Cleaning device and sensor assembly

Abstract

The cleaning device (13) suppresses foreign matter from adhering to a partition wall located in front of the sensor, and the detection reference axis of the sensor extending forwards faces the horizontal direction or is closer to the lower part than the horizontal direction. In the first portion (131), a first opening (1311) for ejecting a fluid toward the partition wall is formed. In the second portion (132), a first conduit (1321) for guiding the fluid to the first portion (131) is formed. A left end edge (132a) of the second portion (132) when viewed from a first direction along the vertical direction has a portion that extends further to the right than a left end (131a) of the first portion (131) when viewed from the first direction. The right end edge (132b) of the second portion (132), as viewed from the first direction, has a portion that extends further to the left than the right end (131b) of the first portion (131), as viewed from the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to a partition wall located in front of a sensor. The present disclosure also relates to a sensor assembly including the sensor, the partition wall, and the cleaning device. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to a lens by ejecting a fluid such as air from an opening toward the lens located between an imaging element and an imaging object. The lens is an example of a partition wall located in front of a sensor.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-120143 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] It is required to suppress the occurrence of the following situation: due to the fluid ejected toward the partition wall located in front of the sensor, liquid such as raindrops is blown onto the partition wall, resulting in a decrease in the detection ability of the sensor.

[0008] Method for Solving the Technical Problem

[0009] A first exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to a partition wall located in front of a sensor, wherein a detection reference axis of the sensor facing forward is oriented horizontally or downward from the horizontal direction, and the cleaning device includes:

[0010] a first portion having a first opening for ejecting a fluid toward the partition wall, and

[0011] a second portion having a first pipeline for guiding the fluid to the first portion;

[0012] a left end edge of the second portion as viewed from a first direction along the vertical direction has a portion extending more to the right than the left end of the first portion as viewed from the first direction,

[0013] a right end edge of the second portion as viewed from the first direction has a portion extending more to the left than the right end of the first portion as viewed from the first direction.

[0014] A second exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a sensor assembly including:

[0015] a sensor having a detection reference axis extending forward oriented horizontally or downward from the horizontal direction,

[0016] A partition, disposed in front of the sensor, and

[0017] a cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to the partition;

[0018] The cleaning device includes:

[0019] a first part formed with a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition, and

[0020] a second part formed with a pipeline for guiding the fluid to the first part;

[0021] From the left end edge of the second part as viewed in a first direction along the up-down direction, there is a part extending more to the right than the left end of the first part as viewed in the first direction,

[0022] From the right end edge of the second part as viewed in the first direction, there is a part extending more to the left than the right end of the first part as viewed in the first direction.

[0023] The fluid jetting of the cleaning device is performed to suppress attachment of foreign matter to the partition. However, when a liquid such as raindrops adheres near the first opening of the cleaning device, it will be involved in the fluid flow jetted from the first opening, causing a phenomenon that a large amount of liquid is blown onto the partition. The liquid blown onto the partition will block the field of view of the sensor as a foreign matter, which may lead to a reduction in the information acquisition ability.

[0024] Raindrops adhering to the upper surface of the cleaning device tend to aggregate with other raindrops. The raindrops with increased weight due to aggregation are likely to move downward. Especially in a configuration where the detection reference axis of the sensor extending forward is oriented more downward than the horizontal direction, the possibility of the liquid reaching near the first opening for jetting the fluid toward the partition located in front of the sensor increases.

[0025] According to the structures of the first and second exemplary embodiments, the area of the upper surface of the cleaning device on which raindrops and other liquids can adhere can be reduced, so the possibility of raindrops aggregating with each other and approaching the first opening can be decreased. Thus, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the sensor is reduced due to the fluid jetted toward the partition causing the liquid to be blown onto the partition.

[0026] A third exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to a partition located in front of a sensor, wherein the detection reference axis of the sensor extending forward is oriented horizontally or more downward than the horizontal direction, and the cleaning device includes:

[0027] a first part formed with a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition, and

[0028] a second portion, forming a first pipeline for guiding the fluid to the first portion;

[0029] The first portion has a first upper surface having a shape in which at least one of both ends in the left-right direction is located below a portion located directly above the first opening.

[0030] A fourth embodiment of the present disclosure is a sensor assembly, comprising:

[0031] The sensor has a detection reference axis extending forward and oriented in the horizontal direction or downwards from the horizontal direction.

[0032] a partition wall disposed in front of the sensor, and

[0033] A cleaning device for inhibiting attachment of foreign matter to the partition wall;

[0034] The cleaning device comprises:

[0035] a first portion, forming a first opening for spraying fluid toward the partition wall, and

[0036] a second portion, formed with a conduit for directing the fluid toward the first portion;

[0037] The first portion has a first upper surface having a shape in which at least one of both ends in the left-right direction is located below a portion located directly above the first opening.

[0038] The fluid injection of the cleaning device is performed to suppress the attachment of foreign matter to the partition wall. However, when liquid such as raindrops adheres to the vicinity of the first opening of the cleaning device, it will be drawn into the fluid flow injected from the first opening, which may cause a large amount of liquid to be blown onto the partition wall. The liquid blown onto the partition wall blocks the sensor's field of view as a foreign matter, which may lead to a decrease in the ability to obtain information.

[0039] Liquids such as raindrops attached to the upper surface of the cleaning device may approach the first opening via the front end of the cleaning device. This tendency increases in particular when the detection reference axis of the camera element extending forward is oriented downwards compared to the horizontal direction. However, according to the structure of the third and fourth embodiments, the first upper surface has the shape as described above, so the liquid attached to or reaching the portion directly above the first opening is urged to move to the left and right. As a result, the possibility of liquids such as raindrops reaching the first opening via the front end of the cleaning device can be reduced. Therefore, the situation in which the imaging capability of the sensor is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the next wall by the fluid sprayed onto the next wall can be suppressed.

