Wiping device for a detection system

Abstract

The invention relates to a wiping device (3) for a detection system (1) of a vehicle, comprising an arm (9), a wiper (10), a drive motor (5) for driving the arm (9) and a drive assembly (6) comprising a carriage (8) which moves along a straight line and which connects the drive motor (5) and the arm (9), said arm (9) being carried by said carriage (8). The drive assembly (6) comprises at least one pivotal connection and at least one sliding connection, which are interposed between the drive motor (5) and the arm (9).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of wiping devices for vehicles, and more particularly to devices for wiping optical systems integrated in vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] With continuous innovation in the automotive market, the number of optical systems in vehicles has increased significantly in recent years, especially detection systems such as reversing radar or lidar systems. Consequently, the demand for cleaning these optical systems has increased rapidly.

[0003] A wiping device with an arm and a wiper is known to be installed in the area of ​​an optical system. The motor-driven wiper then directly cleans the optical surfaces of the optical system or the protective screen placed next to the optical system. Therefore, in inclement weather or when cleaning is required, the wiping device ensures optimal visibility of the optical system, with the wiper contacting the optical surfaces or protective screen as it moves.

[0004] The wiper is driven by a drive assembly, which itself is actuated by a drive motor. In the system according to the invention, it is necessary for the rotational motion initiated by the drive motor to generate the linear motion of the wiper blade. This configuration has proven to be complex to implement, particularly in terms of mechanical volume and / or mechanical interference with other components of the system, such as their visible surfaces. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention enables the configuration to be achieved by providing a wiping device for a vehicle inspection system, the wiping device comprising an arm, a wiper, a drive motor for the arm, and a drive assembly comprising a bracket that moves linearly and connects the drive motor and the arm, the arm being carried by the bracket, characterized in that the drive assembly comprises at least one pivotal connection and at least one sliding connection, which are positioned between the drive motor and the arm.

[0006] The drive assembly includes multiple elements that drive the wiper's movement, such as contact with the surface to be cleaned. The function of the drive assembly is to convert the initial rotational motion achieved by the drive motor into linear motion of the arm, and thus into linear motion of the wiper in contact with the surface to be cleaned. Since the bracket carries the arm, the arm's movement depends on the bracket's movement. Therefore, the bracket achieves linear motion, for example, by moving along a guide, which is also a straight line. The bracket's linear motion occurs in two directions of movement along the guide. This allows the wiper to move back and forth while in contact with the surface to be cleaned.

[0007] Pivoting and sliding connections allow the drive assembly to convert the rotational motion of the drive motor into the linear motion of the carriage without interference between the rotational and linear motions. In other words, the linear motion is generated by the rotational motion but is unaffected by the rotation of the rotational motion. Pivoting connections enable the carriage to move, while sliding connections facilitate the carriage movement by eliminating any interference between the rotational and linear motions. Therefore, the wiper can be driven by linear motion and can perform its wiping function.

[0008] According to one feature of the invention, the drive assembly includes at least one rod, pivotally connected between the rod and a bracket. The rod is part of the drive assembly and is used to convert an initial rotational motion into linear motion. The pivotal connection allows the bracket to move. Since the rod can still rotate freely relative to the bracket, the bracket does not necessarily need to follow the same motion as the rod.

[0009] According to one feature of the invention, a sliding connection is disposed between a drive motor and a rod. The drive motor initiates rotational motion, which is transmitted directly or indirectly to the rod. The sliding connection between the drive motor and the rod corresponds to a first variation, wherein the pivoting connection and the sliding connection are located at two different points in the drive assembly.

[0010] According to one feature of the invention, the drive assembly includes at least one rod support rotatably connected to a rotating shaft of a drive motor. The rod includes a first longitudinal end, and a sliding connection is achieved by sliding the first longitudinal end relative to the rod support. Therefore, the drive assembly according to the invention includes a rod support, a rod, and a bracket, the list of which is not exhaustive. The rod support is directly or indirectly connected to the drive motor and is driven to rotate by the drive motor, more specifically, by the rotating shaft of the drive motor. The rod has a principal dimension extending between the rod support and the bracket, corresponding to the longitudinal dimension of the rod. Therefore, the first longitudinal end of the rod is the end where the rod interacts with the rod support. The first longitudinal end of the rod is connected to the rod support and forms a sliding connection with the rod support. In other words, the rod is capable of sliding within the rod support.

[0011] According to one feature of the invention, the rod support includes a slot for receiving a first longitudinal end of the rod, the slot extending along an extension axis that intersects the rotation axis of the drive motor. The slot is sized such that the first longitudinal end of the rod can be received therein and slide freely therein. Therefore, the sliding connection between the rod support and the rod only allows sliding movement of the rod, and the slot in the rod support prevents any other potential movement of the rod. The drive motor transmits its rotational motion to the rod support, which in turn drives the rod to rotate.

