Sensor assembly with bladder

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a sensor assembly with a baffle. A sensor assembly includes a sensor having a lens defining an axis. An air nozzle is aimed to direct air across the lens and define an airflow direction along a longitudinal axis of the air nozzle. The longitudinal axis is transverse to the axis. A plurality of baffles are disposed in the air nozzle and spaced apart from each other. The baffle extends partially across the air nozzle relative to the axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sensor assembly in a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Autonomous vehicles typically include a variety of sensors. Some sensors detect the internal state of the vehicle, such as wheel speed, wheel orientation, and engine and transmission variables. Some sensors detect the position or orientation of the vehicle, such as global positioning system (GPS) sensors; accelerometers, such as piezoelectric or microelectromechanical systems (MEMS); gyroscopes, such as rate gyroscopes, ring laser gyroscopes, or fiber optic gyroscopes; inertial measurement units (IMUs); and magnetometers. Some sensors detect the outside world, such as radar sensors, scanning laser rangefinders, light detection and ranging (lidar) devices, and image processing sensors (such as cameras). Lidar devices detect the distance to an object by emitting laser pulses and measuring the flight time for the pulses to travel to the object and back. When sensor lenses, covers, etc. become dirty, smudged, etc., the sensor operation may be damaged or hindered. Summary of the invention

[0003] A sensor assembly includes a sensor having a lens defining an axis. An air nozzle is aimed to direct air across the lens and define an airflow direction along a longitudinal axis of the air nozzle. The longitudinal axis is transverse to the axis. A plurality of baffles are disposed in the air nozzle and are spaced apart from each other. The baffles partially extend across the air nozzle relative to the axis.

[0004] The baffle may taper in a direction opposite to the air flow direction. The baffle may taper along the axis.

[0005] The air nozzle may include side surfaces spaced apart from each other along the axis. The plurality of baffles may extend from one side surface toward another side surface.

[0006] The baffles may define respective baffle longitudinal axes extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the air nozzle.

[0007] The air nozzle may define a second axis transverse to the longitudinal axis and the axis. The respective baffles may extend partially across the air nozzle relative to the second axis. The baffles may be spaced apart from each other along the second axis. The baffles may include respective widths extending along the second axis. The respective widths may be substantially the same.

[0008] The air nozzle may include a top portion and a bottom portion spaced apart from each other along the second axis.The baffle may be spaced apart from the top portion and the bottom portion.

[0009] The air nozzle may include an inlet and an outlet spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of baffles may be disposed closer to the outlet than to the inlet. The baffles may be spaced apart from the outlet along the longitudinal axis.

[0010] The baffle may include a respective outlet surface facing the outlet. The outlet surface may extend substantially parallel to the outlet. The baffle may include a respective outlet surface facing the inlet. The inlet surface may extend substantially parallel to the outlet surface.

[0011] The baffles may comprise respective heights extending along the axis. The respective heights may be substantially the same.

[0012] The baffles may comprise respective lengths extending along the longitudinal axis. The respective lengths may be substantially the same.

[0013] The plurality of baffles may be mirror images of one another about the longitudinal axis.

[0014] The air nozzle may be shaped to discharge air in a flat fan pattern.

[0015] The sensor assembly may include a fluid nozzle aimed to direct fluid across the lens.The fluid nozzle may be circumferentially spaced from the air nozzle about the axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle including an exemplary sensor assembly mounted to a roof.

[0017] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the sensor assembly including the housing lower part and the housing upper part.

[0018] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the air nozzle that directs air across the lens of the sensor.

[0019] Figure 4A is a front view of an air nozzle including a baffle on one side.

[0020] Figure 4B is a front view of the air nozzle including a baffle on the other side.

[0021] Figure 4C is a front view of an air nozzle including a baffle that tapers from one side toward the other side.

[0022] Figure 5A It is along Figure 4A Cross-sectional view along line 5A.

[0023] Figure 5B It is along Figure 4B Cross-sectional view along line 5B.

[0024] Figure 5C It is along Figure 4C Cross-sectional view along line 5C.