[0040] A fifth example provided by the present disclosure is a cleaning device that suppresses the attachment of foreign matter to a partition wall located in front of a sensor, and a detection reference axis extending forward in the sensor faces the horizontal direction or a direction more downward than the horizontal direction. The cleaning device includes:

[0041] A first part formed with a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition wall,

[0042] A second part formed with a first pipeline for guiding the fluid to the first part, and

[0043] A guiding member extending in the vertical direction in a manner connected to at least one of the first part and the second part, and a lower end thereof is located below the first opening,

[0044] The guiding member is arranged to contact a housing that houses the sensor and supports the partition wall at a position behind the partition wall.

[0045] A sixth example provided by the present disclosure is a sensor assembly, including:

[0046] A sensor, and a detection reference axis extending forward faces the horizontal direction or a direction more downward than the horizontal direction,

[0047] A partition wall arranged in front of the sensor,

[0048] A housing that houses the sensor and supports the partition wall, and

[0049] A cleaning device that suppresses the attachment of foreign matter to the partition wall;

[0050] The cleaning device includes:

[0051] A first part formed with a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition wall,

[0052] A second part formed with a pipeline for guiding the fluid to the first part, and

[0053] A guiding member extending in the vertical direction in a manner connected to at least one of the first part and the second part, and a lower end thereof is located below the first opening;

[0054] The guiding member contacts the housing at a position behind the partition wall.

[0055] The fluid jetting of the cleaning device is performed to suppress the attachment of foreign matter to the partition wall. However, when a liquid such as raindrops adheres to the vicinity of the first opening of the cleaning device, it will be involved in the fluid flow jetted from the first opening, and a phenomenon that a large amount of liquid is blown onto the partition wall may occur. The liquid blown onto the partition wall will block the field of view of the sensor as a foreign matter, and may cause a situation where the information acquisition ability is reduced.

[0056] Liquid attached to the lower part of the cleaning device or liquid descending from the upper part of the cleaning device may move along the lower surface of the cleaning device. In particular, in the case where the detection reference axis of the imaging element extending forward is configured to be more downward than the horizontal direction, the possibility of the liquid reaching near the first opening that jets fluid toward the partition wall located in front of the sensor is further increased.

[0057] However, according to the structures of the fifth and sixth exemplary embodiments, the guiding member contacts the housing at a position more rearward than the partition wall. Therefore, the liquid approaching the first opening in the cleaning device is urged to move toward the housing. In addition, the lower end of the guiding member contacts the housing at a position more downward than the first opening. Thus, the possibility of the liquid moving toward the housing reaching the first opening can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the sensor is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the partition wall by the fluid jetted toward the partition wall.

[0058] A seventh exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a cleaning device that suppresses foreign matter from adhering to a partition wall located in front of a sensor, and in the sensor, the detection reference axis extending forward is oriented in the horizontal direction or more downward than the horizontal direction. The cleaning device includes:

[0059] A first part formed with a first opening for jetting fluid toward the partition wall,

[0060] A second part formed with a first pipeline for guiding the fluid toward the first part, and

[0061] A first wall part extending in the vertical direction at a position more forward than the first opening, and its lower end is located more downward than the first opening.

[0062] An eighth exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a sensor assembly, including:

[0063] A sensor, the detection reference axis extending forward is oriented in the horizontal direction or more downward than the horizontal direction,

[0064] A partition wall disposed in front of the sensor,

[0065] A housing that houses the sensor and supports the partition wall, and

[0066] A cleaning device that suppresses foreign matter from adhering to the partition wall;

[0067] The cleaning device includes:

[0068] A first part formed with a first opening for jetting fluid toward the partition wall,

[0069] A second part formed with a pipeline for guiding the fluid toward the first part, and

[0070] The first wall portion extends in the vertical direction in front of the first opening, and its lower end is located below the first opening.

[0071] The fluid injection of the cleaning device is performed to suppress the attachment of foreign matter to the partition wall. However, when a liquid such as raindrops adheres near the first opening of the cleaning device, it is drawn into the fluid flow ejected from the first opening, which may cause a large amount of liquid to be blown onto the partition wall. The liquid blown onto the partition wall obscures the field of view of the sensor as a foreign matter, which may lead to a decrease in the information acquisition ability.

[0072] Liquids such as raindrops may come from the front due to external airflows or the rolling up of the vehicle ahead. At this time, the liquid may directly approach the first opening without passing through a part of the cleaning device. However, according to the structures of the seventh and eighth exemplary embodiments, the liquid coming from the front of the cleaning device is caused to adhere to the first wall portion. In addition, the lower end of the first wall portion is located below the first opening, so the possibility of the liquid adhering to the first wall portion reaching the first opening can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the sensor is reduced due to the fluid ejected onto the partition wall causing the liquid to be blown onto the partition wall. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] Figure 1 Illustrates the appearance of the sensor assembly of the first embodiment as viewed from the right.

[0074] Figure 2 Illustrates a vehicle Figure 1 equipped with the sensor assembly.

[0075] Figure 3 Illustrates the appearance of the cleaning device Figure 1 as viewed from the lower left front.

[0076] Figure 4 Illustrates the appearance of the sensor assembly Figure 1 as viewed from above.

[0077] Figure 5 Illustrates the appearance of the cleaning device Figure 1 as viewed from the front.

[0078] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 another example of the structure of the cleaning device.

[0079] Figure 7 Shows Figure 1 another example of the structure of the cleaning device.

[0080] Figure 8 Illustrates the appearance of the front part of the cleaning device Figure 1 as viewed from the lower left front.

[0081] Figure 9 Shows Figure 1 Other examples of the structure of the cleaning device.