[0012] According to one feature of the invention, the rotating shaft of the drive motor includes a flange that is fixed to the rod support and closes the slot. The flange is disposed about the rotating shaft of the drive motor and pivots with the same rotational motion as the rotating shaft. Thus, it is the flange that drives the rod support to rotate through direct contact with the rod support. Furthermore, the flange extends to cover the slot, thereby preventing the rod from dislodging from the slot.

[0013] According to one feature of the invention, a sliding connection is disposed between the bracket and the rod. In a second variation of the first embodiment of the wiping device according to the invention, the pivoting connection and the sliding connection are located at the same height or substantially the same height as the drive assembly, i.e., at the connection between the rod and the bracket. The second variation also allows linear motion of the bracket to be generated from a rotational motion initiated by a drive motor and transmitted by the rod.

[0014] According to one feature of the invention, the drive assembly includes a rod support, the rod being fully connected to the rod support via a complete connection. In this second variation, assuming a sliding connection is provided between the bracket and the rod, there is no longer a sliding connection between the drive motor and the rod. Therefore, the drive assembly can, for example, include a rod support with a slot, but this slot is only used to receive and hold the rod. In other words, the complete connection also prevents the rod from sliding within the slot. With the flange closing the slot, the rod is thus fixed relative to the drive motor. Therefore, the only movement is a rotational motion initiated by the drive motor and transmitted by the rod.

[0015] According to one feature of the invention, the bracket includes a pivot pin, and the rod includes a second longitudinal end having a hole. The sliding connection and pivoting connection are achieved by sliding and rotating the second longitudinal end relative to the pivot pin. In a second variation, the first longitudinal end of the rod is fixedly held to a drive motor or rod support. Therefore, the second longitudinal end of the rod, together with the bracket, forms both a pivoting connection and a sliding connection. For this purpose, the second longitudinal end of the rod includes a hole sized to allow the pivot pin of the bracket to be inserted. This hole has an elongated shape such that the pivot pin of the bracket can only slide in one direction within the hole, forming a sliding connection. However, the hole can pivot freely about the pivot pin, thus forming a pivoting connection. Therefore, due to the interaction between the hole in the second longitudinal end of the rod and the pivot pin of the bracket, the rod can drive the bracket movement via the pivoting connection, without mechanical interference due to the sliding connection.

[0016] According to one feature of the invention, the drive motor is a reversible motor. In other words, the rod support, driven by the drive motor, moves clockwise and counterclockwise, its direction alternating over time. Similarly, the rod is thus also driven to perform reversible rotational motion. It is precisely the reversibility of the rotational motion of the rod support and the rod that allows the bracket to move linearly in the direction of motion, thereby driving the wiper to move back and forth linearly via the support arm, contacting the surface to be cleaned.

[0017] According to one feature of the invention, the drive motor includes a rotating shaft that drives the drive assembly, the rotating shaft extending along a rotation axis intersecting the motion plane of the rod. The motion plane of the rod is understood as a plane defined by the axis along which the rod is driven to move. The rotational motion of the drive motor causes the rotating shaft to rotate about its rotation axis. The rotation of the rotating shaft drives the rotational motion of the rod support. Since the rod is slidably connected to the rod support, the rotation axis of the rotating shaft and the motion plane of the rod intersect each other. This is a first embodiment of the wiping device according to the invention, relating to the position of the drive motor relative to the drive assembly.

[0018] According to one feature of the invention, the drive assembly includes at least one gear driven by the rotating shaft of a drive motor, a connecting rod driven by the gear, and a drive bearing driven by the connecting rod and driving the rod. This is a second embodiment of the wiping device, such that a reversible rotational motion of the drive assembly can be generated from the unidirectional rotational motion of the drive motor. The rotating shaft of the drive motor may be, for example, a worm gear, which rotates to drive the gear. The connecting rod is connected to the gear on one side. The connection between the connecting rod and the gear is offset relative to its center. Therefore, when the gear is driven to rotate, one end of the connecting rod connected to the gear is also driven to rotate. The other end of the connecting rod, away from the gear, is connected to the drive bearing. The mechanism of the connecting rod allows a reversible rotational motion to be generated at the drive bearing, resulting in a reversible rotational motion driving the rod. Thus, based on the unidirectional rotational motion of the drive motor, the rod is driven to perform a reversible rotational motion.

[0019] According to one feature of the invention, the drive bearing includes a crank pin received in an elongated bore disposed in the rod. The rod, driven to rotate, slides through the connection between the elongated bore and the crank pin, and the rod's degree of freedom is restricted by the crank pin.

[0020] According to one feature of the invention, the rotation axis of the drive assembly extends along a rotation axis parallel to the plane of motion of the rod. In this second embodiment, the rotation axis of the drive motor is parallel to the plane of motion of the rod, but does not intersect it. This parallelism is explained by the fact that the rotation axis of the drive motor extends primarily in a direction parallel to the reciprocating motion of the wiper.

[0021] According to one feature of the invention, the drive motor is a motor with a unidirectional rotational direction. In other words, the drive motor rotates in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and the drive assembly is capable of converting the unidirectional rotational motion of the drive motor into reversible rotational motion. Therefore, regardless of the type of drive motor, it is important to ultimately achieve reversible motion so that the wiper can move back and forth while in contact with the surface to be cleaned.

