A sensor-based washing device and vehicle

Abstract

This application relates to a sensor washing device and a vehicle, belonging to the field of vehicle component technology. The device includes: a washing liquid tank; a nozzle connected to the washing liquid tank via a washing pump; and a nozzle control mechanism for controlling the nozzle to extend and retract in a first direction and rotate on a first plane and a second plane; wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction. This application utilizes the nozzle control mechanism to adjust the washing direction of the nozzle, thereby cleaning the sensors installed on the vehicle body to ensure that they can successfully provide corresponding functional services to the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle component technology, specifically to a sensor washing device and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In today's automotive industry, as vehicles become increasingly feature-rich, the number of sensors installed on them is also increasing, especially cameras. These sensors are used to capture images of the vehicle from different angles. To ensure the clarity of the captured images, the cameras need to be cleaned regularly.

[0003] Traditional cleaning methods mostly involve manual, timed cleaning of cameras, which is cumbersome, requires meticulous attention to detail, and is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Therefore, it negatively impacts the driver's daily driving experience to some extent.

[0004] Therefore, a sensor washing technology is provided to meet the sensor cleaning requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a sensor washing device and a vehicle, which uses a nozzle control mechanism to adjust the washing direction of the nozzles to clean the sensors installed on the vehicle body, so as to ensure that they can successfully provide corresponding functional services to the vehicle.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a sensor-based washing device, the device comprising:

[0007] Detergent tank;

[0008] A nozzle, wherein the nozzle is connected to the washing liquid tank via a washing pump;

[0009] A nozzle control mechanism is used to control the nozzle to extend and retract in a first direction and to rotate on a first plane and a second plane; wherein...

[0010] The first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction.

[0011] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism includes:

[0012] First telescopic motor;

[0013] A transmission link that is connected to the first telescopic motor;

[0014] A transverse rotation drive motor is connected to the transmission link.

[0015] A longitudinal rotation drive motor is mounted on the transmission link;

[0016] A nozzle fixing bracket is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor; wherein...

[0017] The first telescopic motor drives the transmission link to extend or retract in a first direction;

[0018] The transverse rotation drive motor drives the transmission link to rotate on the first plane, and the rotation center axis of the transmission link on the first plane is the center axis of the transmission link.

[0019] The longitudinal rotation drive motor drives the nozzle fixing bracket to rotate on the second plane;

[0020] The nozzle is mounted on the nozzle mounting bracket.

[0021] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0022] The nozzle assembly bracket has an internal cavity for the telescopic movement of the transmission linkage; wherein,

[0023] Driven by the first telescopic motor, one end of the transmission link moves telescopically in a first direction within the nozzle assembly bracket.

[0024] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0025] Telescopic transmission gear; wherein,

[0026] The first telescopic motor is connected to the transmission link via the telescopic transmission gear.

[0027] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0028] Lateral rotary transmission gear; wherein

[0029] The transverse rotation drive motor is connected to the transmission link via the transverse rotation transmission gear.

[0030] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0031] Hinge mechanism; wherein,

[0032] One end of the hinge mechanism is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor, and the other end of the hinge mechanism is hinged to the nozzle fixing bracket.

[0033] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0034] Fixed bracket connector; wherein,

[0035] The two ends of the fixed bracket connector are respectively hinged to the bottom surface of the nozzle fixed bracket and the side wall of the transmission link.

[0036] The fixed bracket connector maintains its connection with the transmission link during the rotation of the nozzle fixed bracket under the drive of the longitudinal rotation drive motor.

[0037] Furthermore, the device also includes:

[0038] A decorative cover is provided to protect the nozzle and the nozzle control mechanism.

[0039] Furthermore, the device also includes:

[0040] The control unit is used to control the opening and closing of the first telescopic motor, the lateral rotation drive motor, and the longitudinal rotation drive motor.

[0041] Secondly, this application provides a vehicle, the vehicle comprising:

[0042] Vehicle body;

[0043] Sensor washing device, the sensor washing device comprising:

[0044] A washer fluid tank mounted on the vehicle body;

[0045] A nozzle, wherein the nozzle is connected to the washing liquid tank via a washing pump;

[0046] A nozzle control mechanism mounted on the vehicle body is used to control the nozzle's extension and retraction in a first direction and its rotation on a first plane and a second plane; wherein...

[0047] The first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction.

[0048] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism includes:

[0049] First telescopic motor;

[0050] A transmission link that is connected to the first telescopic motor;

[0051] A transverse rotation drive motor is connected to the transmission link.

[0052] A longitudinal rotation drive motor is mounted on the transmission link;

[0053] A nozzle fixing bracket is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor; wherein...