[0082] Figure 10 Illustrates the appearance of the sensor assembly of the second embodiment as viewed from the right.

[0083] Figure 11 Illustrates as viewed from the upper left front Figure 10 the appearance of the cleaning device.

[0084] Figure 12 Illustrates as viewed from below Figure 10 the appearance of the cleaning device.

[0085] Figure 13 Illustrates as viewed from the left Figure 10 the appearance of the cleaning device.

[0086] Figure 14 Illustrates as viewed from the front Figure 10 the appearance of the sensor assembly.

[0087] Figure 15 Illustrates as viewed from the upper left rear Figure 10 the appearance of the cleaning device.

[0088] Figure 16 Illustrates as viewed from the lower left front Figure 10 the appearance of the sensor assembly. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0089] With reference to the attached drawings, examples of the embodiments will be described in detail below. In each of the drawings used in the following description, the scale is adjusted as necessary so that each component can be recognized in size.

[0090] In the attached drawings, arrow F indicates the front direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow B indicates the rear direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow U indicates the upper direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow D indicates the lower direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow R indicates the right direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow L indicates the left direction of the illustrated structure. These directional expressions are for convenience of description and do not limit the actual posture of the structure during use.

[0091] As used in this specification, the term "front-rear direction" means the direction along the above-mentioned front and rear directions. As used in this specification, the term "up-down direction" means the direction along the above-mentioned upper and lower directions. As used in this specification, the term "left-right direction" means the direction along the above-mentioned left and right directions.

[0092] As used in this specification, the expression "extending in the front-rear direction" means including an inclined extension with respect to the front-rear direction, which is closer to the front-rear direction compared to the up-down direction and the left-right direction.

[0093] As used in this specification, the expression "extending in the up-down direction" means including an inclined extension with respect to the up-down direction, which is closer to the up-down direction compared to the front-rear direction and the left-right direction.

[0094] As used in this specification, the expression "extending in the left-right direction" means including an inclined extension with respect to the left-right direction, which is closer to the left-right direction compared to the front-rear direction and the up-down direction.

[0095] Figure 1 The appearance of the sensor assembly 1 of the first embodiment is illustrated as viewed from the right side. The sensor assembly 1 includes a camera 11.

[0096] The camera 11 includes a housing 111, an imaging element 112, and a lens 113. The housing 111 houses the imaging element 112. The housing 111 supports the lens 113 in front of the imaging element 112. The lens 113 forms an image of light from a subject located at least in front of the camera 11 on the light-receiving surface of the imaging element 112. The imaging element 112 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the luminance of the optical image. Examples of the imaging element 112 include a CCD sensor, a CMOS sensor, etc. The imaging element 112 is an example of a sensor. The lens 113 is an example of a partition.

[0097] The sensor assembly 1 includes a bracket 12. The sensor assembly 1 is mounted on Figure 2 the illustrated vehicle 3. The bracket 12 is a component for supporting the sensor assembly 1 at an appropriate position in the vehicle 3. The shape of the vehicle 3 is only an illustration.

[0098] The number and arrangement of the sensor assemblies 1 mounted on the vehicle 3 are appropriately determined according to the subject to be photographed. In Figure 2 this, the front portion 31, the left side portion 32, the right side portion 33, and the rear portion 34 of the vehicle 3 are illustrated. Therefore, the front-rear direction, the left-right direction, and the up-down direction of the sensor assembly 1 are not limited to being respectively identical to the front-rear direction, the left-right direction, and the up-down direction of the vehicle 3.

[0099] In Figure 1 this, the line V extends in the vertical direction, and the line H extends in the horizontal direction. The detection reference axis X extending forward from the imaging element 112 is oriented in the horizontal direction or more downward than the horizontal direction in a state where the sensor assembly 1 is mounted on the vehicle 3. The detection reference axis X defines the reference direction of the photographing performed by the imaging element 112. The detection reference axis X may also be set in a manner corresponding to the optical axis of the lens 113.

[0100] The sensor unit 1 includes a cleaning device 13. The cleaning device 13 is a device that suppresses foreign matter from adhering to the lens 113 by spraying air A toward the lens 113 of the camera 11. The air A is an example of air or fluid.

[0101] Figure 3 The cleaning device 13 is shown as viewed from the lower left front. The cleaning device 13 includes a first portion 131 and a second portion 132. The first portion 131 is formed with a first opening 1311 for spraying air toward the lens 113. The second portion 132 is formed with a first duct 1321 for guiding air toward the first portion 131.

[0102] like Figure 1 As shown in the example, the first conduit 1321 extends along the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 so that the front end portion thereof is located below the rear end portion thereof. The first opening 1311 is located below the first conduit 1321 .

[0103] The spraying of air A by the cleaning device 13 is performed to suppress foreign matter from adhering to the lens 113. However, when liquid such as raindrops adheres to the vicinity of the first opening 1311 of the cleaning device 13, it will be drawn into the fluid of the air A sprayed from the first opening 1311, and a large amount of liquid may be blown onto the lens 113. The liquid blown onto the lens 113 blocks the field of view of the imaging element 112 as foreign matter, and may cause a decrease in the ability to obtain information. In the sensor unit 1, various countermeasures are adopted to suppress this occurrence.

[0104] Reference symbol R11 shows an example of the path of liquid such as raindrops attached to the upper surface of the cleaning device 13. Raindrops attached to the upper surface tend to condense with other raindrops. Raindrops that have increased in weight due to condensation tend to move downward. In particular, in the case of a configuration in which the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 extending forward is directed downward relative to the horizontal direction, the possibility of liquid reaching the vicinity of the first opening 1311 for spraying air A toward the lens 113 located in front of the imaging element 112 is further increased.

