Control method of air blowing device

The air blowing device adjusts the discharge volume and injection angle according to the precipitation state and vehicle speed, and solves the problem of the wiper system interfering with the field of view, achieving effective field of view maintenance and aerodynamic improvement in hybrid vehicles.

CN113135162BActive Publication Date: 2025-08-26HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202010778170.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2020-01-16
Filing Date
2020-08-05
Publication Date
2025-08-26
Estimated Expiration
2040-08-05

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the prior art, the wiper system interferes with the driver's field of vision and requires frequent replacement, and as the engine function decreases, the front space of the vehicle is insufficient to install a conventional wiper, and a new field of vision maintenance is needed.

Method used

Through the air blowing device control method, the discharge amount and injection angle of the air blowing device are adjusted according to the precipitation state and vehicle speed, and the compressed air is discharged by a fan to ensure the view of the windshield. The precipitation amount and vehicle speed are judged by the rainwater sensor and the controller, and the power and injection angle of the air blowing device are adjusted.

Benefits of technology

Under different precipitation and vehicle speed conditions, the windshield field of view is effectively ensured, avoiding the field of view of the wiper system, and improving driving safety and aerodynamic performance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present application relates to a method for controlling an air blowing device. The method includes the following steps: a controller determines whether precipitation is occurring through a rain sensor; the controller determines whether the air blowing device is in automatic mode in the precipitation state; when the air blowing device is in automatic mode in the precipitation state, determining the vehicle speed; and the controller sets the power and spray angle of the air blowing device by comparing the measured precipitation amount received from the rain sensor with the stored precipitation amount.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control method of an air blowing device, and more particularly, to a control method of an air blowing device that controls a discharge amount and a spray angle of the air blowing device according to a precipitation state and a vehicle speed state. Background Art

[0002] Typically, a vehicle's windshield is equipped with a wiper system.

[0003] In the prior art, in order to ensure visibility through the glass on rainy days, a wiper system that can move on the glass surface is used to ensure visibility.

[0004] In addition, the washer fluid is sprayed by the washer fluid nozzle and the wiper arm is operated by the wiper system. In this way, the glass is cleaned and the driver's field of vision is guaranteed.

[0005] However, according to the wiper system of the prior art, the wiper arm contacts the glass and reciprocates, so there is a defect that the wiper interferes with the driver's field of view. In addition, there is a problem that the wiper, as a consumable part, needs to be frequently replaced.

[0006] Recently, with the development of hybrid vehicles or plug-in hybrid vehicles that can be electrically driven, the function and size of an engine used in the related art are reduced, thereby creating additional space in the front of the vehicle.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a technology for ensuring visibility through the windshield on rainy days by exhausting compressed air using a fan at the front of the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present disclosure is proposed to solve the problems of the prior art. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a control method of an air blowing device that ensures a field of view through a windshield by discharging compressed air.

[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a control method of an air blowing device capable of controlling the pressure and left-right angle of exhaust air according to the surrounding environment of a vehicle.

[0010] The purpose of the present disclosure is not limited to the purpose described above, and other purposes not described herein can be understood by the following description and can be made clear by the embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, the purpose of the present disclosure is achieved by the configuration described in the claims and their combinations.

[0011] A control method of an air blowing device for achieving the object of the present disclosure includes the following configuration.

[0012] A control method for an air blowing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a controller determining whether there is precipitation through a rain sensor; the controller determining whether the air blowing device is in automatic mode in a precipitation state; when the air blowing device is in automatic mode in a precipitation state, determining a vehicle speed; and the controller setting a power and a spray angle of the air blowing device by comparing a measured precipitation amount received from the rain sensor with a stored precipitation amount.

[0013] The step of judging the vehicle speed may further include the following steps: comparing the vehicle speed received by the controller with the first vehicle speed; judging that the vehicle is in a stopped state when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first vehicle speed, and comparing the vehicle speed with the second vehicle speed when the vehicle speed exceeds the first vehicle speed; judging that the vehicle is in a low speed state when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the second vehicle speed, and comparing the vehicle speed with a third vehicle speed when the vehicle speed exceeds the second vehicle speed; and judging that the vehicle is in a medium speed state when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the third vehicle speed, and judging that the vehicle is in a high speed state when the vehicle speed exceeds the third vehicle speed.

[0014] When determining the vehicle state in the step of determining the vehicle speed, the controller may compare the measured precipitation received from the rain sensor with a stored precipitation amount. The method may further include the following steps: comparing the measured precipitation with a first precipitation amount stored in the controller; determining that the vehicle is in a light precipitation state when the measured precipitation is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount, and comparing the measured precipitation with a second precipitation amount stored in the controller when the measured precipitation exceeds the first precipitation amount; and determining that the vehicle is in a moderate precipitation state when the measured precipitation is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount, and determining that the vehicle is in a heavy rain state when the measured precipitation exceeds the second precipitation amount.