[0025] Figure 6 is a diagram of an exemplary cleaning system for a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, a sensor assembly 12 for a vehicle 10 includes a sensor 14 having a lens 16 defining an axis A. An air nozzle 18 is aimed to direct air across the lens 16 and defines an airflow direction D along a longitudinal axis L of the air nozzle 18. The longitudinal axis L is transverse to the axis A. A plurality of baffles 20 are disposed in the air nozzle 18 and are spaced apart from one another. The baffles 20 partially extend across the air nozzle 18 relative to the axis A.

[0027] The sensor assembly 12 uses fluid to clean the lens 16 of the sensor 14, which can improve the quality of data collected by the sensor 14. In addition, the sensor assembly 12 uses air to clean and / or dry the lens 16 of the sensor 14, for example, by pushing debris and / or droplets away from the sensor 14. Advantageously, the baffle 20 diverts air in the concentrated flow path, for example, toward the edge of the lens 16, which helps to push debris and / or droplets away from the entire lens 16. Diverting the air in the concentrated flow path creates a flow that is completely across the lens 16 and allows the air to exit the air nozzle 18 at a velocity sufficient to clean and / or dry the lens 16 of the sensor 14.

[0028] refer to Figure 1 The vehicle 10 may be any passenger or commercial vehicle, such as a car, truck, sport utility vehicle, crossover, van, minivan, taxi, bus, etc.

[0029] The vehicle 10 defines a longitudinal axis A1 extending, for example, between the front and rear of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 defines a lateral axis A2 extending, for example, between the left and right sides of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 defines a vertical axis A3 extending, for example, between the top and bottom of the vehicle 10. The longitudinal axis A1, the lateral axis A2, and the vertical axis A3 are perpendicular to each other.

[0030] The vehicle 10 may be an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle. The vehicle computer may be programmed to operate the vehicle 10 completely or to a lesser extent independently of human driver intervention. The vehicle computer may be programmed to operate propulsion, braking systems, steering, and / or other vehicle systems based at least in part on data received from one or more sensors 14 and scanning sensors 22 described below. For purposes of this disclosure, autonomous operation means that the vehicle computer controls propulsion, braking systems, and steering without human driver input; semi-autonomous operation means that the vehicle computer controls one or both of propulsion, braking systems, and steering, while the human driver controls the rest; and non-autonomous operation means that the human driver controls propulsion, braking systems, and steering.

[0031] The vehicle 10 includes a body 24. The vehicle 10 may be of unibody construction, wherein the frame of the vehicle 10 and the body 24 are a single component. Alternatively, the vehicle 10 may be of body-on-frame construction, wherein the frame supports the body 24, which is a separate component from the frame. The frame and body 24 may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.).

[0032] The vehicle body 24 includes body panels 26 that partially define the exterior of the vehicle 10. The body panels 26 may present a Class A surface, for example, a finished surface that is exposed to the view of the customer and is free of unsightly blemishes and imperfections. The body panels 26 include, for example, the roof, etc.

[0033] The sensor assembly 12 includes a housing 28 that can be attached to the vehicle 10, such as one of the body panels 26 of the vehicle 10 (e.g., the roof). The sensor 14 and the scanning sensor 22 are supported by and / or disposed in the housing 28. The housing 28 can be shaped to be attached to the roof, such as having a shape that matches the contour of the roof. The housing 28 can be attached to the roof, which can provide the sensor 14 and the scanning sensor 22 with an unobstructed view of the area surrounding the vehicle 10. The housing 28 can be formed of, for example, plastic or metal.

[0034] refer to Figure 2 , the housing 28 includes an upper housing member 30 and a lower housing member 32. The upper housing member 30 and the lower housing member 32 are shaped to fit together, wherein the upper housing member 30 fits on top of the lower housing member 32. The upper housing member 30 covers the lower housing member 32. The housing 28 may enclose and define a chamber 34; for example, the upper housing member 30 and the lower housing member 32 may enclose and define a chamber 34. The housing 28 may protect the contents of the chamber 34 from external factors such as wind, rain, debris, and the like.