[0105] In addition, the term "upper surface" used in this specification means a surface having a portion whose normal direction is directed upward than the horizontal direction.

[0106] Figure 4Illustrates the appearance of the sensor assembly 1 when viewed from above. The left end edge 132a of the second part 132 when viewed from the first direction along the vertical direction of the cleaning device 13 has a portion that extends further to the right than the left end 131a of the first part 131 when viewed from this first direction. The right end edge 132b of the second part 132 when viewed from this first direction has a portion that extends further to the left than the right end 131b of the first part 131 when viewed from this first direction.

[0107] According to such a structure, the area of the upper surface of the cleaning device 13 where raindrops may adhere can be reduced, so the possibility that raindrops coagulate with each other and approach the first opening 1311 can be lowered. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where liquid such as raindrops is blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113, resulting in a reduction in the imaging ability of the imaging element 112.

[0108] As Figure 3 Illustrated, in the first part 131, a second opening 1312 for jetting cleaning liquid toward the lens 113 is formed. The cleaning device 13 includes a third part 133. Inside the third part 133, a second pipeline 1331 for guiding the cleaning liquid to the first part 131 is formed.

[0109] The second pipeline 1331 also extends along the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 in such a way that the front end part is located lower than the rear end part. The second opening 1312 is located lower than the second pipeline 1331.

[0110] As Figure 4 Illustrated, a gap 134 is formed between the second part 132 and the third part 133. According to such a configuration, the area of the upper surface of the cleaning device 13 where raindrops may adhere can be reduced, so the possibility that raindrops coagulate with each other and approach the first opening 1311 can be further lowered.

[0111] The gap 134 is formed in such a way that it is located further to the rear than the lens 113. According to such a configuration, liquid such as raindrops that adhere to the camera 11 from above through the gap 134 is difficult to be involved in the air A flow jetted toward the lens 113. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the situation where liquid such as raindrops is blown onto the lens 113 by the air A, resulting in a reduction in the imaging ability of the imaging element 112.

[0112] As Figure 3 Illustrated, the first opening 1311 is arranged above the lower end 131c of the first part 131. According to such a structure, even if liquid such as raindrops reaches the lower end 131c of the first part 131, the possibility of adhering to the first opening 1311 located above it can be reduced. Therefore, the possibility that this liquid is blown onto the lens 113 by the air A can be suppressed.

[0113] As Figure 5 illustrated, the first upper surface 131d of the first part 131 has a shape such that the left and right ends are located lower than the part directly above the position where the first opening 1311 is formed. The reference numeral R12 indicates an example of the path along which a liquid such as a raindrop adhering to the first upper surface 131d moves.

[0114] As Figure 1 illustrated by the reference numeral R11 in the figure, a liquid such as a raindrop adhering to the upper surface of the cleaning device 13 may approach the first opening 1311 via the front end of the cleaning device 13. In particular, in the case where the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 extending forward is configured to be more downward than the horizontal direction, this tendency increases.

[0115] However, since the first upper surface 131d has the above-described shape, the liquid adhering to or reaching the part directly above the first opening 1311 is caused to move in the left-right direction. As a result, the possibility of a liquid such as a raindrop reaching the first opening 1311 via the front end of the cleaning device 13 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113.

[0116] Figure 6 illustrates another example of the shape of the first upper surface 131d of the first part 131. If the left and right ends are located lower than the part directly above the position where the first opening 1311 is formed, the first upper surface 131d may not have a flat portion.

[0117] As Figure 7 illustrated, the first upper surface 131d of the first part 131 may have a shape such that one of the left and right ends is located lower than the part directly above the position where the first opening 1311 is formed. That is, the part directly above the position where the first opening 1311 is formed may not be the highest position on the first upper surface 131d. In this case, it is preferable that the end on the side farther from the first opening 1311 is located lower.

[0118] As Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 illustrated, the cleaning device 13 includes a guide member 135. The guide member 135 extends in the vertical direction so as to be connected to the first part 131 and the second part 132. The lower end 135a of the guide member 135 is located lower than the first opening 1311. The guide member 135 is configured to contact the housing 111 of the camera 11 behind the lens 113.

[0119] In Figure 1 Figure 1 , reference numeral R13 in the drawings shows another example of the movement path of liquid such as raindrops adhering to the cleaning device 13. The liquid adhering to the lower part of the cleaning device 13 and the liquid descending from the upper part of the cleaning device 13 can move along the lower surface of the cleaning device 13. In particular, when the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 extending forward is configured to be more downward than the horizontal direction, the liquid is more likely to reach near the first opening 1311 where air A is jetted toward the lens 113 located in front of the imaging element 112.

[0120] However, since the guide member 135 contacts the housing 111 of the camera 11 behind the lens 113, the liquid approaching the first opening 1311 in the cleaning device 13 is caused to move along the path shown by reference numeral R14 toward the housing 111. In addition, since the lower end 135a of the guide member 135 contacts the housing 111 below the first opening 1311, the possibility of the liquid moving toward the housing 111 reaching the first opening 1311 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113.

[0121] In the present embodiment, the guide member 135 is formed so as to be connected to both the first part 131 and the second part 132. However, the guide member 135 may also be formed so as to be connected to at least one of the first part 131 and the second part 132.

[0122] For example, as Figure 9 illustrated, the guide member 135 may be formed so as to be connected only to the first part 131. In this example, the guide member 135 is arranged to contact the housing 111 of the camera 11 to the left and right of the lens 113. In addition, the following configuration may also be adopted: a single guide member 135 is provided to contact the housing 111 of the camera 11 to either the left or right of the lens 113.

[0123] According to such a structure, the possibility of the liquid descending from the lower end 135a of the guide member 135 to the housing 111 reaching the lens 113 can be reduced, and thus the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the lens 113 can be further suppressed.