[0054] The first telescopic motor drives the transmission link to extend or retract in a first direction;

[0055] The transverse rotation drive motor drives the transmission link to rotate on the first plane, and the rotation center axis of the transmission link on the first plane is the center axis of the transmission link.

[0056] The longitudinal rotation drive motor drives the nozzle fixing bracket to rotate on the second plane;

[0057] The nozzle is mounted on the nozzle mounting bracket.

[0058] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0059] The nozzle assembly bracket has an internal cavity for the telescopic movement of the transmission linkage; wherein,

[0060] Driven by the first telescopic motor, one end of the transmission link moves telescopically in a first direction within the nozzle assembly bracket.

[0061] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0062] Telescopic transmission gear; wherein,

[0063] The first telescopic motor is connected to the transmission link via the telescopic transmission gear.

[0064] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0065] Lateral rotary transmission gear; wherein

[0066] The transverse rotation drive motor is connected to the transmission link via the transverse rotation transmission gear.

[0067] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0068] Hinge mechanism; wherein,

[0069] One end of the hinge mechanism is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor, and the other end of the hinge mechanism is hinged to the nozzle fixing bracket.

[0070] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism also includes:

[0071] Fixed bracket connector; wherein,

[0072] The two ends of the fixed bracket connector are respectively hinged to the bottom surface of the nozzle fixed bracket and the side wall of the transmission link.

[0073] The fixed bracket connector maintains its connection with the transmission link during the rotation of the nozzle fixed bracket under the drive of the longitudinal rotation drive motor.

[0074] Furthermore, the sensor washing device also includes:

[0075] A decorative cover is provided to protect the nozzle and the nozzle control mechanism.

[0076] Furthermore, the sensor washing device also includes:

[0077] The control unit is used to control the opening and closing of the first telescopic motor, the lateral rotation drive motor, and the longitudinal rotation drive motor.

[0078] The beneficial effects of the technical solution provided in this application include:

[0079] This application utilizes a nozzle control mechanism to adjust the washing direction of the nozzles, thereby cleaning the sensors installed on the vehicle body to ensure that they can smoothly provide the corresponding functional services for the vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0080] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0081] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the sensor washing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0082] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the washing liquid tank, nozzle, and washing pump in the sensor washing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0083] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the control circuit of the sensor washing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0084] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle structure provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0085] In the picture:

[0086] 1. Washing liquid tank; 10. Liquid level sensor; 11. Washing pipe; 2. Nozzle; 3. Washing pump; 4. Nozzle control mechanism; 40. First telescopic motor; 400. Telescopic transmission gear; 41. Transmission link; 42. Lateral rotation drive motor; 420. Lateral rotation transmission gear; 43. Longitudinal rotation drive motor; 430. Hinge mechanism; 44. Nozzle fixing bracket; 440. Fixing bracket connector; 45. Nozzle assembly bracket; 5. Decorative cover; 6. Control unit; 7. Vehicle body. Detailed Implementation

[0087] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0088] The embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0089] This application provides a sensor washing device and a vehicle. By using a nozzle control mechanism to adjust the washing direction of the nozzle, the sensors installed on the vehicle body are cleaned to ensure that they can successfully provide the corresponding functional services to the vehicle.

[0090] To achieve the aforementioned technical effects, the overall concept of this application is as follows:

[0091] A sensor-based washing device, the device comprising:

[0092] Washing liquid tank 1;

[0093] Nozzle 2, which is connected to the washing liquid tank 1 via washing pump 3;

[0094] Nozzle control mechanism 4 is used to control the extension and retraction of nozzle 2 in a first direction and its rotation on a first plane and a second plane; wherein,

[0095] The first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction.

[0096] The embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0097] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a sensor-based washing device, the device comprising:

[0098] Washing liquid tank 1;

[0099] Nozzle 2, which is connected to the washing liquid tank 1 via washing pump 3;

[0100] Nozzle control mechanism 4 is used to control the extension and retraction of nozzle 2 in a first direction and its rotation on a first plane and a second plane; wherein,

[0101] The first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction.

[0102] In addition, the second plane is parallel to the first direction.

[0103] It should be noted that in order to enable the cleaning of sensors such as cameras that can adjust their own position, the nozzles of the traditional washing system need to be made more free so that they can also adjust their own position and angle during cleaning, so as to meet the appearance perception quality requirements of the whole vehicle layout when they are stationary and not working.

[0104] When in operation, it can change its own position and angle, such as by extending, retracting, or rotating, to ensure that it can complete the function of cleaning the sensor.

