A method and device for self-cleaning and anti-fouling of a mirror surface of a vehicle-mounted camera

Abstract

This invention discloses a self-cleaning and anti-fouling method and device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors, including an installation component, a transparent cover, a cleaning component, and a fixing ring. The transparent cover is positioned in front of the camera's image capture. A motor drives the transparent cover to rotate via a drive wheel, moving areas covered with rainwater, mud, and dust to the cleaning component for cleaning. Cleaning fluid enters the scraping seat from a reservoir via a delivery tube, working in conjunction with an outer scraping ring and a pressure ring to scrape and clean the surface of the transparent cover. Wastewater is discharged through a connecting pipe. When the lower end of the connecting pipe is intermittently closed, the cleaning fluid can be discharged outward from the gap between the transparent cover and the pressure ring, rinsing away mud accumulated at the edges. This device achieves the cleaning action through the rotation of the transparent cover itself, avoiding the need for an additional, obviously exposed cleaning structure on the outside of the camera, facilitating integration with the vehicle's exterior. It solves the problems of existing vehicle-mounted camera cleaning structures affecting aesthetic integration, simple spray cleaning being incomplete, and mud accumulation at the edges affecting image clarity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of camera cleaning and protection, specifically to a method and device for self-cleaning and anti-fouling of vehicle camera mirrors. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of vehicle intelligence and driver assistance technologies, in-vehicle cameras have been widely used in various scenarios such as forward sensing, reversing imaging, surround view imaging, automatic parking, lane change assist, and driving recording. In order to balance the image range and the overall appearance of the vehicle, existing in-vehicle cameras are usually placed in the front grille, bumper, tailgate, rearview mirror housing, fender, or other exterior body parts. Increasingly, embedded, miniaturized, and hidden installation methods are adopted to make the camera appearance as integrated as possible with the body curves, decorative parts, or functional parts, reducing obtrusiveness and maintaining the integrity of the vehicle's appearance.

[0003] However, the image-capturing end of vehicle cameras is constantly exposed to the external environment of the vehicle, making them susceptible to damage from rain, mud, dust, snowmelt, de-icing agents, and road debris during vehicle operation. When the camera's front mirror or transparent protective component becomes contaminated, problems such as blurred images, water film obstruction, mud spot obstruction, and localized reflections can easily occur, affecting the driver's observation and the vehicle's driver assistance systems' recognition and judgment of the external environment. Especially for front cameras, surround-view cameras, and side cameras, their installation positions are often close to the vehicle's outer surface or the edges of exterior trim components, and contaminants are not easily carried away by the vehicle's natural airflow, still requiring effective cleaning and anti-contamination measures.

[0004] Current methods for cleaning vehicle cameras mainly include spray cleaning, heated defogging, hydrophobic coatings, or manual wiping. While spray cleaning can wash away some surface dust and water droplets, it is often difficult to completely remove mud, oil, and semi-dried particles attached to the front of the camera, and water films and marks are often left behind after cleaning. Heated defogging and hydrophobic coatings are mainly used to improve the adhesion of fog or water droplets, but their ability to remove mud, dust, and road splashes is limited, and their effectiveness may decrease due to wear and aging after long-term use. Manual wiping relies on the driver's active maintenance and cannot be completed in time while driving or using the camera.

[0005] Adding obvious cleaning components, exposed nozzles, swinging parts, or independent wiping structures to the outside of the camera to improve cleaning capabilities can easily occupy the already limited installation space around the camera and disrupt the original integration between the camera and the vehicle's exterior trim. This results in a noticeable protrusion or additional structure in the camera area, which is detrimental to the vehicle's exterior design and also increases wind resistance, mud accumulation, icing, and assembly complexity. For front cameras, rearview mirror cameras, surround-view cameras, and other vehicle body cameras that aim for a seamless appearance, achieving automatic cleaning of the transparent image-capturing area at the front of the camera without adding obvious exposed cleaning structures becomes a problem that needs to be solved.

[0006] Furthermore, the installation positions, exterior shapes, and image-capturing angles of different vehicle cameras vary. If the cleaning structure relies on external swinging components or exposed cleaning parts, it is difficult to simultaneously adapt to front cameras, rear cameras, side cameras, and other vehicle-mounted camera structures, limiting both versatility and aesthetics. Current technology lacks a self-cleaning and anti-fouling solution that utilizes the rotation of the transparent protective component in front of the camera to complete the cleaning process, integrating the cleaning, scraping, and drainage actions as much as possible within the camera housing or its edge area. This would reduce external additional structures, maintain a seamless vehicle-mounted appearance, and be applicable to various vehicle camera locations.

[0007] In view of the above problems, a self-cleaning and anti-fouling method and device for vehicle camera mirrors is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a self-cleaning and anti-fouling method and device for vehicle camera mirrors to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for a vehicle-mounted camera mirror, comprising a mounting assembly, a transparent cover, a cleaning assembly, and a fixing ring, characterized in that: a camera is mounted on the mounting assembly; the transparent cover is positioned in front of the camera's image capture position; the fixing ring is positioned on the outer side of the transparent cover; and the cleaning assembly is positioned on one side of the transparent cover. The mounting assembly also includes a motor and a drive wheel, the motor being connected to the drive wheel via a transmission connection. The drive wheel abuts against the outer periphery of the transparent cover, and the motor is capable of driving the transparent cover to rotate relative to the camera via the drive wheel. The cleaning assembly is capable of supplying cleaning fluid to the surface of the transparent cover and scraping the transparent cover during rotation.

[0010] Preferably, the mounting assembly includes a bracket, a circuit board, a motor, a drive wheel, a support frame, and a camera. The circuit board, motor, and support frame are all mounted on the bracket, the camera is mounted on the support frame, the drive wheel is mounted on the output end of the motor, and the circuit board is electrically connected to the motor.

[0011] Preferably, the motor and drive wheel are configured as two sets, one set of motors is connected to one set of drive wheels and drives the transparent cover to rotate in the horizontal direction through the corresponding drive wheel, and the other set of motors is connected to the other set of drive wheels and drives the transparent cover to rotate in the vertical direction through the corresponding drive wheel. Both sets of motors can drive in both forward and reverse directions.

[0012] Preferably, the transparent cover includes a cover body and an opening. The opening is located on the side of the cover body near the support frame. The diameter of the opening is larger than the outer contour dimensions of the support frame and the camera at corresponding positions. The cover body is fitted onto the outside of the support frame and the camera through the opening, and when the transparent cover rotates, the opening is limited to the outside of the support frame.

[0013] Preferably, the cleaning assembly includes a storage box, an infusion tube, a scraping seat, a connecting tube, an outer scraping ring, and a pressure ring. One end of the infusion tube is connected to the storage box, and the other end of the infusion tube is connected to the scraping seat. The drain port is located inside the scraping seat. The upper end of the connecting tube at the top is connected to the storage box, and the lower end of the connecting tube at the bottom is used to discharge wastewater. The outer scraping ring is located on the side of the scraping seat facing the transparent cover.