[0124] As Figure 8 illustrated, the cleaning device 13 includes a first wall portion 1361. The first wall portion 1361 extends in the vertical direction in front of the first opening 1311. The lower end of the first wall portion 1361 is located below the first opening 1311.

[0125] As with the path illustrated by reference numeral R15, liquids such as raindrops may come from the front due to external airflows or the swirling of a vehicle ahead. At this time, the liquid may directly approach the first opening 1311 without passing through a part of the cleaning device 13.

[0126] However, the liquid coming from the front of the cleaning device 13 is made to adhere to the first wall portion 1361. In addition, the lower end of the first wall portion 1361 is located below the first opening 1311, so the possibility of the liquid adhering to the first wall portion 1361 reaching the first opening 1311 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to raindrops or other liquids being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113.

[0127] The cleaning device 13 includes a second wall portion 1362. The second wall portion 1362 extends in the vertical direction to the left and right of the first opening 1311. The lower end of the second wall portion 1362 is located below the first opening 1311.

[0128] As with the path illustrated by reference numeral R16, liquids such as raindrops may also come from the side due to external airflows or the swirling of a vehicle ahead. At this time, the liquid may also directly approach the first opening 1311 without passing through a part of the cleaning device 13.

[0129] However, the liquid coming from the side of the cleaning device 13 is made to adhere to the second wall portion 1362. In addition, the lower end of the second wall portion 1362 is located below the first opening 1311, so the possibility of the liquid adhering to the second wall portion 1362 reaching the first opening 1311 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to raindrops or other liquids being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113.

[0130] The cleaning device 13 includes a third wall portion 1363. The third wall portion 1363 extends in the vertical direction at a position further behind than the first opening 1311. The lower end of the third wall portion 1363 is located below the first opening 1311.

[0131] As with the path illustrated by reference numeral R17, liquids such as raindrops may come from the rear due to changes in external airflows or the like. At this time, the liquid can also directly approach the first opening 1311 without passing through a part of the cleaning device 13. Or, it condenses with the liquid already adhering to the cleaning device 13 and is made to approach the first opening 1311 located in the front. In particular, in the case where the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 extending forward is oriented below the horizontal direction, the possibility of the liquid reaching the vicinity of the first opening 1311 where the air A is jetted toward the lens 113 located in front of the imaging element 112 is further increased.

[0132] However, the liquid approaching from the rear of the first opening 1311 is caused to adhere to the third wall portion 1363. In addition, the lower end of the third wall portion 1363 is located below the first opening 1311, so the possibility of the liquid adhering to the third wall portion 1363 reaching the first opening 1311 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the occurrence of a situation where the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to raindrops or other liquids being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113.

[0133] In the present embodiment, the first wall portion 1361, the second wall portion 1362, and the third wall portion 1363 are connected to each other to form a peripheral wall surrounding the first opening 1311 and the second opening 1312. However, at least one of the first wall portion 1361, the second wall portion 1362, and the third wall portion 1363 may not be connected to an adjacent other wall portion.

[0134] In the present embodiment, the first wall portion 1361 is formed as a single wall portion extending in the left - right direction. However, the first wall portion 1361 may also be formed as a plurality of wall portions arranged in the left - right direction with a gap therebetween.

[0135] In the present embodiment, the second wall portion 1362 is formed as a single wall portion extending in the front - rear direction. However, the second wall portion 1362 may also be formed as a plurality of wall portions arranged in the front - rear direction with a gap therebetween.

[0136] In the present embodiment, the third wall portion 1363 is formed as a single wall portion extending in the left - right direction. However, the third wall portion 1363 may also be formed as a plurality of wall portions arranged in the left - right direction with a gap therebetween.

[0137] As Figure 1 illustrated, the sensor assembly 1 can be mounted on the vehicle 3 in such a manner as to cover at least the body part 35 from above. According to such a structure, the possibility of raindrops or other liquids adhering to the cleaning device 13 from at least above can be reduced.

[0138] Figure 10 The appearance of the sensor assembly 2 of the second embodiment is illustrated as viewed from the right. The sensor assembly 2 includes a camera 11. The structure of the camera 11 is the same as that of the sensor assembly 1 of the first embodiment, so repeated description is omitted.

[0139] The sensor assembly 2 includes a bracket 22. The sensor assembly 2 is mounted on Figure 2 the illustrated vehicle 3. The bracket 22 is a component for supporting the sensor assembly 2 at an appropriate position in the vehicle 3.

[0140] The sensor assembly 2 includes a cleaning device 23. The cleaning device 23 is a device that suppresses the attachment of foreign matter to the lens 113 by ejecting air A toward the lens 113 of the camera 11.

[0141] Figure 11 Illustrates the appearance of the cleaning device 23 observed from the upper left front. Figure 12 Illustrates the appearance of the cleaning device 23 observed from below. Figure 13 Illustrates the appearance of the cleaning device 23 observed from the left.

[0142] The cleaning device 23 includes a first part 231 and a second part 232. In the first part 231, a first opening 2311 for ejecting air toward the lens 113 is formed. Inside the second part 232, a first pipeline 2321 for guiding air to the first part 231 is formed.

[0143] As Figure 10 Illustrated, the first pipeline 2321 extends along the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 in such a manner that the front end is located lower than the rear end. The first opening 2311 is located lower than the first pipeline 2321.

[0144] The ejection of air A by the cleaning device 23 is performed to suppress the attachment of foreign matter to the lens 113. However, when a liquid such as raindrops adheres near the first opening 2311 of the cleaning device 23, it may be drawn into the air flow of the air A ejected from the first opening 2311, possibly causing a large amount of liquid to be blown onto the lens 113. The liquid blown onto the lens 113 will block the field of view of the imaging element 112 as a foreign matter, possibly resulting in a decrease in the information acquisition ability. In the sensor assembly 2, various countermeasures are adopted to suppress such a situation from occurring.