[0035] The upper housing member 30 includes a central opening 36 that exposes the lower housing member 32. The central opening 36 is round, for example, having a circular or slightly oval shape. The upper housing member 30 and the lower housing member 32 are each integral. For the purposes of this disclosure, "integral" means a single-piece unit, i.e., multiple components without any fasteners, joints, welds, adhesives, etc. to secure the multiple pieces to each other. For example, the upper housing member 30 and the lower housing member 32 can be stamped or molded as a single piece.

[0036] Continue to refer Figure 2 , the housing upper member 30 may include an aperture 38. The aperture 38 is a hole in the housing upper member 30 that leads from the chamber 34 to the surrounding environment. That is, the aperture 38 extends through the housing upper member 30. The aperture 38 can be any suitable shape, such as a circle. The housing upper member 30 includes an aperture 38 for each sensor 14. Each sensor 14 has a field of view received through a corresponding aperture 38. For example, the sensor 14 may extend into the corresponding aperture 38. In this example, the aperture 38 may be concentric around a portion of the sensor 14 (e.g., the lens 16).

[0037] Continue to refer Figure 2 , the sensor assembly 12 includes a blower 40 positioned to direct air across one sensor 14. The blower 40 is supported by the housing lower member 32. For example, the blower 40 can be mounted to the housing lower member 32. For example, the blower 40 can include a locating element, a fastener, etc. that engages the housing lower member 32. Additionally or alternatively, a fastener can engage the blower 40 and the housing lower member 32 to mount the blower 40 to the housing lower member 32.

[0038] The blower 40 may include an electric motor, a fan, or other suitable structure for moving air. The blower 40 moves air toward one sensor 14, for example, between an air inlet and an exhaust port. The blower 40 may be configured to draw air via the air inlet and exhaust air toward one sensor 14 via the exhaust port. The air inlet of the blower 40 is in fluid communication with the chamber 34, and the exhaust port of the blower 40 is in fluid communication with the duct 42. That is, the blower 40 draws air from the chamber 34 and causes the air to flow out of the exhaust port through the duct 42, flow to (and out of) the air nozzle 18, and flow across the lens 16 of one sensor 14.

[0039] The blower 40 may be coupled to any suitable number of (e.g., one or more) pipes 42 and be in fluid communication with the pipes. As an example, the blower 40 may be coupled to one pipe 42 and be in fluid communication with the one pipe. In such an example, the blower 40 may blow air into the pipe 42, such as to cause the blower 40 to generate a positive pressure in the pipe 42. As another example, the blower 40 may be coupled to two pipes 42 and be in fluid communication with the pipes. In such an example, the blower 40 may blow air into two pipes 42, such as to cause the blower 40 to generate a positive pressure and an equal pressure in the two pipes 42.

[0040] The sensor assembly 12 may include any suitable number of blowers 40. For example, the sensor assembly 12 may include one blower 40 for each sensor 14. In such an example, each blower 40 may blow air across a corresponding sensor 14. As another example, the sensor assembly 12 may include fewer blowers 40 than sensors 14, such as Figure 2 In this example, at least some of the blowers 40 may blow air across a corresponding plurality of sensors 14 .

[0041] Continue to refer Figure 2 , the sensor assembly 12 may include the same number of ducts 42 as the sensors 14. The sensors 14 may be spaced apart from each other within the chamber 34 so that each duct 42 extends toward a corresponding sensor 14. Each duct 42 extends from a blower 40 to an air nozzle 18. Specifically, each duct 42 is coupled to a blower 40 and an air nozzle 18. That is, each duct 42 is fluidly connected to a blower 40 so that air exhausted by the blower 40 enters the duct 42, and is fluidly connected to an air nozzle 18 so that air exhausted by the duct 42 enters the air nozzle 18. In other words, each duct 42 receives air from a blower 40 (e.g., an exhaust port) and directs the air to a corresponding air nozzle 18.

[0042] The conduit 42 is disposed in the chamber 34. The conduit 42 may be supported by the housing 28, such as Figure 2 As shown. For example, the ducts 42 may be fixed to the housing lower member 32, for example, via fasteners, clips, adhesives, etc. The ducts 42 define a corresponding flow path from the corresponding blower 40 to the corresponding air nozzle 18. The cross-sectional area of ​​each duct 42 perpendicular to the flow path may be uniform, for example, from the corresponding blower 40 to the corresponding air nozzle 18, for example, to maintain the speed of the air flowing through the corresponding duct 42. As another example, the cross-sectional area may vary between the corresponding blower 40 to the corresponding air nozzle 18, for example, to change the speed of the air flowing through the corresponding duct 42.

