A detection device, control method and related device

Abstract

The application discloses a detection device, a control method and related devices, and relates to the technical field of vehicles, and aims to improve the detection performance of the detection device. The detection device comprises a shell and a flow guide pipe. The inlet of the flow guide pipe is communicated with the interior of the shell, and the outlet of the flow guide pipe is arranged on the exterior of the shell. The flow guide pipe is used for guiding liquid in the interior of the shell to the exterior of the shell. In the case that external liquid seeps into the interior of the shell of the detection device, the seeped liquid is guided from the interior of the shell to the exterior of the shell through the flow guide pipe, the possibility that the liquid vaporized in the interior of the shell condenses into water mist on the inner surface of the window of the detection device is reduced, the accuracy of data collected by the detection device is improved, the detection performance of the detection device is improved, and the perception ability of the vehicle to the external environment of the vehicle is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a detection device, control method and related apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of intelligent driving technology, detection devices such as lidar and millimeter-wave radar are the core hardware of the vehicle's environmental perception system. The output data of the detection devices directly supports the core functions of autonomous driving, and the accuracy and continuity of the output data directly determine the safety of intelligent driving.

[0003] At present, the detection device is prone to fogging during operation. The fog layer will block the light beam's light path, causing problems such as incomplete point cloud, attenuation of detection distance, and distortion of target contour recognition, which reduces the accuracy of detection data and affects the detection performance of the detection device.

[0004] In summary, improving the detection performance of detection devices is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved in the field of vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a detection device, a control method, and related apparatus to improve the detection performance of the detection device.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a detection device, which includes a housing and a guide tube. The inlet of the guide tube is connected to the interior of the housing, and the outlet of the guide tube is located outside the housing. The guide tube is used to guide liquid inside the housing to the exterior of the housing.

[0007] In this application, when external liquids seep into the housing of the detection device, the seeping liquid is guided from the inside of the housing to the outside through a guide pipe. This reduces the possibility of the liquid inside the housing vaporizing and condensing into water mist on the inner surface of the detection device's window, improving the accuracy of the data collected by the detection device, and thus enhancing the detection performance of the device, ensuring the vehicle's accurate perception of the external environment.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the detection device further includes a heating element located inside the housing; the heating element is used to maintain the liquid state of the liquid or to cause the liquid to convert into a gaseous state.

[0009] In this implementation, the heating element is located inside the casing, which heats the liquid inside the casing to prevent it from freezing and blocking the guide pipe. This allows the liquid to remain in a liquid state and smoothly drain from the casing through the water collection structure and guide pipe. It can also vaporize any liquid not drained from the guide pipe into water vapor, which is then dispersed outwards through the exhaust structure, completely eliminating the risk of liquid accumulation inside the casing.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the heating element is located at the bottom of the housing.

[0011] In this implementation, under the influence of gravity, all the liquid gathers at the bottom of the shell; the heating element is arranged at the bottom of the shell as a heat source, which can directly heat the liquid. The heat conduction path is short, the liquid heats up quickly, and the liquid can be prevented from freezing without high-power heating, effectively reducing power consumption.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the heating conditions of the heating element include at least one of the following: the temperature inside and / or outside the housing is below a first threshold; the humidity inside and / or outside the housing is above a second threshold; and the detection device is in a scenario indicating that the liquid has turned into a solid.

[0013] In this implementation, if the temperature inside and / or outside the casing is below a first threshold, it can be determined that the liquid inside the casing is at risk of freezing and condensation, potentially blocking the pipes. If the humidity inside and / or outside the casing is above a second threshold, it can be determined that there is a risk of condensation interfering with detection at the viewing window. The detection device identifies the external environment as a preset scenario such as low-temperature freezing rain or frost, which easily causes water to freeze, and predicts that the liquid inside the casing may freeze. By adjusting the heating conditions such as temperature, humidity, and external scenario, the risk of freezing and condensation can be predicted in advance, and the heating components can be activated to maintain the liquid state of the water in low-temperature environments to ensure smooth drainage, and accelerate the vaporization and discharge of water vapor in high-humidity environments to eliminate the risk of condensation at the viewing window.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the detection device further includes a unidirectional flow device; the unidirectional flow device is connected to the flow guide tube and is used to allow liquid to flow in the direction from the inlet to the outlet of the flow guide tube.

[0015] In this implementation, the unidirectional flow device allows accumulated water inside the housing to drain smoothly outwards by gravity, ensuring unobstructed drainage, reducing water storage inside the housing, and minimizing the source of condensation on the viewing window. The unidirectional flow device also prevents external rainwater, high-pressure water from car washes, and snowmelt wastewater from flowing back into the housing through the guide pipe, avoiding the risk of water accumulation inside the housing due to the guide pipe's design, and effectively further reducing the possibility of condensation on the viewing window.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the unidirectional conduction device is located at the inlet of the guide tube, the outlet of the guide tube, or any position between the inlet and the outlet.

[0017] In this implementation, the arrangement and position of the unidirectional conduction device can be flexibly selected according to the actual application scenario, and this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the detection device further includes a water collection structure; the water collection structure is located at the bottom of the interior of the housing and is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe.

[0019] In this implementation, the water collection structure is integrated into the bottom of the housing. Liquid collects within this structure under gravity, eliminating the need to modify the vehicle's sheet metal to achieve the water collection function. This eliminates the need for creating water channels or other water collection structures on the existing sheet metal, and avoids altering the original sheet metal stamping structure, reducing costs and making it compatible with multiple vehicle models. The water collection structure is positioned at the lowest point within the housing cavity, allowing it to collect more water seeping into the housing through sealed gaps. Gravity then transports the collected water to the drainage pipe, preventing water accumulation at the lower level of the housing cavity. By quickly draining the water seeping into the housing, it prevents prolonged immersion of the internal components of the detection device, avoiding damage and preventing water vaporization and condensation on the viewing window.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the water collection structure forms a low-level catchment area, which is connected to the inlet of the diversion pipe.

[0021] In this implementation, the low-level catchment area is the lowest point of the water collection structure. Water seeping into the shell will automatically converge to this area under gravity, ensuring complete collection of leaked rainwater from all locations and preventing localized water accumulation within the shell. The catchment area provides comprehensive coverage. All water collected in the low-level catchment area flows directly into the inlet of the drainage pipe, forming a continuous drainage path. No additional pumping components are needed; gravity continuously drains the water, quickly emptying the shell and preventing condensation from forming on the viewing window.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the water collection structure also includes a sediment settling structure, which is located at the bottom of the shell and includes a sediment settling section and a liquid filtration section, with the liquid filtration section connected to the inlet of the guide pipe.

[0023] In this implementation, the sediment settling structure can pre-intercept solid impurities such as silt, dust, and car wash stains carried by rainwater, preventing these impurities from directly entering the drainage pipe and causing blockages. This reduces the maintenance costs of the drainage pipe. The drainage pipe remains unobstructed for extended periods, and water accumulated inside the casing can be drained promptly, reducing the problem of high humidity inside the casing and suppressing condensation on the viewing window at its source.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the detection device further includes a negative pressure guiding structure, which includes a guiding section and a gas filtering section. The guiding section is disposed outside the housing, and the gas filtering section is disposed on the side wall of the housing, connecting the inside and outside of the housing.