[0145] The reference numeral R21 is an example of the path along which a liquid such as raindrops adhering to the upper surface of the cleaning device 23 moves. The raindrops adhering to the upper surface tend to coalesce with other raindrops. The raindrops that increase in weight due to coalescence are likely to move downward. Especially in the case where the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 extending forward is oriented more downward than the horizontal direction, the possibility of a liquid such as raindrops reaching near the first opening 2311 that ejects air A toward the lens 113 located in front of the imaging element 112 further increases.

[0146] As Figure 12As illustrated, the left end edge 232a of the second part 232 as viewed from the first direction along the vertical direction of the cleaning device 23 has a portion that extends further to the right than the left end 231a of the first part 231 as viewed from the first direction. The right end edge 232b of the second part 232 as viewed from the first direction has a portion that extends further to the left than the right end 231b of the first part 231 as viewed from the first direction.

[0147] According to such a structure, the area of the upper surface of the cleaning device 23 where raindrops may adhere can be reduced, so the possibility of raindrops aggregating with each other and approaching the first opening 2311 can be lowered. Therefore, since the liquid such as raindrops is blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113, the situation where the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced can be suppressed.

[0148] As Figure 11 and Figure 13 As illustrated, the second part 232 has a second upper surface 232c. The front end portion 232d of the second upper surface 232c is connected to the front end of the cleaning device 23. The second upper surface 232c has a left concave portion 232e and a right concave portion 232f that are located below the front end portion 232d.

[0149] According to such a structure, the liquid such as raindrops adhering to the second upper surface 232c is caused to stay in the left concave portion 232e and the right concave portion 232f. Thereby, the possibility of the liquid reaching the front end of the cleaning device 23 can be reduced. As a result, the possibility of the liquid reaching the first opening 2311 can be further reduced.

[0150] In addition, the left concave portion 232e is connected to a portion of the left end edge 232a of the second part 232 that extends further to the right than the left end 231a of the first part 231. Similarly, the right concave portion 232f is connected to a portion of the right end edge 232b of the second part 232 that extends further to the left than the right end 231b of the first part 231.

[0151] According to such a structure, the liquid staying in the left concave portion 232e is caused to move to the left. Similarly, the liquid staying in the right concave portion 232f is caused to move to the right. Thereby, the liquid adhering to the second upper surface 232c is caused to move along the path Figure 11 illustrated by the reference numeral R22 before reaching the front end of the cleaning device 23. As a result, the possibility of the liquid reaching the first opening 2311 can be further reduced.

[0152] Figure 14Illustrates the appearance of the sensor assembly 2 when viewed from the front. The first upper surface 231c of the first part 231 in the cleaning device 23 has the following shape: compared to the part directly above the position where the first opening 2311 is formed, both ends in the left - right direction are located lower. The reference numeral R23 outputs an example of the path along which a liquid such as raindrops adhering to the first upper surface 231c moves.

[0153] As Figure 10 As illustrated by the reference numeral R21 in, a liquid such as raindrops adhering to the upper surface of the cleaning device 23 can approach the first opening 2311 via the front end of the cleaning device 23. Especially in the case of a structure in which the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 extending forward is oriented more downward than the horizontal direction, this tendency increases.

[0154] However, since the first upper surface 231c has the above - described shape, the liquid adhering to or reaching the part directly above the first opening 2311 is caused to move in the left - right direction. Thereby, the possibility that a liquid such as raindrops reaches the first opening 2311 via the front end of the cleaning device 23 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation in which the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted toward the lens 113.

[0155] The left end portion 231d of the first upper surface 231c is located more to the left than the left end of the lens 113. Similarly, the right end portion 231e of the first upper surface 231c is located more to the right than the right end of the lens 113. In addition, only one of the left end portion 231d and the right end portion 231e of the first upper surface 231c may be arranged on the side of the lens 113.

[0156] According to such a structure, the possibility that the liquid that is caused to move in the left - right direction along the first upper surface 231c falls and reaches the lens 113 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the occurrence of a situation in which the imaging ability of the imaging element 112 is reduced due to the liquid being blown onto the lens 113.

[0157] And Figure 7 Similar to the example shown, the first upper surface 231c of the first part 231 may have the following shape: compared to the part directly above the position where the first opening 2311 is formed, one of the both ends in the left - right direction is located lower. That is, the part directly above the position where the first opening 2311 is formed may not be the highest position in the first upper surface 231c. At this time, the end portion on the side farther from the first opening 2311 is preferably located lower.

[0158] As Figure 14As illustrated, the first opening 2311 is disposed above the lower end 231f of the first portion 231. With such a structure, even if a liquid such as raindrops reaches the lower end 231f of the first portion 231, the possibility of the liquid adhering to the first opening 2311 located above it can be reduced. Therefore, the possibility of the liquid being blown onto the lens 113 by the air A can be suppressed.

[0159] As Figure 12 As illustrated, in the first portion 231, a second opening 2312 for jetting a cleaning liquid onto the lens 113 is formed. Inside the second portion 232, a second pipe 2322 for guiding the cleaning liquid to the first portion 231 is formed.

[0160] The second pipe 2322 also extends along the detection reference axis X of the imaging element 112 in such a manner that the front end portion is located lower than the rear end portion. The second opening 2312 is located below the second pipe 2322.

[0161] As Figure 14 As illustrated, the first opening 2311 is disposed above the center in the left - right direction of the lens 113. The second opening 2312 is disposed above the lens 113 at a position to the left of the center. The first opening 2311 is formed above the second opening 2312. With such a configuration, the possibility of the cleaning liquid jetted from the second opening 2312 adhering to the first opening 2311 can be reduced. Thereby, the situation where the cleaning liquid is blown onto the lens 113 by the air A jetted from the first opening 2311 at an unintended time can be suppressed.