[0043] Continue to refer Figure 2, the sensor assembly 12 includes a sensor 14 and a scanning sensor 22. The sensor 14 may detect the position and / or orientation of the vehicle 10. For example, the sensor 14 may include a global positioning system (GPS) sensor; an accelerometer, such as a piezoelectric system or a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS); a gyroscope, such as a rate gyroscope, a ring laser gyroscope, or a fiber optic gyroscope; an inertial measurement unit (IMU); and a magnetometer. The sensor 14 may detect the outside world, for example, objects and / or characteristics of the surrounding environment of the vehicle 10, such as other vehicles 10, road lane markings, traffic lights and / or signs, pedestrians, etc. For example, the sensor 14 may include a radar sensor, a scanning laser rangefinder, a light detection and ranging (lidar) device, and an image processing sensor such as a camera. The sensor 14 may include a communication device, such as a vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) or a vehicle-to-vehicle 10 (V2V) device.

[0044] The scanning sensor 22 may be disposed outside the housing 28. The scanning sensor 22 protrudes upward from the housing upper member 30, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. The scanning sensor 22 may be a camera, a lidar device, a radar sensor, etc. The scanning sensor 22 is disposed above the housing lower member 32 to have an unobstructed 360° horizontal field of view. For example, the scanning sensor 22 may be supported by the housing upper member 30. In this case, the scanning sensor 22 may extend at least partially through the housing upper member 30 into the chamber 34, for example, via the central opening 36. The scanning sensor 22 may be fixed in the chamber 34 relative to the housing upper member 30, for example, via fasteners, clips, etc. The scanning sensor 22 may be positioned laterally, i.e., along a left-right dimension relative to the vehicle 10, in the middle of the vehicle 10. The scanning sensor 22 may have a cylindrical shape defining an axis (not shown) that is oriented substantially vertically.

[0045] Continue to refer Figure 2 , the sensor 14 may be disposed in the housing 28, specifically in the chamber 34. The sensor 14 may be directly attached to the vehicle body panel 26 in the chamber 34, or the sensor 14 may be attached to the housing lower part 32 in the chamber 34, which in turn is directly attached to the roof. The sensors 14 may be cameras arranged to collectively cover a 360° field of view relative to the horizontal plane. Each sensor 14 has a field of view through a corresponding lens 16 and a corresponding aperture 38, and the field of view of one sensor 14 may overlap the field of view of sensors 14 that are circumferentially adjacent to each other (i.e., immediately adjacent to each other).

[0046] Now go to Figure 3, the sensors 14 include a corresponding lens 16. Each lens 16 can define a field of view of the corresponding sensor 14 through the aperture 38. Each lens 16 can be convex. Each lens 16 defines an axis A about which the lens 16 is radially symmetrical. The axis A extends along the center of the field of view of the corresponding sensor 14.

[0047] The sensor assembly 12 may include a plurality of housings 44. Each housing 44 may be disposed in the chamber 34 and mounted to a corresponding sensor 14. The housing 44 extends completely around the sensor 14. That is, the housing 44 separates the sensor 14 from the chamber 34.

[0048] Continue to refer Figure 3 , each housing 44 may include a base portion 46, a tunnel portion 48, and a top panel 50. The tunnel portion 48 extends circumferentially around the axis A. For example, the tunnel portion 48 may include a plurality of flat panels 52, such as four flat panels 52, connected together in a circumferential ring around the axis A. The top panel 50 extends parallel to the lens 16, that is, orthogonal to the axis A defined by the lens 16. The base portion 46 extends radially outward from the tunnel portion 48 relative to the axis A, and the top panel 50 extends radially inward from the tunnel portion relative to the axis A. The top panel 50 and the base portion 46 may be parallel to each other.

