Sensor cleaning system, vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor cleaning system (100) for a vehicle (1000), having: - at least one sensor cleaning module (200), wherein the sensor cleaning module (200) has a valve unit (270), wherein - the valve unit (270) is designed to receive compressed air (DL) via a module compressed air port (272) and to selectively output compressed air cleaning pulses (DRI) through a cleaning compressed air port (274). It is provided according to the invention that: - the sensor cleaning module (200) has a module reservoir (260) and a pumping mechanism (220), wherein - the module reservoir (260) is designed to receive and store a cleaning fluid (F) provided via a module liquid port (618) and is connected to the pumping mechanism (220) in a fluid-conducting manner, and - the pumping mechanism (220) is designed to provide the cleaning fluid (F) in the form of liquid cleaning pulses (FRI) at a cleaning fluid port (222) in dependence on a control signal (S).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a sensor cleaning system according to the preamble of claim 1. In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle according to claim 17. Background Technology

[0002] Sensor cleaning systems, especially those for vehicles, are generally known. These systems must effectively clean vehicle sensors within constraints of structural space and weight to ensure the proper functioning of vehicle assistance systems and autonomous driving capabilities, particularly given these limitations. Providing a sufficient quantity of cleaning fluid is particularly challenging given these space and weight constraints. It is also generally desirable to keep the equipment cost of the sensor cleaning system low.

[0003] DE 101 10 490A1 describes an apparatus for controlling the storage of liquids, wherein the liquid storage is distributed in a working container and at least one storage container fed to the working container in a manner that allows for refilling. With this method, suitable structural space utilization can be achieved, and a large storage capacity for wash water can still be provided. However, this method results in a relatively high system cost due to the large number of individual components. A relatively large storage tank must also be provided in the vehicle.

[0004] Other approaches to addressing the problem of limited windshield washer fluid in vehicles are based on rainwater harvesting. Thus, DE 20 2017100 529 U1 describes a rainwater harvesting system for a motor vehicle, comprising: a rainwater collector; a baffle for the rainwater collector, wherein the baffle is movable between an open position and a closed position; and a controller designed to open or close the baffle in response to detection of precipitation and data input regarding the level of windshield washer fluid in the windshield washer system of the motor vehicle.

[0005] Another approach to addressing the limited amount of cleaning fluid in vehicles is based on the reuse of the cleaning fluid. This method is described in US 2020 / 0010055 A1, which introduces a camera cleaning system with a collection container in which the cleaning fluid can be collected after cleaning and reused. The camera cleaning system shown there is relatively large, and the camera to be cleaned must be actively moved kinematically into the cleaning area.

[0006] A similar method is described in WO19029806 A1. For the system shown there, moving the cover in front of the sensor during cleaning has the disadvantage that the sensor is unavailable during cleaning. This kinematics is also prone to error.

[0007] While this method of reusing cleaning fluid can delay system refilling, it cannot completely eliminate the need for refilling.

[0008] Overall, cleaning systems for cleaning sensors in vehicles still need improvement, especially in terms of design that takes into account weight and structural space constraints in vehicles while providing a sufficient amount of cleaning fluid.

[0009] Therefore, it is desirable to improve at least one of the aforementioned shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In this respect, the invention is applied, and the objective of the invention is to describe an improved cleaning system that overcomes at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, it aims to provide cleaning fluid in an economical manner while improving the use of structural space within a vehicle.

[0011] The tasks related to this cleaning system are solved by utilizing the cleaning system of claim 1 in the first aspect of the invention. The invention is based on a sensor cleaning system for a vehicle, comprising:

[0012] - At least one sensor cleaning module, wherein the sensor cleaning module has a valve unit, wherein

[0013] - The valve unit is designed to receive compressed air via the module compressed air port and to selectively output compressed air cleaning pulses via the cleaning compressed air port.

[0014] According to the present invention, for this sensor cleaning system, the following is specified:

[0015] - The sensor cleaning module has a module storage unit and a pumping mechanism, wherein

[0016] - The module reservoir is designed to receive and store cleaning fluid supplied via the module's liquid port and is connected to the pumping mechanism in a fluid-guiding manner; and

[0017] - The pumping mechanism is designed to deliver cleaning fluid in the form of liquid cleaning pulses at the cleaning fluid port, relying on control signals.

[0018] This invention is based on the consideration that providing a sufficient quantity of cleaning fluid in a vehicle's sensor cleaning system is generally advantageous. In this context, the invention recognizes that a distributed arrangement of one or more sensor cleaning modules enables improved management and supply of cleaning fluid, particularly under the vehicle's operating conditions and boundary conditions.

[0019] Because the sensor cleaning module has a modular storage unit, it can receive and store cleaning fluid independently of a central storage unit. Therefore, through the modular storage unit design, the cleaning fluid or liquid can be stored decentralizedly, i.e., in each individual sensor cleaning module, and output when needed. Unlike a relatively large central storage unit, sensor cleaning modules with modular storage units require less structural space and can be arranged closer to the cleaning nozzle or the sensor to be cleaned, thereby advantageously shortening the circuit and thus the response time. The advantage of the decentralized modular storage units is that, due to the proximity of the modular storage units to the pumping mechanism, the cleaning fluid can be drawn in over a relatively short distance. This results in faster supply of cleaning fluid to the sensor cleaning modules and thereby the sensor surface. Simultaneously, the risk of air being drawn in or entering the fluid system guiding the cleaning fluid, especially the nozzle liquid line, is reduced. With a sensor cleaning system having sensor cleaning modules arranged close to the respective cleaning nozzles to be supplied, and thus allowing for shorter nozzle compressed air lines and / or nozzle liquid lines, pressure loss can be reduced, thereby advantageously achieving the strongest possible cleaning pulse.

[0020] Here, the pumping mechanism can be broadly understood as a device for conveying and / or compressing liquids, and more specifically as a mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric pump. The control signal can be designed according to the type of pumping mechanism, and is specifically designed as an electrical, pneumatic, or mechanical control signal.

[0021] The sensor cleaning system according to the present invention, having at least one sensor cleaning module, enables a decentralized architecture for the decentralized collection and / or decentralized output of liquids. This is particularly true because each sensor cleaning module, each having a module storage unit, can be positioned not only near the liquid source but also near the liquid consumer. Due to the modular construction of the sensor cleaning modules, the sensor cleaning system according to the present invention is also suitable for retrofitting into existing vehicles.

[0022] Advantageous extensions of the invention can be derived from the dependent claims, which detail the advantageous possibilities of realizing the above-described design within the scope of the task and with respect to other advantages.

[0023] Within the framework of an extended scheme, it is specified that the pumping mechanism is driven by compressed air, wherein the control signal is designed as a compressed air control signal, and the valve unit is designed to selectively output the compressed air control signal via a control-compressed air port. This extended scheme includes the understanding that a compressed air-driven pumping mechanism offers an advantageous possibility for selectively providing liquid cleaning pulses, particularly advantageously reducing the number of typically relatively expensive and error-prone hydraulic valves and similar switching devices used for switching liquids. With the aid of a compressed air-driven pumping mechanism, liquid cleaning pulses can be selectively provided by utilizing the switching of compressed air flow, particularly the compressed air control signal with respect to the switching valve. The compressed air-driven pumping mechanism can be advantageously used in sensor cleaning systems according to the invention, having sensor cleaning modules arranged close to the respective cleaning nozzles to be supplied, because the shorter nozzle liquid path thus implemented results in relatively less pressure loss in the generated liquid cleaning pulses.

[0024] Within the framework of an extended scheme, a pumping mechanism driven by compressed air is specified, comprising a piston with an air chamber and a liquid chamber, which are fluidly sealed apart by an axially movable plunger. The plunger is connected to the piston housing by a return spring, wherein the return spring is actuated against its resting position when pressure is applied to the air chamber to output liquid cleaning pulses, and relaxes again when the pressure drops to draw in cleaning fluid.

[0025] Within the framework of an extended scheme, it is specified that: the sensor cleaning module has a module control unit, which is designed to control valve units, particularly relying on control signals provided by the vehicle's vehicle control unit; and / or the sensor cleaning system has an equipment control unit, which is designed to control at least one, particularly all, of the sensor cleaning modules of the sensor cleaning system, particularly relying on control signals provided by the vehicle's vehicle control unit. In the extended scheme where the sensor cleaning module has a module control unit, the sensor cleaning module has a degree of autonomy and can communicate, particularly with other sensor cleaning modules and / or with the vehicle control unit. In the extended scheme where the sensor cleaning system has an equipment control unit, the individual sensor cleaning modules can be centrally controlled. In the extended scheme where the sensor cleaning system has neither a module control unit nor an equipment control unit, the valve units of the sensor cleaning modules can be directly controlled by the vehicle control unit.