[0105] In this embodiment of the application, in order to ensure the scalability and versatility of the washing system, the nozzle assembly can integrate the transmission structure and motor into a universal assembly, so that the same nozzle assembly can be used in different equipment locations, thus ensuring its portability.

[0106] In this embodiment, a nozzle control mechanism is used to adjust the washing direction of the nozzles, thereby cleaning the sensors installed on the vehicle body to ensure that they can smoothly provide corresponding functional services to the vehicle.

[0107] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 includes:

[0108] First telescopic motor 40;

[0109] The transmission link 41 is connected to the first telescopic motor 40.

[0110] A transverse rotation drive motor 42 is connected to the transmission link 41 in a transmission connection.

[0111] A longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 is mounted on the transmission link 41;

[0112] The nozzle fixing bracket 44 is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 for transmission; wherein...

[0113] The first telescopic motor 40 drives the transmission link 41 to extend or retract in a first direction;

[0114] The transverse rotation drive motor 42 drives the transmission link 41 to rotate on the first plane, and the rotation center axis of the transmission link 41 on the first plane is the center axis of the transmission link 41.

[0115] The longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 drives the nozzle fixing bracket 44 to rotate on the second plane;

[0116] The nozzle 2 is mounted on the nozzle fixing bracket 44.

[0117] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0118] The nozzle assembly bracket 45 has an internal cavity for the telescopic movement of the transmission link 41; wherein,

[0119] Driven by the first telescopic motor 40, one end of the transmission link 41 extends and retracts within the nozzle assembly bracket 45 in a first direction.

[0120] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0121] Telescopic transmission gear 400; wherein,

[0122] The first telescopic motor 40 is connected to the transmission link 41 via the telescopic transmission gear 400.

[0123] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0124] Horizontal rotary transmission gear 420; wherein,

[0125] The transverse rotation drive motor 42 is connected to the transmission link 41 via the transverse rotation transmission gear 420.

[0126] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0127] Hinge mechanism 430; wherein,

[0128] One end of the hinge mechanism 430 is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43, and the other end of the hinge mechanism 430 is hinged to the nozzle fixing bracket 44.

[0129] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0130] Fixed bracket connector 440; wherein,

[0131] The two ends of the fixed bracket connector 440 are respectively hinged to the bottom surface of the nozzle fixed bracket 44 and the side wall of the transmission connecting rod 41.

[0132] The fixed bracket connector 440 maintains its connection with the transmission link 41 during the rotation of the nozzle fixed bracket 44 driven by the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43.

[0133] Furthermore, the device also includes:

[0134] Decorative cover 5 is used to protect the nozzle 2 and the nozzle control mechanism 4.

[0135] To fulfill the motion function of the washing mechanism, the washing mechanism is positioned between the decorative cover 5 and the vehicle body and is driven by a drive mechanism;

[0136] Therefore, the decorative cover 5 of the washing mechanism needs to be specially designed to fit the vehicle, ensuring a smooth transition, reducing air resistance, and preventing the air resistance at high speeds from lifting the decorative cover and causing the entire mechanism to fail.

[0137] Based on the above technical solution, the embodiments of this application include three sets of transmission assemblies, which are respectively used to drive the nozzle linear transmission, the nozzle longitudinal rotation, and the nozzle lateral rotation. Specifically, the following functions are achieved by operating the washing switch button:

[0138] Point 1: When the washing system is turned on, the control unit 6 receives the signal and drives the first telescopic motor 40 to rotate forward, pushing the nozzle assembly out of the vehicle body to a specified distance position through the transmission mechanism;

[0139] Secondly, the first telescopic motor 40 is de-energized, and then the control unit 6 controls the washing pump 3 to be energized. The washing liquid flows from the washing liquid tank through the water pipe to the nozzle 2. At the same time, the control unit 6 controls the horizontal rotation drive motor 42 and the vertical rotation drive motor 43 to be energized and rotate in both directions to ensure that the drive nozzle 2 can rotate back and forth in the vertical and horizontal directions to expand the washing range.

[0140] Thirdly, after pressing the washing system off button, the control unit 6 receives the signal and cuts off the power to the washing pump 3, the horizontal rotation drive motor 42 and the vertical rotation drive motor 43, and the nozzle 2 stops moving and spraying water.

[0141] Fourthly, the control unit 6 simultaneously controls the first telescopic motor 40 to reverse, and pulls the nozzle 2 back to the same distance as it was previously pushed out through the transmission mechanism, ensuring that the nozzle 2 returns to its original position on the vehicle body.

[0142] In this embodiment of the application, the washing liquid tank 1 is also equipped with a liquid level sensor 10 for monitoring the amount of washing liquid. The washing liquid tank 1 is connected to the nozzle 2 through the washing pipe 11.