[0014] Preferably, the inside of the scraping seat is provided with a drain port, which is connected to the outer surface of the transparent cover and the outer scraping ring.

[0015] Preferably, the pressure ring is arranged along the outer periphery of the outer scraping ring, and when the transparent cover rotates, the pressure ring can scrape off the cleaning liquid and dirt on the outer surface of the transparent cover.

[0016] Preferably, the fixing ring is disposed on the side of the transparent cover away from the mounting component, the middle of the fixing ring forms an observation opening corresponding to the camera, the fixing ring is sleeved on the outside of the outer scraping ring, and is used to limit the external position of the transparent cover and the outer scraping ring.

[0017] Preferably, the circuit board can receive manual cleaning signals, camera image blur signals, rain and snow signals, or vehicle cleaning instructions, and control the motor to start according to the received signals, so that the drive wheel drives the transparent cover to rotate in the horizontal or vertical direction to achieve cleaning.

[0018] Preferably, a self-cleaning and anti-fouling method for vehicle camera mirrors, based on the self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle camera mirrors according to any one of claims 1-8, is characterized by comprising the following steps: S1, receiving a cleaning trigger signal, wherein the cleaning trigger signal includes at least one of a manual cleaning signal, a camera image blur signal, a rain / snow signal, or a vehicle cleaning instruction; S2, controlling the motor to start according to the cleaning trigger signal, causing the drive wheel to rotate the transparent cover, and simultaneously causing the cleaning fluid in the reservoir to enter the scraping seat through the infusion tube; S3, during the rotation of the transparent cover, through... The outer scraper ring scrapes the outer surface of the transparent cover. The wastewater after scraping enters the connecting pipe through the drain port and is discharged from the lower end of the connecting pipe. S4. The lower end of the connecting pipe is intermittently closed, so that some of the cleaning liquid entering the scraping seat flows through the drain port to the gap between the transparent cover and the pressure ring and is discharged outward from the gap to rinse the sludge accumulated on the outside of the pressure ring. S5. After rinsing the sludge on the outside of the pressure ring, the lower end of the connecting pipe is reopened and the transparent cover is rotated again so that the outer scraper ring performs a second scraping of the outer surface of the transparent cover. The wastewater after the second scraping is discharged from the lower end of the connecting pipe.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: Compared with the prior art, the present invention sets a rotatable transparent cover in front of the camera image capture, so that external rainwater, mud and dust are preferentially attached to the surface of the transparent cover. The transparent cover itself rotates to bring the contaminated area into the corresponding position of the cleaning component to complete the liquid supply, scraping and sewage discharge. It does not require additional obviously exposed squeegee, swing cleaning component or independent wiping structure outside the camera. While maintaining the clarity of the camera image capture, it can integrate the cleaning structure as much as possible inside the camera cover or the edge area, which is convenient to integrate with the exterior structure of the front camera, rearview mirror camera, surround view camera and other vehicle body cameras, reducing the appearance of abruptness and the space occupied by the assembly. At the same time, the sewage after scraping can be discharged through the connecting pipe, and when the connecting pipe is intermittently closed, the cleaning liquid is used to flush out from the gap between the transparent cover and the pressure ring to rinse the mud accumulation area at the edge, reducing the impact of mud and water accumulation on the rotation of the transparent cover and the scraping effect. It solves the problems of the prior art that the vehicle camera cleaning structure is easy to damage the vehicle body integration appearance, simple spraying is difficult to remove attached dirt, water marks are easy to remain after cleaning, and mud accumulation at the edge affects the image clarity. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention from another perspective;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the left-side structure of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the right-side structure of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the AA cross-sectional structure of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the first exploded structure of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the second explosive structure of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the cleaning drive component and the transparent lens cover of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the cleaning fluid supply component and the transparent lens cover of the present invention.

[0030] In the diagram: 1. Mounting component, 11. Bracket, 12. Circuit board, 13. Motor, 14. Drive wheel, 15. Support frame, 16. Camera; 2. Transparent cover, 21. Cover body, 22. Ring opening; 3. Cleaning component, 31. Liquid storage box, 32. Infusion tube, 33. Scraping seat, 34. Drain outlet, 35. Connecting pipe, 36. Outer scraping ring, 37. Pressure ring, 4. Fixing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0032] Please see Figure 1-10This invention provides a technical solution: a self-cleaning and anti-fouling method and device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors, comprising a mounting component 1, a transparent cover 2, a cleaning component 3, and a fixing ring 4. The mounting component 1 serves as the supporting foundation for the camera 16, the drive structure, and the control structure, and can be installed at the corresponding position of the external camera on the vehicle, such as the rearview mirror, the side of the vehicle body, the front end of the vehicle, or the rear end of the vehicle, where the camera 16 needs to be installed. The transparent cover 2 is positioned in front of the camera 16 for image acquisition, and is used to isolate and protect the front mirror area of ​​the camera 16 without affecting the acquisition of external images by the camera 16. This allows external rainwater, mud, dust, de-icing agents, or road splashes to preferentially adhere to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2, rather than directly adhering to the mirror surface of the camera 16. The fixing ring 4 is positioned on the outside of the transparent cover 2 for external limiting and assembly fixation of the transparent cover 2, the cleaning component 3, and the area in front of the camera 16, ensuring that the transparent cover 2 maintains a stable position during vehicle vibration, airflow impact, and cleaning / scratching processes. The cleaning component 3 is located on one side of the transparent cover 2. It can supply cleaning fluid to the surface of the transparent cover 2 and scrape the surface of the transparent cover 2 when the transparent cover 2 rotates, so that the mud, dust and oil on the surface of the transparent cover 2 are removed from the image capture area directly in front of the camera 16.

[0033] Specifically, the mounting assembly 1 is equipped with a motor 13 and a drive wheel 14. The motor 13 can be a miniature DC motor, a geared motor, a stepper motor, or other rotary drive components suitable for installation in small vehicle spaces. The drive wheel 14 is mounted on the output end of the motor 13. The outer circumference of the drive wheel 14 can be made of rubber, silicone, polyurethane, or other elastic materials with a certain degree of friction and wear resistance, enabling stable frictional transmission when the drive wheel 14 abuts against the outer circumference of the transparent cover 2. After the motor 13 starts, it drives the drive wheel 14 to rotate. The drive wheel 14 drives the transparent cover 2 to rotate relative to the camera 16 through frictional contact with the outer circumference of the transparent cover 2, so that different positions on the surface of the transparent cover 2 sequentially pass through the scraping area of ​​the cleaning assembly 3. With this structure, the camera 16 body does not need to participate in the rotation, and there is no need to directly install a scraper or wiper structure on the lens surface of the camera 16, which can reduce the impact on the lens sealing structure and imaging position of the camera 16.