[0026] Within an extended scheme, at least one cleaning nozzle is provided that is connected to the sensor cleaning module in a manner that guides air and / or fluid. This cleaning nozzle is designed to apply liquid cleaning pulses and / or compressed air cleaning pulses to the sensor surface. In particular, multiple cleaning nozzles can be connected to a single sensor cleaning module. Specifically, cleaning nozzles can be provided for the sensor surface.

[0027] Within the framework of an extended solution, at least one additional sensor cleaning module is provided, wherein the sensor cleaning module and the at least one additional sensor cleaning module are connected via a switching line in a bidirectional fluid guiding manner and / or via a control line in a bidirectional signal guiding manner.

[0028] Each of these additional sensor cleaning modules has a separate storage module for storing cleaning fluid. In an expanded configuration with two or more sensor cleaning modules, the distributed architecture of the sensor cleaning system can be advantageously used, particularly for the distributed storage of cleaning fluid and the exchange of cleaning fluid between these sensor cleaning modules. It is also advantageous to arrange the sensor cleaning modules near the sensors to be cleaned, which reduces the line length between the sensor cleaning modules and the cleaning nozzles and, in particular, reduces reaction time and pressure loss due to the shorter travel distance of the cleaning pulses.

[0029] Within the framework of one extended embodiment, the sensor cleaning module is configured to be associated with a first sensor cluster, particularly located in the front region of the vehicle, having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for at least one sensor, and particularly for each sensor; and a second sensor cleaning module is configured to be associated with a second cluster, particularly located in the rear region of the vehicle, having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for at least one sensor, and particularly for each sensor. "In the same location" specifically means that the distance between the sensor cleaning module and the cleaning nozzles connected thereto, and / or the length of one or more lines between the sensor cleaning module and the cleaning nozzles connected thereto, particularly the length of the nozzle liquid line and / or the nozzle compressed air line, is less than 1 m, preferably less than 50 cm. In other extended embodiments, the sensor cleaning module can be configured to supply other or additional clusters of cleaning nozzles in the same location.

[0030] Within the framework of an extended scheme, it is stipulated that among the module control unit of one sensor cleaning module and another module control unit of another sensor cleaning module, one module control unit has priority, such that—especially when the amount of cleaning fluid is limited, i.e., insufficient for both sensor cleaning modules—the sensor cleaning module with priority accesses the cleaning fluid stored in the module reservoir of the other sensor cleaning module. The priority of the sensor cleaning module can be implemented, in particular, through the module control unit or the vehicle control unit, so that one or more sensor cleaning modules without priority can be disconnected or deactivated through these module control units or the vehicle control unit. The sensor cleaning module with priority is particularly associated with one or more sensors responsible for key driving functions, i.e., sensors essential to the operation of the vehicle.

[0031] Within the framework of an extended embodiment, the module storage is specified to be connected, in a fluid-guiding manner, to at least one liquid source, particularly a windshield wiper fluid tank, fuel cell, rainwater harvesting device, cooling system, air dryer, and / or another sensor cleaning module. In an advantageous extended embodiment, the module storage of the sensor cleaning module is connected, in a fluid-guiding manner, to multiple liquid sources to ensure the highest possible availability of the cleaning fluid. In particular, liquid sources that obtain fluid while the vehicle is running are advantageous for high cleaning fluid availability. Such liquid sources include vehicle components that obtain cleaning fluid, for example, by collecting rainwater and / or spraying water or by generating condensate. In the simplest case, water can be used as the cleaning fluid. With such a liquid source, the time interval before needing to refill the fluid tank can be advantageously extended, or even advantageously eliminated from refilling the fluid tank. In particular, the sensor cleaning module is arranged deeper than the liquid sources. This means that the liquid sources—viewed vertically, particularly perpendicular to the road surface—are arranged higher than the sensor cleaning module with the module storage. In an extended design where the sensor cleaning module is positioned deeper than the liquid source, gravity can be advantageously used to fill the module reservoir, eliminating the need for pumps or similar delivery devices to supply cleaning fluid to the module reservoir.

[0032] Within the framework of an extended solution, a pump designed for delivering cleaning fluid is provided, arranged in a liquid supply or exchange line that connects the sensor cleaning module to at least one liquid source in a fluid-guided manner. This pump is advantageous in extended solutions where there is a height difference between the liquid source and the sensor cleaning module (or between two sensor cleaning modules) and the cleaning fluid must be delivered against gravity.

[0033] Within the framework of an extended scheme, it is specified that the sensor cleaning module is equipped with at least two cleaning nozzles, preferably at least three cleaning nozzles. Multiple cleaning nozzles can advantageously be supplied by a single sensor cleaning module, especially when these cleaning nozzles are arranged in the same location.

[0034] Within the framework of one extended solution, the cleaning nozzle is specified to be arranged separately from the sensor cleaning module. In this extended solution, the cleaning nozzle can be connected to the sensor cleaning module via supply lines, particularly via liquid nozzle lines and / or compressed air nozzle lines.

[0035] Within the framework of an extended scheme, it is specified that the line length between the sensor cleaning module and at least one, and especially all, cleaning nozzles connected to the sensor cleaning module is less than 80 cm, preferably less than 50 cm.

[0036] Within the framework of an extended scheme, the sensor cleaning module is specified to have a modular compressed air reservoir designed to receive and locally store compressed air supplied via the modular compressed air port. The modular compressed air reservoir preferably has a capacity between 20 ml and 60 ml, particularly preferably 40 ml. The modular compressed air reservoir advantageously reduces dependence on a compressed air source, especially when compressed air is temporarily unavailable, for example, if the compressor has not delivered air after a long period of vehicle parking.

[0037] Within the framework of an extended design, the module reservoir of the sensor cleaning module is specified to have a capacity between 250 ml and 3000 ml, preferably between 250 ml and 1000 ml. A larger capacity increases the availability of cleaning fluid. A smaller capacity allows for a more compact construction of the sensor cleaning module and thus enables better placement of the module near the sensor to be cleaned.

[0038] Within the framework of an extended scheme, it is specified that the sensor cleaning module is arranged and / or designed to utilize waste heat from the vehicle's heat source, particularly having a heating device. In particular, the sensor cleaning module is arranged adjacent to the heat source, especially to an internal combustion engine or fuel cell, or mechanically connected to the heat source by means of a heat-conducting component.

[0039] Within the framework of an extended scheme, the sensor cleaning module is specified to have a module housing surrounding it, particularly made of plastic, aluminum, or cast aluminum. The module housing is formed, in particular, of a valve core housing, having first to third valve inserts, wherein each valve insert is equipped with a switching valve, designed as a cartridge valve, arranged within that valve insert. The module housing is formed, in particular, of a material with sufficient mechanical and thermal stability. The module housing may have space for a number of valve inserts for the switching valves and for other components of the sensor cleaning module. In particular, the switching valves may be designed, wholly or partially, as one or more switching valves designed as cartridge valves. In particular, the compressed air-driven pumping mechanism may be designed, wholly or partially, as one or more switching valves designed as cartridge valves, wherein the switching valves designed as cartridge valves are particularly designed for operating a pressure cylinder.

[0040] The switching valve is particularly designed as a two-position two-way valve, and preferably as a two-position two-way solenoid valve. The valve housing is preferably a standard valve housing, especially a pneumatic, hydraulic, or fluid standard component, for example, used in bridge control modules or brake control equipment.

[0041] In this extended configuration where the valve housing forms the housing of the sensor cleaning module, the advantages of space-saving integration are further enhanced, thereby improving positioning near the nozzle and the overall distributed arrangement of the module. Cost savings are also advantageously achieved by using cartridge valves as standard components. Using the valve housing as the module housing with suitable cartridge valves also offers the advantages of achieving a relatively large nominal width of the valve structure within a relatively small structural space, resulting in improved flow of the medium, especially improved airflow. The valve housing is specifically formed as a single piece into which a number of valve inserts are introduced by suitable processing methods, with corresponding holes or similar lines guiding air and / or fluid located between these valve inserts and / or external ports. Module storage units can be arranged within or fixed to the valve housing.