[0143] The arrangement and installation structure of the wash liquid tank 1, wash pump 3, liquid level sensor 10, and wash pipe 11 are the same as those of conventional passenger cars, and will not be described in detail here.

[0144] The nozzle 2 is fixed to the nozzle mounting bracket 44 by screws, and the lower end of the nozzle mounting bracket 44 is connected to the transmission link 41. The transverse rotation drive motor 42 is driven by a gear mechanism, specifically, the transverse rotation transmission gear 420 engages with the transmission link 41, as shown in the attached diagram of the instruction manual. Figure 1 As shown, the output shaft of the transverse rotation drive motor 42 is parallel to the plane of the paper;

[0145] The output shaft of the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 is connected to the drive shaft of the hinge mechanism 430. When the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 rotates, it will drive the hinge mechanism 430 to move and thus drive the nozzle 2 to rotate. Specifically, it can rotate around the central axis that passes through the hinge center and is perpendicular to the paper surface.

[0146] The two ends of the hinge mechanism 430 are fixed to the transmission link 41 by bolts. The other end of the transmission link, that is, the end near the vehicle body, has a rack, which cooperates with the telescopic transmission gear 400 equipped with the first telescopic motor 40. When the first telescopic motor 40 is energized and moves, the overall mechanism can be telescopic.

[0147] The first telescopic motor 40 is fixed to the nozzle fixing bracket 44 by bolts.

[0148] In addition, a decorative cover 5 is added to the outermost end of the sensor washing device and fixed to the transmission mechanism by buckles or bolts to ensure that the nozzle 2 has a good appearance when it is retracted into place.

[0149] Furthermore, the device also includes:

[0150] The control unit 6 is used to control the opening and closing of the first telescopic motor 40, the lateral rotation drive motor 42, and the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43.

[0151] Furthermore, as shown in the attached diagram of the instruction manual. Figure 3 The control principle of the embodiments of this application is explained as follows:

[0152] The overall principle block diagram is divided into the following parts: switch, control unit 6, relay and motor module;

[0153] The relays consist of six numbers, 1-6, which can be installed in the control unit 6 and are mainly used to drive four motors.

[0154] One pin of washing pump 3 is normally grounded, and the other pin is initially grounded.

[0155] The other three drive motors have both pins grounded in the initial state.

[0156] The electrical principle is as follows:

[0157] Step 1: When the switch is pressed to turn on the washing system, after receiving the signal, the control unit 6 controls the No. 2 relay to be energized for a predetermined time t1. The No. 1 pin of the first telescopic motor 1, i.e. M2, changes from ground to 12V. The first telescopic motor 1 rotates forward and drives the nozzle 2 to extend outward through the transmission mechanism. After the predetermined time, the control unit 6 de-energizes the No. 2 relay, and the movement stops.

[0158] Step 2: Control unit 6 controls relay 1 to be energized, and the washing pump 3, i.e., pin 1 of M1, changes from ground to 12V, and the washing pump 3 is energized to draw out the washing liquid.

[0159] Step 3: Simultaneously, control unit 6 controls relays 4 and 6 to be energized, and pin 1 of longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 (M3) and transverse rotation drive motor 42 (M4) is changed from ground to 12V. M3 and M4 rotate forward, driving hinge mechanism 430 and nozzle fixing bracket 44 to rotate longitudinally and transversely, thereby driving nozzle 2 to rotate.

[0160] Step 4: Control unit 6 controls relays 5 and 7 to be powered on. The pin 2 of the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 (M3) and the transverse rotation drive motor 42 (M4) is changed from ground to 12V. M3 and M4 reverse, driving the hinge mechanism 430 and the nozzle fixing bracket 44 to reverse longitudinally and laterally, thereby driving the nozzle 2 to move in the opposite direction to step 3.

[0161] Step 5: When the switch is pressed again to turn off the washing system, the control unit 6 receives the signal and controls the power off relay 1. The 1st pin of washing pump 3, i.e. M1, changes from 12V to ground, and washing pump 3 stops pumping water. The control unit 6 also controls the power off relays 4, 5, 6, and 7. Both pins of motors M3 and M4 are grounded, and the nozzles stop oscillating.

[0162] Step 6: Following step 5, control unit 6 controls relay 3 to be energized and relay 2 to be de-energized at a predetermined time t1. Then, pin 2 of the first telescopic motor 40, i.e. M2, changes from ground to 12V. The first telescopic motor 40 reverses and drives the nozzle 2 to retract inward a predetermined distance and stop through the transmission mechanism.