[0034] Specifically, the transparent cover 2 can be made of transparent plastic, transparent acrylic, polycarbonate, tempered glass, or other materials with light transmission and weather resistance. The outer surface of the transparent cover 2 serves as a dirt-resistant surface that directly contacts the external environment. During vehicle operation, when raindrops, mud, or dust adhere to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2, the motor 13 drives the transparent cover 2 to rotate. The dirt on the surface of the transparent cover 2 rotates with the transparent cover 2 to the location of the cleaning component 3. The cleaning component 3 supplies cleaning fluid to this location and scrapes, causing the dirt to detach from the surface of the transparent cover 2. Because the transparent cover 2 can rotate continuously or intermittently at a set angle, the image-capturing area in front of the camera 16 can be continuously replaced with a clean area after scraping, thereby reducing the risk of image blurring, recognition failure, or decreased assisted driving perception capabilities of the camera 16 due to mirror contamination during vehicle operation.

[0035] Specifically, the cleaning component 3 can operate in conjunction with a vehicle cleaning fluid system or an independent fluid storage structure. When cleaning is required, the cleaning fluid enters the cleaning component 3 and acts on the outer surface of the transparent cover 2. As the transparent cover 2 rotates, the cleaning component 3 scrapes away surface liquid and dirt, and the wastewater is guided out. This structure differs from simply spraying cleaning fluid onto the camera 16. Simple spraying easily forms a residual water film in front of the camera lens and easily brings mud and water back to the mirror area. This application, through the combined rotation of the transparent cover 2 and the scraping action of the cleaning component 3, allows dirt to be concentrated and removed after the transparent cover 2 rotates to the designated scraping position, thereby improving cleaning efficiency under limited cleaning fluid conditions and reducing the problem of residual water marks on the mirror area after cleaning.

[0036] Specifically, the retaining ring 4 is positioned on the side of the transparent cover 2 away from the mounting component 1. The center of the retaining ring 4 forms an observation opening for the camera 16 to capture images. The retaining ring 4 can connect to the mounting component 1 or an external vehicle mounting structure, thus confining the transparent cover 2 within a designated space in front of the camera 16. The retaining ring 4 can be made of plastic, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or other materials commonly used in automotive exterior parts. The retaining ring 4 provides external support and also partially conceals the internal drive and cleaning structures, resulting in a neater appearance after installation. With the retaining ring 4 and the mounting component 1 jointly confining it, the transparent cover 2 maintains its rotational freedom relative to the camera 16 and is less prone to detachment, displacement, or swaying under vibration and airflow, thereby ensuring the stability of the camera 16's image-capturing direction.

[0037] Specifically, the mounting component 1 includes a bracket 11, a circuit board 12, a motor 13, a drive wheel 14, a support frame 15, and a camera 16. The bracket 11, as the main load-bearing component of the mounting component 1, can be made of injection-molded plastic, aluminum alloy, or other structural components suitable for the vehicle's external environment. The bracket 11 can connect with vehicle exterior parts, rearview mirror housings, body sheet metal connectors, or camera mounting bases, forming a relatively stable overall mounting position for the camera 16, transparent cover 2, and cleaning component 3. The bracket 11 can be provided with positioning posts, screw holes, clips, or limiting grooves for mounting the circuit board 12. After installation, the circuit board 12 can be fixed to the bracket 11 with a gap or close contact, preventing vibrations from the vehicle causing the circuit board 12 to shake. The circuit board 12 can integrate a motor drive circuit, a signal receiving circuit, interface terminals, and a control chip. It is used to receive cleaning trigger signals from the vehicle control system, camera image recognition module, or manual switch, and control the motor 13 to start, stop, rotate forward, rotate backward, or run for a set time according to the corresponding signals.

[0038] Specifically, the motor 13 is mounted on the bracket 11. The motor 13 can be fixed by screws, slots, pressure plates, or adhesive sealing structures. The output end of the motor 13 faces the outer periphery of the transparent cover 2. The drive wheel 14 is mounted on the output end of the motor 13, so that the rotational power output by the motor 13 can be directly transmitted to the drive wheel 14. The outer periphery of the drive wheel 14 is preferably made of rubber, silicone, or elastic friction wheel with anti-slip texture. When the drive wheel 14 abuts against the outer periphery of the transparent cover 2, it can form an elastic contact, which can improve the stability of friction transmission and reduce the risk of scratches or local stress concentration caused by hard contact to the transparent cover 2. The drive wheel 14 and the transparent cover 2 can be kept in a slightly compressed state, so that the transparent cover 2 can still be reliably driven under the conditions of cleaning fluid wetting, external mud and water adhesion, or vehicle vibration. When the transparent cover 2 encounters greater resistance, a certain amount of frictional slippage can also occur between the drive wheel 14 and the transparent cover 2 to avoid overloading the motor 13 or forcibly jamming the transparent cover 2.

[0039] Specifically, the support frame 15 is mounted on the bracket 11, and the camera 16 is mounted on the support frame 15. The support frame 15 provides positioning support for the camera 16, ensuring that the image-capturing direction of the camera 16 faces the central area of ​​the transparent cover 2. The support frame 15 can be configured as a cylindrical support, annular support, stepped support, or mounting base with screw holes. The camera 16 can be fixed within the support frame 15 by screwing, snap-fitting, gluing, pressing, or modular insertion. The support frame 15 ensures a stable distance between the camera 16 and the transparent cover 2, preventing interference between the transparent cover 2 and the camera 16 when it rotates, while ensuring that the camera 16 always captures images through the effective light-transmitting area of ​​the transparent cover 2. The support frame 15 can also guide the wiring harness of the camera 16. The wiring harness is led out through the inside of the bracket 11 or the back of the bracket 11 and connected to the vehicle wiring harness, allowing for centralized arrangement of the signal transmission of the camera 16 and the power supply for the motor 13 control, reducing the number of exposed wiring harnesses.

[0040] Specifically, circuit board 12 is electrically connected to motor 13, and circuit board 12 can control the operating state of motor 13 according to cleaning trigger conditions. When the vehicle is in rainy weather, on muddy roads, during car washing, reversing assistance, automatic parking, or when the camera image clarity is reduced, circuit board 12 can control motor 13 to drive drive wheel 14, causing transparent cover 2 to rotate and cooperate with cleaning component 3 to complete the cleaning action. Circuit board 12 can control motor 13 to rotate continuously, intermittently, or reciprocally according to a preset program, and can also adjust the cleaning cycle according to the degree of image blur, running time, vehicle speed, or cleaning fluid supply status, so that transparent cover 2 can reduce motor idling and cleaning fluid waste while ensuring cleaning effect. By mounting camera 16, drive wheel 14, motor 13, and circuit board 12 together on bracket 11, the modularity of the entire device can be improved, which facilitates production assembly, maintenance and replacement, and adaptation to the installation position of cameras of different vehicle models.

[0041] Specifically, at least two sets of motors 13 and drive wheels 14 are configured, with each set of motors 13 corresponding to a set of drive wheels 14. Each set of drive wheels 14 is arranged at different angular positions on the outer periphery of the transparent cover 2. These different angular positions can include the upper, lower, left, right, or inclined side of the transparent cover 2, and can also be adaptively arranged according to the external mounting space of the camera 16, the shape of the vehicle's exterior trim, and the position of the cleaning components 3. Preferably, the driving directions of at least two sets of drive wheels 14 are perpendicular to each other, so that one set of drive wheels 14 can apply an approximately lateral tangential driving force to the transparent cover 2, and the other set of drive wheels 14 can apply an approximately longitudinal tangential driving force to the transparent cover 2, thereby enabling the transparent cover 2 to form rotational trajectories in different directions under different cleaning conditions.