[0015] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have a first spray angle and a first discharge amount when a precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a stopped state is equal to or less than a first precipitation amount.

[0016] The method may further include controlling the air blowing device to have the first spray angle and the second discharge amount when a precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is stopped exceeds a first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than a second precipitation amount.

[0017] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have the first spray angle and the third discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a stopped state exceeds a second precipitation amount.

[0018] The method may further include controlling the air blowing device to have a third spray angle and a second discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a low speed state is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount.

[0019] The method may further include controlling the air blowing device to have a third spray angle and a third discharge amount when a precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a low speed state exceeds a first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than a second precipitation amount.

[0020] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have the first spray angle and the third discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a low-speed state exceeds a second precipitation amount.

[0021] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have the second spray angle and the first discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a medium speed state is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount.

[0022] The method may further include controlling the air blowing device to have a second spray angle and a second discharge amount when a precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is at a medium speed exceeds a first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than a second precipitation amount.

[0023] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have the first spray angle and the third discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a medium speed state exceeds a second precipitation amount.

[0024] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have a first spray angle and a first discharge amount when a precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a high-speed state is equal to or less than a first precipitation amount.

[0025] The method may further include controlling the air blowing device to have the first spray angle and the third discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured at a high speed of the vehicle exceeds the first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount.

[0026] The method may further include the step of controlling the air blowing device to have the first spray angle and the third discharge amount when the precipitation amount measured while the vehicle is in a high-speed state exceeds a second precipitation amount.

[0027] The step of setting the power and the spray angle of the air blowing device may further include the following steps: the controller measures the flow speed and the flow angle of rain water through the rain water sensor to compensate the spray angle and the spray amount of the air blowing device.

[0028] The step of setting the power and spray angle of the air blowing device may further include the steps of: measuring the flow speed and flow angle of rain on the windshield by a rain sensor; and controlling the power of the air blowing device according to the measured flow speed and flow angle of rain.

[0029] The method may further include the following steps: the controller determines whether the flow velocity of rainwater measured by the rain sensor is greater than or equal to a first reference value and whether the flow angle is less than a second reference value; when the flow velocity of rainwater is greater than or equal to the first reference value and the flow angle of rainwater is less than the second reference value, the controller determines whether the discharge amount of the air blowing device is a maximum value; when the discharge amount of the air blowing device is a maximum value, the controller determines whether the flow angle of rainwater exceeds the second reference value; when the discharge amount of the air blowing device is a maximum value and the flow angle of rainwater exceeds the second reference value, the controller determines whether the spray angle of rainwater is a minimum value; and when the spray angle of rainwater is a minimum value, the controller provides a notification to the user.

[0030] The method may further include the following steps: a controller determines whether the flow velocity of rainwater measured by the rain sensor is less than a first reference value and whether the flow angle of rainwater is greater than or equal to a second reference value; when the flow velocity of rainwater is less than the first reference value and the flow angle of rainwater is greater than or equal to the second reference value, the controller sets the discharge amount of the air blowing device to a maximum value; when the discharge amount of the air blowing device is set to the maximum value, the controller determines whether the flow velocity of rainwater exceeds the first reference value; and when the flow velocity of rainwater exceeds the first reference value, the controller controls to coat the upper surface of the windshield.

[0031] The method may further include the following steps: a controller determines whether the flow velocity of rainwater measured by a rain sensor is less than a first reference value and whether the flow angle of rainwater is less than a second reference value; when the flow velocity of rainwater is less than the first reference value and the flow angle of rainwater is less than the second reference value, the controller determines whether the flow velocity and flow angle of rainwater are a third reference value; when the flow velocity and flow angle of rainwater are the third reference value, the controller measures external information of the vehicle; the controller determines whether the windshield is in a dew point saturation state based on the measured external information; and when the windshield is in a dew point saturation state, the controller drives the glass heater and the blowing heater, and controls the spray angle and discharge amount of the air blowing device to a maximum value.

[0032] The method may further include the following steps, and the step of the controller determining whether there is precipitation through a rain sensor may further include the following steps: when the precipitation state is not satisfied, measuring the vehicle speed and the current opening angle of the cover of the air blowing device, and calculating the ideal opening angle according to the vehicle speed; determining whether the vehicle speed exceeds a fourth vehicle speed; determining whether the opening angle of the cover of the air blowing device is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle; and driving a motor fastened to the cover so that the opening angle of the cover is consistent with the predetermined angle.

[0033] According to the present disclosure, the following effects can be obtained from the configuration, combination, and operational relationship described below.