[0025] In this implementation, the negative pressure guiding structure utilizes the airflow from the vehicle to create negative pressure suction at the guiding section, eliminating the need for a power source. Combined with the gas filter section installed on the side wall of the casing, it constructs a directional airflow channel inside and outside the casing, drawing vaporized water vapor from inside the casing outwards and reducing the risk of water vapor condensation on the inner wall of the viewing window, thus suppressing fog formation. Simultaneously, the gas filter section allows only gas to pass through, preventing external dust, water mist, sediment, and other impurities from entering the casing, thus preventing pollutants from adhering to the viewing window or corroding internal components, achieving a dual function of active exhaust and dust protection.

[0026] Secondly, this application provides a control method, which includes: acquiring environmental information of a detection device; the inside of the housing of the detection device is provided with a heating component and a flow guide tube, the flow guide tube is used to guide the liquid inside the housing to the outside of the housing, and the heating component is used to maintain the liquid state of the liquid or to cause the liquid to turn into a gaseous state; and controlling the operation of the heating component according to the environmental information.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the heating conditions for controlling the operation of the heating element include at least one of the following: environmental information indicates rainfall and the ambient temperature is below a third threshold; environmental information indicates snowfall; a temperature sensor is provided inside or outside the housing, and the temperature collected by the temperature sensor is below a fourth threshold; a humidity sensor is provided inside or outside the housing, and the humidity collected by the humidity sensor is above a fifth threshold; and a user instruction is received to instruct the heating element to operate.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: after the heating component is turned on, if the environmental information is detected to no longer meet the heating conditions, the heating component is controlled to continue working for a first duration, and then the heating component is controlled to stop working.

[0029] This implementation avoids frequent starting and stopping of the heating element when environmental information changes frequently or sensor data fluctuates repeatedly around thresholds, thus slowing down the aging of the heating element and extending its service life. It allows for an initial drainage time in the drain pipe, preventing the risk of icing and frost formation due to residual liquid inside. It also ensures that any remaining liquid inside the casing is completely vaporized before discharge, preventing condensation from evaporating and forming fog in the viewing window.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: determining an environmental level based on environmental information; and controlling the operation of the heating component based on the environmental level.

[0031] In this implementation, the current environmental level can be dynamically adjusted based on environmental information. The heating parameters of the corresponding heating components are configured for the current environmental level, enabling precise, tiered heating as needed. This ensures continuous visibility of the viewing window, unobstructed drainage, and stable detection accuracy, while significantly improving energy efficiency and meeting the energy-saving requirements of new energy vehicles.

[0032] Thirdly, this application provides a control device that has the function of implementing the control method of the second aspect. For example, the control device includes modules, units or means for performing the operations involved in the control method of the second aspect. The modules, units or means can be implemented by software, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0033] For example, the control device includes a transceiver module and a processing module. The transceiver module is used to acquire environmental information of the detection device: the inside of the detection device housing is equipped with a heating element and a flow guide tube. The flow guide tube is used to guide the liquid inside the housing to the outside of the housing, and the heating element is used to maintain the liquid state or promote the liquid to turn into a gaseous state; the processing module is used to control the operation of the heating element according to the environmental information.

[0034] Fourthly, this application provides a control device that may include at least one processor. Optionally, it may also include a memory (or storage medium). The memory is used to store program instructions; at least one processor can read the program instructions from the memory, causing the control device to execute the control method described in the second aspect above.

[0035] Optionally, at least one processor refers to one or more processors, and memory may also be one or more memory units.

[0036] Optionally, the memory can be integrated with at least one processor, or the memory can be set separately from at least one processor.

[0037] In one possible design, the control device may further include a transceiver. The transceiver is used to receive and transmit signals; at least one processor is used to execute program instructions in response to signals received by the transceiver, causing the control device to perform the control method described in the second aspect above. Optionally, the transceiver may include a transmitter and a receiver.

[0038] In another possible design, the control device also includes a communication interface, with at least one processor coupled to the communication interface. The at least one processor reads program instructions from memory, invokes the communication interface to communicate with other devices, and executes the control method described in the second aspect above.

[0039] Optionally, in one example, the communication interface can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0040] Optionally, in another example, when the control device is a chip or chip system, the communication interface can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip or chip system. At least one processor can also be embodied as at least one processing circuit or at least one logic circuit.

[0041] In some examples, the control method is applied to a vehicle equipped with the detection device described in the first aspect. The control device in the third or fourth aspect can be a vehicle or a component thereof, such as a vehicle integration unit, body controller, vehicle controller, or other on-board control unit. Alternatively, it can be an external device, such as a cloud server, user terminal, roadside unit, or other vehicle. Or, it can be a component within an external device, such as a processor, chip, or chip system. The external device or component can control the heating element by connecting to relevant components of the vehicle to be controlled, such as sensors, controllers, or actuators.

[0042] In other examples, the control method is applied to other vehicles or non-vehicles with anti-fogging control requirements. When these vehicles or non-vehicles are equipped with the detection device described in the first aspect, the control device described in the third or fourth aspect can control the heating component to operate according to the control method described above. The control device can be these vehicles or non-vehicles or their components, or it can be an external device connected to these vehicles or non-vehicles or their components, or a component of an external device; there are no specific limitations.

[0043] Fifthly, this application provides a control system including a control device, such as the control device of the third or fourth aspect described above, the control device being used to execute the control method of the second aspect described above.

[0044] Sixthly, this application provides a terminal device, including the detection device of the first aspect, the control device of the third or fourth aspect, or the control system of the fifth aspect.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the terminal device can be a vehicle, and the control device can be a vehicle integration unit, body controller, or vehicle controller, etc. The detection device of the first aspect mentioned above is located on the outside of the vehicle body.

[0046] In a seventh aspect, this application provides an electronic device that includes the control device described in the third or fourth aspect above, or the control system described in the fifth aspect above.

[0047] Optionally, the electronic device is connected to the vehicle to be controlled for communication with the vehicle to achieve the control method described in the second aspect above. Optionally, the electronic device may be another vehicle, a roadside unit, a cloud server, the vehicle's on-board equipment or user terminal, or other devices capable of controlling the vehicle, without limitation.

[0048] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the control method provided in the second aspect above. Optionally, the computer may be a vehicle or a component thereof, such as a vehicle integration unit or a vehicle controller.

[0049] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute the control method provided in the second aspect above. Optionally, the computer can be a vehicle or a component thereof, such as a vehicle integration unit or a vehicle controller.

[0050] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a chip for reading a computer program stored in a memory and executing the control method provided in the second aspect above.

[0051] Alternatively, the chip can be a vehicle chip, such as a chip in a vehicle integration unit or a chip in a vehicle controller.

[0052] Optionally, the chip may include at least one processor, which is coupled to a memory for reading a computer program stored in the memory to implement the control method provided in the second aspect above.

[0053] Optionally, the chip may also include an interface circuit for providing program instructions or data to at least one processing unit, which in turn executes the program instructions to implement the control method provided in the second aspect above.

[0054] Optionally, the chip may also include components such as memory, communication interface, and power supply module. The memory is used to store computer programs; the communication interface is used to receive and send data; and the power supply unit is used to supply power to the processor.

[0055] In one aspect, this application provides a chip system including a processor for supporting a computer in implementing the control method provided in the second aspect above.