[0049] The housing 44 is attached to the sensor 14. Specifically, a base portion 46 of the housing 44 is attached to the sensor 14, and the remainder of the housing 44 is not attached to the sensor 14, as shown in FIG. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C The base portion 46 is attached to the sensor 14 in any suitable manner (e.g., clips, fasteners, adhesives, etc.). The tunnel portion 48 and top panel 50 are suspended from the base portion 46 and extend around the lens 16 without being directly attached to the sensor 14 or the lens 16. This arrangement reduces vibrations experienced by the sensor 14.

[0050] Continue to refer Figure 3 , the air nozzle 18 may be mounted to the housing 44, specifically to the top panel 50. For example, the top panel 50 may include an overhang extending radially outwardly of the tunnel portion 48 relative to the axis A. The air nozzle 18 may be attached to the overhang in any suitable manner (e.g., clips, fasteners, adhesives, etc.).

[0051] The air nozzle includes an inlet 56 and an outlet 58 spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis L of the air nozzle 18. The inlet 56 is in fluid communication with the duct 42. That is, the inlet 56 receives air exhausted from the duct 42. The inlet 56 directs the air through the air nozzle 18 to the outlet 58.

[0052] The outlet 58 is in fluid communication with the lens 16, i.e., exhausts air toward the lens 16. Specifically, the outlet 58 is aimed across and toward the lens 16 so that the air strikes the lens 16 at a shallow angle (e.g., less than 10°). In addition, the outlet 58 can be aimed so that the airflow direction D from the outlet 58 is generally parallel to the ambient airflow A during forward motion of the vehicle 10. m That is, the air nozzles 18 can be aimed to direct airflow in various directions, for example, based on the position of the corresponding sensors 14 relative to the vehicle 10. As used herein, "substantially parallel" means that the horizontal component of the airflow from the air nozzles 18 is parallel to the ambient airflow A during the forward motion of the vehicle 10. m , even if the air flow from the air nozzle 18 has a transverse direction to the ambient air flow A m This arrangement can help the airflow from the air nozzle 18 be subject to the ambient airflow A during the forward motion of the vehicle 10. m Minimize interference.

[0053] Continue to refer Figure 3 , the air nozzle 18 (e.g., outlet 58) may be shaped to discharge air in a flat fan pattern 54. For purposes of this disclosure, a "flat fan pattern" means that the discharge has an increasing width in one dimension as the discharge moves away from the air nozzle 18, and has a generally flat shape along a plane defined by the width and an air flow direction D. The air flow direction D is directed along the center of the spray pattern, i.e., bisecting the flat fan pattern 54. The air flow direction D of the air nozzle 18 is in a radially inward direction relative to the axis A, i.e., in a direction toward the axis A.

[0054] The spray pattern may cause the air flow from the air nozzle 18 to form an air curtain across the lens 16. For purposes of this disclosure, an "air curtain" means a layer of moving air that is significantly wider than it is thick, close to a surface, and moving generally parallel to the surface. The air curtain may, for example, remove debris from the lens 16 and prevent debris from contacting the lens 16. As another example, the air curtain may dry, defog, and / or defrost the lens 16.

[0055] The air nozzle 18 defines a second axis T transverse to the axis A and the longitudinal axis L. The air nozzle 18 includes a top portion 64 and a bottom portion 66 spaced apart from each other along the second axis T. The top portion 64 and the bottom portion 66 extend along the longitudinal axis L from the inlet 56 to the outlet 58 .

[0056] Continue to refer Figure 3 , a plurality of baffles 20 are disposed in the air nozzle 18. The air nozzle 18 may include any suitable number (eg, two or more) of baffles 20. The baffles 20 may have any suitable size, such as dimensions and shape.

[0057] The baffle 20 may extend partially across the air nozzle 18 relative to the second axis T. For example, the baffle 20 may be spaced apart from at least one of the top 64 and the bottom 66. In one example, the baffle 20 may be spaced apart from the top 64 and the bottom 66, such as Figure 3 In another example, at least one baffle 20 may extend from one of the top 64 or the bottom 66 toward the other of the top 64 or the bottom 66. The baffles 20 may be spaced apart from each other, for example, along the second axis T. Figures 3 to 4C shown.