[0034] The present disclosure has the effect of providing an improved field of view during driving because the pressure and angle of discharged air can be controlled in consideration of the user's driving environment state.

[0035] The present disclosure has an effect of providing a control method of an air blowing device that discharges air in consideration of precipitation and wind direction in the surrounding environment of a vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood and apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air blowing device mounted on a cowl top assembly as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 2 is a view showing a configuration of an air blowing device as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a duct of an air blowing device as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air blowing device as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 5A is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an air blowing device in a vehicle stop state as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 5B is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an air blowing device in a low-speed state as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 5C is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an air blowing device in a medium-speed state as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 5D is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an air blowing device in a high-speed state as an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 6 is a view illustrating a method of controlling a discharge amount of an air blowing device according to a flow speed and a flow angle of water according to an external wind volume as one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0046] Figure 7 : is a view showing a method of controlling the opening amount of the nozzle cover according to the vehicle speed as an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments of the present disclosure can be modified in various ways, and the scope of the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments described below. The embodiments are provided to more thoroughly explain the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0048] The terms “device,” “unit,” “module,” etc. used herein refer to a unit for processing at least one function or operation and can be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0049] The “opening amount” and “opening angle” described herein are terms indicating the degree of opening of the nozzle cover 430 and include the same meaning.

[0050] The “left-right opening amount” and “left-right opening angle” described herein are terms indicating an angle at which the nozzle vane 420 is inclined in the width direction of the vehicle with reference to the length direction of the vehicle, and include the same meaning.

[0051] The “closed state” of the nozzle cover 430 described herein refers to a state in which the discharge port of the nozzle housing 410 is covered by the nozzle cover 430 .

[0052] The reference value stored in the controller may be set to have a larger value as the number represented by the reference value increases.

[0053] Although this document describes a configuration in which the air blowing device is provided inside the cowl top assembly, the air blowing device may be provided in an area adjacent to the windshield, and may be provided inside the hood of the vehicle or at the upper end of the roof, etc. However, this document exemplifies the arrangement of the air blowing device inside the cowl top assembly.

[0054] The present disclosure relates to an air blowing device 100 configured to face a windshield 600. The air blowing device 100 is disposed adjacent to the windshield 600 and can remove dirt on the windshield 600 and improve aerodynamic performance according to a driving state of a vehicle.

[0055] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of the air blowing device 100 of the present disclosure. The air blowing device 100 is provided at the cowl top assembly 500 adjacent to the windshield 600. The air blowing device 100 includes an exhaust port of the air nozzle 400 facing the windshield 600.

[0056] The air blowing device 100 is configured to include air nozzles 400 provided at both ends of the cowl top assembly 500 and facing the windshield 600. The air blowing device 100 is configured such that air flowing into the interior through the side is compressed by the fan assembly 200 and discharged along the windshield 600 through the air nozzles 400 along the duct 300 for fluidly connecting the air nozzles 400 and the fan assembly 200.

[0057] The fan assembly 200 includes a shroud 240 for guiding the flow of inflowing air and blades 230 for compressing the air flowing into the interior along the shroud 240 .

[0058] That is, the fan assembly 200 includes a housing 210 having openings on both sides. Air flowing through the shroud 240 is compressed by the blades 230 rotatably fastened to the motor assembly 220. The compressed air flows to the air nozzle 400 through an opening fastened to one end of the duct 300.

[0059] The controller 800 may include an electronic control unit (ECU) that is provided in the vehicle and receives the amount of rain from the rain sensor. The controller 800 also receives the current speed of the vehicle measured by a vehicle sensor, an acceleration sensor, and the like.

[0060] The controller 800 may measure the flow speed and flow angle of rainwater on the windshield through a plurality of sensing areas located at the rain sensor.

[0061] The controller 800 may control driving of the motor assembly 220 to control the rotational force of the blades 230 of the fan assembly 200 .

[0062] Therefore, the controller 800 of the present disclosure can control the amount of air flowing into the fan assembly 200 according to the driving environment of the vehicle. The controller 800 can also control the amount of compressed air flowing into the interior by controlling the power of the motor assembly 220.

[0063] Furthermore, when the washer fluid injection pressure is applied according to a user's request, the controller 800 of the present disclosure can control the fan assembly 200 according to the washer fluid injection pressure to maximize the compressed air volume. The control can maximize the air compression volume, the air discharge volume, or both the air compression volume and the air discharge volume.

[0064] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 1 shows the connection relationship between the components of the air blowing device 100.

[0065] As shown in the figure, the air blowing device 100 includes a fan assembly 200 fixed to a cowl top cover assembly 500 , and a duct 300 for fluidly connecting the fan assembly 200 and an air nozzle 400 .