[0042] In an advantageous extension, all the switching valves of the sensor cleaning module are designed as cartridge valves, especially cartridge valves with identical construction. Cartridge valves can be advantageously used as both two-position two-way valves and two-position three-way solenoid valves, especially by adapting the valve inserts, i.e., by providing a corresponding number of ports in the valve inserts.

[0043] This extended design features, in particular, a suction pressure check valve, which is located at the liquid cleaning port and designed to prevent flow in the opposite direction to the liquid cleaning pulse.

[0044] In particular, in the extended embodiment with a valve body having a sealing ring that seals only on one side, at least one check valve is provided for each switching valve. Within the framework of the extended embodiment with a housing designed as a valve core housing, a fourth valve insert with a fourth switching valve designed as a cartridge valve and / or a fifth switching valve designed as a cartridge valve are provided. The fourth and fifth switching valves are specifically designed for selectively switching one or more cleaning nozzles, respectively.

[0045] Within the framework of an extended design with a housing designed as a valve core housing, it is specified that the valve insert is designed as a near-hollow cylindrical shape, and the switching valve, as a cartridge valve, has a valve body with at least first and second axially adjacent valve chambers, which are pneumatically separated in at least one flow direction by a sealing ring that pressure-tightly abuts against the inner wall of the valve insert. Preferably, the sealing ring is designed as a double-sided shut-off sealing ring, particularly as a double-sided shut-off O-ring. In particular, the sealing ring is designed as a double-sided shut-off sealing ring for all switching valves. "Double-sided shut-off" means that flow from the first valve chamber to the second valve chamber is not permitted, nor is flow from the second valve chamber to the first valve chamber.

[0046] Within the framework of an extended scheme with a housing designed as a valve core housing, the pumping mechanism, including the piston, is integrated into the module housing.

[0047] Within the framework of an extended scheme with a housing designed as a valve core housing, a heating wire is provided as a heating device, which is supplied and / or controlled, in particular, by a module control unit.

[0048] Within the framework of an extended scheme, pressure sensors and / or position sensors are incorporated. The position sensors are particularly designed to determine the positioning of the piston plunger, which is designed to be axially movable within the piston to variably separate the air chamber from the liquid chamber. The pressure sensors can, in particular, be located in the air chamber of the piston in the pumping mechanism.

[0049] In particular, it is stipulated that the capacity of the module storage device is several times, especially ten times, the piston volume of the pumping mechanism piston.

[0050] In a second aspect, to address this task, the invention also describes a vehicle, particularly a passenger vehicle, commercial vehicle, or trailer, having a sensor cleaning system according to the first aspect of the invention. For vehicles according to the second aspect of the invention, the advantages of the sensor cleaning system according to the first aspect of the invention are advantageously utilized.

[0051] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily intended to present these embodiments to scale; rather, they are drawn in a schematic and / or slightly modified form to aid in explanation. For supplementation to the teachings readily apparent from the drawings, refer to the relevant prior art. It should be understood that various adjustments and modifications relating to the form and detail of the embodiments can be made without departing from the overall spirit of the invention. Features disclosed in the specification, drawings, and claims are important not only individually but also in any combination for extensions of the invention. Furthermore, all combinations of at least two features disclosed in the specification, drawings, and / or claims fall within the scope of protection of the invention. The overall spirit of the invention is not limited to the exact form or detail of the preferred embodiments shown and described below, nor to the subject matter that would be limited compared to the subject matter claimed in the claims. Values ​​within the stated limits should also be disclosed as limiting values ​​and can be used and claimed arbitrarily within the scope of the described design. For simplicity, the same reference numerals will subsequently be used for the same or similar components or components having the same or similar functions. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Other advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments and from the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0053] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle having a sensor cleaning system designed according to the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 2 A vehicle designed as a passenger vehicle is shown, having a sensor cleaning system designed according to the present invention;

[0055] Figure 3 A vehicle with a sensor-based cleaning system designed for passenger use is shown, which exemplarily has three different liquid sources;

[0056] Figure 4 A vehicle with a sensor cleaning system designed for passenger vehicles is shown, the sensor cleaning system having a sensor cleaning module 200 and another sensor cleaning module;

[0057] Figure 5 A side view shows the... Figure 2 The vehicles shown in the image;

[0058] Figure 6 A vehicle designed as a commercial vehicle is shown, having a sensor cleaning system designed according to the present invention;

[0059] Figure 7The vehicle combination shown is a combination of vehicles that, in addition to those already in use, Figure 6 The commercial vehicle shown also has a trailer;

[0060] Figure 8 The schematic illustration shows the construction of a sensor cleaning module with a module housing designed as a valve core housing;

[0061] Figure 9 The module housing, designed as a valve core housing, is partially shown in cross-sectional view;

[0062] Figure 10A , 10B A preferred switching valve designed as a two-position two-way valve is shown in cross-sectional view;

[0063] Figure 11A , 11B Another preferred switching valve in the form of a two-position three-way solenoid valve is shown;

[0064] Figure 12 Another implementation of the sensor cleaning module is shown, which is different. Figure 8 The embodiment shown in the figure has a valve body that has a double-sided O-ring instead of a sealing ring that only seals on one side.

[0065] Figure 13 Another implementation of the sensor cleaning module is shown, which is different. Figure 12 The sensor cleaning module shown in the figure has a heating device in the form of a heating wire;

[0066] Figure 14 Another implementation of the sensor cleaning module is shown, which is different. Figure 12 The sensor cleaning module shown has two additional switching valves, namely a fourth switching valve and a fifth switching valve. Detailed Implementation

[0067] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle 1000 having a sensor cleaning system 100 designed according to the present invention is shown. The vehicle 1000 is shown in a simplified manner, such that only the parts relevant to the sensor cleaning system 100 are shown.

[0068] The sensor cleaning system 100 has at least one sensor cleaning module 200. The sensor cleaning module 200 is designed to supply compressed air DL in the form of a compressed air cleaning pulse DRI and / or cleaning fluid F in the form of a liquid cleaning pulse FRI to one or more cleaning nozzles 320. In the present case, three cleaning nozzles 320 are shown, each associated with a sensor surface 300 of a sensor 301. However, it is possible to implement multiple cleaning nozzles 320 associated with a single sensor surface 300 or a single cleaning nozzle 320 associated with multiple sensor surfaces 300.

[0069] The sensor cleaning module 200 has a pumping mechanism 220, which is a compressed air-driven pumping mechanism with a piston 228. This pumping mechanism is designed to receive cleaning fluid F from the module storage 260 via storage line 264 and—based on a control signal S provided by valve unit 270, designed as a compressed air control signal DSS—supply the cleaning fluid to the cleaning nozzle 320 in the form of liquid cleaning pulses FRI via cleaning fluid port 222 and nozzle fluid line 226. This pumping mechanism is particularly compatible with… Figure 8 The pumping mechanism shown is the same; therefore, for a more detailed explanation of its working principle, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 8 In other embodiments, the pumping mechanism may be designed in other ways, such as being designed as an electric pump or the same conveying device.

[0070] The valve unit 270 of the sensor cleaning module 200 is also designed to supply compressed air DL provided via the module compressed air port 272 to the cleaning nozzle 320 in the form of compressed air cleaning pulses DRI through the cleaning compressed air port 274 and the nozzle compressed air line 278.

[0071] Therefore, valve unit 270 can provide compressed air cleaning pulse (DRI) via clean compressed air port 274 and compressed air control signal (DSS) for controlling pumping mechanism 220 via control compressed air port 276.

[0072] Valve unit 270 has a number of switching valves (not shown in more detail here), which are controlled by module control unit 210. For this purpose, module control unit 210 is connected to valve unit 270 via module control line 212 in the form of electronically guided signals.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, in an alternative embodiment, a device control unit 211 may be optionally provided, which is connected via device control line 213, in the present case via first device control line 213.1 and second device control line 213.2, to the valve units 270, 270' of each sensor cleaning module 200, 200' in the manner of a guide signal for control, particularly relying on control signal 1022 provided by vehicle control unit 1020 of vehicle 1000.

[0074] The module reservoir 260 is designed to store cleaning fluid F and has at least one module liquid port 618 for receiving new cleaning fluid F. The cleaning fluid F stored in the module reservoir 260 can be transferred to the pumping mechanism 220 via the storage line 264.