[0058] Continue to refer Figure 3 , the baffles 20 may define a respective longitudinal axis B. The longitudinal axis B of the baffles 20 may be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the air nozzle 18. That is, the baffles 20 may extend generally in the airflow direction D. The baffles 20 may include a respective outlet surface 68 facing the outlet 58 and a respective inlet surface 70 facing the inlet 56. The inlet surface 70 is spaced apart from the respective outlet surface 68 along the respective longitudinal axis B of the respective baffles 20. The outlet surface 68 may extend substantially parallel to the outlet 58, for example, in a cross section relative to the axis A, and the inlet surface 70 may extend substantially parallel to the outlet surface 68, for example, in a cross section relative to the axis A.

[0059] The baffle 20 is disposed between the inlet 56 and the outlet 58 of the air nozzle 18. The baffle 20 may be disposed closer to the outlet 58 than to the inlet 56. For example, the baffle 20 may be disposed at the outlet 58. That is, the outlet surface 68 of the baffle 20 may be aligned with the outlet 58 relative to the longitudinal axis L of the air nozzle 18. As another example, the baffle 20 may be spaced apart from the outlet 58 along the longitudinal axis L of the air nozzle 18, such as Figure 3 and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C shown.

[0060] Now turn to FIG. 4A to FIG. 5C The air nozzle 18 includes two side surfaces 60, 62 spaced apart from each other along the axis A. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The sides 60, 62 may each extend from the inlet 56 to the outlet 58 along the longitudinal axis L. The sides 60, 62 may be referred to as the proximal side 60 and the distal side 62 (e.g., where the proximal side 60 is disposed between the distal side 62 and the housing 44 along the axis A). The sides 60, 62 may extend from the top 64 to the bottom 66 along the second axis T.

[0061] A plurality of baffles 20 may be disposed on one of the sides 60, 62. As described above, the baffles 20 partially extend across the air nozzle 18 relative to the axis A. That is, the plurality of baffles 20 may extend from one of the sides 60, 62 toward the other side 60, 62. For example, the plurality of baffles 20 may be disposed on the proximal side 60, such as Figure 4B , Figure 4C , Figure 5Band Figure 5C As another example, a plurality of baffles 20 may be provided on the distal side 62, such as Figure 4A and Figure 5A Alternatively, at least some of the baffles 20 may be disposed on the proximal side 60 and other baffles 20 may be disposed on the distal side 62, i.e., the baffles 20 may be spaced apart from one another along the axis A. In such an example, the baffles 20 may overlap one another relative to the second axis T.

[0062] The baffle 20 may be tapered. For example, the baffle 20 may taper in a direction opposite to the airflow direction D, such as Figure 5C That is, the baffle 20 may taper in a direction from the outlet 58 to the inlet 56 of the air nozzle 18. In other words, the height D3 of the baffle 20 may decrease from the corresponding outlet surface 68 toward the corresponding inlet surface 70. Additionally or alternatively, the baffle 20 may taper along the axis A, such as Figure 4C That is, the width D2 of the baffle 20 may decrease from one side 60, 62 toward the other side 60, 62. For example, the baffle 20 may taper in a direction from the proximal side 60 to the distal side 62. Tapering the baffle 20 may increase the velocity of the air exiting the air nozzle 18.

[0063] The baffles 20 may be substantially identical to one another. That is, the baffles 20 may have substantially the same one or more dimensions. For example, the baffles 20 may include a respective length D1 extending from a respective outlet surface 68 to a respective inlet surface 70, such as FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C As shown. The length D1 of the baffle 20 may be substantially the same. As another example, the baffle 20 includes a corresponding width D2 extending along the second axis T, such as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C As shown. The width D2 of the baffle 20 may be substantially the same. As another example, the baffle 20 includes a corresponding height D3 extending along the axis A, such as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The height D3 of the baffles 20 may be substantially the same. The baffles 20 may be mirror images of each other relative to the longitudinal axis L of the air nozzle 18 .

[0064] The air nozzle 18 (e.g., the top 64, the bottom 66, the sides 60, 62, and the baffle 20) can be unitary. As another example, one or more components of the air nozzle 18 can be formed separately and subsequently assembled to one or more other components. The air nozzle 18 (i.e., its components) can be any suitable material, such as plastic, metal, etc. The components of the air nozzle 18 can be the same or different materials.