[0066] The fan assembly 200 includes a housing 210 having openings on both sides and a shroud 240. The shroud 240 guides the flow of air flowing into the inside of the housing 210. The fan assembly 200 also includes blades 230 disposed adjacent to the shroud 240, which receive rotational force from the motor assembly 220.

[0067] The fan assembly 200 is configured so that air flows in from the side of the vehicle, and thus the open end of the housing 210 may be disposed adjacent to the side of the vehicle.

[0068] The housing 210 adjacent to the side of the vehicle is fastened to the cover 250 so that the blades 230 are not exposed to the outside.

[0069] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fan assembly 200 may be disposed along the width direction of the vehicle such that the open end of the housing 210 faces the side of the vehicle.

[0070] The air flowing into the opening of the housing 210 and into the interior along the shroud 240 is compressed by the rotational force of the blades 230 and is discharged through the other opening of the housing 210 .

[0071] The compressed air discharged through the other opening of the housing 210 flows into one end of the duct 300. The other end of the duct 300 is fastened to one end of the nozzle housing 410 of the air nozzle 400.

[0072] The nozzle housing 410 of the present disclosure may be configured to have a nozzle for discharging compressed air in the same direction as the end fastened to the duct 300. The nozzle housing 410 has an opening fastened to the duct 300 at a lower end and has a nozzle facing the windshield 600 at an upper end, so that the nozzle housing 410 can discharge compressed air at the upper end.

[0073] The rotation speed of the blade 230 is controlled by the controller 800. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the driving amount of the motor assembly 220 and the rotation speed of the blade 230 rotated by the motor assembly 220 are controlled by the controller 800. The compression amount of the inflowing air is determined according to the driving environment of the vehicle.

[0074] The nozzle refers to a space defined within the nozzle housing 410 for discharging compressed air toward the windshield 600 , and thus may be used as the same meaning as the air nozzle 400 .

[0075] The nozzle housing 410 includes a nozzle vane 420 disposed between the discharge spaces of the nozzle and capable of guiding air in the left and right directions, and includes a nozzle cover 430 that opens when the pressure of the compressed air is greater than or equal to a predetermined pressure.

[0076] One or more nozzle vanes 420 may be provided in the nozzle housing 410. The left and right angles of the nozzle vanes 420 may be set by angle adjustment bosses provided on the rear surface of the nozzle cover 430.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the discharge amount of the air blowing device may be determined according to the opening amount of the nozzle cover 430 , and the opening amount may be divided into at least three stages and driven.

[0078] The nozzle vane 420 may set a spray angle of the discharged air. The nozzle cover 430 and the nozzle vane 420 may be controlled by respective drive motors.

[0079] The cowl top assembly 500 disposed adjacent to the air nozzle 400 includes a washer fluid nozzle 700. The washer fluid is sprayed along the windshield 600 together with the compressed air discharged through the air nozzle 400.

[0080] The cleaning liquid nozzles 700 may be respectively disposed between the air nozzles 400. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, two air nozzles 400 and three cleaning liquid nozzles 700 may be disposed.

[0081] The nozzle cover 430 is provided at the opening of the nozzle housing 410 of the air nozzle 400 and is hingedly connected to the upper end of the nozzle housing 410 of the air nozzle 400 so that the nozzle cover 430 opens when the pressure of the exhaust air is greater than or equal to a predetermined pressure. The opening angle of the nozzle cover 430 increases in proportion to the increase in the pressure of the exhaust air.

[0082] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an air blowing device as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] As shown in the figure, whether there is precipitation is determined by a rain sensor provided on the windshield of the vehicle (S110). When it is determined that precipitation occurs, it is determined whether the air blowing device is automatically driven (S120).

[0084] When the air blowing device is automatically driven according to the user's request, the vehicle speed is determined (S130). When the air blowing device is not automatically driven, it is determined that the air blowing device is in manual mode (S200).

[0085] When it is determined that the air blowing device is automatically driven (S120), the vehicle speed is determined (S130), and the power and spray angle of the air blowing device are determined (ie, set) in consideration of the precipitation amount (S140).

[0086] The current vehicle speed is compared with three predetermined reference values, and the precipitation amount is divided into three intervals based on two reference values.

[0087] Furthermore, the controller may be configured to divide the amount of air discharged based on the injection angle and power into three intervals based on the vehicle speed and the amount of precipitation.

[0088] A flowchart for determining the spray angle and discharge amount of the air blowing device based on the vehicle speed and the precipitation amount is described below.

[0089] Figure 5A A process of controlling the air blowing device according to the amount of precipitation when the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than the first vehicle speed ( S131 ) is shown.

[0090] As shown in the figure, when the current vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first vehicle speed (S131) ​​in the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation is equal to or less than the first precipitation stored in the controller (S141), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the first discharge amount (S161).