[0075] The module liquid port 618 is connected to the liquid source 400 via at least one liquid supply line 620 in a fluid-guiding manner. One or more of the components shown herein can be used as the liquid source 400: windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410, fuel cell 420, rainwater harvesting device 430, cooling system 440, air dryer 450, and / or one or more other sensor cleaning modules 200'. Within the framework of the invention, other components of the vehicle in which liquid is obtained or formed as a byproduct can advantageously be used as the liquid source 400. In particular, within the framework of the invention, different sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' of the sensor cleaning system 100 can be connected to different types of liquid sources 400. Within the framework of the invention, in the sensor cleaning system 100, a first set of sensor cleaning modules 200 can be connected to the liquid source 400 and a second set of sensor cleaning modules 200 can be connected to the cleaning nozzle 320, such that the first set is designed to supply cleaning fluid F and the second set is designed to clean the sensor surface 300.

[0076] In the current configuration, the liquid supply line 620 leading to the other sensor cleaning module 200' is designed as a bidirectional exchange line 622. This allows for advantageous exchange of cleaning fluid F between the various sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' when needed. Optionally, the exchange line 622 may include a pump 610 for delivering the cleaning fluid F. The pump 610 may be designed to deliver the cleaning fluid F in one or both directions.

[0077] Optionally, the sensor cleaning module 200 may have a module compressed air reservoir 280 for locally storing compressed air DL within the sensor cleaning module 200. For this purpose, the module compressed air reservoir 280 may be pneumatically arranged between the module compressed air port 272 and the valve unit 270.

[0078] Compressed air DL can be supplied at module compressed air port 272 via compressed air source 600, especially compressor 602 or the central compressed air storage 604 of compressed air supply system 606.

[0079] Optionally, the sensor cleaning module 200 may include a heating device 500. The heating device 500 may be formed, for example, by a heat exchanger 502 designed to absorb waste heat 510 from a heat source 520. For example, an internal combustion engine of a vehicle 1000 may be used as the heat source 520. In its simplest form, the heat exchanger 501 may be formed by a surface around which waste heat 510 flows or in contact with the heat source 520. The heating device 500 may also be designed as an electric heating device with one or more heating wires.

[0080] The module control unit 210 is connected to the vehicle control unit 1020 via a central control line 1024 in the form of a guide signal, particularly for transmitting control signals 1022. The central control line 1024 may be formed in the form of a vehicle bus 1026 or be part of a vehicle bus 1026.

[0081] Figure 2 A vehicle 1000 designed as a passenger vehicle 1002 is shown, having a sensor cleaning system 100 according to the design of the present invention. The sensor cleaning system 100 has a sensor cleaning module 200 in the front region 1030 of the vehicle 1000 for supplying a front cluster 1032 of cleaning nozzles 320. The cleaning nozzles 320 of the front cluster 1032 are co-located, i.e., arranged in the front region 1030 of the vehicle 1000. The front cluster 1032 includes a first cleaning nozzle 320.1 for cleaning a first sensor 301.1, a second cleaning nozzle 320.2 for cleaning a second sensor 301.2, and a third cleaning nozzle 320.3 for cleaning a third sensor 301.3. Because the cleaning nozzles 320.1, 320.2, and 320.3 are arranged in a cluster in the same location, these cleaning nozzles can advantageously be supplied by a single sensor cleaning module 200, especially because the nozzle cleaning line 226 and the nozzle compressed air line 278 can be kept sufficiently short.

[0082] The sensor cleaning system 100 has another sensor cleaning module 200' in the rear region 1040 of the vehicle 1001 for supplying a rear cluster 1042 of cleaning nozzles 320. These cleaning nozzles 320, namely the fourth cleaning nozzle 320.4 for cleaning the fourth sensor 301.4, the fifth cleaning nozzle 320.5 for cleaning the fifth sensor 301.5, and the sixth cleaning nozzle 320.6 for cleaning the sixth sensor 301.6, are arranged in the same location, i.e., in the rear region 1040.

[0083] The module control unit 210 of sensor cleaning module 200 and another module control unit 210' of another sensor cleaning module 200' are respectively connected to vehicle controller 1020 via module control line 212 in a guide signal manner, specifically for transmitting control signal 1022. Furthermore, module control unit 210 and another module control unit 210' are maintained connected via module communication line 214 in a guide signal manner. The module control line 212 and / or the module communication line 214 can be formed as part of vehicle bus 1026.

[0084] The vehicle 1000 also has a windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410 as a fluid source 400, which is connected to the sensor cleaning module 200 and the sensor cleaning module 200' in a fluid-guided manner via a fluid supply line 620 for providing cleaning fluid F.

[0085] Furthermore, sensor cleaning module 200 and another sensor cleaning module 200' are connected to each other in a fluid-guiding manner via an exchange line 622 for exchanging cleaning fluid F. The fluid line 620 and the exchange line 622 may be designed to share a common line, either partially or completely.

[0086] The vehicle 1000 also has a compressor 602 as a compressed air source 600 to supply compressed air DL to the sensor cleaning module 200 and another sensor cleaning module 200' via compressed air line 608.

[0087] In addition, Figure 2 The example illustrates a priority status VS of the module control unit 210, which prioritizes the sensor cleaning module 200 over another sensor cleaning module 200'. This means that when the reserve of cleaning fluid F is limited, the cleaning fluid is preferably supplied to the sensor cleaning module 200, and therefore the sensor cleaning module can also obtain cleaning fluid F stored in another module reservoir 260' of the other sensor cleaning module 200' via the switching line 622. The sensor cleaning system 100 can be designed in particular such that when only a small amount of cleaning fluid remains in the liquid source 400, the lower priority sensor cleaning module 200, especially the sensor cleaning module 200 without priority status VS, is disconnected and / or not operated.

[0088] Figure 3A vehicle 1000 with a sensor cleaning system 1000 designed as a passenger vehicle 1002 is shown, which exemplarily has three different liquid sources 400. It should be understood here that other and / or additional liquid sources 400 may also be used in the sensor cleaning system 100 within the framework of the invention. In particular, the distributed architecture of the sensor cleaning system 100 with sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' advantageously allows the integration and use of multiple different liquid sources 400 for the advantageous collection of liquids and cleaning fluid F, wherein the cleaning fluid F can be exchanged between these sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' via exchange line 622. In its simplest case, the cleaning fluid F may be formed from water, such as rainwater or condensate.

[0089] In the current configuration, vehicle 1001 has a sensor cleaning module 200, which is connected via a liquid supply line 620 to a liquid source 400 designed as an air dryer 450. The air dryer 450 can, in particular, be part of a compressed air supply system. During operation of the compressed air supply system, condensate is generated in the air dryer 450, especially during regeneration. This condensate can be advantageously stored in a module reservoir 260 (not shown) of the sensor cleaning module 200 and used as the cleaning fluid F in the sensor cleaning system 100.

[0090] The sensor cleaning module 200 is also connected to the rainwater collection device 430, which is the liquid source 400, via a liquid supply line 620 in a fluid-guiding manner. When it rains, rainwater can be collected by the rainwater collection device 430 and stored in the module storage 260 of the sensor cleaning module 200.

[0091] The sensor cleaning system 100 has another sensor cleaning module 200', which is connected via a liquid supply line 620 to a liquid source designed as a fuel cell 420 in a fluid-guided manner. During operation of the fuel cell 420, which is primarily used to drive the vehicle 1000, water is generated during operation. This water can be advantageously stored in another module storage 260' (not shown here) of the other sensor cleaning module 200' and supplied to the sensor cleaning system 100 as cleaning fluid F.

[0092] Sensor cleaning module 200 and another sensor cleaning module 200' are connected to each other via a switching line 622 in a fluid-guided manner for exchanging cleaning fluid F. In this way, one sensor cleaning module 200, 200' can advantageously be supplied with excess cleaning fluid F by the other sensor cleaning module 200, 200'. For example, during continuous rain and when the module reservoir 260 of sensor cleaning module 200 is completely full, the other module reservoir 260' of another sensor cleaning module 200' can be filled via the switching line 622. A similar situation applies to other liquid sources 400.

[0093] Therefore, due to the possibility of the sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' being distributed, as many liquid sources 400 as possible can be included in the sensor cleaning system 100, and thus the availability of cleaning fluid F can be advantageously improved.