[0162] In addition, the above - described positional relationship between the first opening 2311 and the second opening 2312 can also be applied to the first opening 1311 and the second opening 1312 in the cleaning device 13 of the first embodiment.

[0163] As Figure 11 As illustrated, both ends in the left - right direction of the second upper surface 232c of the second portion 232 are located lower than the central portion 232g in the same direction. With such a structure, before raindrops and other liquids adhering to the upper surface of the cleaning device 23 move and reach the front end of the cleaning device 23, they are caused to move in the left - right direction. Therefore, the possibility of raindrops and other liquids reaching the first opening 2311 via the front end of the cleaning device 23 can be further reduced.

[0164] Figure 15 The appearance of the cleaning device 23 is illustrated as viewed from the upper left rear. The first pipe 2321 is disposed closer to the central portion 232g of the second upper surface 232c than the second pipe 2322. The first pipe 2321 is disposed above the second pipe 2322.

[0165] According to such a structure, the shape of the second upper surface 232c whose both ends in the left-right direction are located below the central portion 232g can be formed efficiently and easily. In addition, the above-described configuration in which the second opening 2312 is located below the first opening 2311 can be achieved efficiently and easily.

[0166] Figure 16 The appearance of the sensor assembly 2 is illustrated as viewed from the lower left front. The rear portion of the second part 232 of the cleaning device 23 is in contact with the upper surface of the housing 111 of the camera 11 without a gap. On the other hand, the front portion of the second part 232 faces the housing 111 with a gap that is at least non-capillary.

[0167] According to such a structure, the possibility that a liquid such as raindrops enters between the lower surface of the cleaning device 23 and the upper surface of the housing 111 of the camera 11 and that the liquid approaches the first opening 2311 by capillary action can be reduced.

[0168] As Figure 10 illustrated, the sensor assembly 2 can be mounted on the vehicle 3 so as to cover at least the vehicle body part 35 from above. According to such a structure, the possibility that a liquid such as raindrops adheres to the cleaning device 23 at least from above can be reduced.

[0169] The above-described embodiments are merely examples for easy understanding of the present disclosure. The structural examples of each embodiment can be appropriately changed or combined with other structural examples within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0170] The cleaning device of each embodiment jets air A in order to suppress foreign matter from adhering to the lens 113. However, a gas or a liquid having a specific component may also be jetted. The gas or the liquid is an example of a fluid.

[0171] The sensor assembly of each embodiment may include a sensor different from the imaging element 112. Examples of other sensors include a light receiving element in a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) device, a light receiving element in a millimeter wave radar, and a light receiving element in an ultrasonic sensor. The cleaning device is used to suppress adhesion to the partition wall located in front of each sensor. The partition wall does not need to be transparent to visible light depending on the type of sensor.

[0172] The sensor assembly of each embodiment may also be mounted on a moving body other than the vehicle 3. Examples of other moving bodies include railways, airplanes, aircrafts, ships, etc. The moving body does not necessarily have a driver.

[0173] The sensor components of each embodiment do not necessarily have to be mounted on a moving body. For example, the sensor components of each embodiment can also be applied to a system that is installed in a house, a facility, transportation infrastructure, etc. and operates in response to an object entering a specific area.

[0174] As part of this disclosure, the contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-187692 filed on November 24, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-187693 filed on November 24, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-187694 filed on November 24, 2022, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-187695 filed on November 24, 2022 are hereby incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A cleaning device that inhibits foreign matter from adhering to a partition wall located in front of a sensor, wherein a detection reference axis extending forward of the sensor faces the horizontal direction or a direction lower than the horizontal direction, and the cleaning device includes: a first part having a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition wall, and a second part having a first pipe for guiding the fluid to the first part; from the left end edge of the second part as viewed in a first direction along the vertical direction, there is a part extending more to the right than the left end of the first part as viewed in the first direction, from the right end edge of the second part as viewed in the first direction, there is a part extending more to the left than the right end of the first part as viewed in the first direction.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, the second part has an upper surface with a front end connected to the front end of the cleaning device, the upper surface has a part located lower than the front end part.

3. The cleaning device according to claim 2, the part of the upper surface located lower than the front end part is connected to at least one of the part of the left end edge extending more to the right than the left end of the first part and the part of the right end edge extending more to the left than the right end of the first part.

4. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the first opening is arranged above the lower end of the first part.

5. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, gas is jetted from the first opening, a second opening for jetting a cleaning liquid toward the partition wall is formed in the first part, the first opening is formed above the second opening.

6. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, gas is jetted from the first opening, a second opening for jetting a cleaning liquid toward the partition wall is formed in the first part, the cleaning device further includes a third part having a second pipe for guiding the cleaning liquid to the first part, a gap is formed between the second part and the third part.

7. The cleaning device according to claim 6, the gap is formed behind the partition wall.

8. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, is mounted on a moving body.

9. A sensor assembly, including: a sensor, a detection reference axis extending forward of which faces the horizontal direction or a direction lower than the horizontal direction, a partition wall arranged in front of the sensor, and a cleaning device that inhibits foreign matter from adhering to the partition wall; the cleaning device includes: a first part having a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition wall, and a second part having a pipe for guiding the fluid to the first part; from the left end edge of the second part as viewed in a first direction along the vertical direction, there is a part extending more to the right than the left end of the first part as viewed in the first direction, from the right end edge of the second part as viewed in the first direction, there is a part extending more to the left than the right end of the first part as viewed in the first direction.

10. The sensor assembly according to claim 9, the sensor is an imaging element, the partition wall is a lens, The detection reference axis corresponds to the optical axis of the lens.