[0091] When the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first vehicle speed, it can be determined that the vehicle is in a stopped state. In this case, the discharge amount and the spray angle of the air blowing device are controlled according to the precipitation state when the vehicle is stopped.

[0092] When the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first vehicle speed (S131), and the current precipitation exceeds the first precipitation amount stored in the controller and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount stored in the controller (S142), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the second discharge amount (S162).

[0093] When the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first vehicle speed (S131) ​​and the current precipitation exceeds the second precipitation stored in the controller (S143), the spray angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first spray angle (S151) and the discharge amount is controlled to have a third discharge amount (S163).

[0094] That is, when the vehicle is at a speed close to a stop (equal to or less than the first vehicle speed), the air blowing device forms a first spray angle to blow air densely to the main field of view area of ​​the windshield, and as the precipitation increases, the discharge amount increases proportionally.

[0095] Figure 5B A flowchart showing a control method of the air blowing device in a low-speed state (when the current vehicle speed exceeds a first vehicle speed and is equal to or less than a second vehicle speed).

[0096] As shown in the figure, in the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), when the current vehicle speed exceeds the first vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the second vehicle speed (S132), and the current precipitation is equal to or less than the first precipitation stored in the controller (S141), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have a third injection angle (S153), and the discharge amount is controlled to have a second discharge amount (S162).

[0097] However, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the first vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the second vehicle speed (S132) during the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation exceeds the first precipitation and is equal to or less than the second precipitation stored in the controller (S142), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have a third injection angle (S153), and the discharge amount is controlled to have a third discharge amount (S163).

[0098] In addition, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the first vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the second vehicle speed (S132) during the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation exceeds the second precipitation stored in the controller (S143), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the third discharge amount (S163).

[0099] As described above, in the low-speed state, control is performed to improve the field of view of the windshield by providing a large discharge amount to as wide an area as possible.

[0100] However, it is controlled so that as the amount of precipitation increases, the spray angle decreases. Controlling the air blowing device in this way solves the problem of difficulty in ensuring visibility due to heavy rain.

[0101] Figure 5C A flowchart showing a control method of the air blowing device in a medium-speed state (when the current vehicle speed exceeds the second vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the third vehicle speed).

[0102] As shown in the figure, in the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), when the current vehicle speed exceeds the second vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the third vehicle speed (S133), and the current precipitation is equal to or less than the first precipitation stored in the controller (S141), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the second injection angle (S152), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the first discharge amount (S161).

[0103] However, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the second vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the third vehicle speed (S133) during the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation exceeds the first precipitation and is equal to or less than the second precipitation stored in the controller (S142), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the second injection angle (S152), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the second discharge amount (S162).

[0104] In addition, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the second vehicle speed and is equal to or less than the third vehicle speed (S133) in the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation exceeds the second precipitation stored in the controller (S143), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the third discharge amount (S163).

[0105] Figure 5D A flowchart showing a method of controlling the air blowing device in a high-speed state (when the current vehicle speed exceeds a third vehicle speed).

[0106] As shown in the figure, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the third vehicle speed (S134) in the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation is equal to or less than the first precipitation stored in the controller (S141), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the first discharge amount (S161).

[0107] However, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the third vehicle speed (S134) during the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation exceeds the first precipitation and is equal to or less than the second precipitation stored in the controller (S142), the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the third discharge amount (S163).

[0108] In addition, when the current vehicle speed exceeds the third vehicle speed (S134) during the process of judging the vehicle speed (S130), and the current precipitation exceeds the second precipitation (S143) stored in the controller, the injection angle of the air blowing device is controlled to have the first injection angle (S151), and the discharge amount is controlled to have the third discharge amount (S163).

[0109] As described above, in a high-speed state, in a light precipitation state with a small precipitation amount (the current precipitation amount is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount), the air blowing device is controlled to have the first spray angle and the first discharge amount. In a medium precipitation state (the current precipitation amount exceeds the first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount) and a heavy rain state (the current state exceeds the second precipitation amount), the air blowing device is controlled to have the first spray angle and the third discharge amount.

[0110] That is, in a high-speed state where the vehicle speed exceeds the third vehicle speed, the spray angle and the discharge amount are controlled to maximize the discharge amount and prevent the field of view from being instantly obstructed when the predetermined precipitation amount is exceeded.

[0111] In addition, the rain sensor measures the flow angle and flow speed of rainwater flowing on the upper surface of the windshield. Figures 5A-5D When adjusting the spray angle, the flow angle and flow speed of rainwater are considered to compensate the spray angle.