[0022] According to one feature of the invention, the bracket is configured to move linearly along a guide. The guide maintains the linear movement of the bracket. The guide is fixed and extends primarily parallel to the surface to be cleaned. For example, the bracket may include holes corresponding to the dimensions of the guide so that the guide can slide within them. Thus, when the bracket begins to move via the rod, the bracket moves along the guide. Therefore, the linear movement of the bracket remains parallel to the surface to be cleaned.

[0023] This invention also covers a vehicle detection system, including an optical detection device and a wiping device as described above. The optical detection device can be, for example, a reversing radar or lidar type device, or more generally, a sensor for sensing the environment surrounding the vehicle. Therefore, the optical detection device needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain a consistently clear field of view and thus function correctly. Therefore, the wiping device allows the optical detection device to maintain normal operation. Thus, the latter includes a surface to be cleaned, which corresponds to the surface to be cleaned by the wiper. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Further features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description and several exemplary embodiments, which are provided by way of non-limiting indication with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is an overall view of the wiping device according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a second view of the detection system, showing details of the wiping device according to the invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the pivotal connection between the bracket and the rod of the wiping device in a first variant of the first embodiment of the wiping device;

[0028] Figure 4 An embodiment of a sliding connection between a rod and a rod support in a drive assembly according to a first variant of the first embodiment is shown.

[0029] Figure 5 This is an illustration of the pivoting and sliding connections of a first variant of the first embodiment when the bracket is located at one end of the guide;

[0030] Figure 6 This is an illustration of the pivoting and sliding connections of a first variant of the first embodiment when the rod is perpendicular to the guide.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the pivotal and sliding connection between the bracket and the rod of the wiping device in a second variation of the wiping device according to the first embodiment of the wiping device;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the pivot connection and sliding connection of the second variant of the first embodiment when the bracket is located at the end of the guide member;

[0033] Figure 9 This is an illustration of the pivoting and sliding connections of the second variation of the first embodiment when the rod is perpendicular to the guide;

[0034] Figure 10 An embodiment of the pivotal and sliding connection of the drive assembly according to a second embodiment of the wiping device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The trihedral LVT represents the orientation of the wiping device according to the invention, wherein the vertical direction V and the transverse direction T correspond to the axes of the planes defining the optical surfaces of the detection system, and the longitudinal direction L corresponds to the axes perpendicular to the two directions mentioned above.

[0036] Figure 1 A vehicle detection system 1 is described. The detection system 1 includes an optical detection device 2, which is vertically positioned below a wiping device 3. The optical detection device 2 includes at least one optical surface 201, which is at least partially covered by the surface 202 to be cleaned. The optical detection device 2 may be, for example, a reversing radar, a lidar-type device, an ultrasonic radar, or a camera. The optical detection device 2 captures multiple data points, enabling it to create images, detect distances, angles, or positions, particularly through the optical surface 201. To ensure proper functioning of the optical detection device 2, the surface 202 to be cleaned must therefore be unobstructed, for example, not blocked by dust deposited thereon. Therefore, the wiping device 3 wipes the surface 202 to be cleaned.

[0037] The wiping device 3 includes a housing 4. The housing 4 defines an internal volume in which a portion of the wiping device 3 is housed, as will be described below. The housing 4 is divided into an upper portion 41 and a lower portion 42. The upper portion 41 and the lower portion 42 are fastened together, for example, by screwing at a plurality of fixing points 450. The housing 4 defines an opening 46 that extends primarily along a plane defined by a vertical axis V and a horizontal axis T, i.e., parallel to the plane of the surface 202 to be cleaned. A bracket 8 extends from the opening 46 and mechanically carries an arm 9 and a wiper 10. The arm 9 and the wiper 10 extend primarily along the vertical axis V such that the wiper 10 contacts the surface to be cleaned of the optical detection device 2. The main dimension of the wiper 10 is parallel to the vertical axis V and is greater than or equal to the vertical dimension along the vertical axis V of the surface 202 to be cleaned, so that the entire surface is wiped along the vertical axis V when the wiper 3 is in operation.

[0038] Arm 9 may also include a fluid inlet pipe 91 connected to a fluid tank (not shown here). The fluid inlet pipe 91 may extend all the way to the wiper 10 to spray fluid, such as water or cleaning fluid, onto the surface 202 to be cleaned.

[0039] As will be described in more detail below, the bracket 8 is driven to move linearly parallel to the horizontal axis T from one vertical end of the opening 46 to the other. Since the bracket 8 carries the arm 9 and the wiper 10, the wiper 10 is also driven in a linear motion parallel to the horizontal axis T. The wiper 10 thus performs a back-and-forth motion in contact with the surface 202 to be cleaned, in order to wipe the surface. The lateral dimension of the opening 46 is greater than the lateral dimension along the horizontal axis T of the surface 202 to be cleaned, such that the wiper 10 can cover the entire surface 202 to be cleaned when the wiping device 3 is in operation. To enable movement of the bracket 8 within the housing 4 without mechanical bulk, the upper portion 41 of the housing 4 includes a protrusion 47. The protrusion 47 allows for an increase in the internal volume of the housing 4 so that a portion of the bracket 8 can be disposed therein, and the bracket 8 can move without interfering with the upper portion 41 of the housing 4. The protrusion 47 extends primarily along the trajectory of the bracket 8 in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis T.