[0042] Specifically, when using two sets of vertically arranged drive structures, the dirt on the surface of the transparent cover 2 will not only pass through the outer scraper ring 36 in a single direction, but can switch between a lateral rotation path and a longitudinal rotation path. When the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 is mainly covered with rainwater, water film, or light dust, one set of motors 13 can be activated to make the transparent cover 2 rotate in the normal direction and complete the rapid scraping. When mud accumulates at the edge of the transparent cover 2, near the pressure ring 37, or in a local recessed area, the other set of motors 13 can be activated to make the transparent cover 2 rotate along a path different from the previous cleaning direction, thereby changing the movement direction of the dirt relative to the outer scraper ring 36 and the pressure ring 37, making it easier to bring edge residue, water marks, and mud spots into the scraping area.

[0043] Specifically, each set of motors 13 can have forward and reverse rotation functions. The forward and reverse rotation function serves as the basic driving method for each drive structure, enabling each set of drive wheels 14 to drive the transparent cover 2 to rotate back and forth in the corresponding direction. In actual cleaning, it can be operated by single-set drive, two sets of alternating drive, or multiple sets of sequential drive. In the preferred case of vertical setting, the transparent cover 2 can be driven to rotate in the first direction by the first set of drive wheels 14, and then the transparent cover 2 can be driven to rotate in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction by the second set of drive wheels 14. This allows the dirt on the surface of the transparent cover 2 to be peeled and scraped off in different directions, reducing the cleaning dead angles caused by a single rotation direction.

[0044] Specifically, the multiple sets of drive wheels 14 can be of the same specification, or they can be set with different outer diameters, widths, or hardnesses according to the installation angle and force requirements. The drive wheels 14 near the side of the transparent cover 2 can be narrower elastic wheels to reduce the installation space occupied; the drive wheels 14 near the upper, lower, or inclined sides of the transparent cover 2 can be wider elastic wheels to improve contact stability. The outer periphery of the drive wheels 14 can be provided with anti-slip textures, frosted surfaces, or elastic coatings, so that the drive wheels 14 can still maintain effective friction when there is cleaning fluid on the surface of the transparent cover 2, while reducing the risk of scratches to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 caused by hard contact.

[0045] Specifically, the transparent cover 2 includes a cover body 21 and an opening 22. The cover body 21 serves as a transparent protective component in front of the camera 16 and can be configured as an arc-shaped cover, a shallow spherical cover, a cylindrical transparent cover, or other transparent structures capable of covering the image-capturing area of ​​the camera 16. The cover body 21 is preferably made of a transparent material with high light transmittance and good impact resistance, such as polycarbonate, acrylic, transparent nylon, transparent glass, or other automotive transparent protective materials. This allows the cover body 21 to withstand wind pressure, rain impact, and mud splashes during vehicle operation while maintaining the clarity of image acquisition in front of the camera 16. The outer surface of the cover body 21 can be treated with a hydrophobic, anti-fog, abrasion-resistant, or anti-fouling coating to reduce water droplet adhesion and mud drying, improving the removal of dirt during subsequent cleaning.

[0046] Specifically, the opening 22 is located on the side of the cover 21 near the support frame 15. The opening 22 serves as a passage for the cover 21 to avoid obstructing the support frame 15 and the camera 16 during installation. The diameter of the opening 22 is larger than the outer contour dimensions of the corresponding positions of the support frame 15 and the camera 16, allowing the cover 21 to be fitted over the outside of the support frame 15 and the camera 16 without causing hard interference with the camera 16 housing, lens mount, or support frame 15 during installation and rotation. The edge of the opening 22 can be chamfered, rounded, or have a low-friction contact surface to prevent the transparent cover 2 from scratching the support frame 15 due to edge burrs or sharp corners during rotation, and also facilitates quick alignment during assembly.

[0047] Specifically, after the cover 21 is fitted onto the outside of the support frame 15 and the camera 16 via the ring opening 22, the transparent cover 2 can rotate around the area in front of the camera 16. The ring opening 22 does not clamp and fix the camera 16, but rather provides rotational clearance for the transparent cover 2 through an opening structure larger than the outer contours of the support frame 15 and the camera 16. With this arrangement, the camera 16 remains fixed, while the transparent cover 2 rotates independently from the outside, preventing the camera 16 from shaking during the cleaning process, thus ensuring the stability of the camera 16's image angle and imaging position. When the transparent cover 2 rotates, the dirt on the outer surface of the cover 21 moves with the cover 21 to the area where the cleaning assembly 3 is located, where it is scraped off by the corresponding structures of the outer scraping ring 36 and the pressure ring 37.

[0048] Specifically, when the transparent cover 2 rotates, the annular opening 22 is limited to the outside of the support frame 15. The support frame 15 can form a circumferential limit, a step limit, or an outer edge limit inside the annular opening 22, so that the transparent cover 2 remains within the set trajectory in front of the camera 16 during rotation, preventing significant eccentric movement of the transparent cover 2 due to friction of the drive wheel 14, vehicle vibration, or scraping resistance. An appropriate gap can be maintained between the annular opening 22 and the support frame 15, which can ensure smooth rotation of the transparent cover 2 while limiting excessive radial wobble of the transparent cover 2. If necessary, wear-resistant washers, low-friction bushings, or lubricating coatings can also be provided between the annular opening 22 and the support frame 15 to reduce wear and abnormal noise caused by long-term rotation.

[0049] Specifically, the shape of the opening 22 can be circular, elliptical, or approximately polygonal depending on the shape of the support frame 15 and the camera 16, but a circular or approximately circular structure is preferred to ensure uniform force distribution when the transparent cover 2 rotates. The opening 22 is located on the side of the cover 21 closest to the support frame 15, keeping the front of the cover 21 continuously transparent and reducing obstruction of the image-capturing area of ​​the camera 16. Through the avoidance and limiting function of the opening 22, the transparent cover 2 can meet the requirements of installation space, rotation cleaning, and fixed image capture of the camera 16, so that the entire device does not need to change the original installation angle of the camera 16, and a rotatable self-cleaning structure can be added to the outside of the camera 16.

[0050] Specifically, the cleaning assembly 3 includes a reservoir 31, an infusion tube 32, a scraper seat 33, a drain port 34, a connecting tube 35, an outer scraper ring 36, and a pressure ring 37. The reservoir 31 is used to store the cleaning fluid, which can be vehicle windshield washer fluid, camera-specific cleaning fluid, or other low-freezing-point cleaning fluid suitable for the vehicle's external environment. The reservoir 31 can be fixed to one side of the bracket 11 or connected to the vehicle's existing cleaning fluid lines. When the installation space is limited, the reservoir 31 can be configured as a small, independent reservoir, facilitating a short-distance fluid supply path near the camera 16 and reducing cleaning fluid response delay.