[0056] In one possible design, the chip system also includes memory for storing the computer's necessary programs and data. The chip system can consist of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0057] The technical effects that can be achieved in the second to eleventh aspects mentioned above can be specifically referred to in the description of the beneficial effects in the first aspect mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Figure 1 An exemplary schematic diagram of the vehicle and lidar provided in this application is shown; Figure 2 An exemplary diagram showing condensation appearing in the viewing window of the detection device provided in this application is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the housing, guide pipe, and water collection structure of the detection device provided in this application is shown as an example; Figure 4 The following is an illustrative diagram of the housing, guide tube, humidity sensor, and water collection structure of the detection device provided in this application; Figure 5 An exemplary diagram shows a sediment settling structure provided in this application disposed inside a diversion pipe; Figure 6 An exemplary diagram shows a sediment settling structure provided in this application disposed outside the diversion pipe; Figure 7 An exemplary schematic diagram of the negative pressure guiding structure of the detection device provided in this application is shown; Figure 8 An exemplary schematic diagram shows the outflow path of the liquid after it flows out of the outside of the housing provided in this application; Figure 9 An exemplary schematic diagram of a possible architecture of a control system provided in this application is shown; Figure 10 An exemplary flowchart of the control method provided in this application is shown; Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating an example of the control method provided in this application is shown below; Figure 12 An exemplary schematic diagram of a control device provided in this application is shown; Figure 13 An exemplary schematic diagram of another control device provided in this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0059] As mentioned in the background section, improving the detection performance of detection devices has become an urgent problem to be solved in the field of vehicle technology.

[0060] It is understood that the inner surface of the window involved in this application refers to the surface of the window located inside the detection device. While condensation on the outer surface of the window of the detection device can be removed by cleaning components such as windshield wipers, these components cannot remove condensation on the surface of the window located inside the detection device. Therefore, reducing the possibility of condensation on the inner surface of the window of the detection device, thereby improving the detection performance of the device, is the problem this application aims to solve.

[0061] In view of this, this application provides a detection device. The detection device includes a housing and a guide pipe; the inlet of the guide pipe is connected to the interior of the housing, and the outlet of the guide pipe is located on the exterior of the housing; the guide pipe is used to guide liquid inside the housing to the exterior of the housing. In some operating conditions, external liquid may seep into the interior area of ​​the housing of the detection device. The seeped liquid is guided from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing through the guide pipe. This reduces the possibility of liquid inside the housing vaporizing and condensing into water mist on the inner surface of the detection device's window, improving the accuracy of the data collected by the detection device, enhancing the detection performance of the detection device, and improving the vehicle's perception of the external environment.

[0062] refer to Figure 1 This illustration exemplifies the vehicle and lidar configuration provided in this application. Taking lidar as an example, the detection device 1 can be arranged in a protruding manner. The lidar is sealed and protected from the roof sheet metal, glass, trim panels, etc., through sealing strips, foam, etc. The lidar's placement on the vehicle roof is an exemplary illustration; however, it can also be placed in any other location within the vehicle, such as the front bumper, left and right fenders, doors, rear, rearview mirror base, grille, wheel covers, etc., without limitation.

[0063] refer to Figure 2 This illustration demonstrates a schematic diagram of condensation appearing on the viewing window of the detection device provided in this application. During long-term vehicle use, factors such as vehicle vibration, high and low temperature changes, ultraviolet aging, and the impact of high-pressure water jets during car washes can cause aging, deformation, and other sealing failures in the sealing strip of the housing 2 (e.g., the lidar cover) of the detection device 1. External liquids (such as rainwater, lubricating fluid, etc.) can seep into the internal area of ​​the housing 2 through gaps at the sealing failure points. The seeped liquid accumulates at the lower level of the internal area of ​​the housing 2 and cannot drain naturally. Under certain conditions (such as high temperatures or exposure to direct sunlight), the accumulated liquid will turn into a gaseous state and condense into water mist on the inner surface of the viewing window 3 of the detection device 1 facing the inside of the housing 2. When water mist is present in the viewing window 2, the data collected by the detection device 1 may suffer from problems such as missing point clouds, shortened detection distance, and distorted recognition contours, reducing the accuracy of the detection data and affecting the vehicle's ability to perceive the external environment.

[0064] It is understood that this application does not limit the applicable working conditions. In addition to the failure of the detection device seal, it can also be adapted to various scenarios where water vapor can easily enter the shell, such as unsealed or misaligned seals, covering all working conditions that will cause internal liquid accumulation and window condensation.

[0065] refer to Figure 3 The detection device 1 includes a housing 2 and a guide pipe 4. The inlet of the guide pipe 4 is connected to the inside of the housing 2, and the outlet of the guide pipe 4 is located outside the housing 2; the guide pipe 4 is used to guide the liquid inside the housing 2 to the outside of the housing 2.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the detection device 1 further includes a water collection structure 5. The water collection structure 5 is disposed at the bottom of the interior of the housing 2 and is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe 4.

[0067] The water collection structure 5 and the guide pipe 4 are integrated inside the housing 2, eliminating the need to create water channels in the original sheet metal of the vehicle or modify the original sheet metal stamping structure. This reduces the cost of modifying body molds and assembly tooling, and it can be adapted to multiple vehicle models. The water collection structure 5 is located at the lowest point inside the housing 2, allowing it to collect more water that seeps into the housing 2 through the sealed gaps. Gravity then transports the collected water to the guide pipe 4, preventing water from accumulating at the low level inside the housing 2. By quickly draining the water that has seeped into the housing 2, it prevents the components inside the detection device 1 from being soaked for a long time, thus avoiding damage to the components, and also prevents water vaporization from forming condensation in the viewing window 3.

[0068] Optionally, refer to Figure 4 The water collection structure 5 forms a low-level water collection area 501, which is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe 4. For example, the water collection structure 5 has a through hole 502 in the low-level water collection area 501. The through hole 502 is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe 4. Liquid collects in the low-level water collection area 501, flows into the inlet of the guide pipe 4 through the through hole 502, and flows out of the outside of the shell 2 through the guide pipe 4.

[0069] The low-level catchment area 501 is the lowest point of the water collection structure 5. Water that seeps into the shell 2 will automatically converge to this area under the action of gravity, which can completely collect rainwater that has leaked from all places and will not leave any residual water in the shell 2. The catchment coverage is comprehensive. All the water collected in the low-level catchment area can flow directly into the inlet of the diversion pipe 4 to form a continuous drainage path. There is no need to add additional water pumping components. It relies on gravity to continuously drain water and quickly empty the water inside the shell 2, preventing the water from vaporizing and forming condensation in the viewing window 3.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the detection device 1 further includes a heating element 6 disposed inside the housing. The heating element 6 is used to maintain the liquid state or to induce the liquid to convert into a gaseous state.

[0071] Heating component 6 is arranged inside shell 2 and can heat the water inside shell. On the one hand, it keeps the water in a liquid state so that it can be discharged smoothly through water collection structure 5 and guide pipe 4. On the other hand, it vaporizes the residual water that cannot be completely discharged into water vapor and dissipates it to the outside through exhaust structure such as sealing failure gap and negative pressure guide structure, so as to completely eliminate the hidden danger of water accumulation inside shell 2.

[0072] Regardless of various outdoor conditions such as heavy rain seepage, condensation due to temperature differences between day and night, or high humidity during the plum rain season, the water can be heated and vaporized or liquefied by the heating component 6 before being discharged into the interior of the shell 2. For example, in extremely cold environments, the heating component 6 continuously heats the water inside the shell 2, ensuring that the water remains in a liquid state and preventing it from freezing and blocking the drainage pipe 4. This ensures that the drainage channel remains unobstructed throughout the year and avoids freezing and cracking of the shell 2 or blockage of the pipes that could lead to water accumulation.