[0040] The wiping device 3 also includes a drive motor 5, which extends from the housing 4 through the upper part 41. Given the size of the drive motor 5, most of it is located outside the housing 4. Driven by the drive motor 5, the bracket 8 is driven to move linearly along the opening 46.

[0041] Figure 2 Is with Figure 1 The same detection system 1 is illustrated, but without the upper part of the housing, making the contents of the housing visible. Only the lower part 42 of the housing is visible and includes a plurality of interlocking members 48. The upper part of the housing also includes these interlocking members 48 so that the two parts of the housing can be assembled and then fastened together, for example, by a threaded connection. The lower part 42 of the housing also includes a groove 480 extending at least partially around the periphery of the lower part 42. The groove 480 is configured to engage, for example, with ribs on the upper part of the housing, particularly to facilitate securing the two parts together to close the housing.

[0042] Therefore, the drive assembly 6, consisting of the bracket 8, the rod 7, and the rod support 13, can be seen. The drive assembly 6 creates a mechanical connection between the drive motor 5 and the arm 9 so that when the drive motor 5 begins to move, the arm 9 is driven to move linearly.

[0043] exist Figure 2In this configuration, the drive motor 5 is directly connected to the rod support 13. The drive motor 5 includes a rotating shaft 51, shown by a dashed line. The rotating shaft 51 rotates in a reversible rotational motion, i.e., alternating clockwise and counterclockwise rotation. The rotating shaft 51 is disposed within a flange 510. The flange 510 is connected to the rod support 13 by any type of fastening device. The flange 510 rotates in the same manner as the rotating shaft 51, and therefore drives the rod support 13 in the same reversible rotational motion. It is possible to position the drive motor 5 in some other ways, particularly via a connector 49 disposed on the housing.

[0044] Rod 7 extends from rod support 13 to bracket 8. Rod 7, more specifically one end, interacts with rod support 13 via a sliding connection. In other words, rod 7 is capable of sliding in one direction relative to its main axis of extension within rod support 13. For this purpose, rod 7 slides within a slot 131 in rod support 13. The dimensions of slot 131 are adapted to the dimensions of rod 7 so that the latter can be accommodated therein. Therefore, slot 131 extends primarily along an extension axis 135, which is parallel to rod 7 and intersects the rotation axis 51 of drive motor 5. Flange 510 closes slot 131 so that the movement of rod 7 is restricted to sliding only along slot 131. When wiping device 3 is in operation, drive motor 5 drives rod support 13 to rotate, which in turn drives rod 7 to rotate relative to the rotation of rod support 13.

[0045] As can be seen, the rod 7 extends through the sealing strip 15 located between the rod support 13 and the bracket 8. The sealing strip 15 at least partially surrounds the rod support 13, thereby protecting the rod support 13 from any jets of fluid that may occur during the operation of the wiping device 3.

[0046] As described above, the bracket 8 supports the arm 9 and drives the arm 9 to move linearly parallel to the horizontal axis T. For this purpose, the bracket 8 is connected to the first guide 11 and the second guide 12. These two guides are cylindrical and extend parallel to each other, primarily in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis T. These two guides can be secured to the lower part 42 of the housing by any fastening device that restricts their translational and rotational movement relative to the housing.

[0047] When the wiping device 3 is in operation, the bracket 8 moves along the first guide 11 and the second guide 12. Therefore, the presence of the two guides allows the linear movement trajectory of the bracket 8 to be maintained, and similarly, the surface 202 to be cleaned can be reliably wiped by the wiper 10, which maintains permanent contact with the surface 202. To enable the wiper 10 to cover the entire surface 202 to be cleaned, the two guides extend to a dimension parallel to the horizontal axis T, which is at least equal to the dimension parallel to the horizontal axis T of the surface 202 to be cleaned by the detection system 1.

[0048] To ensure the linear movement of the bracket 8, which is driven by the rod 7. Advantageously, the rod 7 and the bracket 8 can be connected together, for example, by a pivotal connection, which will be described in more detail below. Thus, when the rod 7 is driven to rotate by the rod support 13, the bracket 8 is driven to move by the rod 7, and the pivotal connection between the rod 7 and the bracket 8 drives the movement of the bracket 8, which is not a rotational movement similar to that of the rod 7. Furthermore, the sliding connection between the rod support 13 and the rod 7 allows the rod 7 to slide within the rod support 13. As a result, the bracket 8 is able to move linearly along the two guides, and the rotational movement of the rod 7, more specifically, does not mechanically interfere with the linear movement of the bracket 8, because the distance between the rod support 13 and the bracket 8 varies depending on the position of the bracket 8 along the two guides.