[0112] As reference Figures 5A-5D As described above, the spray angle and the discharge amount of the air blowing device are controlled based on the vehicle speed divided into four parts and the precipitation state divided into three parts.

[0113] Below, refer to Figure 6 A method of controlling the discharge amount of an air blowing device according to the flow speed and flow angle of water according to the external wind volume is described.

[0114] Figure 6 The present invention shows a method for measuring the flow velocity and flow angle of rainwater on a windshield and controlling the corresponding discharge amount of an air blowing device.

[0115] As mentioned above, the flow angle and speed of rainwater on the windshield surface vary depending on the external wind volume. The rain sensor has one or more sensing areas and can measure the speed of rainwater by measuring the time it takes for rainwater to pass through the sensing area.

[0116] The controller sets the power and spray angle of the air blowing device by comparing the amount of precipitation received from the rain sensor with stored values. In other words, when the air blowing device is determined to be in a precipitation state in the automatic mode (basic mode) (S300), the controller measures the flow speed and flow angle of rain on the windshield through the rain sensor.

[0117] Thereafter, the controller controls the power of the air blowing device according to the measured flow velocity and flow angle of the rainwater.The controller compares the stored first reference value with the flow velocity of the rainwater and compares the stored second reference value with the flow angle of the rainwater.

[0118] The first reference value is a flow velocity at which rainwater cannot be removed by blowing air, and the second reference value is a critical flow angle of water that interferes with vision.

[0119] When the flow speed of rainwater is greater than or equal to the first reference value and the flow angle of rainwater is less than the second reference value ( S310 ), the controller determines whether the discharge amount of the air blowing device is a maximum value ( S311 ).

[0120] The first reference value and the second reference value are respectively a speed reference value (first reference value) and an angle reference value (second reference value) of rainwater flowing on the upper surface of the windshield, determined in consideration of the driving of the air blowing device under external wind conditions. The first reference value and the second reference value are set in the controller.

[0121] The second reference value refers to the flow angle of water that interferes with the user's field of vision. When the measured value is less than the second reference value, it means that there is a problem with the user's field of vision due to the flow angle of rainwater.

[0122] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the flow angle of rainwater has a small angle with respect to the width direction of the windshield, the controller may determine that it is less than the second reference value.

[0123] When the discharge amount of the air blowing device is at the maximum value, the controller determines whether the flow angle of the rainwater exceeds the second reference value (S313). When the flow angle of the rainwater exceeds the second reference value, the controller reduces the spray angle of the air blowing device (S314) and determines whether the spray angle is at the minimum value (S315).

[0124] When the spray angle of the air blowing device is at the minimum value (S315) in the above state (S313), the controller notifies the user of the visual field interference state in which additional control cannot be performed through the notification unit (S316).

[0125] When the discharge amount of the air blowing device is not the maximum value (S312) or the flow angle of the rainwater is equal to or less than the second reference value (S313), it returns to the initial step.

[0126] As described above, when the flow velocity of rainwater is higher than the first reference value, rainwater flows, and when the flow angle of rainwater is less than the second reference value, the problem of obstructing the field of view occurs. In this case, the controller controls the discharge amount of the air blowing device to the maximum value and the spray angle to the minimum value.

[0127] Alternatively, when the flow speed of rainwater is less than a first reference value and the flow angle of rainwater is greater than or equal to a second reference value ( S320 ), the controller controls the discharge amount of the air blowing device to be a maximum value ( S321 ).

[0128] Thereafter, the controller determines whether the flow speed of the rainwater exceeds a first reference value (S322). When the flow speed of the rainwater exceeds the first reference value, the controller drives the coating liquid operator to spray the coating liquid onto the upper surface of the windshield (S323).

[0129] However, when the flow speed of the rainwater is equal to or less than the first reference value (S322), the process returns to the initial step.

[0130] When the flow speed of rainwater is less than the first reference value, it means that the speed of rainwater is not applied according to the blowing discharge amount. In this case, the upper surface of the windshield is coated, thereby preventing rainwater from remaining on the upper surface of the windshield.

[0131] Furthermore, when the flow speed of rainwater is less than the first reference value and the flow angle of rainwater is less than the second reference value ( S330 ), the controller determines whether the flow speed and the flow angle of rainwater are third reference values ​​( S331 ).

[0132] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the third reference value is substantially close to 0, which means that rainwater remains on the windshield.

[0133] When the flow speed and flow angle of the rainwater are the third reference values ​​(S331), the external information of the vehicle is measured (S332). In other words, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller measures external humidity, external temperature, and glass temperature information as the external information of the vehicle.

[0134] However, when the flow speed and the flow angle of the rainwater are not the third reference values ​​(S331), the discharge amount of the air blowing device is controlled to be the maximum value and the spray angle is controlled to be the minimum value (S336).