[0094] Figure 4 A vehicle 1000 with a sensor cleaning system 1002 designed as a passenger vehicle 1002 is shown, the sensor cleaning system having a sensor cleaning module 200 and another sensor cleaning module 200'. In this case, different heat sources 520 are shown exemplary to illustrate the design for the use of waste heat 510. Waste heat 510 may be formed in different components of the vehicle 1000 and is advantageously used to heat the cleaning fluid F, especially when the external temperature is near or below freezing. In particular, when the sensor surface is contaminated with grease and oil, the cleaning performance is improved as the cleaning fluid F is heated. One or more of the heat sources 520 shown herein, or other heat sources 520, can of course be combined with other embodiments shown herein. The sensor cleaning module 200 is arranged in the vehicle such that it receives waste heat 510 from a heat source 520 designed as an internal combustion engine 522. For this purpose, it is sufficient for the sensor cleaning module 200 to be arranged near the heat source 520, especially the internal combustion engine 522. In other embodiments, the sensor cleaning module 200 may be arranged close to the heat source 520, especially close to the internal combustion engine 522, or may be mechanically connected to the heat source 520, especially the internal combustion engine 522, by means of a suitable heat-conducting component.

[0095] Similarly, another sensor cleaning module 200' receives waste heat 510 from a heat source 520 designed for the fuel cell 420. By arranging another sensor cleaning module 200' near the fuel cell 420, this other sensor cleaning module can use the waste heat 510 generated during the operation of the fuel cell 420 to heat the cleaning fluid F.

[0096] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor cleaning module 200 can—as shown here in the case of another sensor cleaning module 200'—obtain waste heat 510 via the exhaust system 524 of the internal combustion engine 522. For this purpose, the sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' can be arranged near the exhaust system 524, intended to receive the exhaust gas flow from the exhaust system 544. However, heat transfer can also be achieved via heat transfer devices and / or heat exchangers.

[0097] exist Figure 5 The side view shows Figure 2 The vehicle 1000 shown is illustrated. A liquid source 400, specifically a windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410, is positioned above sensor cleaning modules 200 and 200'. This arrangement allows the module reservoir 260 (not shown) of sensor cleaning module 200 and another module reservoir 260' (also not shown) of the other sensor cleaning module 200' to be advantageously filled by gravity, as the cleaning fluid F present in the windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410 flows automatically downstream via the liquid supply line 620, particularly in the absence of a pump 610 or similar conveying device, into these module reservoirs 260 and 260'.

[0098] Figure 6 A vehicle 100, designed as a commercial vehicle 1004, is shown with a sensor cleaning system 100 according to the present invention. The sensor cleaning system 100 includes a sensor cleaning module 200 arranged to supply a first cleaning nozzle 320.1 disposed in the front region 1030 of the vehicle 1000 for cleaning a first sensor 301.1. However, other cleaning nozzles 320 may be connected to the sensor cleaning module 200 in the front region 1030 for the purpose of supplying cleaning for other sensors 301.

[0099] The sensor cleaning system 100 includes another sensor cleaning module 200' for supplying a second cleaning nozzle 320.2 disposed in the rear region 1040 of the vehicle 1000. The second cleaning nozzle 320.2 is specifically used for cleaning the second sensor 301.2. However, other cleaning nozzles 320.2 can be connected to the other sensor cleaning module 200', particularly for cleaning other sensors 301. Other sensors 301 located in the same area can be grouped into clusters, which are supplied by a single sensor cleaning module 200 (not shown here).

[0100] The two sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' are supplied with cleaning fluid F by a liquid source 400 designed as a windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410. The windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410 may have a capacity of several liters, particularly 10L to 15L in the case of commercial vehicles. The sensor cleaning module 200 is arranged below the windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410, such that the cleaning fluid F flows downstream under gravity via a liquid supply line 620 into the module storage 260 (not shown here) of the sensor cleaning module 200.

[0101] Another sensor cleaning module 200' is arranged above the windshield wiper fluid reservoir 410, such that a pump 610 for delivering cleaning fluid to another module reservoir 260' (not shown here) of the other sensor cleaning module 200' is arranged in another fluid supply line 620', especially if the other sensor cleaning module 200' cannot draw water by itself, or if the other sensor cleaning module 200' does not have its own electric pump or function to support the pumping mechanism of the other sensor cleaning module 200'.

[0102] The two sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' are supplied with compressed air DL by a compressed air source 600 designed as a compressor 602 in a known manner and are connected to each other and to the vehicle controller 1020 via corresponding module control units 210, 210' in the form of guide signals.

[0103] Figure 7 The vehicle combination shown is vehicle 1000, which, in addition to the vehicle combination already in use, Figure 6 The commercial vehicle 1004 shown also includes a trailer 1006. Therefore, the sensor cleaning system 100 is extended by components arranged in the trailer 1006, particularly another sensor cleaning module 200". This other sensor cleaning module 200" supplies a cluster of cleaning nozzles 320 arranged in the rear region of the trailer 1006, namely a third cleaning nozzle 320.3 for cleaning the third sensor 301.3 and a fourth cleaning nozzle 320.4 for cleaning the fourth sensor 301.4. The other sensor cleaning module 200" has another module control unit 210", which is connected to the vehicle controller 1022 and other sensor cleaning modules 200, 200' via a module communication line 214 formed, particularly through the vehicle bus 1026, in the form of guiding signals.

[0104] Another sensor cleaning module 200” is connected to the liquid source 400 via a liquid supply line 620 in a fluid-guiding manner. The liquid source 400 can be configured as a rainwater harvesting device 430, which can advantageously utilize the relatively large roof surface 1007 of the trailer 1006 to collect rainwater so that the rainwater can be supplied as cleaning fluid F to the other sensor cleaning module 200” and stored, in particular, in another module storage 260” of the other sensor cleaning module 200”. Alternatively or additionally, the rainwater harvesting device 430 can also be designed to collect splash water from the tires. The rainwater harvesting device 430 can in particular have a filter or similar cleaning device for cleaning the cleaning fluid F.

[0105] Alternatively or additionally, the liquid source 400 may be configured as a cooling system 440, which is primarily used to cool goods, especially food, transported in the trailer 1006, and produces condensate as a byproduct during operation. This condensate can be collected and supplied as a cleaning fluid F to another sensor cleaning module 200.

[0106] Optionally, the various sensor cleaning modules 200, 200', 200" can be connected to each other via exchange line 622 in a fluid-guiding manner. In particular, as shown here, another sensor cleaning module 200' and yet another sensor cleaning module 200" can be connected to each other via exchange line 622 in a fluid-guiding manner, especially to advantageously provide the cleaning fluid F obtained by yet another sensor cleaning module 200" via rainwater collection device 430 and / or via cooling system 440 to other sensor cleaning modules, especially another sensor cleaning module 200'.

[0107] Figure 8 The schematic diagram illustrates the construction of a sensor cleaning module 200 having a module housing 290 designed as a valve core housing 292. The valve core housing 292 offers the advantages of a standard component used in other areas of pneumatic, hydraulic, or fluid systems in a vehicle and is therefore inexpensive. In this case, the housing 290, in the form of a valve core housing 292, has three valve inserts 294: a first valve insert 294.1, a second valve insert 294.2, and a third valve insert 294.3. Each valve insert 294 contains a switching valve 360 ​​designed as a cartridge valve 336, which in this case has a valve body 346 axially movable within the valve insert 294, wherein the valve body 346 can be selectively moved by an armature 348. For this purpose, each armature 348 is connected to a module control unit 210—not shown here—by a guide signal. Each valve body 346 of the switching valve 360 ​​has a first valve chamber 346A and a second valve chamber 346B.

[0108] If the switching valve 360 ​​is designed as a two-position two-way valve as shown here, it can be switched to the open position SO or the closed position SG depending on the position of the valve body 346. In the present case, this is described with reference to the first switching valve 362. In the closed position SG, the first port 362.1 and the second port 362.2 are pneumatically separated from the third port 362.3 and the fourth port 362.4, wherein, however, the first and second ports 362.1, 362.2 are pneumatically connected to each other, and the third and fourth ports 362.3, 362.4 are pneumatically connected to each other. In the present embodiment, in all the switching valves 362, 364, 366, the pneumatic separation between the first and second ports 362.1, 362.2 on one side and the third and fourth ports 362.3, 362.4 on the other side is only unilateral, that is, the medium can flow from the third and fourth ports 362.3, 362.4 toward the first and second ports 362.1, 362.2 in the closed position. This is because the valve body is a standard component, and its valve body 346 has a sealing ring 342 with a sealing lip having a single-sided sealing. This condition can be addressed by providing a check valve (here in the form of a first check valve 372) at at least one port of each switching valve, here at the first port 362.1 for the first switching valve 362. The first check valve 372 prevents flow from the third and fourth ports 362.3, 362.4 toward the first and second ports 362.1, 362.2 when the first switching valve 362 is in the closed position SG. Similarly, for the second switching valve 364, a double-sided seal is ensured by the second check valve 374 and the third check valve 376, and for the third switching valve 366, a double-sided seal is ensured by the fourth check valve 378.