[0065] Now turn to Figure 6, the vehicle 10 may include a liquid cleaning system 72. The liquid cleaning system 72 may include a reservoir 74, a pump 76, a supply line 78, a valve 80, and a fluid nozzle 82. The reservoir 74 and the pump 76 are fluidly connected (i.e., fluid can flow from one to the other) to each valve 80 and each fluid nozzle 82. The liquid cleaning system 72 distributes the cleaning fluid stored in the reservoir 74 to the fluid nozzles 82. "Cleaning fluid" refers to any liquid stored in the reservoir 74 for cleaning. The cleaning fluid may include a solvent, a detergent, a diluent (such as water), etc.

[0066] The reservoir 74 may be a tank that may be filled with a liquid (e.g., washer fluid for window cleaning). The reservoir 74 may be disposed at the front of the vehicle 10, specifically, in the engine compartment in front of the passenger compartment. Alternatively, the reservoir 74 may be disposed in the housing 28, such as in the chamber 34. The reservoir 74 may store washer fluid only for supplying the sensor assembly 12 or also for other purposes, such as supplying to the windshield.

[0067] Pump 76 forces cleaning fluid through supply line 78 to valve 80 and then to fluid nozzle 82 at a pressure sufficient to cause cleaning fluid to be ejected from fluid nozzle 82. Pump 76 is fluidly connected to reservoir 74. For example, pump 76 may be attached to or disposed in reservoir 74.

[0068] A supply line 78 may extend from the pump 76 to the valve 80, and from the valve 80 to the fluid nozzle 82. A separate supply line 78 extends from each valve 80 to a respective fluid nozzle 82. The supply line 78 may be, for example, a flexible tube.

[0069] The valves 80 can be independently actuated to open and close to allow cleaning fluid to flow through or to block cleaning fluid, that is, each valve 80 can be opened or closed without changing the state of the other valves 80. Each valve 80 is positioned to allow or prevent flow from the reservoir 74 to a corresponding one of the fluid nozzles 82. The valves 80 can be any suitable type of valve, such as a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a throttle valve, a gate valve, a globe valve, etc.

[0070] return Figure 3 , the fluid nozzles 82 can maintain the clarity of the field of view of the corresponding sensor 14, for example, the liquid exiting the fluid nozzles 82 can clean the lens 16 of the sensor 14. Each fluid nozzle 82 can be mounted to a corresponding housing 44, specifically to the top panel 50 (e.g., the overhang portion). The fluid nozzles 82 can be attached to the overhang portion, for example, in substantially the same manner as the air nozzles 18.

[0071] The fluid nozzle 82 is aimed across and toward the lens 16 so that the fluid strikes the lens 16 at a shallow angle (e.g., less than 10°). That is, the fluid nozzle 82 is aimed to direct the fluid across the lens 16. Additionally, the fluid nozzle 82 may be aimed so that the direction of the fluid from the fluid nozzle 82 is generally parallel to the ambient airflow A during forward motion of the vehicle 10. m This arrangement can help minimize the amount of fluid that is exposed to ambient airflow A during forward motion of the vehicle 10. m interference.

[0072] Fluid nozzle 82 may be shaped to spray fluid in a flat fan pattern (not shown). Fluid nozzle 82 has a discharge direction (not shown) directed along the center of the spray pattern, i.e., bisecting the flat fan pattern. The discharge direction of fluid nozzle 82 is in a radially inward direction relative to axis A, i.e., in a direction toward axis A.

[0073] The discharge direction of the fluid nozzle 82 is different from (i.e., transverse to) the airflow direction D of the air nozzle 18. For example, the fluid nozzle 82 can be circumferentially spaced from the air nozzle 18 about the axis A. As an example, the fluid nozzle 82 can be tilted relative to the air nozzle 18. This arrangement can assist in positioning the fluid nozzle 82 so that the fluid nozzle 82 does not interfere with the airflow from the air nozzle 18, and the ejected fluid can contact the lens 16 at a desired shallow angle.

[0074] The present disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terms that have been used are intended to be in the nature of descriptive words rather than restrictive. The adjectives "first" and "second" are used throughout this document as identifiers and are not intended to indicate importance or order. In view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible, and the present disclosure can be practiced in other ways than specifically described.