11. The sensor assembly according to claim 9 or 10, mounted on a moving body.

12. A cleaning device that suppresses the adhesion of foreign matter to a sensor and a partition located in front of the sensor, wherein a detection reference axis extending forward of the sensor faces horizontally or downward more than horizontally, and the cleaning device includes: a first part formed with a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition, and a second part formed with a first pipe for guiding the fluid to the first part; The first part has a first upper surface with a shape such that at least one of the left and right ends in the left-right direction is located below a portion directly above the first opening.

13. The cleaning device according to claim 12, The second part has a second upper surface with a shape such that at least one of the left and right ends in the left-right direction is located below the central portion in the left-right direction.

14. The cleaning device according to claim 13, A front end portion of the second upper surface is connected to the front end of the cleaning device, and the second upper surface has a portion located below the front end portion.

15. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, The first opening is disposed above the lower end of the first part.

16. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 12 to 15, Gas is jetted from the first opening, a second opening for jetting a cleaning liquid toward the partition is formed in the first part, a second pipe for guiding the cleaning liquid to the first part is formed in the second part, The first pipe is disposed closer to the central portion of the second part in the left-right direction and above the second pipe.

17. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 12 to 16, Gas is jetted from the first opening, a second opening for jetting a cleaning liquid toward the partition is formed in the first part, The first opening is formed above the second opening.

18. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 12 to 17, mounted on a moving body.

19. A sensor assembly, including: a sensor, a detection reference axis extending forward of which faces horizontally or downward more than horizontally, a partition disposed in front of the sensor, and a cleaning device that suppresses the adhesion of foreign matter to the partition; The cleaning device includes: a first part formed with a first opening for jetting a fluid toward the partition, and a second part formed with a pipe for guiding the fluid to the first part; The first part has a first upper surface with a shape such that at least one of the left and right ends in the left-right direction is located below a portion directly above the first opening.

20. The sensor assembly according to claim 19, The first upper surface satisfies at least one of a first condition and a second condition, The first condition is that the left end of the first upper surface is located more to the left than the left end of the partition, The second condition is that the right end of the first upper surface is located more to the right than the right end of the partition.

21. The sensor assembly according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the sensor is an imaging element, the partition is a lens, and the detection reference axis corresponds to the optical axis of the lens.

22. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 19 to 21, which is mounted on a moving body.

23. A cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to a sensor and a partition located in front of the sensor, wherein a detection reference axis extending forward of the sensor faces horizontally or downward more than horizontally, the cleaning device comprising: a first portion having a first opening for ejecting a fluid toward the partition, a second portion having a first pipe for guiding the fluid to the first portion, and a guiding member extending in the vertical direction so as to be connected to at least one of the first portion and the second portion, and a lower end thereof being located below the first opening; the guiding member is arranged to contact a housing that houses the sensor and supports the partition at a position behind the partition.

24. The cleaning device according to claim 23, wherein the guiding member is arranged to contact the housing at at least one of a position leftward and rightward of the partition.

25. The cleaning device according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the first opening is arranged above a lower end of the first portion.

26. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein a gas is ejected from the first opening, a second opening for ejecting a cleaning liquid toward the partition is formed in the first portion, and the first opening is formed above the second opening.

27. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 23 to 26, which is mounted on a moving body.

28. A sensor assembly comprising: a sensor, a detection reference axis extending forward thereof facing horizontally or downward more than horizontally, a partition arranged in front of the sensor, a housing that houses the sensor and supports the partition, and a cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to the partition; the cleaning device comprising: a first portion having a first opening for ejecting a fluid toward the partition, a second portion having a pipe for guiding the fluid to the first portion, and a guiding member extending in the vertical direction so as to be connected to at least one of the first portion and the second portion, and a lower end thereof being located below the first opening; the guiding member contacts the housing at a position behind the partition.

29. The sensor assembly according to claim 28, wherein the sensor is an imaging element, the partition is a lens, and the detection reference axis corresponds to the optical axis of the lens.

30. The sensor assembly according to claim 28 or 29, which is mounted on a moving body.

31. A cleaning device that suppresses attachment of foreign matter to a sensor and a partition located in front of the sensor, wherein a detection reference axis extending forward of the sensor faces horizontally or downward more than horizontally, the cleaning device comprising: a first portion having a first opening for ejecting a fluid toward the partition, A second part forms a first pipeline for guiding the fluid toward the first part, and A first wall portion extends in the vertical direction at a position more forward than the first opening, and its lower end is located below the first opening.

32. The cleaning device according to claim 31, including a second wall portion extending in the vertical direction at at least one of a position more to the left and right of the first opening, and its lower end is located below the first opening.

33. The cleaning device according to claim 31 or 32, including a third wall portion extending in the vertical direction at a position more rearward than the first opening, and its lower end is located below the first opening.

34. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 31 to 33, jets gas from the first opening, a second opening for jetting cleaning liquid toward the partition wall is formed in the first part, the first opening is formed above the second opening.

35. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 31 to 34, is mounted on a moving body.

36. A sensor assembly includes: a sensor, the detection reference axis extending forward is oriented horizontally or below the horizontal direction, a partition wall disposed in front of the sensor, a housing that houses the sensor and supports the partition wall, and a cleaning device that suppresses foreign matter from adhering to the partition wall, the cleaning device includes: a first part having a first opening for jetting fluid toward the partition wall, a second part forming a pipeline for guiding the fluid toward the first part, and a first wall portion extending in the vertical direction at a position more forward than the first opening, and its lower end is located below the first opening.

37. The sensor assembly according to claim 36, the sensor is an imaging element, the partition wall is a lens, the detection reference axis corresponds to the optical axis of the lens.

38. The sensor assembly according to claim 36 or 37, is mounted on a moving body.

Images