[0163] During the above process, when nozzle 2 rotates and sprays water in the longitudinal and transverse directions, the control unit controls the movement of M3 and M4 independently, but the driving time of each individual motor in the forward and reverse directions is the same, ensuring that the forward and reverse strokes are the same.

[0164] The movement between the two motors can be controlled by a pre-designed control strategy based on the product requirements, so that the rotational movements in the two directions can be coordinated.

[0165] The time involved in the above control strategies were all obtained through subsequent calibration.

[0166] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, when not in operation, the cleaning mechanism can be retracted to the middle between the decorative cover 5 and the vehicle body or the decorative cover 5, ensuring a good appearance and not affecting vehicle driving;

[0167] The nozzle 2 is provided with 6 degrees of freedom of motion to enable the function of external sensors at different positions of the cleaning vehicle;

[0168] By using controller calibration, different cleaning methods and cleaning times can be implemented for sensor cleaning strategies, thus meeting the requirements for cleaning different types of sensors.

[0169] The washing liquid tank assembly, nozzle assembly, and control unit can be made into a universal assembly, and can be calibrated later to achieve cleaning of different locations and different cleaning strategies, thereby improving the versatility of the solution.

[0170] In addition, the switch involved in this embodiment can be integrated into the cockpit control panel as a soft switch, and the washing mechanism can be started through the operation panel;

[0171] The switch and controller can be integrated with the sensor controller. When the sensor controller detects that the sensor needs to be cleaned, it sends a signal to the washing mechanism to start the cleaning process.

[0172] If necessary, the on / off control mode can be canceled, and a fixed cleaning cycle can be defined. When the sensor gives a signal that cleaning is required, or when the defined cleaning cycle is reached, the washing will start automatically without the need for additional operation by the driver, thus preventing sensor failure due to negligence.

[0173] Secondly, based on the sensor washing device technology mentioned in the first aspect, this application provides a vehicle, which includes:

[0174] Vehicle body 7;

[0175] Sensor washing device, the sensor washing device comprising:

[0176] Washer fluid tank 1 is installed on the vehicle body 7;

[0177] Nozzle 2, which is connected to the washing liquid tank 1 via washing pump 3;

[0178] A nozzle control mechanism 4, mounted on the vehicle body 7, is used to control the nozzle 2 to extend and retract in a first direction and to rotate on a first plane and a second plane; wherein...

[0179] The first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction.

[0180] In addition, the second plane is parallel to the first direction.

[0181] It should be noted that in order to enable the cleaning of sensors such as cameras that can adjust their own position, the nozzles of the traditional washing system need to be made more free so that they can also adjust their own position and angle during cleaning, so as to meet the appearance perception quality requirements of the whole vehicle layout when they are stationary and not working.

[0182] When in operation, it can change its own position and angle, such as by extending, retracting, or rotating, to ensure that it can complete the function of cleaning the sensor.

[0183] In this embodiment of the application, in order to ensure the scalability and versatility of the washing system, the nozzle assembly can integrate the transmission structure and motor into a universal assembly, so that the same nozzle assembly can be used in different equipment locations, thus ensuring its portability.

[0184] In this embodiment, a nozzle control mechanism is used to adjust the washing direction of the nozzles, thereby cleaning the sensors installed on the vehicle body to ensure that they can smoothly provide corresponding functional services to the vehicle.

[0185] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 includes:

[0186] First telescopic motor 40;

[0187] The transmission link 41 is connected to the first telescopic motor 40.

[0188] A transverse rotation drive motor 42 is connected to the transmission link 41 in a transmission connection.

[0189] A longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 is mounted on the transmission link 41;

[0190] The nozzle fixing bracket 44 is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 for transmission; wherein...

[0191] The first telescopic motor 40 drives the transmission link 41 to extend or retract in a first direction;

[0192] The transverse rotation drive motor 42 drives the transmission link 41 to rotate on the first plane, and the rotation center axis of the transmission link 41 on the first plane is the center axis of the transmission link 41.

[0193] The longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 drives the nozzle fixing bracket 44 to rotate on the second plane;

[0194] The nozzle 2 is mounted on the nozzle fixing bracket 44.

[0195] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0196] The nozzle assembly bracket 45 has an internal cavity for the telescopic movement of the transmission link 41; wherein,

[0197] Driven by the first telescopic motor 40, one end of the transmission link 41 extends and retracts within the nozzle assembly bracket 45 in a first direction.

[0198] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0199] Telescopic transmission gear 400; wherein,

[0200] The first telescopic motor 40 is connected to the transmission link 41 via the telescopic transmission gear 400.

[0201] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0202] Horizontal rotary transmission gear 420; wherein,

[0203] The transverse rotation drive motor 42 is connected to the transmission link 41 via the transverse rotation transmission gear 420.