[0049] As described above, the rotational motion of the drive motor 5 is reversible. For this purpose, the drive motor 5 can be, for example, a reversible drive motor 5, or include a reversible mechanism. Because the drive motor 5 is connected to the rod support 13, the rod support 13 and the rod 7 also move in a reversible rotational motion. Therefore, the range of motion of the drive motor 5, the rod support 13, and the rod 7 corresponds to an angular sector whose size depends on the activity of the drive motor 5. Thus, this reversible rotational motion allows the bracket 8 to move in a reversible linear motion, that is, to move a given distance along a given axis in a first direction, and then move the same given distance along the same given axis in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In other words, under the influence of the reversible rotational motion of the rod 7, the bracket 8 moves back and forth along the first guide 11 and the second guide 12. The angular sector of the range of motion of the drive motor 5, the rod support 13, and the rod 7 is advantageously determined such that the bracket 8 moves over the entirety of the two guides without colliding with the lower part 42 of the housing. Therefore, the reversible linear motion of the bracket 8 causes the wiper 10 to move back and forth in contact with the surface 202 to be cleaned, thereby ensuring the function of the cleaning device 3 in the detection system 1.

[0050] A channel 40 can be seen formed in the lower part 42 of the housing. The channel 40 extends mainly parallel to the transverse axis T and lies on the trajectory of the bracket 8. In a manner similar to the protrusion on the upper part of the housing, the channel 40 allows for an increase in the internal volume of the housing 4 so that a portion of the bracket 8 can be disposed therein, and the bracket 8 can be moved without interfering with the lower part 42 of the housing.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of bracket 8 and rod 7. Bracket 8 extends primarily in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L so that it can extend from the housing through an opening, as shown in the previous figure.

[0052] The bracket 8 includes a hole 81 extending through it in a direction parallel to the transverse axis T. The hole 81 has a cylindrical shape, into which a sleeve 86 is inserted. The sleeve 86 also has a cylindrical shape, and its dimensions allow it to be accommodated within the hole 81. The dimension of the sleeve 86 relative to the transverse axis T is smaller than its dimension relative to the transverse axis T of the hole 81, specifically ensuring that the sleeve 86 does not mechanically interfere with protrusion from the hole 81. The sleeve 86 can be fastened in the hole 81, for example, by adhesive bonding. Once completed, a first guide can be inserted into the sleeve 86. Thus, the interaction between the hole 81, the sleeve 86, and the first guide forms a sliding connection of the bracket 8. The sleeve 86 provides anti-friction functionality so that the bracket 8 can move smoothly along the first guide.

[0053] The bracket 8 also includes a notch 82 at one of its longitudinal ends, which is juxtaposed with the hole 81. As seen in the plane LV, the notch 82 is U-shaped, having an opening portion oriented away from the hole 81. The notch 82 is configured to receive... Figure 2 A second guide is visible in the image. The second guide and the recess 82 can be fastened together, for example, by a clip. The recess 82 also includes a housing 89 on one of its inner walls. The housing 89 is capable of holding a pad to limit friction between the second guide and the recess 82 of the bracket 8.

[0054] A hole 81 is located between a notch 82 and a connecting member 84 at the end of the bracket 8. The connecting member 84 is disposed at the protruding end of the housing and functions to support the linear movement of the arm and drive the arm. The connecting member 84 can be of various types, but its main function is to hold the arm in place without causing mechanical interference.

[0055] The bracket 8 also includes a pivot pin 85. It is through the pivot pin 85 that the connection between the bracket 8 and the rod 7 is established. As described above, it is the rod 7 that drives the bracket 8 to move along the guide. Therefore, the rod 7 drives the bracket 8 via the pivot pin 85, while simultaneously allowing free rotation about the latter. The pivot pin 85 is advantageously positioned in the region of the hole 81 because the movement of the bracket 8 is based on the first guide.

[0056] Advantageously, the bracket 8 may include protrusions 83. For example, there are two protrusions 83, which are symmetrically arranged with respect to the plane of symmetry of the bracket 8, which is parallel to the plane LV. The protrusions 83 are disposed in the portion of the bracket 8 facing the housing opening and protrude from the bracket 8 in a direction parallel to the transverse axis T. When the opening is equipped with means for sealing an internal volume, for example, formed by a lip seal, the protrusions 83 cooperate with the opening in the housing. Thus, when the bracket 8 moves, the protrusions 83 can open a channel through the lip seal so that the bracket 8 can move along the opening, particularly in both directions of linear movement of the bracket 8. To facilitate the passage of the bracket 8 through the lip seal, each protrusion has a conical shape, allowing the lip seal to open gradually and smoothly.