[0073] The heating component 6 can completely eliminate the risks of water accumulation, condensation, and icing inside the housing 2, preventing fogging of the viewing window 3 caused by water accumulation, avoiding faults such as missing point clouds, attenuated detection distance, and distorted target contour recognition, continuously ensuring the accuracy of lidar data acquisition, and stabilizing the vehicle's intelligent driving fusion perception performance. The detection device 1 can cope with various regional climates such as high temperature and humidity in summer, low temperature and frost in winter, rain and snow erosion, severe cold in the north, and humidity in the south. It is not limited by outdoor temperature, humidity, or precipitation conditions. Liquid can be guided from the inside of the housing 2 to the outside of the housing 2 through the guide pipe 4, which broadens the applicable scenarios of this application embodiment and also broadens the scope of applicable scenarios for vehicles using this application embodiment.

[0074] In one possible implementation, the heating element 6 is located at the bottom of the housing.

[0075] The heating element 6 is located at the bottom of the shell 2, adjacent to the low-level water collection area formed by the water collection structure 5. All the accumulated water is collected at the bottom of the shell 2, and the heat source acts directly on the accumulated water. The heat conduction path is short, the liquid heats up quickly, and the water can be prevented from freezing without high-power heating, effectively reducing the power consumption of the equipment.

[0076] In extremely cold environments, the water collection area at the bottom of the shell 2 and the inlet of the guide pipe 4 are the most prone to freezing. The heating components 6 arranged at the bottom can simultaneously heat the water collection area and the water inlet of the pipe to prevent water accumulation from freezing and blocking the guide pipe 4, prevent the ice from expanding and squeezing and damaging the internal structure of the shell 2, and ensure smooth drainage.

[0077] The bottom of the shell 2 is most prone to condensation and leakage. The heating element 6 radiates heat from the bottom upwards, which can quickly dry the thin layer of water and water mist that cannot be discharged from the bottom. After the water vapor rises due to the heat, it can be discharged to the outside through the negative pressure guide structure, sealing gap and other structures, so as to achieve the dual water removal effect of liquid drainage and gas dehumidification, and eliminate the risk of water accumulation inside the shell 2.

[0078] In one possible implementation, the heating conditions of the heating component 6 include at least one of the following: the temperature inside and / or outside the housing is lower than a first threshold; the humidity inside and / or outside the housing is higher than a second threshold; and the external scene detected by the detection device 1 is a preset scene, which indicates a scene that causes the liquid to become solid.

[0079] If the temperature is below the first threshold, it can be determined that there is a risk of water accumulation, freezing, condensation, and pipe blockage inside the casing 2. The temperature can refer to the external temperature of casing 2. A temperature below the first threshold indicates a low ambient temperature. Due to seal failure, the internal temperature of casing 2 is also low, thus indicating a risk of water accumulation, freezing, condensation, and pipe blockage inside casing 2.

[0080] If the detected humidity exceeds the second threshold, it is determined that there is a risk of condensation interfering with the detection of window 3. Humidity can refer to the humidity outside the housing 2. If the humidity outside the housing 2 exceeds the second threshold, it indicates that the external humidity is high. Due to the seal failure, the humidity inside the housing 2 is also high, thus indicating a risk of condensation interfering with the detection of window 3. Humidity can also refer to the humidity inside the housing 2. If the humidity inside the housing 2 exceeds the second threshold, it indicates that the humidity inside the housing 2 is high, thus indicating a risk of condensation interfering with the detection of window 3.

[0081] The detection device 1 identifies the external environment as a preset scenario where the water is prone to freezing and condensation, such as low temperature freezing rain or frost, and predicts the potential for icing. By using data such as temperature, humidity, and external scene, the risk of icing and fogging can be predicted in advance, and the heating component 6 can be activated to heat the water. This ensures that the water remains in a liquid state in low temperature environments to guarantee smooth drainage, and accelerates the vaporization and discharge of water vapor in high humidity environments to eliminate the risk of fogging in the viewing window 3.

[0082] In one possible implementation, the detection device 1 further includes a unidirectional flow device 7. The unidirectional flow device 7 is in communication with the guide tube 4. The unidirectional flow device 7 is used to allow liquid to flow in the direction from the inlet to the outlet of the guide tube 4.

[0083] The unidirectional flow device 7 allows the water accumulated inside the housing 2 to be smoothly discharged outward by gravity, ensuring unobstructed drainage and reducing water storage inside the housing, thus reducing the source of condensation in the viewing window 3. On the other hand, it can prevent external rainwater, high-pressure water from car washing, snow melting wastewater, and other liquids from flowing back into the housing 2 through the guide pipe 4, avoiding the risk of water accumulation inside the housing 2 due to the guide pipe 4, and effectively further reducing the possibility of condensation in the viewing window 3.

[0084] In one possible implementation, the unidirectional conduction device 7 is located at the inlet, outlet, or any position between the inlet and outlet of the flow guide tube 4.

[0085] The arrangement and position of the unidirectional conduction device 7 can be flexibly selected according to the actual application scenario, and this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0086] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the detection device 1 also includes a sediment settling structure 9, which is located at the bottom of the housing 2. The sediment settling structure 9 includes a sediment settling section 91 and a liquid filtration section 92, which is connected to a guide pipe. The liquid filtration section 92 can filter the liquid, thereby blocking and depositing particulate matter such as sediment in the liquid into the sediment settling section 91.

[0087] refer to Figure 5 The sediment settling structure 9 can be installed inside the guide pipe 4. The mixture of liquid and sediment flows to the lower part of the water collection structure by gravity. Some of the sediment in the mixture settles in the sedimentation section 91 due to gravity. After the mixture in the sedimentation section 91 is full, the water level will reach the height of the liquid filtration section 92, so that the liquid in the mixture flows into the guide pipe 4 through the liquid filtration section 92 and flows out to the outside of the shell 2, while the sediment is blocked in the sedimentation section 91.

[0088] Optionally, a unidirectional guiding device 7 is positioned at the inlet of the guide pipe 4 and above the sediment settling structure 9. In this way, the mixture of liquid and sediment flows to the lowest point of the water collection structure 5 by gravity. The mixture enters the sediment settling section 91 through a one-way valve. The sediment settles in the sediment settling section 91 due to gravity. After the sediment settling section 91 is filled with the mixture, the liquid in the mixture flows through the liquid filter section 92 into the guide pipe 4 and out to the outside of the housing 2.

[0089] refer to Figure 6 The sediment settling structure 9 can be installed outside the guide pipe 4. The mixture of liquid and sediment flows to the lower part of the water collection structure by gravity. Some of the sediment in the mixture settles in the sedimentation section 91 due to gravity. After the mixture in the sedimentation section 91 is full, the water level will reach the height of the liquid filtration section 92, so that the liquid in the mixture flows into the guide pipe 4 through the liquid filtration section 92 and flows out to the outside of the shell 2, while the sediment is blocked in the sedimentation section 91.

[0090] Optionally, the unidirectional conduction device 7 and / or sediment settling structure 9 can be disassembled for easy periodic replacement or complete removal, suitable for different application scenarios.

[0091] The sediment in the sedimentation section 91 can be cleaned or the sediment settling structure 9 can be replaced periodically without restriction.

[0092] The sediment settling structure 9 enables the detection device 1 to have self-cleaning, anti-clogging, and drainage characteristics. The sediment settling structure 9 is added to the inlet end of the guide pipe 4 connected to the low-level water collection area formed by the water collection structure 5. This prevents particulate matter from entering the guide pipe 4 and eliminates the need for routine maintenance of the guide pipe 4.