[0204] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0205] Hinge mechanism 430; wherein,

[0206] One end of the hinge mechanism 430 is connected to the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43, and the other end of the hinge mechanism 430 is hinged to the nozzle fixing bracket 44.

[0207] Furthermore, the nozzle control mechanism 4 also includes:

[0208] Fixed bracket connector 440; wherein,

[0209] The two ends of the fixed bracket connector 440 are respectively hinged to the bottom surface of the nozzle fixed bracket 44 and the side wall of the transmission connecting rod 41.

[0210] The fixed bracket connector 440 maintains its connection with the transmission link 41 during the rotation of the nozzle fixed bracket 44 driven by the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43.

[0211] Furthermore, the sensor washing device also includes:

[0212] Decorative cover 5 is used to protect the nozzle 2 and the nozzle control mechanism 4.

[0213] To fulfill the motion function of the washing mechanism, the washing mechanism is positioned between the decorative cover 5 and the vehicle body and is driven by a drive mechanism;

[0214] Therefore, the decorative cover 5 of the washing mechanism needs to be specially designed to fit the vehicle, ensuring a smooth transition, reducing air resistance, and preventing the air resistance at high speeds from lifting the decorative cover and causing the entire mechanism to fail.

[0215] Based on the above technical solution, the embodiments of this application include three sets of transmission assemblies, which are respectively used to drive the nozzle linear transmission, the nozzle longitudinal rotation, and the nozzle lateral rotation. Specifically, the following functions are achieved by operating the washing switch button:

[0216] 1. Press the washing system start button. After receiving the signal, the control unit 6 drives the first telescopic motor 40 to rotate forward and pushes the nozzle assembly out of the vehicle body to a specified distance position through the transmission mechanism.

[0217] 2. When the first telescopic motor 40 is de-energized, the control unit 6 controls the washing pump 3 to be energized. The washing liquid flows from the washing liquid tank through the water pipe to the nozzle 2. At the same time, the control unit 6 controls the horizontal rotation drive motor 42 and the vertical rotation drive motor 43 to be energized and rotate in both directions to ensure that the drive nozzle 2 can rotate back and forth in both directions to expand the washing range.

[0218] 3. Press the washing system off button. After receiving the signal, the control unit 6 will de-energize the washing pump 3, the horizontal rotation drive motor 42 and the vertical rotation drive motor 43, and the nozzle 2 will stop moving and spraying water.

[0219] 4. At the same time, the control unit 6 controls the first telescopic motor 40 to reverse, and pulls the nozzle 2 back to the same distance as before through the transmission mechanism, so as to ensure that the nozzle 2 returns to the original position of the vehicle body.

[0220] In this embodiment of the application, the washing liquid tank 1 is also equipped with a liquid level sensor 10 for monitoring the amount of washing liquid. The washing liquid tank 1 is connected to the nozzle 2 through the washing pipe 11.

[0221] The arrangement and installation structure of the wash liquid tank 1, wash pump 3, liquid level sensor 10, and wash pipe 11 are the same as those of conventional passenger cars, and will not be described in detail here.

[0222] The nozzle 2 is fixed to the nozzle mounting bracket 44 by screws, and the lower end of the nozzle mounting bracket 44 is connected to the transmission link 41. The transverse rotation drive motor 42 is driven by a gear mechanism, specifically, the transverse rotation transmission gear 420 engages with the transmission link 41, as shown in the attached diagram of the instruction manual. Figure 4 As shown, the output shaft of the transverse rotation drive motor 42 is parallel to the plane of the paper;

[0223] The output shaft of the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 is connected to the drive shaft of the hinge mechanism 430. When the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 rotates, it will drive the hinge mechanism 430 to move and thus drive the nozzle 2 to rotate. Specifically, it can rotate around the central axis that passes through the hinge center and is perpendicular to the paper surface.

[0224] The two ends of the hinge mechanism 430 are fixed to the transmission link 41 by bolts. The other end of the transmission link, that is, the end near the vehicle body, has a rack, which cooperates with the telescopic transmission gear 400 equipped with the first telescopic motor 40. When the first telescopic motor 40 is energized and moves, the overall mechanism can be telescopic.

[0225] The first telescopic motor 40 is fixed to the nozzle fixing bracket 44 by bolts.

[0226] In addition, a decorative cover 5 is added to the outermost end of the sensor washing device and fixed to the transmission mechanism by buckles or bolts to ensure that the nozzle 2 has a good appearance when it is retracted into place.

[0227] Furthermore, the sensor washing device also includes:

[0228] The control unit 6 is used to control the opening and closing of the first telescopic motor 40, the lateral rotation drive motor 42, and the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43.