[0135] That is, when the flow speed and the flow angle of rainwater are not the third reference values, and when rainwater flows and the angle is measured according to the flow, the air blowing device is controlled to drive to provide the user with a view.

[0136] The controller determines whether the dew point of the windshield is saturated based on the measured external information (S333). If the dew point of the windshield is saturated, the controller drives the glass heater and the blower heater (S334) and controls the spray angle and discharge volume of the air blower to maximum values ​​(S335).

[0137] As described above, whether dew is formed can be determined based on the flow speed and flow angle of rainwater on the windshield. The controller controls the glass heater, the blowing heater and the air blowing device to provide instantaneous and continuous vision through the windshield where dew is formed.

[0138] Figure 7 A control method of performing a spoiler function by adjusting the angle of the nozzle cover 430 according to a vehicle speed is shown as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] As shown, when precipitation is not measured (S420) in the automatic mode (S410), the controller measures the current position of the motor for opening the lid and calculates the opening angle of the lid of the air blowing device corresponding to the current vehicle speed (S430).

[0140] Thereafter, it is determined whether the vehicle speed exceeds the fourth vehicle speed (S440).When the vehicle speed exceeds the fourth vehicle speed, the controller determines whether the opening angle of the cover of the air blowing device is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle (S450).

[0141] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth vehicle speed may be set to 140 km / h.

[0142] When the opening angle calculated based on the vehicle speed is greater than or equal to the current opening angle of the cover of the air blowing device, the controller forwardly rotates the motor fastened to the cover so that the opening angle of the cover coincides with a predetermined angle (S460).

[0143] Furthermore, when the opening angle calculated based on the vehicle speed is less than the current opening angle of the cover of the air blowing device, the controller reversely rotates the motor fastened to the cover so that the opening angle of the cover coincides with a predetermined angle (S470).

[0144] Therefore, the calculated opening angle of the nozzle cover 430 performing the spoiler function is compared with the current opening angle, so that the nozzle cover 430 is controlled to have the calculated opening angle by driving of the motor fastened to the nozzle cover 430 .

[0145] However, when the air blowing device is not in the automatic mode, the mode is switched to the manual mode (S411). When there is precipitation, it is switched to the basic mode of precipitation and the spray angle and discharge amount of the air blowing device are controlled (S421).

[0146] As described above, the present disclosure provides a control method of an air blowing device including a nozzle cover, by which a field of view of a windshield is provided and the nozzle cover performs a spoiler function when it is not a precipitation state.

[0147] The specification provides examples and embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, the present disclosure can be used in various other combinations, variations, and environments. That is, the present disclosure can be changed or modified within the scope of the present disclosure described herein, within the scope of equivalents of the specification, and / or within the known art of the prior art. The embodiments illustrate the best state for achieving the purpose of the present disclosure, and various changes can be made to the specific application areas and uses of the present disclosure. Therefore, the detailed description is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the disclosed embodiments. In addition, the claims should be interpreted to include other embodiments.

Claims

1. A method for controlling an air blowing device, comprising the following steps: The controller uses the rain sensor to determine whether there is precipitation; The controller determines whether the air blowing device is in automatic mode in a precipitation state; determining a vehicle speed when the air blowing device is in the automatic mode in the precipitation state; and The controller sets the power and spray angle of the air blowing device by comparing the measured precipitation amount received from the rain sensor with the stored precipitation amount, The step of setting the power and spray angle of the air blowing device further includes the following steps: the controller measures the flow velocity and flow angle of rainwater through the rainwater sensor to compensate the spray angle and spray amount of the air blowing device.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein The step of determining the vehicle speed further includes the following steps: Comparing the vehicle speed received by the controller with the first vehicle speed: When the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the first vehicle speed, determining that the vehicle is in a stopped state, and when the vehicle speed exceeds the first vehicle speed, comparing the vehicle speed with a second vehicle speed; When the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the second vehicle speed, determining that the vehicle is in a low speed state, and when the vehicle speed exceeds the second vehicle speed, comparing the vehicle speed with a third vehicle speed; and When the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the third vehicle speed, it is determined that the vehicle is in a medium-speed state, and when the vehicle speed exceeds the third vehicle speed, it is determined that the vehicle is in a high-speed state.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: When determining the state of the vehicle in the step of determining the vehicle speed, the controller compares the measured precipitation amount received from the rain sensor with the stored precipitation amount, wherein the method further includes the following steps: comparing the measured precipitation amount with a first precipitation amount stored in the controller; When the measured precipitation amount is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount, determining that it is in a weak precipitation state, and when the measured precipitation amount exceeds the first precipitation amount, comparing the measured precipitation amount with a second precipitation amount stored in the controller; and When the measured precipitation amount is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount, it is determined to be in a moderate precipitation state, and when the measured precipitation amount exceeds the second precipitation amount, it is determined to be in a heavy rain state.