[0057] The movement of the bracket 8 is initiated by the rod 7. The connection between the rod 7 and the bracket 8 corresponds to a first variation of the first embodiment of the wiping device according to the invention. Figure 3 The rod 7 can be seen, particularly at the end connected to the bracket 8. The rod 7 includes a first longitudinal end 74 and a second longitudinal end 75. The first longitudinal end 74 interacts with a rod support, which will be described in detail below. The second longitudinal end 75 interacts with the bracket 8. For this purpose, the second longitudinal end 75 of the rod 7 is provided with an orifice 72 into which the pivot pin 85 of the bracket 8 is inserted. According to a first variation of the first embodiment of the wiping device, the association between the orifice 72 of the rod 7 and the pivot pin 85 of the bracket 8 forms a pivotal connection 78. The pivotal connection 72 pivots freely about the pivot pin 85. Therefore, the rod 7 drives the translational movement of the bracket 8 without causing its rotational movement.

[0058] In order for the rod 7 to be connected to the bracket 8, the rod 7 includes a step 73. The step 73 is S-shaped and is designed to accommodate the vertical position of the rod 7 relative to the bracket 8 so that a pivot connection 78 can be established without mechanical interference.

[0059] Figure 4 An embodiment of the sliding connection 79 according to a first variant of the first embodiment is depicted. The first longitudinal end 74 of the rod 7 is fitted into a slot 131 of the rod support 13 to form the sliding connection 79. The rod 7 also slides through a member for moving the sealing strip 15 so that the sealing strip 15 can follow the rotational movement of the rod 7 without mechanical interference. In contrast to the rod support 13, the rod 7 includes an aperture 72 that allows for pivotal connection to a bracket (not shown).

[0060] When the drive motor 5 is mounted on the rod support 13 via the rotating shaft 51 and flange 510, the slot 131 in the rod support 13 is thus closed by the flange 510 of the drive motor 5 to prevent any movement of the rod 7 relative to the rod support 13 along the vertical axis V. The rotating shaft 51 extends primarily along the vertical axis V and rotates about the rotation axis 500. When the wiping device is in operation, the drive motor 5 drives the rod support 13 to rotate and, in turn, drives the rod 7 through the slot 131. The rod 7 performs the rotational movement and, similarly, drives the sealing strip 15 to move via a component for initiating the movement. The sealing strip 15 then slides along a groove 16 formed in the lower portion 42 of the housing. The groove 16 may, for example, be molded in the lower portion 42 of the housing and at least partially surrounds the rod support 13. The sealing strip 15 moves within the groove 16, its movement being in phase with the movement of the rod 7. The arc length of the groove 16 is greater than the arc length of the sealing strip 15, so that the sealing strip 15 can have a certain degree of freedom within the groove 16, which needs to be proportional to the amplitude of the rotational movement of the rod 7. Therefore, the sealing strip 15 protects the rod support 13 from any jet fluid, while the sealing strip 15 does not mechanically impede the movement of the sealing strip 7.

[0061] The rod 7 moves along a motion plane 700, which is defined by the extension axis 705 of the rod 7 and the transverse axis T. In a first embodiment of the drive assembly, the rotation axis 500 of the rotation shaft 51 of the drive motor 5 intersects the motion plane 700 of the rod 7. More specifically, the rotation axis 500 is perpendicular to the motion plane 700.

[0062] Figure 5 A top view shows a mechanism of pivot connection 78 and sliding connection 79 of a first variant according to the first embodiment, depending on the positions of rod 7 and bracket 8. Figure 5 The first position is shown, in which the bracket 8 is located at one lateral end of the first guide 11.

[0063] As described above, when the wiping device is in operation, a drive motor (not shown here) drives the rod support 13, and similarly drives the rod 7, to rotate in a reversible rotational motion. The bracket 8 moves along the first guide 11 in a reversible linear motion, particularly via a pivot connection 78 (shown in dashed lines) that connects the orifice of the rod 7 to the pivot pin of the bracket 8. A sliding connection 79 between the rod support 13 (more specifically, slot 131) and the first longitudinal end 74 of the rod 7 allows the rod 7 to slide within the rod support 13 while reducing the distance separating the rod support 13 from the first guide 11. Specifically, the distance between the bracket 8 and the rod support 13 is variable as the bracket 8 moves along the first guide 11, depending on whether the bracket 8 is located at the lateral end of the guide or at an intermediate level between the lateral ends of the two guides.

[0064] When the bracket 8 is located at one of the lateral ends of the two guides, the rod 7 moves by a first sliding movement 701 to cover the distance between the bracket 8 and the rod support 13. The first sliding movement 701 occurs in a direction oriented towards the bracket 8, influenced by the rotational movement of the rod support 13 and the movement of the bracket 8 along the first guide 11. The sliding connection 79 thus allows the rod 7 to accompany the bracket 8 to the lateral end of the guide.

[0065] Figure 6 A first variant of the drive assembly 6, still according to the first embodiment, is shown, in which the main axis 705 of the extension of the rod 7 is perpendicular to the main dimension of the first guide 11. In other words, the main axis 705 of the extension of the rod 7 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. In this case, the distance between the bracket 8 and the rod support 13 is less than [missing information]. Figure 5 This is the situation shown, that is, when the bracket 8 is located at one of the lateral ends of the first guide. Therefore, the rod 7 slides in the rod support 13 with a second sliding movement 702 oriented away from the bracket 8. From Figure 6 As can be seen, rod 7 passes through rod support 13 and thus exits from the latter. Therefore, sliding connection 79 allows drive assembly 6 to drive the linear motion of the arm and wiper based on the rotational motion of the drive motor, without any mechanical interference between any parts of drive assembly 6, namely rod support 13, rod 7 and bracket 8.