[0109] In the open position SO of switching valve 360, here switching valve 362, all ports 362.1, 362.2, 362.3, and 362.4 are pneumatically connected to each other.

[0110] The first switching valve 362 and the second switching valve 364 essentially form the valve unit 270 of the sensor cleaning module 200. When the first switching valve 362 is in its open position SO, the air pressure attached to the module's compressed air port 272 is transferred to the third and fourth ports 362.3 and 362.4. This causes compressed air DL to be transmitted at the fourth port 362.4 in the form of a compressed air control signal DSS to the air chamber 228.1 of the piston 228 of the pumping mechanism 220. Applying the compressed air control signal DSS to the air chamber 228.1 causes its expansion, which in turn causes the axially movable plunger 228.3 of the piston 228 to move and— consequently—causes the contraction of the liquid chamber 228.2 of the piston 228. Thus, a fluid flow is formed from the cleaning fluid F contained in the liquid chamber 228.2 through the suction pressure check valve 350 to the cleaning nozzle 320. According to the compressed air control signal DSS, the cleaning fluid F is output as a liquid cleaning pulse FRI from the cleaning nozzle 320 toward the sensor surface 300 (not shown) for cleaning purposes. Here, the fourth check valve 368 prevents the flow of the cleaning fluid F from the second port 366.2 to the first port 366.1 of the third switching valve 366. Due to the aforementioned one-sided shut-off characteristic of the sealing ring 342, such flow may even occur in other cases when the third switching valve 366 is in the closed state SG.

[0111] In the open position SO of the first switching valve 362, the air pressure at the module compressed air port 272 is also supplied at the third port 362.3 of the first switching valve 362. From there, compressed air reaches the first port 364.1 of the second switching valve 364 via the second check valve 374. In the open position S of the second switching valve 364, the first port 364.1 is pneumatically connected to the second port 364.2 of the second switching valve 364, so that the compressed air DL at the module compressed air port 272 is further transferred from the second port 364.2 of the second switching valve 364 through the third check valve 376 and the cleaning compressed air port 274 to the cleaning nozzle 320 in the form of a compressed air cleaning pulse DRI for the purpose of cleaning the sensor surface 300.

[0112] In this way, by correspondingly switching the first switching valve 362 and the second switching valve 364, the liquid cleaning pulse FRI and / or compressed air cleaning pulse DRI can be selectively controlled to the cleaning nozzle 320. In particular, a pulse sequence or media sequence can be output in a controlled manner to achieve the desired cleaning effect.

[0113] To refill the liquid chamber 228.2 of piston 228, the third switching valve 366 can be switched to its open position SO—especially when the first switching valve 362 is in its closed position SG and the second switching valve 364 is in its open position SO. In this position, air in the air chamber 228.1 can leak to the cleaning nozzle 320 via the fourth port 362.4 and the third port 362.3 of the first switching valve 362, and via the second check valve 374 and the open second switching valve 364. Simultaneously, the return spring 228.4 causes the plunger 228.3 to retract, thereby reducing the size of the air chamber 228.1 and increasing the size of the liquid chamber 228.2. By increasing the size of the liquid chamber 228.2, a negative pressure is created, which—when the third switching valve 366 is open—causes the intake of cleaning fluid F from the module reservoir 260, which is then used to fill the liquid chamber 228.2 accordingly. Here, the suction pressure check valve 350 shuts off the connection with the cleaning nozzle 320 to prevent a drop in negative pressure and to enable refilling of the liquid 228.2.

[0114] Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional view shows the module housing 290, designed as a valve core housing 292, in which two switching valves 360, designed as cartridge valves 336, namely a first cartridge valve 336.1 and a second cartridge valve 336.2, can be seen. Advantageously, these cartridge valves 336 are structurally identically designed with an armature 348, a valve body 346, and a valve piston 331 movably held within the valve body 346. The valve body 346 is designed to form pressure chambers, particularly a first pressure chamber 346A and a second pressure chamber 346B, by means of sealing rings, especially sealing rings 342, surrounding the valve body 346 and sealing relative to the inner wall 296 of the valve insert 294.

[0115] The valve housing 292 is specifically designed as a single piece, for example, made of plastic or aluminum, and equipped with valve inserts 294, which are essentially designed as cylindrical openings. In the present case, a first cartridge valve 336.1 is arranged in the first valve insert 294.1 and a second cartridge valve 336.2 is arranged in the second valve insert 294.2. Through channels and similar air-guiding and / or flow connections between these valve inserts 290, 290.1, 290.2, these switching valves can be connected to each other and / or to external components via their ports 332.1, 332.2, 334.1, 334.2, 334.3, particularly for structurally achieving… Figure 8 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 The circuit diagram shows sensor cleaning modules 200, 200.1, and 200.2.

[0116] The first cartridge valve 336.1 is designed as a two-position three-way solenoid valve 334 because the second valve insert 294.2 has a third port 334.3 through an additional compressed air guiding opening below the valve body 346.1 of the first cartridge valve 336.1—in addition to the first port 334.1 and the second port 334.2 which is not visible in this cross-sectional view.

[0117] In the second valve insert 294.2, there is no additional opening below the valve body 346.2 of the second cartridge valve 336.2. Therefore, the second cartridge valve 336.2 does not have a third port like the first cartridge valve 336.1, except for the first port 332.1 and the second port 332.2 which is not visible in this cross-sectional view.

[0118] Figure 10A and Figure 10B A preferred switching valve 360, designed as a two-position two-way valve 332, is shown in cross-sectional view. The embodiment shown here is a cartridge valve 336 designed as a solenoid valve, which can be switched via corresponding electronic control—and optionally additionally via control pressure PST. The cartridge valve 336 is particularly designed for embedding in a valve housing 292, especially a standardized valve housing, which can be used as the module housing 290 for the sensor cleaning module 200—or as part of the sensor cleaning module 200.

[0119] The control pressure PST can be provided via control pressure line 332.3, schematically shown here, wherein control pressure line 332.3 is pneumatically connected, in particular, to the first port 332.1 of the two-position two-way valve 332. The cartridge valve 336 has a valve body 346 having a first valve chamber 346A and a second valve chamber 346B, which can be connected or separated from each other via a valve piston 331 movable relative to the valve body 346. Figure 10A In the closed position 332A shown, the first port 332.1 and the second port 332.2 of the two-position two-way valve 332 are pneumatically separated by the valve piston 331.

[0120] exist Figure 10B In the open position 332B shown, a control pressure PST is applied to the valve piston 331 by energizing the armature 348 and the resulting axial movement of the armature 348. This causes the valve piston 331 to move axially toward the valve seat 298 of the two-position two-way valve 332, which is formed by a portion of the module housing in the valve seat 294. Due to the axial movement of the valve piston 331, the first port 332.1 is pneumatically connected to the second port 332.2.

[0121] exist Figure 11A and Figure 11B Another preferred switching valve 360, in the form of a two-position three-way solenoid valve 334, is shown. In particular, the two-position three-way solenoid valve 334 resembles... Figure 10A and Figure 10B The two-position two-way valve 332 shown is designed as a cartridge valve 336, especially a cartridge valve with the same structure, and can be used as a two-position three-way solenoid valve 334 in the present case—by additionally using a port arranged in the valve seat 298 as a third port 334.3. The valve seat 298—and therefore the third port 334.3—is arranged in the valve insert 294 below the valve body 346 and the valve piston 331.

[0122] In the two-position three-way solenoid valve 334 Figure 11A In the closed position 334A shown, the armature 348 is in its closed position, thereby preventing the control pressure PST from acting on the valve piston 331. In this closed position 334A, the first port 334.1 is closed and the second port 334.2 and the third port 334.3 are pneumatically connected. Similar to a two-position two-way valve 332... Figure 10B In the open position 332B shown, the two-position three-way solenoid valve 334 is in the... Figure 11B In the open position 334B shown, the armature 348 moves upward due to energization, thereby allowing the control pressure PST to act on the valve piston 331 and cause the valve piston to move axially toward the valve seat 298. This closes the third port 334.3 of the two-position three-way solenoid valve 334, and pneumatically connects the first port 334.1 to the second port 334.2.