[0093] Optionally, the vibrations generated during vehicle operation can help the sediment fall more easily into the sedimentation section 91 within the sedimentation structure 9 for settling.

[0094] For example, the sediment settling structure 9 can pre-intercept solid impurities such as sediment, dust, and car wash stains carried by rainwater, preventing these impurities from directly entering the drainage pipe 4 and causing blockages, thus reducing the maintenance costs of the drainage pipe 4. The drainage pipe remains unobstructed for extended periods, allowing water accumulated inside the housing 2 to drain promptly, reducing the problem of high humidity inside the housing and suppressing condensation on the viewing window 3 at its source. Simultaneously, it works in conjunction with the unidirectional conduction device 7 and the bottom-mounted heating component 6, providing multiple functions including drainage anti-blockage, liquid backflow prevention, low-temperature antifreeze, and dehumidification inside the housing. This makes it suitable for various complex outdoor conditions such as gravel roads, dusty environments, and rain and snow erosion, continuously ensuring stable and reliable lidar detection accuracy.

[0095] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 7 The detection device 1 also includes a negative pressure guiding structure 10. The negative pressure guiding structure 10 includes a guiding part 101 and a gas filtering part 102. The guiding part 101 is disposed on the outside of the housing 2, and the gas filtering part 102 is disposed on the side wall of the housing 2. The gas filtering part 102 connects the inside and outside of the housing 2.

[0096] In this implementation, the negative pressure guiding structure 10 utilizes the airflow of the vehicle to create a negative pressure suction force at the guiding part 101. Combined with the gas filter part 102 arranged on the side wall of the housing 2, this constructs a directional airflow channel inside and outside the housing, drawing out the vaporized water vapor inside the housing 2, reducing the risk of water vapor condensation on the inner wall of the viewing window 3, and suppressing fog formation. Simultaneously, the gas filter part 102 allows only gas to pass through, preventing external dust, water mist, silt, and other impurities from entering the interior of the housing 2, preventing pollutants from adhering to the viewing window 3 or corroding internal components, thus achieving the dual function of active exhaust and dust protection.

[0097] For example, the airflow guide 101 is disposed on the outside of the housing 2, which can guide the air outside the housing 2, allowing the air to flow past the outside of the gas filter 102. During vehicle operation, the airflow velocity outside the inner housing 2 is higher than that outside the inner housing 2, creating a negative pressure outside the housing 2. The gas filter 102 is disposed on the side wall of the housing 2, enabling gas flow between the inside and outside of the housing 2. Due to the negative pressure outside the housing 2 and the normal atmospheric pressure inside the housing 2, the gas inside the housing 2 flows to the outside of the housing 2, thereby carrying away the more humid gas inside the housing 2. This reduces the risk of condensation in the viewing window 3 when the more humid gas accumulates inside the housing 2, thus further ensuring the accuracy of the detection data of the detection device 1.

[0098] The airflow guide 101 can be a raised structure, which makes the airflow path outside the inner shell 2 longer and the airflow velocity outside the inner shell 2 higher, which is more conducive to the formation of negative pressure outside the shell 2.

[0099] For example, the shape and material of the airflow guide 101 are not limited. Taking a roof-mounted LiDAR as an example, the airflow guide 101 can be positioned on the side of the roof-mounted LiDAR's viewing window 3, and can be an arc-shaped lip protruding forward of the vehicle. The gas filter 102 can be a hydrophobic and breathable membrane, which is a breathable but waterproof patch.

[0100] It is understandable that the higher the vehicle's speed, the higher the airflow speed outside the inner shell 2, which is more conducive to the formation of negative pressure outside the shell 2.

[0101] For example, in high-speed conditions (such as a vehicle speed range of 80km / h to 120km / h), as the vehicle moves forward, the high-speed airflow impacts and sweeps across the arc-shaped lip surface of the guide section 101 in the negative pressure guide structure 10; the airflow is accelerated by the curved lip surface, forming a significant local negative pressure low-pressure area on the outside of the shell 2; the inside of the shell 2 is atmospheric pressure high-humidity air, forming a pressure difference with the low-pressure area on the outside; this pressure difference drives the humid water vapor inside the shell 2 to pass through the hydrophobic and breathable membrane of the gas filter section 102, and is drawn out and discharged under the action of negative pressure.

[0102] For example, in low-speed conditions (such as a vehicle speed range of 0km / h-30km / h, including low-speed driving, idling, traffic jams, parking, etc.), the airflow velocity through the lip of the guide section 101 is relatively low, making it difficult to establish an effective negative pressure. The negative pressure suction effect is weak, and the humid water vapor inside the housing 2 passes through the hydrophobic and breathable membrane of the gas filter section 102 at a low speed. In a stationary vehicle scenario, the exhaust method of the negative pressure guide structure 10 switches to a natural diffusion mode, relying on the humidity difference between the inside and outside of the housing 2 to allow water vapor to slowly diffuse outward through the hydrophobic and breathable membrane of the gas filter section 102.

[0103] In one possible implementation, the detection device 1 further includes a humidity sensor 8, which collects humidity data inside the cavity of the housing 2 and uploads the humidity signal to the vehicle domain control unit. The domain control unit combines the humidity detection results, LiDAR point cloud environmental information, and temperature data to determine the condensation risk level of the viewing window 3, and coordinates with the heating component 6 and the negative pressure guiding structure 10 to perform heating dehumidification and negative pressure drainage vapor control actions.

[0104] Please refer to Figure 8 After the liquid flows out of the housing 2 of the detection device 1, it can flow out along the outer surface of the vehicle body. For example, assuming the detection device 1 is a lidar mounted on the roof of the vehicle, if the lidar is closer to the A-pillar, a drainage channel or other drainage structure can be provided on the outer surface of the A-pillar. After the liquid flows out of the housing 2 of the detection device 1, it can flow out to the outside along the drainage structure of the A-pillar. The detection device 1 can also be placed in other locations on the outside of the vehicle, and matching drainage structures can be provided without limitation.

[0105] The following describes the possible application scenarios for this application.

[0106] In the field of intelligent driving, the detection device of this application is equivalent to the "eyes" of the vehicle, providing more accurate data on the vehicle's external environment, thereby providing important data support for the intelligent driving system to make decisions and control strategies. In the embodiments of this application, the detection device can be any sensor that perceives the vehicle's surrounding environment, such as a visual sensor (e.g., a camera), millimeter-wave radar (Radar), lidar (Light Detection and Ranging, LiDAR), and ultrasonic sensors.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the detection device provided in this application can be applied to a vehicle, which can be any type of vehicle, including but not limited to: cars, trucks, buses, trains, recreational vehicles, station wagons, vans, amusement park vehicles, construction vehicles, trams, golf carts, sightseeing vehicles, patrol cars, smart cars, and digital cars, etc.

[0108] Optionally, the above vehicles may include, but are not limited to: pure electric vehicles (pure EVs / battery EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), or other new energy vehicles (NEVs). These vehicles can be used in fields such as intelligent driving, assisted driving, or connected vehicles.

[0109] It should be noted that the above application scenarios are just examples. The detection device provided in this application can also be applied to other possible scenarios, and is not limited to the scenarios shown above.

[0110] For example, the detection device can also be applied to other types of transportation, such as subways, high-speed trains, ships, ferries, passenger ships, airplanes, or helicopters, to provide more accurate external environmental data.

[0111] For example, detection devices can also be applied in smart living scenarios, such as being integrated into smart mobility tools, smart elevator equipment, or automatic following suitcases, to provide more accurate external environmental data.