[0066] Figure 7 A second variant of the rod 7 and bracket 8 according to the first embodiment of the wiping device is shown. According to this second variant, both the pivot connection 78 and the sliding connection 79 are realized between the rod 7 and the bracket 8. According to this second variant, the bracket 8 is the same as in the first variant. Therefore, a detailed description of the bracket 8 will be referred to... Figure 3 The description.

[0067] In this second variation, the second longitudinal end 75 of the rod 7 includes a hole 76. The hole 76 is an elongated shape. The elongated shape of the hole 76 extends parallel to the elongated principal axis 705 of the rod 7. The hole 76 is capable of receiving a pivot pin 85 of the bracket 8, into which the pivot pin 85 can be inserted. Similar to the first variation, the rod 7 can pivot freely about the pivot pin 85 of the bracket 8. Furthermore, the elongated shape of the hole 76 of the rod 7 allows the pivot pin 85 to slide along the hole 76. Therefore, according to this second variation, the association between the pivot pin 85 of the bracket 8 and the hole 76 in the rod 7 forms a pivotal connection 78 and a sliding connection 79.

[0068] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A top view shows a mechanism of pivotal connection 78 and sliding connection 79, depending on the positions of rod 7 and bracket 8, according to a second variation of the first embodiment. Figure 5 and 6The situation shows two locations. Figure 8 The first position is shown, in which the bracket 8 is located at one lateral end of the first guide 11. Figure 9 The second position is shown, in which the main axis 705 of the extension of rod 7 is perpendicular to the first guide 11. Figure 8 and 9 As can be seen, the first longitudinal end 74 of the rod 7 is connected to the rod support 13 via a fully connected link 137. The fully connected link 137 holds the rod 7 within the slot 131 in a completely fixed manner. Therefore, with respect to the second variation of the first embodiment, the rod 7 will not move relative to the rod support 13.

[0069] The rod 7 is driven to rotate by the rod support 13 and drives the bracket 8 to move via the pivot connection 78, while simultaneously rotating freely about the pivot pin 85 of the bracket 8. As the bracket 8 is driven to move linearly toward the lateral end of the first guide 11, the distance between the rod support 13 and the bracket 8 increases. Therefore, the pivot pin 85 slides along the hole 76 in the first sliding direction 801, specifically to allow the bracket 8 to reach the lateral end of the first guide 11 without interfering with the rod 7.

[0070] exist Figure 9 In this configuration, when the extension axis 705 of rod 7 is perpendicular to the first guide 11, the distance between rod support 13 and bracket 8 decreases. Pivot pin 85 then slides along hole 76 in the second sliding direction 802. Therefore, according to the second variation of the first embodiment, both pivot connection 78 and sliding connection 79 are established by hole 76 and pivot pin 85. Pivot connection 78 allows rod 7 to move bracket 8. Sliding connection allows pivot pin 85 to slide along hole 76 so as not to cause mechanical interference between rod 7 and bracket 8. Assuming that, unlike the first variation, full connection 137 secures rod 7 within rod support 13.

[0071] Figure 10 A second embodiment of the wiping device is shown, with more specifically the arrangement of the drive motor 5 and the drive assembly 6. In this second embodiment, the drive motor 5 still includes its rotation shaft 51, which extends along the rotation axis 500. Unlike the first embodiment, the rotation axis 500 extends parallel to the transverse axis T.

[0072] The rotating shaft 51 contacts the gear 21, more specifically its edge surface 212, which is provided with teeth. The gear 21 extends primarily along the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T. To interact with the gear 21, the rotating shaft 51 of the drive motor 5 can be, for example, a worm gear with a pitch that matches the teeth of the gear 21. Therefore, when the drive motor 5 starts operating, the worm gear rotates itself, resulting in the rotation of the gear 21, which is unidirectional, that is, rotation only in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0073] Gear 21 is also connected to connecting rod 18. Connecting rod 18 has a first fastener 181 located at one end of connecting rod 18 and connected to the face 213 of gear. When gear 21 is driven to rotate by the rotating shaft 51 of drive motor 5, the first fastener 181 of connecting rod 18 also performs a rotational motion, which is circular and unidirectional around the center 211 of gear 21.

[0074] Link 18 includes a second fastener 182 located at the opposite end of the first fastener 181. The second fastener 182 is connected to the drive bearing 19. The second fastener 182 of link 18 drives the drive bearing 19 to oscillate. The mechanism of link 18 means that although gear 21 and the first fastener 181 of link 18 rotate in one direction, the second fastener 182 of link 18 drives the drive bearing 19 to perform a reversible rotational motion, i.e., oscillation. Therefore, the reversible rotational motion of the drive bearing 19 initiates the reversible rotational motion of the lever 7 and the reversible linear motion of the bracket (not shown here).