[0123] In alternative embodiments, other valve types known to those skilled in the art can also be used, such as solenoid valves that directly switch without controlling pressure. In the case of a solenoid valve that is directly switched, the valve piston moves directly by energizing the armature, thus eliminating the need to apply control pressure to the valve piston.

[0124] exist Figure 12 Another embodiment of the sensor cleaning module 200.1 is shown, which is different from... Figure 8 The embodiment shown in the figure, another embodiment, has a valve body 346 that replaces the sealing ring 342, which only seals on one side, with a double-sided sealing O-ring, particularly an O-ring with a circular cross-section. Unlike... Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, due to the double-sided sealing effect of the O-ring 344, the first check valve 372, the second check valve 374, the third check valve 376, and the fourth check valve 378 can be omitted, thereby advantageously simplifying the construction of the sensor cleaning module 200.1. Furthermore, in Figure 12The illustration exemplarily shows a module control unit 210, particularly a module control unit for operating switching valves 362, 364, and 366. For clarity, the representation of the module control unit 210 is omitted in the remaining embodiments shown.

[0125] exist Figure 13 Another embodiment of the sensor cleaning module 200.2 is shown, which, in addition to... Figure 12 The sensor cleaning module 200.1 shown has a heating device 500 in the form of a heating wire 504. This heating wire can also be used in all other embodiments of the sensor module 200 shown. The heating wire 504 is advantageously guided through the housing 290, particularly the valve housing 292, so that all important components, particularly the switching valves 362, 364, 366, and the pumping mechanism 220, are heated by the heating wire 504. This heating wire is preferably connected to the module control unit 210 for energy supply and control purposes. Alternatively or additionally, a relay for powering and controlling the heating wire 504 can be provided. Using the heating device 500, it is advantageous to prevent the sensor cleaning module 200.2 from freezing at low temperatures and / or to achieve heating of the cleaning fluid F to improve cleaning performance.

[0126] exist Figure 14 Another embodiment of the sensor cleaning module 200.3 is shown, attached to... Figure 12 The sensor cleaning module 200.1 shown has two additional switching valves, namely a fourth switching valve 368 and a fifth switching valve 370. For this purpose, the housing 290, designed as a valve core housing 292, has a fourth valve insert 294.4 for the fourth switching valve 368 and a fifth valve insert 294.5 for the fifth switching valve 370. Figure 14 The sensor cleaning module 200.3 shown is designed to supply multiple cleaning nozzles 320.1, 320.2. Selective supply of different cleaning nozzles 320.1, 320.2 can be advantageously achieved via fourth and fifth switching valves 368, 370.

[0127] The media concentrator 318, which brings together the cleaning liquid port 222 and the cleaning compressed air port 274, is arranged before the dividing section that divides into the first nozzle branch line 319.1 and the second nozzle branch line 319.2 in the flow direction of the cleaning pulses FRI and DRI. A fourth switching valve 368 is arranged in the first nozzle branch line 319.1, and a second switching valve 370 is arranged in the second nozzle branch line 319.2. By switching the fourth switching valve 368 to the open position SO, a guide fluid connection can be established between the first port 368.1 and the second port 368.2 of the fourth switching valve 368, so as to connect the first nozzle branch line 319.1 to the first cleaning nozzle 320.1 and correspondingly transmit the cleaning pulses FRI and DRI to the first cleaning nozzle 320.1. Of course, not only one first cleaning nozzle 320.1, but also multiple cleaning nozzles 320 can be connected to the second port 368.2 of the fourth switching valve 368.

[0128] Similarly, by switching the fifth switching valve 370 to the open position SO, a guide fluid connection can be established between the first port 370.1 and the second port 370.2 of the fifth switching valve 370 to connect the second nozzle branch line 319.2 to the second cleaning nozzle 320.2 and correspondingly transmit the cleaning pulses FRI and DRI to the second cleaning nozzle 320.2. Of course, not only one second cleaning nozzle 320.2, but also multiple cleaning nozzles 320 can be connected to the second port 370.2 of the fifth switching valve 370.

[0129] Furthermore, in all embodiments, the sensor cleaning module 200, as exemplarily shown here in sensor cleaning module 200.3, may have a pressure sensor 230 and / or a position sensor 232 to measure the pressure increase in the pumping mechanism 220, particularly in the piston 228, and to switch the switching valve based on this pressure or according to the positioning of the plunger 228.3. In embodiments with pressure sensor 230 and / or position sensor 232, the positioning of the plunger 228.3 can be advantageously adjusted variably in terms of control technology. In particular, in this extended embodiment, the duration and intensity of the liquid cleaning pulse FRI and / or compressed air cleaning pulse DRI can be variably adjusted, especially as needed. For this purpose, the pressure sensor 230 and / or position sensor 232 are connected to the module control unit 210 (not shown here) in the form of a guide signal.

[0130] List of reference numerals in attached drawings (part of the instruction manual)

[0131] 100 Sensor Cleaning System

[0132] 200 Sensor Cleaning Module

[0133] 200' Another sensor cleaning module

[0134] 200 “Another sensor cleaning module”

[0135] 200.1-3 Other implementations of the sensor cleaning module

[0136] 210 Module Control Unit

[0137] 210' Another module control unit

[0138] 210 “Another module control unit”

[0139] 211 Equipment Control Unit

[0140] 212 Module Control Circuit

[0141] 213 Equipment control circuit

[0142] 213.1, 213.2 First and Second Equipment Control Circuits

[0143] 214 Module Communication Lines

[0144] 220 Pumping Mechanism

[0145] 222 Clean fluid port

[0146] 226 Nozzle Liquid Circuit

[0147] 228 Piston

[0148] 228.1 Piston Air Chamber

[0149] 228.2 The liquid chamber of the piston

[0150] 228.3 Plunger

[0151] 228.4 Return spring

[0152] 230 Pressure Sensor

[0153] 232 Position Sensor

[0154] 260 Module Storage

[0155] 260' Another module storage

[0156] 260 “Another Module Storage”