4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount while the vehicle is in a stopped state, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a first discharge amount.

5. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount while the vehicle is in a stopped state, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a second discharge amount.

6. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the second precipitation amount while the vehicle is in a stopped state, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a third discharge amount.

7. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount in the vehicle at a low speed, the air blowing device is controlled to have a third spray angle and a second discharge amount.

8. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount in a low-speed state of the vehicle, the air blowing device is controlled to have a third spray angle and a third discharge amount.

9. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the second precipitation amount while the vehicle is in a low speed state, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a third discharge amount.

10. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount in a state where the vehicle is at a medium speed, the air blowing device is controlled to have a second spray angle and a first discharge amount.

11. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount in the vehicle at a medium speed, the air blowing device is controlled to have a second spray angle and a second discharge amount.

12. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the second precipitation amount while the vehicle is in a medium speed state, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a third discharge amount.

13. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount is equal to or less than the first precipitation amount in a high-speed state of the vehicle, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a first discharge amount.

14. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the first precipitation amount and is equal to or less than the second precipitation amount in a state where the vehicle is at a high speed, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a third discharge amount.

15. The method according to claim 3, further comprising the steps of: When the measured precipitation amount exceeds the second precipitation amount while the vehicle is in a high-speed state, the air blowing device is controlled to have a first spray angle and a third discharge amount.

16. The method according to claim 1, wherein The step of setting the power and spray angle of the air blowing device further comprises the following steps: Measuring the flow velocity and flow angle of rain on the windshield by the rain sensor; and The power of the air blowing device is controlled according to the measured flow velocity and flow angle of the rainwater.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising the steps of: The controller determines whether the flow velocity of rainwater measured by the rainwater sensor is greater than or equal to a first reference value and whether the flow angle is less than a second reference value; When the flow speed of the rainwater is greater than or equal to the first reference value and the flow angle of the rainwater is less than the second reference value, the controller determines whether the discharge amount of the air blowing device is a maximum value; When the discharge amount of the air blowing device is the maximum value, the controller determines whether the flow angle of the rainwater exceeds the second reference value; When the discharge amount of the air blowing device is at a maximum value and the flow angle of the rainwater exceeds the second reference value, the controller determines whether the spray angle of the rainwater is at a minimum value; as well as When the spray angle of the rainwater is at a minimum value, the controller provides a notification to a user.

18. The method according to claim 16, further comprising the steps of: the controller determining whether the flow velocity of the rainwater measured by the rainwater sensor is less than a first reference value and whether the flow angle of the rainwater is greater than or equal to a second reference value; When the flow speed of the rainwater is less than the first reference value and the flow angle of the rainwater is greater than or equal to the second reference value, the controller sets the discharge amount of the air blowing device to a maximum value; When the discharge amount of the air blowing device is set to a maximum value, the controller determines whether the flow speed of the rainwater exceeds the first reference value; as well as When the flow speed of the rainwater exceeds the first reference value, the controller coats the upper surface of the windshield with a coating liquid.

19. The method according to claim 16, further comprising the steps of: the controller determining whether the flow velocity of the rainwater measured by the rainwater sensor is less than a first reference value and whether the flow angle of the rainwater is less than a second reference value; When the flow speed of the rainwater is less than the first reference value and the flow angle of the rainwater is less than the second reference value, the controller determines whether the flow speed and the flow angle of the rainwater are a third reference value; When the flow speed and the flow angle of the rainwater are the third reference values, the controller measures external information of the vehicle; The controller determines whether the windshield is in a dew point saturation state based on the measured external information; as well as When the windshield is in the dew point saturation state, the controller drives a glass heater and a blow heater, and controls a spray angle and a discharge amount of the air blower to maximum values.

20. A method for controlling an air blowing device, comprising the following steps: The controller uses the rain sensor to determine whether there is precipitation; The controller determines whether the air blowing device is in automatic mode in a precipitation state; determining a vehicle speed when the air blowing device is in the automatic mode in the precipitation state; and The controller sets the power and spray angle of the air blowing device by comparing the measured precipitation amount received from the rain sensor with the stored precipitation amount, When the controller determines that the precipitation state is not satisfied by judging whether there is precipitation through the rain sensor, measuring the vehicle speed and a current opening angle of the cover of the air blowing device, and calculating an ideal opening angle according to the vehicle speed; determining whether the vehicle speed exceeds a fourth vehicle speed; determining whether the opening angle of the cover portion of the air blowing device is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle; as well as A motor fastened to the cover is driven so that the opening angle of the cover coincides with the predetermined angle.

Citation Information

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