[0112] For example, the detection device can also be applied to smart terminal devices, smart home devices, medical scenarios, and industrial scenarios, etc. These will not be listed here.

[0113] It should also be noted that the application scenarios described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in this application.

[0114] Based on the above, the control method and related content provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0115] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "coupling," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly defined. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0116] Furthermore, in this application, any references to "angle," "value," "position," or similar terms do not refer to absolute angles, absolute values, or absolute positions, and some variations are permissible. For example, other angles, other values, or other positions are allowed, primarily due to the requirements of the actual application scenario and the influence of process manufacturing errors, and no specific restrictions are imposed.

[0117] To facilitate understanding, let's take the application of this control method to a vehicle as an example and first introduce a control system to which this control method is applicable.

[0118] refer to Figure 9 , Figure 9 This diagram illustrates a possible architecture of a control system provided in this application. The control system includes a control device and an execution device. Each component is described below by way of example.

[0119] The control system manages the radar's internal temperature and humidity monitoring, and the start / stop logic of the heating components, among other control strategies, to achieve automated anti-freezing and anti-condensation control. The control device is the system's logic operation and command output unit. It receives temperature and humidity detection data uploaded by the actuators, combines preset thresholds and external scene recognition results to determine risk, and issues start / stop control commands to the heating components. The actuators are the sensing and heating execution units, incorporating various hardware components such as heating components, temperature sensors, and humidity sensors, and communicate bidirectionally with the control device.

[0120] The control device is a core component of the control system. It can be a device specifically designed to implement the control functions of this application, or it can implement other functions in addition to the control functions of this application. For example, a dedicated control chip only runs the control program corresponding to this application. The vehicle main control unit, while executing the standby control method of this application, also performs functions such as vehicle signal acquisition, equipment driving, and data processing.

[0121] In one example, the control device can be a control unit within the vehicle. Examples include a telematics box (T-box), body control module (BCM), intelligent cockpit domain controller, vehicle control unit (VCU), chassis domain controller, or other types of domain controllers. These devices can integrate multiple vehicle functions, such as in-vehicle communication, body electrical control, cockpit interaction, and vehicle status management, while simultaneously implementing standby control logic. This allows control functions to be implemented using existing control units within the vehicle, eliminating the need for additional control devices, reducing costs and structural complexity, and improving the utilization rate of in-vehicle control units.

[0122] In another example, the control device could be an additional unit specifically designed for standby vehicle control, such as a separate digital signal processing (DSP) chip. This DSP chip contains all the components necessary to perform the standby vehicle control function, including but not limited to: a power amplifier, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), and a processing unit. This DSP chip operates independently of the vehicle being controlled and assists in achieving standby vehicle control by connecting to relevant components of the vehicle, such as the aforementioned dedicated control chip.

[0123] In another example, the control device can be other electronic devices besides the vehicle to be controlled, such as a cloud server, user terminal, roadside unit, or other vehicles. This control device can connect to relevant components in the vehicle to be controlled via a network, such as the aforementioned dedicated control chip, to implement the control scheme for the vehicle.

[0124] The control device can also be a combination of the above examples. For instance, some functions of the control device may be implemented by a separately set control unit, while other functions may be implemented by a control unit in the vehicle. And so on, which will not be listed here.

[0125] Temperature and humidity sensors are used to collect real-time temperature and humidity data inside and / or outside the housing 2, and upload the detection signals to the control device. The control device compares the data with preset thresholds: if the temperature is lower than the first threshold, the risk of icing is determined; if the humidity is higher than the second threshold, the risk of fogging is determined.

[0126] The heating component is used to receive heating start or stop commands from the control device. Under low temperature conditions, it heats the accumulated water to maintain a liquid state and prevent freezing and blockage. Under high humidity conditions, it heats the water vapor to dehumidify and avoid the risk of condensation in the viewing window 3 and icing in the guide pipe 4.

[0127] It should be understood that the architecture of the control system described above is only an example. In other examples, the control system may include more, fewer, or different components, and each component may include more, fewer, or different elements. Furthermore, the components shown or not shown may be combined or divided in any way. The division of the components shown is merely a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they may be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity or physically separated. This application does not impose any specific limitations on this.

[0128] Please see Figure 10 ,based on Figure 9 The control system shown is a flowchart illustrating a control method provided in this application. This method can be... Figure 9 The control device in the control system shown executes the following main steps: Step S1010: Obtain environmental information of the detection device.

[0129] The detector housing is equipped with a heating element and a flow guide tube. The flow guide tube is used to guide the liquid inside the housing to the outside of the housing, and the heating element is used to maintain the liquid state or cause the liquid to turn into a gaseous state.

[0130] It is understood that the detection device can use its own built-in sensors (such as humidity sensors) or vehicle-mounted sensors (such as detection devices for collecting point cloud data, rain sensors, ambient humidity sensors, ambient temperature sensors, etc.) to collect environmental information inside and outside the detection device. This application does not limit the type of sensor or the source of the signal.

[0131] Step S1020: Control the operation of the heating component based on environmental information.

[0132] In one possible implementation, the heating conditions for controlling the operation of the heating element include at least one of the following: environmental information indicates rainfall and the ambient temperature is below a third threshold; environmental information indicates snowfall; a temperature sensor is provided inside or outside the housing, and the temperature collected by the temperature sensor is below a fourth threshold; a humidity sensor is provided inside or outside the housing, and the humidity collected by the humidity sensor is above a fifth threshold; and a user instruction is received to instruct the heating element to operate.

[0133] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: after the heating component is turned on, if the environmental information is detected to no longer meet the heating conditions, the heating component is controlled to continue working for a first duration, and then the heating component is controlled to stop working.

[0134] This implementation avoids frequent starting and stopping of the heating element when environmental information changes frequently or sensor data fluctuates repeatedly around thresholds, thus slowing down the aging of the heating element and extending its service life. It allows for an initial drainage time in the drain pipe, preventing the risk of icing and frost formation due to residual liquid inside. It also ensures that any remaining liquid inside the casing is completely vaporized before discharge, preventing condensation from evaporating and forming fog in the viewing window.

[0135] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: determining an environmental level based on environmental information; and controlling the operation of the heating component based on the environmental level.

[0136] In this implementation, the current environmental level can be dynamically adjusted based on environmental information. The heating parameters of the corresponding heating components are configured for the current environmental level, achieving precise, tiered heating as needed. This ensures continuous visibility of the viewing window, unobstructed drainage, and stable detection accuracy, while significantly improving energy efficiency and meeting the energy-saving requirements of new energy vehicles.

[0137] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application are illustrated below with specific examples so that those skilled in the art can clearly understand the technical solutions of this application. These examples are only for explanation and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention.

[0138] The detection device is susceptible to seal failure. If the seal fails, liquid can accumulate inside the device, causing condensation and fogging, which can negatively impact performance and reduce the accuracy of the data. Liquid seeping into the casing can directly immerse core components such as circuit boards and optical sensors, potentially leading to irreversible damage like short circuits, metal contact corrosion, and component aging. This significantly shortens the device's lifespan and can result in reduced or no detection functionality.

[0139] The components of the detection device and vehicle are shown in Table 1.

[0140] Table 1. Components of the detection device and vehicle

[0141] Please see Figure 11 The diagram illustrates a flow chart of an example of the control method provided in this application. The detection device includes a housing and structures located inside the housing, such as a flow guide pipe, a heating element, a unidirectional conduction device, a water collection structure, and a humidity sensor. In the event of a seal failure of the detection device, liquid may flow into the housing and out through the internal structures to the outside of the housing.