[0157] 264 memory circuits

[0158] 270 valve unit

[0159] 272 Module Compressed Air Port

[0160] 274 Clean the compressed air port

[0161] 276 Control compressed air port

[0162] 278 Nozzle Compressed Air Circuit

[0163] 280 Module Compressed Air Storage Unit

[0164] 290 Module Housing

[0165] 292 Valve Core Housing

[0166] 294 Valve Insert

[0167] 294.1~5 First to Fifth Valve Inserts

[0168] 296 Inner wall of valve insert

[0169] 298 Valve seat for valve insert

[0170] 300 sensor surface

[0171] 301 sensor

[0172] 318 Media Collection Department

[0173] 319.1, 319.2 First and second nozzle branch lines

[0174] 320 Cleaning Nozzle

[0175] 331 Valve Piston

[0176] 332 Two-way valve

[0177] 332.1 First port of a two-position two-way valve

[0178] 332.2 Second port of a two-position two-way valve

[0179] 332.3 Control circuit for a two-position two-way valve

[0180] 332A Two-Position Two-Way Valve Closed Position

[0181] 332B Two-position Two-way Valve Opening Position

[0182] 334 Two-position three-way solenoid valve

[0183] 334.1 First port of a two-position three-way solenoid valve

[0184] 334.2 The second port of a two-position three-way solenoid valve

[0185] 334.3 The third port of a two-position three-way solenoid valve

[0186] 334.4 Control circuit for a two-position three-way solenoid valve

[0187] 334A Two-Position Three-Way Solenoid Valve Closed Position

[0188] Opening position of 334B two-position three-way solenoid valve

[0189] 336 Cartridge Valve

[0190] 336.1, 336.2 First and second cartridge valves

[0191] 342 Sealing Ring

[0192] 344 O-ring

[0193] 346 Valve body

[0194] 346A, 346B First and second valve chambers

[0195] 348 Armature

[0196] 350 suction pressure check valve

[0197] 360° switching valve

[0198] 362 First switching valve

[0199] 362.1~4 First to fourth ports of the first switching valve

[0200] 364 Second switching valve

[0201] 364.1~2 First and second ports of the second switching valve

[0202] 366 Third switching valve

[0203] 366.1~2 First and second ports of the third switching valve

[0204] 368 Fourth switching valve

[0205] 368.1~2 First and second ports of the fourth switching valve

[0206] 370 Fifth Switching Valve

[0207] 370.1~2 The first and second ports of the fifth switching valve

[0208] 372 First check valve

[0209] 374 Second Check Valve

[0210] 376 Third Check Valve

[0211] 378 Fourth Check Valve

[0212] 400 Liquid Source

[0213] 410 Windshield wiper fluid reservoir

[0214] 420 fuel cell

[0215] 430 Rainwater Harvesting Device

[0216] 440 Cooling System

[0217] 450 Air Dryer

[0218] 500 heating device

[0219] 502 heat exchanger

[0220] 510 Waste Heat

[0221] 520 heat source

[0222] 522 internal combustion engine

[0223] 524 Exhaust System

[0224] 602 Control Circuit

[0225] 600 Compressed Air Source

[0226] 602 Compressor

[0227] 604 Central Compressed Air Storage Unit

[0228] 606 Compressed Air Supply System

[0229] 608 Compressed Air Circuit

[0230] 610 pump

[0231] 618 Module Liquid Port

[0232] 620 Liquid Supply Line

[0233] 622 switching line

[0234] 1000 vehicles

[0235] 1002 Passenger vehicles

[0236] 1004 Commercial Vehicles

[0237] 1006 Trailer

[0238] 1007 The roof surface of the trailer

[0239] 1020 Vehicle Control Unit

[0240] 1022 Control Signal

[0241] 1024 Central Control Line

[0242] 1026 Vehicle Bus

[0243] 1030 Front area of ​​vehicle

[0244] 1032 First Sensor Cluster

[0245] Rear area of ​​vehicle 1040

[0246] 1042 Second Sensor Cluster

[0247] LA line length

[0248] DL compressed air

[0249] DRI Compressed Air Cleaning Pulse

[0250] DSS Compressed Air Control Signal

[0251] F Cleaning Solution

[0252] FRI Liquid Cleaning Pulse

[0253] LA line distance

[0254] PST control pressure

[0255] S control signal

[0256] SG switching valve closed position

[0257] SO Switching valve opening position

[0258] SV priority

[0259] VF module storage capacity

[0260] VK piston volume

Claims

1. A sensor cleaning system (100) for a vehicle (1000), the sensor cleaning system having: -At least one sensor cleaning module (200), wherein, The sensor cleaning module (200) has a valve unit (270), wherein The valve unit (270) is designed to receive compressed air (DL) via the module compressed air port (272) and to selectively output compressed air cleaning pulses (DRI) via the clean compressed air port (274). Its features are, - The sensor cleaning module (200) has a module storage (260) and a pumping mechanism (220), wherein The module reservoir (260) is designed to receive and store cleaning fluid (F) supplied via the module liquid port (618) and is connected to the pumping mechanism (220) in a fluid-guiding manner. The pumping mechanism (220) is driven by compressed air and is designed to deliver cleaning fluid (F) at the cleaning fluid port (222) in the form of liquid cleaning pulses (FRI) in response to a control signal (S) designed as a compressed air control signal (DSS). Moreover, among them, The valve unit (270) is designed to selectively output the compressed air control signal (DSS) via the controlled compressed air port (276).

2. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, - The sensor cleaning module (200) has a module control unit (210) designed to control the valve unit (270); and / or - The sensor cleaning system (100) has a device control unit (211) which is designed to control the valve unit (270) of at least one sensor cleaning module of the sensor cleaning system (100).

3. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The module control unit (210) is designed to control the valve unit (270) in reliance on control signals (1022) provided by the vehicle control unit (1020) of the vehicle (1000).

4. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The device control unit (211) is designed to control the valve unit (270) of at least one sensor cleaning module of the sensor cleaning system (100) in accordance with the control signal (1022) provided by the vehicle control unit (1020) of the vehicle (1000).

5. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The device control unit (211) is designed to control the valve units (270) of all sensor cleaning modules of the sensor cleaning system (100) in accordance with the control signals (1022) provided by the vehicle control unit (1020) of the vehicle (1000).

6. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that... have - At least one cleaning nozzle (320) connected to the sensor cleaning module (200) in a manner that guides air and / or fluid, the cleaning nozzle being designed to apply liquid cleaning pulses (FRI) and / or compressed air cleaning pulses (DRI) to the sensor surface (300).

7. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that... have - At least one additional sensor cleaning module (200'), wherein the sensor cleaning module (200) and the at least one additional sensor cleaning module (200') - Connected via a switching line (622) in a bidirectional fluid-guided manner, and / or - Connected via a control line (602) using a bidirectional guide signal.

8. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that, -The sensor cleaning module (200) is associated with a first sensor cluster (1032) having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for at least one sensor; - The at least one additional sensor cleaning module (200') is associated with a second cluster (1042) of cleaning nozzles having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for at least one sensor.

9. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that, - The sensor cleaning module (200) is associated with a first sensor cluster (1032) located in the front region (1030) of the vehicle (1000) and having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for at least one sensor; - The at least one additional sensor cleaning module (200') is associated with a second cluster (1042) of cleaning nozzles located in the rear region (1040) of the vehicle (1000) and having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for at least one sensor.

10. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that, - The sensor cleaning module (200) is associated with a first sensor cluster (1032) located in the front area (1030) of the vehicle (1000) and having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for each sensor. - The at least one additional sensor cleaning module (200') is associated with a second cluster (1042) of cleaning nozzles arranged in the rear region (1040) of the vehicle (1000) and having a number of cleaning nozzles in the same location for each sensor.

11. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The module storage (260) is connected to at least one liquid source (400) in a fluid-guiding manner.

12. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The at least one liquid source (400) is a windshield wiper liquid tank (410), a fuel cell (420), a rainwater harvesting device (430), a cooling system (440), an air dryer (450), and / or another sensor cleaning module.

13. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The sensor cleaning module (200) is positioned deeper than the liquid source (400).

14. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 11, further comprising a pump (610) designed for delivering cleaning fluid (F), the pump being arranged in a liquid supply line (620) or exchange line (622) that connects the sensor cleaning module (200) to at least one liquid source (400) in a fluid-guided manner.

15. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A sensor cleaning module (200) is equipped with at least two cleaning nozzles (320).

16. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A sensor cleaning module (200) is equipped with at least three cleaning nozzles (320).

17. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The cleaning nozzle (320) is arranged separately from the sensor cleaning module (200).

18. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The line length (LA) between the sensor cleaning module (200) and at least one cleaning nozzle (320) connected to the sensor cleaning module (200) is less than 80 cm.

19. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The line length (LA) between the sensor cleaning module (200) and at least one cleaning nozzle (320) connected to the sensor cleaning module (200) is less than 50 cm.

20. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The line length (LA) between the sensor cleaning module (200) and all the cleaning nozzles (320) connected to the sensor cleaning module (200) is less than 80 cm.

21. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The line length (LA) between the sensor cleaning module (200) and all the cleaning nozzles (320) connected to the sensor cleaning module (200) is less than 50 cm.

22. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor cleaning module (200) has a module compressed air reservoir (280) designed to receive and locally store compressed air (DL) supplied via the module compressed air port (272).

23. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The module storage (260) of the sensor cleaning module (200) has a capacity (VF) between 250 ml and 3000 ml.

24. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The module storage (260) of the sensor cleaning module (200) has a capacity (VF) between 250 ml and 1000 ml.

25. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor cleaning module (200) is arranged and / or designed to utilize the waste heat (510) of the heat source (520) of the vehicle (1000).

26. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 25, characterized in that, The sensor cleaning module (200) has a heating device (500).

27. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor cleaning module (200) has a module housing (290) surrounding the sensor cleaning module (200).

28. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 27, characterized in that, - The module housing (290) is formed from the valve core housing (292) and has first to third valve inserts (294.1, 294.2, 294.3), wherein, - Each valve insert is equipped with a switching valve (360, 362, 364, 366) arranged in the valve insert and designed as a cartridge valve (336).

29. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 27, characterized in that, The module housing (290) is made of plastic, aluminum, or cast aluminum.

30. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 28, characterized in that, The valve insert is designed as an approximately hollow cylinder and the switching valves each have a valve body (346) with first and second axially adjacent valve chambers (346A, 346B), which are pneumatically separated in at least one flow direction by a sealing ring (342) that is pressure-sealed against the inner wall (296) of the valve insert.

31. The sensor cleaning system (100) according to claim 30, characterized in that, The sealing ring (342) is designed as a double-sided stop O-ring (344).

32. A vehicle (1000), characterized in that, The vehicle has a sensor cleaning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 31.

33. The vehicle (1000) according to claim 32, characterized in that, The vehicle is a passenger vehicle (1002) or a commercial vehicle (1004).

34. The vehicle (1000) according to claim 32, characterized in that, The vehicle in question is a trailer (1006).

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