer surface; an air duct that receives airflow from the passenger compartment; and a valve disposed in the air duct and movable between a first position directing the airflow toward the sensor and a second position directing the airflow toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the outer surface is the roof.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a housing attached to the roof, wherein the housing defines a cavity, and the sensor is disposed in the cavity.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the air duct extends from the valve to the chamber.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an actuator movably connected to the valve and a controller communicatively connected to the actuator.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is in a condition other than above or below the temperature threshold.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is outside the temperature range.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is within the temperature range.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold and the pressure in the passenger compartment is above a pressure threshold.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold and the ignition of the vehicle is off.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of a temperature threshold and the passenger compartment is not occupied.

[0079] According to the present invention, a controller is provided having a processor programmed to: when determining that the temperature of a sensor is above and below one of a temperature threshold, instruct an actuator to move a valve of a vehicle to a first position, wherein the sensor is disposed on an outer surface of the vehicle, and the valve is movable between the first position, which directs airflow from the passenger compartment of the vehicle to the sensor, and a second position, which directs the airflow to the outside of the vehicle.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is in a condition other than above or below the temperature threshold.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the temperature threshold is a first temperature threshold, and the controller is programmed to: when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is higher than the first temperature threshold, instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position, and when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is lower than a second temperature threshold, instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position, wherein the first temperature threshold is higher than the second temperature threshold.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is below the first threshold temperature and above the second threshold temperature.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of the temperature thresholds and the pressure in the passenger compartment is above a pressure threshold.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of the temperature thresholds and the ignition of the vehicle is off.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above or below one of the temperature thresholds and the passenger compartment is not occupied.

[0086] According to the present invention, a method includes: when determining that the temperature of a sensor is above and below one of a temperature threshold, instructing an actuator to move a valve of a vehicle to a first position, wherein the sensor is disposed on an outer surface of the vehicle, and the valve is movable between the first position, which directs airflow from the passenger compartment of the vehicle to the sensor, and a second position, which directs the airflow to the outside of the vehicle.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: Outer surface; A sensor is disposed on the outer surface; The passenger compartment is fixed relative to the outer surface; Air duct that receives airflow from the passenger cabin; as well as A valve is disposed in the air duct and is movable between a first position that directs the airflow toward the sensor and a second position that directs the airflow toward the outside of the vehicle.

2. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the outer surface is the roof.

3. The vehicle of claim 2, further comprising a housing attached to the roof, wherein the housing defines a chamber and the sensor is disposed in the chamber.

4. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein the air duct extends from the valve to the chamber.

5. The vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an actuator movably coupled to the valve and a controller communicatively connected to the actuator.

6. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the first position when it determines that the temperature of the sensor is above a first temperature threshold or below a second temperature threshold.

7. The vehicle of claim 6, wherein the controller is programmed to instruct the actuator to move the valve to the second position when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is above a first temperature threshold or below a second temperature threshold, for any other reason.

8. A method for controlling the temperature of a vehicle sensor, comprising: When the temperature of the sensor is determined to be above a first temperature threshold or below a second temperature threshold, the actuator is instructed to move the valve of the vehicle to a first position, wherein the sensor is disposed on the outer surface of the vehicle, and the valve is movable between the first position, which directs airflow from the passenger compartment of the vehicle to the sensor, and a second position, which directs the airflow to the outside of the vehicle.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: When it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is in any condition other than being higher than a first temperature threshold or lower than a second temperature threshold, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the second position.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising: When the sensor determines that the temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the first position. And when it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is lower than the second temperature threshold, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the first position, wherein the first temperature threshold is higher than the second temperature threshold.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: When it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is below the first temperature threshold and above the second temperature threshold, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the second position.

12. The method of claim 8, further comprising: When it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is higher than a first temperature threshold or lower than a second temperature threshold and the pressure in the passenger compartment is higher than a pressure threshold, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the first position.

13. The method of claim 8, further comprising: When it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is higher than a first temperature threshold or lower than a second temperature threshold and the ignition device of the vehicle is turned off, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the first position.

14. The method of claim 8, further comprising: When it is determined that the temperature of the sensor is higher than a first temperature threshold or lower than a second temperature threshold and the passenger compartment is not occupied, the actuator is instructed to move the valve to the first position.

15. A controller comprising a processor programmed to perform the method as described in any one of claims 8 to 14.

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