[0229] Furthermore, as shown in the attached diagram of the instruction manual. Figure 3 The control principle of the embodiments of this application is explained as follows:

[0230] The overall principle block diagram is divided into the following parts: switch, control unit 6, relay and motor module;

[0231] The relays consist of six numbers, 1-6, which can be installed in the control unit 6 and are mainly used to drive four motors.

[0232] One pin of washing pump 3 is normally grounded, and the other pin is initially grounded.

[0233] The other three drive motors have both pins grounded in the initial state.

[0234] The electrical principle is as follows:

[0235] Step 1: When the switch is pressed to turn on the washing system, after receiving the signal, the control unit 6 controls the No. 2 relay to be energized for a predetermined time t1. The No. 1 pin of the first telescopic motor 1, i.e. M2, changes from ground to 12V. The first telescopic motor 1 rotates forward and drives the nozzle 2 to extend outward through the transmission mechanism. After the predetermined time, the control unit 6 de-energizes the No. 2 relay, and the movement stops.

[0236] Step 2: Control unit 6 controls relay 1 to be energized, and the washing pump 3, i.e., pin 1 of M1, changes from ground to 12V, and the washing pump 3 is energized to draw out the washing liquid.

[0237] Step 3: Simultaneously, control unit 6 controls relays 4 and 6 to be energized, and pin 1 of longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 (M3) and transverse rotation drive motor 42 (M4) is changed from ground to 12V. M3 and M4 rotate forward, driving hinge mechanism 430 and nozzle fixing bracket 44 to rotate longitudinally and transversely, thereby driving nozzle 2 to rotate.

[0238] Step 4: Control unit 6 controls relays 5 and 7 to be powered on. The pin 2 of the longitudinal rotation drive motor 43 (M3) and the transverse rotation drive motor 42 (M4) is changed from ground to 12V. M3 and M4 reverse, driving the hinge mechanism 430 and the nozzle fixing bracket 44 to reverse longitudinally and laterally, thereby driving the nozzle 2 to move in the opposite direction to step 3.

[0239] Step 5: When the switch is pressed again to turn off the washing system, the control unit 6 receives the signal and controls the power off relay 1. The 1st pin of washing pump 3, i.e. M1, changes from 12V to ground, and washing pump 3 stops pumping water. The control unit 6 also controls the power off relays 4, 5, 6, and 7. Both pins of motors M3 and M4 are grounded, and the nozzles stop oscillating.

[0240] Step 6: Following step 5, control unit 6 controls relay 3 to be energized and relay 2 to be de-energized at a predetermined time t1. Then, pin 2 of the first telescopic motor 40, i.e. M2, changes from ground to 12V. The first telescopic motor 40 reverses and drives the nozzle 2 to retract inward a predetermined distance and stop through the transmission mechanism.

[0241] During the above process, when nozzle 2 rotates and sprays water in the longitudinal and transverse directions, the control unit controls the movement of M3 and M4 independently, but the driving time of each individual motor in the forward and reverse directions is the same, ensuring that the forward and reverse strokes are the same.

[0242] The movement between the two motors can be controlled by a pre-designed control strategy based on the product requirements, so that the rotational movements in the two directions can be coordinated.

[0243] The time involved in the above control strategies were all obtained through subsequent calibration.

[0244] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, when not in operation, the cleaning mechanism can be retracted to the middle between the decorative cover 5 and the vehicle body or the decorative cover 5, ensuring a good appearance and not affecting vehicle driving;

[0245] The nozzle 2 is provided with 6 degrees of freedom of motion to enable the function of external sensors at different positions of the cleaning vehicle;

[0246] By using controller calibration, different cleaning methods and cleaning times can be implemented for sensor cleaning strategies, thus meeting the requirements for cleaning different types of sensors.

[0247] The washing liquid tank assembly, nozzle assembly, and control unit can be made into a universal assembly, and can be calibrated later to achieve cleaning of different locations and different cleaning strategies, thereby improving the versatility of the solution.

[0248] In addition, the switch involved in this embodiment can be integrated into the cockpit control panel as a soft switch, and the washing mechanism can be started through the operation panel;

[0249] The switch and controller can be integrated with the sensor controller. When the sensor controller detects that the sensor needs to be cleaned, it sends a signal to the washing mechanism to start the cleaning process.

[0250] If necessary, the on / off control mode can be canceled, and a fixed cleaning cycle can be defined. When the sensor gives a signal that cleaning is required, or when the defined cleaning cycle is reached, the washing will start automatically without the need for additional operation by the driver, thus preventing sensor failure due to negligence.