[0051] Specifically, one end of the infusion tube 32 is connected to the reservoir 31, and the other end is connected to the scraping seat 33, allowing the cleaning fluid in the reservoir 31 to enter the scraping seat 33 via the infusion tube 32. The infusion tube 32 can be made of silicone tubing, rubber tubing, nylon tubing, or other flexible tubing that is resistant to low temperatures and aging. When the infusion tube 32 is routed inside or on the side of the bracket 11, it can be fixed by slots, clamps, or limit buckles to prevent the infusion tube 32 from swinging, bending, or falling off due to vehicle vibration. The infusion tube 32 can be connected to the reservoir 31 and the scraping seat 33 by plug-in joints, clamps, threaded joints, or integrated injection-molded joints to ensure that the cleaning fluid is not prone to leakage during delivery.

[0052] Specifically, the scraping seat 33 is located on one side of the transparent cover 2. A space for the cleaning fluid to pass through is formed inside the scraping seat 33, and a drain port 34 is located inside the scraping seat 33 to guide the cleaning fluid entering the scraping seat 33 to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2, near the outer scraping ring 36, and at the corresponding position of the connecting pipe 35. The scraping seat 33 can be a combination of plastic, rubber composite, or metal inserts and plastic parts. The side of the scraping seat 33 facing the transparent cover 2 forms an arc-shaped mating surface that matches the shape of the transparent cover 2, allowing the cleaning fluid to distribute along the surface of the transparent cover 2 instead of dripping from a single point. Through the guiding effect of the scraping seat 33, the cleaning fluid can first wet the dirt on the transparent cover 2, and then, with the rotation of the transparent cover 2, complete the scraping, reducing the possibility of dry scraping causing scratches to the transparent cover 2.

[0053] Specifically, the connecting pipe 35 is connected to the drain port 34, forming a vertical liquid passage. The upper end of the connecting pipe 35 can be connected to the liquid storage box 31 or the liquid supply circuit near the liquid storage box 31, allowing the cleaning fluid to enter the scraping seat 33; the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 is used to discharge wastewater after scraping, allowing the mud, dust, and cleaning fluid mixture scraped off the surface of the transparent cover 2 to leave the area in front of the camera 16 in a timely manner. The lower end of the connecting pipe 35 can be set as a normally open drain port, or it can be used in conjunction with a solenoid valve, a flexible plug, a one-way valve, or a controllable closing structure, providing a basis for subsequent intermittent closed drainage and changing the liquid discharge path.

[0054] Specifically, the outer scraping ring 36 is positioned on the side of the scraping seat 33 facing the transparent cover 2. The outer scraping ring 36 can be made of rubber, silicone, polyurethane, or other flexible and wear-resistant materials, allowing it to adhere closely to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2. The pressure ring 37 is an integral part of the outer scraping ring 36, forming a reinforcing or pressing section along the outer side of the outer scraping ring 36. This improves the structural stability of the edge of the outer scraping ring 36, ensuring uniform contact pressure as the transparent cover 2 rotates. With this configuration, the outer scraping ring 36 can effectively remove water film and dirt from the surface of the transparent cover 2 without easily causing missed areas due to excessive localized deformation.

[0055] Specifically, when the cleaning component 3 is working, it creates a flow area for cleaning fluid and wastewater around the transparent cover 2. To prevent liquid from entering the circuit board 12, a protective cover can be installed on the outside of the circuit board 12. The protective cover can be connected to the bracket 11 or integrally formed with the bracket 11. The protective cover covers the outside of the circuit board 12 to isolate the circuit board 12 from the cleaning fluid, rainwater, and scraping wastewater. The edge of the protective cover can be provided with a sealing ring, sealant, or guide edge to allow the liquid to drain out along the outside of the bracket 11 or the direction of the connecting pipe 35, reducing the risk of the circuit board 12 getting damp, short-circuiting, or corroding the connectors, and improving the reliability of the device in rain, snow, car wash, and mud splashing environments.

[0056] Specifically, the drain port 34 is located inside the scraping seat 33. It is not a separate external discharge hole, but rather a guide opening formed between the internal liquid channel of the scraping seat 33 and the mating area of ​​the outer scraper ring 36. After the cleaning fluid enters the scraping seat 33 via the infusion pipe 32, it can enter the vicinity of the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 through the drain port 34, allowing the cleaning fluid to preferentially act on the contact area between the outer scraper ring 36 and the transparent cover 2. This location is also where mud, dust, and particulate impurities are scraped off. Therefore, the drain port 34 serves both as an inlet for the cleaning fluid to enter the scraping area and as an outlet for wastewater to enter the connecting pipe 35, concentrating the supply and discharge points inside the scraping seat 33 and reducing the number of external pipelines.

[0057] Specifically, the connecting pipe 35 is connected to the drain port 34 inside the scraping seat 33, and the connecting pipe 35 can form a liquid guiding path in the vertical direction. The upper end of the connecting pipe 35 is connected to the liquid storage box 31 or the corresponding liquid supply position of the liquid storage box 31, so as to cooperate with the cleaning fluid to enter the scraping seat 33; the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 is set downwards to discharge the wastewater after scraping downwards. With this setting, during normal cleaning, the cleaning fluid enters from the liquid storage box 31, enters the scraping seat 33 through the infusion pipe 32, and the wastewater generated when the transparent cover 2 rotates enters the connecting pipe 35 through the drain port 34 and leaves the device from the lower end of the connecting pipe 35, so that it will not accumulate in front of the camera 16 for a long time.

[0058] Specifically, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 can be equipped with a controllable sealing structure, such as a solenoid valve, a small baffle, an elastic plug, a flap valve, or a miniature valve controlled by the circuit board 12. During normal cleaning, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 remains open, and wastewater is discharged downwards along the connecting pipe 35. When it is necessary to clean the mud and dirt on the outside of the pressure ring 37, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 can be closed for a short time, preventing the cleaning fluid inside the scraper seat 33 from being discharged downwards immediately. The liquid pressure or level inside the scraper seat 33 rises briefly, allowing some of the cleaning fluid to flow out from the drain port 34 into the gap between the transparent cover 2 and the pressure ring 37, and then discharge outwards along the outside of the pressure ring 37. Through this intermittent sealing method, the cleaning fluid can backwash the outer edge of the pressure ring 37, which is prone to mud accumulation, preventing the mud from drying on the outside of the pressure ring 37 and affecting the rotation of the transparent cover 2 and the scraping adhesion.

[0059] Specifically, the outer scraping ring 36 and the pressure ring 37 are an integral structure. The pressure ring 37 can be regarded as a thickened part, pressing part, or positioning part on the outer periphery of the outer scraping ring 36. A flexible scraping edge is formed on the side of the outer scraping ring 36 near the transparent cover 2. The pressure ring 37 is located on the outside of the outer scraping ring 36 and is used to improve the overall rigidity and assembly stability of the outer scraping ring 36, so that the outer scraping ring 36 is not easy to roll outward or partially detach when continuously subjected to pressure scraping. After the pressure ring 37 and the outer scraping ring 36 are integrally formed, the scraping seat 33 only needs to press or limit the entire outer scraping ring 36, which can reduce the error of separate assembly and also avoid the formation of additional mud accumulation gaps between the pressure ring 37 and the outer scraping ring 36.