[0142] Taking rainfall conditions as an example, the control method based on this detection device mainly includes the following steps: Step S1101: The vehicle system wakes up from hibernation.

[0143] Step S1101 is optional. If the vehicle system has already woken up from hibernation, step S1101 does not need to be executed. If the vehicle system is currently in hibernation, step S1101 needs to be executed.

[0144] Step S1102: Collect environmental information.

[0145] The detection device can utilize sensors (such as humidity sensors) or sensors in the vehicle (such as detection devices (collecting point cloud data), rain and light sensors, humidity sensors, ambient temperature sensors, etc.) to collect environmental information inside and outside the detection device, without any limitations.

[0146] Step S1103: Determine whether the environmental information indicates a rainfall scenario. If the environmental information indicates a rainfall scenario, proceed to step S1104. If the environmental information does not indicate a rainfall scenario, determine that the current environment is a sunny and dry condition, do not control the operation of the heating components, and the internal structure of the shell serves to ventilate and drain liquid.

[0147] Step S1104: Determine if the temperature is below a first threshold. If the temperature is below the first threshold, the current environment is determined to be a low-temperature rainfall condition, and step S1105 is executed. If the temperature is above or equal to the first threshold, the current environment is determined to be a normal-temperature rainfall condition, the heating element is not controlled to operate, and the liquid is discharged through the internal structure of the shell. The temperature here can be either the internal temperature of the shell or the external temperature of the shell, without limitation.

[0148] It should be noted that step S1104 can be executed after step S1102. If the temperature is below the first threshold, the current environment is determined to be a low-temperature condition, and step S1105 is executed. If the temperature is above or equal to the first threshold, the current environment is determined to be a normal temperature or high-temperature condition, and the heating element is not controlled to work. Instead, the liquid is ventilated or drained through the internal structure of the housing.

[0149] Step S1105: Control the heating element to operate. During the operation of the heating element, the liquid inside the housing remains liquid or partially vaporizes into gas. The liquid is discharged to the outside of the housing through the guide pipe, and the gaseous mist is guided to the outside of the housing through the negative pressure guide structure.

[0150] Step S1106: If environmental information indicates that rainfall has ended, determine whether the temperature is higher than or equal to a first threshold. If the temperature is higher than or equal to the first threshold, proceed to step S1107. If the temperature is lower than the first threshold, proceed to step S1102, continuously monitoring and collecting environmental information in real time.

[0151] Step S1107: Control the heating element to operate continuously for a first duration. This avoids frequent starting and stopping of the heating element when the temperature fluctuates near the first threshold, thus delaying the aging of the heating element and extending its service life. It also thoroughly removes residual moisture, preventing condensation on the viewing window. Furthermore, it allows for a first duration of drainage time in the drain pipe, avoiding the risk of freezing or frosting due to residual liquid inside the pipe.

[0152] Step S1108: Control the heating component to stop working.

[0153] Understandably, for other operating conditions besides rainfall (such as snowfall, high humidity, etc.), the operation of the heating components can be controlled according to the heating conditions, as can be referred to for rainfall conditions, and will not be elaborated here.

[0154] For example, the materials of the heating components include, but are not limited to, resistance wires, heating plates, heating films, graphene, positive temperature coefficient ceramics (PTC), silicon carbide (SiC), infrared radiation heating, and other implementation methods.

[0155] Examples of unidirectional flow devices include, but are not limited to: one-way valves (OWV), check valves (CV), duckbill valves (DBV), ball check valves (BCV), diaphragm valves (DV), breath valves (BV), and microporous vent membranes (VM). Various unidirectional flow devices can be installed at the inlet, outlet, or middle of the flow channel, allowing only water and moisture inside the housing to flow outwards, while preventing external rainwater and high-pressure flushing water from flowing back into the housing. The opening pressure of unidirectional flow devices is extremely low, allowing even a small amount of water to drain in one direction, eliminating any dead zones or residual water.

[0156] For example, the solution of this application can quickly eliminate moisture inside the housing and prevent condensation on the viewing window. It achieves fully automated dehumidification and antifreeze through the collaborative intelligent heating system of the vehicle intelligent unit (VIU). Active preheating is achieved based on temperature and humidity sensing and point cloud environmental prediction. After severe operating conditions, residual moisture is dried with a delay, rapidly reducing the humidity inside the housing and preventing moisture from adhering to the viewing window and forming a fog film. Simultaneously, the VIU dynamically adjusts the heating power, controlling the heating components in stages, ensuring no power consumption fluctuations or temperature anomalies during vehicle operation, operating seamlessly without driver intervention. It is adaptable to various driving conditions including rain, snow, extreme cold, and high humidity, continuously maintaining the transparency of the optical viewing window, stabilizing the accuracy of lidar detection and acquisition, and avoiding sensing failures caused by condensation.

[0157] For example, the solution in this application relies on point cloud data for environmental prediction and hierarchical control logic for the on-demand start and stop of heating components. Under normal rainy conditions with no risk of condensation or icing, the heating components remain in a dormant state, achieving zero power consumption in the electronically controlled heating branch, significantly reducing the low-voltage power load of the entire vehicle, and perfectly adapting to the stringent energy consumption control requirements of new energy vehicles. It also possesses all-weather adaptive protection capabilities, with no blind spots in its operating condition coverage, and can cope with various complex outdoor driving scenarios such as torrential rain, strong airflow cooling at high speeds, low-temperature ice and snow blockages, and high humidity after rain, stably performing dehumidification, antifreeze, and anti-condensation protection throughout the entire process.

[0158] For example, the solution of this application reuses the original temperature and humidity sensor, point cloud sensing hardware and VIU intelligent control architecture of the detection device, without the need to add additional independent environmental sensing modules, dedicated control motherboards and other hardware. The number of hardware components is reduced, the assembly structure is simplified, and the hardware development, mass production and after-sales costs are effectively reduced. The unified integrated control architecture reduces signal transfer nodes, reduces the probability of line failure, and the system has higher long-term operational stability.

[0159] For example, the solution of this application relies on the water collection structure at the bottom of the shell to collect the liquid in the cavity by natural gravity. It is combined with a one-way conduction device to prevent external liquid from flowing back into the shell. The dual physical structures work together to achieve one-way outward drainage of the accumulated water, reduce the amount of water in the shell from the source, avoid the liquid soaking the circuit board and sensor components and causing short circuits and corrosion, and reduce the source of water vapor condensation in the window.

[0160] For example, the vehicle domain control unit of this application includes, but is not limited to, VIU, BCM, and independent dedicated controller. The system integrates native point cloud perception data from LiDAR and environmental information collected by temperature and humidity sensors built into the housing or in the vehicle. Through software and hardware linkage and collaborative computing, it can proactively predict scenarios prone to water accumulation and fogging, such as rain, snow, frost, and freezing rain, and preemptively drive heating components to start heating, dehumidification, and antifreeze. Unlike traditional solutions that passively respond after a fault occurs, this approach can prevent the generation of potential hazards such as fogging, icing, and pipe blockage.

[0161] For example, the solution in this application, based on point cloud data, can not only identify rain and snow scenarios but also assess environmental information such as rain and snow intensity and road conditions, dynamically adjusting the environmental level. This allows for the configuration of different heating parameters for the heating components based on different environmental levels. These heating parameters include heating power, heating duration, and pre-start threshold. This eliminates the need for traditional, fixed heating modes, achieving precise, tiered heating as needed.