[0075] According to the present invention, a sensor assembly is provided, comprising: a sensor having a lens defining an axis; an air nozzle aimed to direct air across the lens and define an airflow direction along a longitudinal axis of the air nozzle, the longitudinal axis being transverse to the axis; and a plurality of baffles disposed in the air nozzle and spaced apart from each other, the baffles extending partially across the air nozzle relative to the axis.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the baffle tapers in a direction opposite to the air flow direction.

[0077] According to one embodiment, said baffle tapers along said axis.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the air nozzle comprises side surfaces spaced apart from each other along the axis, and the plurality of baffles extend from one side surface toward the other side surface.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the baffles define respective baffle longitudinal axes extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the air nozzle.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the air nozzle defines a second axis transverse to the longitudinal axis and to the axis, the respective baffle extending partially across the air nozzle relative to the second axis.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the baffles are spaced apart from each other along the second axis.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the baffles comprise respective widths extending along the second axis, the respective widths being substantially the same.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the air nozzle comprises a top portion and a bottom portion spaced apart from each other along the second axis, the baffle being spaced apart from the top portion and the bottom portion.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the air nozzle comprises an inlet and an outlet spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis, and the plurality of baffles are disposed closer to the outlet than to the inlet.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the baffle comprises a respective outlet surface facing the outlet, the outlet surface extending substantially parallel to the outlet.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the baffle comprises a respective inlet surface facing the inlet, the inlet surface extending substantially parallel to the outlet surface.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the baffle is spaced apart from the outlet along the longitudinal axis.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the baffles comprise respective heights extending along the axis, the respective heights being substantially the same.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the baffles comprise respective lengths extending along the longitudinal axis, the respective lengths being substantially the same.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the plurality of baffles may be mirror images of each other about the longitudinal axis.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the air nozzle is shaped to discharge air in a flat fan pattern.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by aiming a fluid nozzle to direct fluid across a lens.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the fluid nozzle is circumferentially spaced apart from the air nozzle about the axis.

Claims

1. A sensor assembly, comprising: a sensor having a lens defining an axis; an air nozzle aimed to direct air across the lens and defining an air flow direction along a longitudinal axis of the air nozzle, the longitudinal axis being transverse to the axis; as well as A plurality of baffles are disposed in the air nozzle and spaced apart from one another, the baffles extending partially across the air nozzle relative to the axis. 2 . The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the air nozzle includes side surfaces spaced apart from each other along the axis, and the plurality of baffles extend from one side toward the other side.

3. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the baffle tapers in a direction opposite to the air flow direction.

4. The sensor assembly of claim 3, wherein the baffle tapers along the axis.

5. The sensor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the baffle tapers along the axis.

6. The sensor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the baffle defines a respective baffle longitudinal axis extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the air nozzle.

7. The sensor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the air nozzle defines a second axis transverse to the longitudinal axis and the axis, the respective baffle extending partially across the air nozzle relative to the second axis.

8. The sensor assembly of claim 7, wherein the baffles are spaced apart from one another along the second axis.

9. The sensor assembly of claim 7, wherein the air nozzle includes a top portion and a bottom portion spaced apart from each other along the second axis, the baffle being spaced apart from the top portion and the bottom portion.

10. The sensor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the air nozzle includes an inlet and an outlet spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis, and the plurality of baffles are disposed closer to the outlet than to the inlet.

11. The sensor assembly of claim 10, wherein the baffle includes a corresponding outlet surface facing the outlet, the outlet surface extending substantially parallel to the outlet.

12. The sensor assembly of claim 11, wherein the baffle includes a respective inlet surface facing the inlet, the inlet surface extending substantially parallel to the outlet surface.

13. The sensor assembly of claim 10, wherein the baffle is spaced apart from the outlet along the longitudinal axis.

14. The sensor assembly of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the plurality of baffles are mirror images of each other about the longitudinal axis.

15. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising: A fluid nozzle is aimed to direct fluid across the lens, wherein the fluid nozzle is circumferentially spaced from the air nozzle about the axis.

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