[0060] Specifically, when the transparent cover 2 rotates, the flexible scraping edge of the outer scraper ring 36 is close to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2, and the pressure ring 37 assists the outer scraper ring 36 in maintaining a stable posture. After the cleaning fluid enters the scraping position, the mud, water film, and dust on the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 are scraped off by the outer scraper ring 36, and the scraped wastewater is discharged first through the drain port 34 and the connecting pipe 35. When the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 is intermittently closed, the cleaning fluid is guided to the gap between the transparent cover 2 and the pressure ring 37, forming a short-term flushing water flow along the outside of the pressure ring 37, which carries away the mud attached to the outside of the pressure ring 37. Subsequently, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 is reopened, and the residual wastewater is discharged downward through the connecting pipe 35 again, and continues to rotate with the transparent cover 2 to complete the subsequent scraping.

[0061] Specifically, during prolonged contact with the outer periphery of the transparent cover 2, the drive wheel 14 is susceptible to contamination from cleaning fluid, mud and sand particles, and road dust. Therefore, a brush roller can be installed on the side of the drive wheel 14 furthest from the transparent cover 2. The brush roller can be a miniature brush roller, a silicone toothed roller, a sponge roller, or a rolling element with flexible bristles. The brush roller contacts the outer periphery of the drive wheel 14 or the area near the outer periphery of the transparent cover 2, simultaneously cleaning the mud and sand particles adhering to the surface of the drive wheel 14 during its rotation. By installing the brush roller, the amount of particles trapped between the drive wheel 14 and the transparent cover 2 can be reduced, preventing hard particles from scratching the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 during frictional transmission. It also helps maintain the frictional performance of the outer periphery of the drive wheel 14, reducing the risk of slippage after the drive wheel 14 is wetted by the cleaning fluid.

[0062] Specifically, the brush roller can be mounted via a small rotating shaft on the bracket 11, or supported by a lateral mounting position on the scraping seat 33 or the fixing ring 4. The brush roller does not require a separate power source; it can passively rotate by contact friction with the drive wheel 14 when the drive wheel 14 rotates. Alternatively, it can be linked with the motor 13 via a micro gear, synchronous belt, or friction wheel, causing the brush roller to rotate synchronously with the drive wheel 14. The outer periphery of the brush roller is preferably made of a flexible material, which can remove mud and dust from the surface of the drive wheel 14 without causing significant wear to the elastic layer on the outer periphery of the drive wheel 14. The bottom of the brush roller can correspond to the sewage discharge direction of the connecting pipe 35, allowing the brushed impurities to be discharged downwards with the sewage, preventing them from returning to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2.

[0063] Specifically, the retaining ring 4 is located on the side of the transparent cover 2 away from the mounting component 1. The center of the retaining ring 4 forms an observation opening corresponding to the camera 16, ensuring that the camera 16 can capture images of the vehicle's exterior through the transparent cover 2. The retaining ring 4 can be a ring frame, a retaining frame with mounting ears, or a non-circular retaining frame that matches the shape of the vehicle's exterior trim. The retaining ring 4 can be fixed to the mounting component 1 or the vehicle's exterior mounting location using screws, clips, adhesives, welding, or embedding methods. The outer side of the retaining ring 4 can form rounded corners or a streamlined transition surface to reduce airflow impact and rainwater retention during vehicle operation, and also facilitates integration with external structures such as rearview mirror housings, bumpers, and camera covers.

[0064] Specifically, the retaining ring 4 is fitted around the outer scraper ring 36, which limits the external position of the transparent cover 2 and the outer scraper ring 36. When the transparent cover 2 rotates under the drive of the motor 13 and the drive wheel 14, the retaining ring 4 can restrict the transparent cover 2 from shifting outward, preventing the transparent cover 2 from leaving its original rotational position under the combined action of scraping pressure, friction driving force and vehicle vibration. After the outer scraper ring 36 is installed on the side of the scraper seat 33 facing the transparent cover 2, the retaining ring 4 forms an auxiliary constraint on the outer scraper ring 36 from the outside, keeping the outer scraper ring 36 in a stable and fitted posture, and preventing the outer scraper ring 36 from warping outward or undergoing uneven deformation during the rotation of the transparent cover 2.

[0065] Specifically, a small assembly gap can be maintained between the fixing ring 4 and the transparent cover 2 to allow the transparent cover 2 to rotate smoothly; a press-fit, snap-fit, or limiting fit can be formed between the fixing ring 4 and the outer scraper ring 36 to prevent the outer scraper ring 36 from coming off due to repeated scraping. A water-guiding slope or drainage notch can be provided on the edge of the fixing ring 4 near the observation opening to allow residual water droplets after cleaning to flow downwards along the edge of the fixing ring 4 and not easily remain in the image-capturing area of ​​the camera 16. The fixing ring 4 can also partially cover the drive wheel 14, the outer scraper ring 36, and the scraping seat 33, so that only the transparent cover 2 and the observation opening area are exposed externally, thereby improving the overall structural appearance and neatness.

[0066] Specifically, circuit board 12 can receive manual cleaning signals, camera image blur signals, rain and snow signals, or vehicle cleaning commands, and control motor 13 to start according to the received signals. Manual cleaning signals can come from in-vehicle buttons, central control screen, steering wheel buttons, or vehicle maintenance and detection mode; camera image blur signals can be obtained by judging the image clarity after the camera 16 captures the image, such as when the image edge sharpness is reduced, the brightness is abnormally diffused, the local occlusion area is increased, or the target is continuously lost, thus triggering cleaning; rain and snow signals can come from rain sensor, body controller, wiper working status, or external environment detection module; vehicle cleaning commands can come from autonomous driving assistance system, reversing camera system, car wash mode, or vehicle controller.

[0067] Specifically, after receiving a cleaning trigger signal, the circuit board 12 can first determine the vehicle status and the usage requirements of the camera 16, and then control the motor 13 to drive the drive wheel 14. When the vehicle is reversing at low speed, automatically parking, using lane change assist, or when the surround view camera is activated, the camera 16 requires high image clarity, and the circuit board 12 can prioritize the execution of a rapid cleaning process; when the vehicle is traveling at high speed or the camera 16 is not currently involved in critical perception, the circuit board 12 can postpone cleaning or adopt a short cleaning process to reduce unnecessary motor 13 actions. The circuit board 12 can also control at least two sets of motors 13 to work sequentially at different angles, allowing the transparent cover 2 to select different rotation directions according to the location of the contamination.