[0075] In this second embodiment, the rod 7 still includes an aperture 72 for allowing pivotal connection to the support arm and the wiper bracket, and at its opposite end also includes an elongated hole 71, for example, passing through the vertical dimension of the rod 7 along the vertical axis V, and extending primarily along the main extension axis 705 of the rod 7. The drive bearing 19 includes a crank pin 191, which is sized to be inserted into the elongated hole 71 of the rod 7. Thus, in this second embodiment, the connection between the elongated hole 71 in the rod 7 and the crank pin 191 of the drive bearing 19 acts as a sliding connection 79. Besides the reversible rotational motion transmitted via the drive bearing 19 and the sliding of the rod 7 along the crank pin 191, the crank pin 191 prevents any movement of the rod 7.

[0076] The crank pin 191 and the drive bearing 19 are integral. Therefore, the movement of the crank pin 191 is the same as the movement of the drive bearing 19, i.e., reversible rotational movement. The center of the crank pin 191 remains stationary, only its end moves. In this way, the crank pin 191 drives the rod 7 to perform reversible rotational movement. In contrast, the rod 7 can move along its extended main axis 705, thereby compensating for any increase or decrease in the distance separating the bracket from the crank pin 191.

[0077] The connection between the rods 7 has been discussed in the description of the first embodiment above, and can be adapted to this second embodiment. Since the rod 7 slides along the crank pin 191, the rotational motion of the rod 7 and the linear motion of the bracket do not interfere with each other. Note that the amplitude of the rotational motion of the rod 7 depends on the diameter of the gear 21 and also on the distance between the first fastener 181 of the connecting rod 18 and the center 211 of the gear 21. The rod 7 begins to move on the motion plane 700, which in this case is parallel to and does not intersect with the rotation axis 500 of the rotation shaft 51 of the drive motor 5.

[0078] Therefore, in this second embodiment, the drive assembly 6 comprises a gear 21, a connecting rod 18, a drive bearing 19 (which includes a crank pin 191), a rod 7, and a support frame. This second embodiment allows the unidirectional rotational motion of the drive motor 5's rotating shaft 51 to be transmitted to the wiper, so that the wiper can perform its wiping function when in contact with the surface to be cleaned by the detection system.

[0079] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples just described, and various modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0080] As described above, the present invention achieves its stated objectives and enables the provision of a wiping device comprising a drive motor and a drive assembly including a pivotal connection and a sliding connection for converting rotational motion into linear motion without mechanical interference. Variations not described herein may be implemented without departing from the invention, provided they incorporate the wiping device according to the invention.

Claims

1. A wiping device (3) for a vehicle inspection system (1), comprising an arm (9), a wiper (10), a drive motor (5) for the arm (9), and a drive assembly (6), the drive assembly comprising a bracket (8) for linear movement and connecting the drive motor (5) and the arm (9), the arm (9) being supported by the bracket (8), characterized in that, The drive assembly (6) includes at least one pivot connection (78) and at least one sliding connection (79) between the drive motor (5) and the arm (9), and wherein the drive assembly (6) includes at least one rod (7), the pivot connection (78) being disposed between the rod (7) and the bracket (8).

2. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The sliding connection (79) is disposed between the drive motor (5) and the rod (7).

3. The wiping device (3) as described in claim 2, wherein, The drive assembly (6) includes at least one rod support (13) rotatably connected to a rotating shaft (51) of the drive motor (5), the rod (7) including a first longitudinal end (74), and the sliding connection (79) is realized by sliding the first longitudinal end (74) relative to the rod support (13).

4. The wiping device as described in claim 3, wherein, The rod support (13) includes a slot (131) in which a first longitudinal end (74) of the rod (7) is received. The slot (131) extends along an extension axis (135) that intersects the rotation axis (500) of the rotation axis (51) of the drive motor (5).

5. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The rotating shaft (51) of the drive motor (5) includes a flange (510) which is fixed to the rod support (13) and closes the slot (131).

6. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The sliding connection (79) is disposed between the bracket (8) and the rod (7).

7. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The drive assembly (6) includes a rod support (13), and the rod (7) is connected to the rod support (13) via a full connection (137).

8. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 6 or 7, wherein, The bracket (8) includes a pivot (85), the rod (7) includes a second longitudinal end (75) having a hole (76), and the sliding connection (79) and the pivot connection (78) are realized by the second longitudinal end (75) sliding and rotating relative to the pivot pin (85).

9. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The drive assembly (6) includes at least one gear (21) driven by the rotating shaft (51) of the drive motor (5), a connecting rod (18) driven by the gear (21), and a drive bearing (19) driven by the connecting rod (18) and driving the rod (7).

10. The wiping device (3) as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The drive bearing (19) includes a crank pin (191) which is received in an elongated hole (71) provided in the rod (7).

11. The wiping device (3) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The bracket (8) is configured to move linearly on the guides (11, 12).

12. A vehicle inspection system (1) comprising an optical inspection device (2) and a wiping device (3) as described in any of the preceding claims.

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