[0251] It should be noted that in this application, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0252] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A sensor washing apparatus characterized by comprising: The device comprises: a washing liquid tank (1); a nozzle (2) in communication with the washing liquid tank (1) through a washing pump (3); a nozzle control mechanism (4) for controlling the nozzle (2) to extend and retract in a first direction, to rotate in a first plane and a second plane; wherein, the first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction; the nozzle control mechanism (4) comprises: a first extension and retraction motor (40); a transmission connecting rod (41) in transmission connection with the first extension and retraction motor (40); a lateral rotation driving motor (42) in transmission connection with the transmission connecting rod (41); a longitudinal rotation driving motor (43) arranged on the transmission connecting rod (41); a nozzle fixing support (44) in transmission connection with the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43); a fixing support connecting piece (440); a nozzle assembly support (45) with a cavity inside for the extension and retraction movement of the transmission connecting rod (41); wherein, the first extension and retraction motor (40) drives the transmission connecting rod (41) to extend and retract in the first direction; the lateral rotation driving motor (42) drives the transmission connecting rod (41) to rotate in the first plane, and the rotation center axis of the transmission connecting rod (41) in the first plane is the center axis of the transmission connecting rod (41); the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43) drives the nozzle fixing support (44) to rotate in the second plane; the nozzle (2) is arranged on the nozzle fixing support (44); one end of the transmission connecting rod (41) moves in the first direction in the cavity of the nozzle assembly support (45) under the drive of the first extension and retraction motor (40); the fixing support connecting piece (440) is hinged at both ends to the bottom surface of the nozzle fixing support (44) and the side wall of the transmission connecting rod (41), respectively; the fixing support connecting piece (440) remains connected to the transmission connecting rod (41) during the rotation process under the drive of the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43).

2. The sensor washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The nozzle control mechanism (4) further comprises: an extension and retraction transmission gear (400); wherein, the first extension and retraction motor (40) is in transmission connection with the transmission connecting rod (41) through the extension and retraction transmission gear (400).

3. The sensor washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The nozzle control mechanism (4) further comprises: a lateral rotation transmission gear (420); wherein, the lateral rotation driving motor (42) is in transmission connection with the transmission connecting rod (41) through the lateral rotation transmission gear (420).

4. The sensor washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The nozzle control mechanism (4) further comprises: a hinge mechanism (430); wherein, one end of the hinge mechanism (430) is connected to the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43), and the other end of the hinge mechanism (430) is hinged to the nozzle fixing support (44).

5. The sensor washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The device further comprises: a decorative cover (5) for protecting the nozzle (2) and the nozzle control mechanism (4).

6. The sensor washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The device further comprises: A control unit (6) is configured to control the opening and closing of the first telescopic motor (40), the lateral rotation driving motor (42), and the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43).

7. A vehicle characterized by comprising: The vehicle comprises: a vehicle body (7); a sensor washing device, which comprises: a washing liquid tank (1) arranged on the vehicle body (7); a nozzle (2) in communication with the washing liquid tank (1) through a washing pump (3); a nozzle control mechanism (4) arranged on the vehicle body (7) and configured to control the telescopic movement of the nozzle (2) in a first direction and the rotation of the nozzle (2) in a first plane and a second plane; wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the second plane and the first direction; the nozzle control mechanism (4) comprises: a first telescopic motor (40); a transmission connecting rod (41) in transmission connection with the first telescopic motor (40); a lateral rotation driving motor (42) in transmission connection with the transmission connecting rod (41); a longitudinal rotation driving motor (43) arranged on the transmission connecting rod (41); a nozzle fixing support (44) in transmission connection with the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43); a fixing support connecting piece (440); a nozzle assembly support (45) internally provided with a cavity for the telescopic movement of the transmission connecting rod (41); wherein the first telescopic motor (40) drives the transmission connecting rod (41) to telescopically move in the first direction; the lateral rotation driving motor (42) drives the transmission connecting rod (41) to rotate in the first plane, and the rotation center axis of the transmission connecting rod (41) in the first plane is the center axis of the transmission connecting rod (41); the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43) drives the nozzle fixing support (44) to rotate in the second plane; the nozzle (2) is arranged on the nozzle fixing support (44); one end of the transmission connecting rod (41) telescopically moves in the first direction in the nozzle assembly support (45) under the drive of the first telescopic motor (40); the two ends of the fixing support connecting piece (440) are respectively hinged to the bottom surface of the nozzle fixing support (44) and the side wall of the transmission connecting rod (41); the fixing support connecting piece (440) remains connected to the transmission connecting rod (41) during the rotation process under the drive of the longitudinal rotation driving motor (43).

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