[0068] Specifically, when the circuit board 12 controls the motor 13 to start, it can simultaneously control the supply of cleaning fluid and the opening and closing state of the lower end of the connecting pipe 35. During normal cleaning, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 remains open, and the cleaning fluid enters the scraping seat 33 from the storage box 31 through the delivery pipe 32, while wastewater enters the connecting pipe 35 through the drain port 34 and is discharged downwards. When it is necessary to clean the sludge on the outside of the pressure ring 37, the circuit board 12 can control the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 to close briefly, allowing the cleaning fluid to drain outwards from the gap between the transparent cover 2 and the pressure ring 37, thus rinsing the outside of the pressure ring 37. After rinsing, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 reopens, and the transparent cover 2 rotates again for a second scraping. Through this control method, the device not only cleans the surface of the transparent cover 2 but also self-cleans the scraping edges where sludge easily accumulates.

[0069] Specifically, this device can initiate a cleaning process based on the actual level of contamination during use. The cleaning process can be triggered manually or automatically. Manually, the driver can issue a cleaning command via in-vehicle buttons, central control screen function keys, or the vehicle's cleaning mode. Automatically, the circuit board 12 can determine whether cleaning is necessary based on changes in image clarity from the camera 16, rain sensor signals, wiper operation status, vehicle driving environment, or vehicle controller commands. When the image in front of the camera 16 becomes blurry, dark, obscured by mud, has water film blurring, or the edges of the identified target are unclear, the circuit board 12 receives the corresponding cleaning trigger signal and enters the subsequent cleaning control process.

[0070] Specifically, after the cleaning process is started, the circuit board 12 controls the motor 13 to run. The motor 13 drives the drive wheel 14 to rotate, and the drive wheel 14 drives the transparent cover 2 to rotate through frictional contact with the outer periphery of the transparent cover 2. At the same time, the cleaning fluid in the liquid storage box 31 enters the scraping seat 33 through the infusion tube 32. After flowing inside the scraping seat 33, the cleaning fluid reaches the position where the transparent cover 2 and the outer scraping ring 36 cooperate. When the transparent cover 2 rotates, the mud, dust and oil adhering to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 are wetted by the cleaning fluid and carried to the outer scraping ring 36. The outer scraping ring 36 continuously scrapes the surface of the transparent cover 2, causing the dirt to be removed from the outer surface of the transparent cover 2.

[0071] Specifically, under normal cleaning conditions, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 remains open. Wastewater generated after scraping enters the connecting pipe 35 through the drain port 34 and is discharged downwards from the lower end of the connecting pipe 35. Because the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 faces downwards from the device, the wastewater can move away from the observation area in front of the camera 16 under the influence of gravity, making it less likely to form secondary watermarks in the middle of the transparent cover 2. This normal cleaning condition is suitable for handling rainwater, water film, light dust, and general mud contamination, and can restore the clarity of the imaging area in front of the transparent cover 2 in a relatively short time.

[0072] Specifically, when the outer side of the transparent cover 2 is heavily contaminated, or when mud accumulates on the outer side of the pressure ring 37 or near the edge of the outer scraper ring 36, the circuit board 12 can control the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 to close intermittently. After the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 is closed, the cleaning fluid entering the scraper seat 33 cannot be immediately discharged from the lower end of the connecting pipe 35. The liquid pressure or level inside the scraper seat 33 rises for a short time, and some of the cleaning fluid flows through the drain port 34 to the gap between the transparent cover 2 and the pressure ring 37, and is discharged outward from the gap. This discharge path can flush the mud, sludge, and particles accumulated on the outer side of the pressure ring 37, and push out edge dirt that is difficult to be carried away by ordinary drainage paths.

[0073] Specifically, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 can be closed intermittently for short periods, without requiring prolonged sealing. Each closure can last for several seconds, allowing the cleaning fluid to drain from the gap between the transparent cover 2 and the pressure ring 37 and complete edge rinsing. Then, the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 can be reopened, allowing the wastewater to resume downward discharge. By intermittently changing the discharge path of the cleaning fluid, it can quickly discharge wastewater under normal conditions and also rinse the outside of the pressure ring 37 when needed, preventing long-term accumulation of mud from affecting the fit of the outer scraper ring 36 and the smooth rotation of the transparent cover 2.

[0074] Specifically, after rinsing the outer side of the pressure ring 37, the circuit board 12 controls the motor 13 again to rotate the transparent cover 2, causing the transparent cover 2 to pass through the scraping area of ​​the outer scraper ring 36 again. At this time, the surface of the transparent cover 2 and the outer side of the pressure ring 37 have been wetted by the cleaning fluid, and the residual mud and water are more easily scraped off by the outer scraper ring 36. The wastewater after the second scraping enters the connecting pipe 35 through the drain port 34 and is discharged from the lower end of the connecting pipe 35. Through the process of "normal cleaning - intermittent closed rinsing of the edge - normal cleaning again", the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 and the outer edge of the pressure ring 37 can be cleaned at the same time, reducing the problem of cleaning only the surface of the transparent cover 2 while the edge still accumulates mud.

[0075] Specifically, in a complete cleaning process, at least two sets of motors 13 can be started in the order appropriate to the area of ​​contamination. For example, the motor 13 at the first angle position can be started first, causing the transparent cover 2 to rotate in the first direction and perform routine scraping; then the motor 13 at the second angle position can be started, causing the transparent cover 2 to rotate in another direction, carrying residual dirt from the edge into the corresponding position of the outer scraping ring 36. Preferably, the two sets of drive directions are perpendicular to each other, which allows the dirt on the surface of the transparent cover 2 to be moved in two different directions, improving the cleaning coverage. For lighter contamination, only one set of motors 13 can be started to complete a quick cleaning; for heavier contamination, motors 13 at different angles can be started alternately multiple times, and the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 can be intermittently closed for enhanced cleaning.

[0076] Specifically, after cleaning is completed, the circuit board 12 controls the motor 13 to stop, and can continue to open the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 for a period of time as needed, allowing residual liquid inside the scraper seat 33 and the connecting pipe 35 to drain naturally, reducing the risk of cleaning fluid freezing in low-temperature environments. The circuit board 12 can also record the cleaning time, number of cleanings, or operating status of the motor 13. When abnormal rotation of the transparent cover 2, slippage of the drive wheel 14, insufficient cleaning fluid, or failure to restore image clarity are detected, a prompt can be sent to the vehicle control system or the driver, facilitating timely replenishment of cleaning fluid or maintenance.

[0077] Specifically, the pressure ring 37 and the outer scraper ring 36 are an integral structure. The pressure ring 37 can be made of rubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomer, or other flexible materials with elastic recovery capabilities. During normal cleaning, the pressure ring 37 adheres to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2 under its own elasticity, allowing the outer scraper ring 36 and the pressure ring 37 to scrape away the water film and dirt on the outer surface of the transparent cover 2. At this time, the cleaning fluid and wastewater mainly enter the connecting pipe 35 through the drain port 34 and are discharged downwards. Because the pressure ring 37 is flexible, the pressure ring 37 and the transparent cover 2 are not completely rigidly sealed, but form an elastic fit structure that can undergo slight deformation with changes in liquid pressure.

[0078] Specifically, when the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 is intermittently closed, the cleaning fluid inside the scraping seat 33 cannot be discharged immediately, and the liquid pressure near the drain port 34 increases briefly. At this time, the cleaning fluid acts on the side of the pressure ring 37 near the transparent cover 2. Under the action of liquid pressure, the pressure ring 37 undergoes slight elastic expansion or partial lifting, forming a temporary liquid outlet gap at the originally fitted contact edge between the pressure ring 37 and the transparent cover 2. Some of the cleaning fluid can then be discharged outward through this gap. Since this gap is located on the outside of the pressure ring 37 where mud easily accumulates, the discharged cleaning fluid can directly flush away the mud and dirt on the outside of the pressure ring 37, preventing sludge from accumulating on the outer edge of the pressure ring 37 for a long time.

[0079] Specifically, after the lower end of the connecting pipe 35 reopens, the internal liquid pressure of the scraping seat 33 decreases, and the pressure ring 37, relying on its own elastic restoring force, re-adhere to the outer surface of the transparent cover 2, allowing the pressure ring 37 and the outer scraping ring 36 to return to normal scraping conditions. Thus, the pressure ring 37 can maintain a close scraping contact during normal cleaning, and when the drainage path is temporarily closed, it can also form a temporary drainage channel through elastic deformation to complete the rinsing of the mud-accumulated area on its outer side. This structure eliminates the need for additional complex spray holes on the outside of the pressure ring 37, and also eliminates the need for a separate cleaning nozzle. It can utilize the existing cleaning fluid pressure to complete edge self-cleaning, resulting in a simpler structure and reducing the retention of mud and water at the edge of the transparent cover 2 and near the fixing ring 4.

[0080] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for a vehicle-mounted camera mirror, comprising a mounting assembly (1), a transparent cover (2), a cleaning assembly (3), and a fixing ring (4), characterized in that: The mounting assembly (1) is equipped with a camera (16), the transparent cover (2) is located in front of the camera (16) for image capture, the fixing ring (4) is located on the outside of the transparent cover (2), and the cleaning assembly (3) is located on one side of the transparent cover (2). The mounting assembly (1) is also equipped with a motor (13) and a drive wheel (14). The motor (13) is connected to the drive wheel (14) for transmission. The drive wheel (14) abuts against the outer periphery of the transparent cover (2). The motor (13) can drive the transparent cover (2) to rotate relative to the camera (16) through the drive wheel (14). The cleaning assembly (3) can supply cleaning fluid to the surface of the transparent cover (2) and scrape the transparent cover (2) during the rotation process.

2. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mounting assembly (1) includes a bracket (11), a circuit board (12), a motor (13), a drive wheel (14), a support frame (15), and a camera (16). The circuit board (12), the motor (13), and the support frame (15) are all mounted on the bracket (11). The camera (16) is mounted on the support frame (15). The drive wheel (14) is mounted on the output end of the motor (13). The circuit board (12) is electrically connected to the motor (13).

3. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 2, characterized in that: The motor (13) and drive wheel (14) are configured in at least two groups. Each group of motors (13) is connected to the corresponding drive wheel (14) for transmission. Each group of drive wheels (14) abuts against the transparent cover (2) from different angles on the outer periphery of the transparent cover (2) to apply tangential driving force in different directions to the transparent cover (2), so that the transparent cover (2) can rotate along the corresponding driving direction. Each group of motors (13) can drive in both forward and reverse directions.

4. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 3, characterized in that: The transparent cover (2) includes a cover body (21) and an opening (22). The opening (22) is located on the side of the cover body (21) near the support frame (15). The diameter of the opening (22) is larger than the outer contour size of the support frame (15) and the camera (16) at the corresponding positions. The cover body (21) is fitted onto the outside of the support frame (15) and the camera (16) through the opening (22). When the transparent cover (2) rotates, the opening (22) is limited to the outside of the support frame (15).

5. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cleaning assembly (3) includes a liquid storage box (31), an infusion tube (32), a scraping seat (33), a connecting tube (35), an outer scraping ring (36), and a pressure ring (37). One end of the infusion tube (32) is connected to the liquid storage box (31), and the other end of the infusion tube (32) is connected to the scraping seat (33). The drain port (34) is located inside the scraping seat (33). The upper end of the connecting tube (35) at the top is connected to the liquid storage box (31), and the lower end of the connecting tube (35) at the bottom is used to discharge sewage. The outer scraping ring (36) is located on the side of the scraping seat (33) facing the transparent cover (2).

6. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 5, characterized in that: The scraping seat (33) has a drain port (34) inside, which is connected to the outer surface of the transparent cover (2) and the outer scraping ring (36).

7. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for a vehicle-mounted camera mirror according to claim 5, characterized in that: The pressure ring (37) is arranged along the outer periphery of the outer scraping ring (36). When the transparent cover (2) rotates, the pressure ring (37) can scrape off the cleaning liquid and dirt on the outer surface of the transparent cover (2).

8. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixing ring (4) is located on the side of the transparent cover (2) away from the mounting component (1). The middle part of the fixing ring (4) forms an observation opening corresponding to the camera (16). The fixing ring (4) is sleeved on the outside of the outer scraping ring (36) and is used to limit the external position of the transparent cover (2) and the outer scraping ring (36).

9. A self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for vehicle-mounted camera mirrors according to claim 2, characterized in that: The circuit board (12) can receive manual cleaning signals, camera image blur signals, rain and snow signals or vehicle cleaning instructions, and control the motor (13) to start according to the received signals, so that the drive wheel (14) drives the transparent cover (2) to rotate in the horizontal or vertical direction to achieve cleaning.

10. A method for self-cleaning and anti-fouling of a vehicle-mounted camera mirror, based on the self-cleaning and anti-fouling device for a vehicle-mounted camera mirror as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Receive a cleaning trigger signal, which includes at least one of a manual cleaning signal, a camera image blur signal, a rain / snow signal, or a vehicle cleaning instruction; S2. Control the motor (13) to start according to the cleaning trigger signal, so that the drive wheel (14) drives the transparent cover (2) to rotate, and at the same time, the cleaning fluid in the storage box (31) enters the scraping seat (33) through the infusion pipe (32); S3. During the rotation of the transparent cover (2), the outer surface of the transparent cover (2) is scraped by the outer scraping ring (36), and the wastewater after scraping enters the connecting pipe (35) through the drain port (34), and is then discharged through the connecting pipe. (35) The lower end of the pipe is discharged; S4, the lower end of the connecting pipe (35) is closed intermittently, so that part of the cleaning liquid entering the scraping seat (33) flows through the drain port (34) to the gap between the transparent cover (2) and the pressure ring (37), and is discharged outward from the gap to rinse the sludge accumulated on the outside of the pressure ring (37); S5, after rinsing the sludge on the outside of the pressure ring (37), the lower end of the connecting pipe (35) is reopened, and the transparent cover (2) is rotated again so that the outer scraping ring (36) performs a second scraping on the outer surface of the transparent cover (2), and the wastewater after the second scraping is discharged from the lower end of the connecting pipe (35).

Images