[0162] For example, in low-level environmental scenarios such as light rain, light frost, and slight dampness, low-power, short-time heating is used to maximize energy savings while ensuring effective defogging and dehumidification. In high-level environmental scenarios such as heavy rain, heavy snow, low-temperature icing, and thick snow accumulation on roads, it automatically switches to high-power, long-lasting enhanced heating for rapid dehumidification, antifreeze, and defogging, ensuring stable radar operation. It adaptively adapts to all complex driving conditions, continuously ensuring radar window clarity, unobstructed drainage, and stable detection accuracy while significantly improving energy efficiency, making it highly suitable for the energy-saving needs of new energy vehicles.

[0163] For example, the solution of this application can add a sediment settling structure (such as a sediment settling trough, sediment settling net, etc.) to the inlet of the water collection structure, and automatically remove ash with the vibration of the vehicle, so as to achieve long-term anti-clogging of the drainage pipe and have the characteristics of maintenance-free operation.

[0164] For example, the solution of this application can optimize the negative pressure guiding structure (such as negative pressure guiding lip, negative pressure guiding elastic sheet, etc.) to form dynamic exhaust volume adaptation according to vehicle speed, and further improve the defogging capability under all vehicle speed conditions.

[0165] The lidar system described in this application can predict environmental information such as rain and snow in advance using point cloud data collected by the lidar itself, and start the heating components in advance, instead of waiting for water seepage or fogging of the viewing window before responding to remove the condensation. This pre-heating, which raises the internal temperature and reduces the relative humidity of the housing before rainwater seeps into the casing, condensation forms in the viewing window, or pipes freezes, significantly reduces the conditions for water condensation and water accumulation, thus eliminating problems such as viewing window fogging, frozen drainage pipes, and component corrosion and short circuits caused by water immersion. Because it avoids the point cloud loss, detection range attenuation, and target contour distortion caused by fogging and water accumulation interfering with the optical viewing window, the lidar maintains its perception and acquisition accuracy throughout, ensuring the uninterrupted and stable operation of the intelligent driving fusion perception system. By preventing long-term corrosion of optical components and internal circuit boards by fog and water accumulation, irreversible hardware damage such as corrosion and short circuits is reduced, extending the overall lifespan of the lidar and lowering after-sales maintenance and replacement costs.

[0166] The lidar in this application features optimized energy consumption control and improved energy utilization. Relying on its own point cloud data, the lidar performs environmental prediction and achieves segmented preheating, eliminating the need for long-term constant high-power heating. Compared to the passive mode of high-load defogging and de-icing after fogging occurs, it has lower average power consumption, optimizing the vehicle's electrical load. By reusing the lidar's native point cloud perception data for environmental prediction, there is no need to install additional dedicated sensors for rain, frost, snow, and external temperature and humidity, reducing the number of components, simplifying the internal assembly structure of the lidar, and lowering hardware development and mass production costs. It can identify outdoor scenarios prone to water accumulation and fogging, such as heavy rain, snowfall, frost, and dense fog, and activate protective mechanisms in advance, adapting to various high and low temperature, dry and wet driving environments across the country.

[0167] Based on the control scheme described above, this application can also provide a control device that can be used to execute the above control method. The relevant features can be found in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0168] For example, Figure 12 A possible structural schematic diagram of a control device provided in this application is shown. The control device 1200 can be the control device (e.g., circuit, chip, or chip system) in the above embodiments, or it can be a logic node, logic module, or software applied to or used in conjunction with the control device or its module, capable of realizing all or part of the functions of the control device.

[0169] The control device 1200 includes various units or modules for implementing the control scheme shown in any of the above embodiments. For example, such as Figure 12 As shown, the control device 1200 includes a transceiver module 1210 and a processing module 1220. The transceiver module 1210 and the processing module 1220 are used to implement the steps in the control method described above.

[0170] To achieve Figure 3 Taking the control method shown as an example, the transceiver module 1210 is used to acquire environmental information of the detection device. The detection device's housing contains a heating element and a flow guide pipe. The flow guide pipe directs liquid from inside the housing to the outside, and the heating element maintains the liquid's liquid state or causes it to convert to a gaseous state. The processing module 1220 controls the heating element to operate based on the environmental information.

[0171] It should be noted that the aforementioned transceiver module 1210 and processing module 1220 can be implemented using virtual modules, such as software functional units or virtual devices. Alternatively, the transceiver module 1210 and processing module 1220 can also be implemented using physical devices. For example, if the control device 1200 is implemented using a chip / chip circuit, the transceiver module 1210 and processing module 1220 can be integrated processors, microprocessors, or integrated circuits.

[0172] The unit division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used. Furthermore, the functional units in each embodiment of this application can be integrated into a single processor, exist as separate physical units, or two or more units can be integrated into a single module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module.

[0173] In another possible implementation, please refer to Figure 13 The diagram illustrates another possible structural schematic of the control device. The control device 1300 may exemplarily be a chip or a chip system for implementing the functions of the control device or its modules (such as processors, chips, or chip systems) described in the foregoing embodiments. Optionally, the chip system may consist of chips or include chips and other discrete devices.

[0174] like Figure 13 As shown, the control device 1300 includes at least one processor 1310, which is coupled to a memory. Optionally, the memory may be located within the control device 1300 and integrated with the processor, or it may be located outside the control device 1300. For example, the control device 1300 may also include at least one memory 1320. The at least one memory 1320 stores the necessary computer programs (or instructions) and / or data for implementing any of the above embodiments; the at least one processor 1310 can execute the computer programs (or instructions) and / or data stored in the at least one memory 1320 to complete the control scheme in any of the above embodiments.

[0175] Optionally, the control device 1300 also includes a communication interface 1330, through which the control device 1300 interacts with other devices. The communication interface 1330 can be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, pin, or other type of communication interface. When the control device 1300 is a chip-based device or circuit, the communication interface 1330 can also be an input / output circuit, capable of inputting information (or receiving information) and outputting information (or sending information). The processor 1310 is an integrated processor, microprocessor, integrated circuit, or logic circuit, and the processor 1310 can determine the output information based on the input information.

[0176] The coupling in this embodiment is an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, which can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, used for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. The processor 1310 may operate in conjunction with the memory 1320 and the communication interface 1330. This embodiment does not limit the connection medium between the processor 1310, the memory 1320, and the communication interface 1330.

[0177] Optional, see Figure 13The processor 1310, memory 1320, and communication interface 1330 are interconnected via a bus. This bus can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. The bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, Figure 13 The bus is represented by a single thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0178] In the embodiments of this application, the processor 1310 may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array or other programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic device, or a discrete hardware component, capable of implementing or executing the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, etc. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or being executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor.

[0179] In this embodiment, the memory 1320 can be non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). The memory 1320 can be any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory 1320 in this embodiment can also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions for storing program instructions and / or data.

[0180] Based on the above, this application also provides a control system. The control system includes a control device, such as... Figure 12 The control device 1200 shown, or Figure 13 The control device 1300 shown is used to execute the control scheme shown in any of the above embodiments.

[0181] Optionally, the control system can be as described above. Figure 9 The control system in the system.

[0182] It is understood that the control system 400 may also include other components related to the implementation of the above control scheme, which will not be listed here. In addition, for each of the listed components, their functions, the concepts involved and related to the technical solutions provided in this application, explanations and detailed descriptions, and other steps, please refer to the descriptions of these contents in the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0183] Based on the above, this application also provides a vehicle including the above-mentioned control devices, such as... Figure 12 The control device 1200 shown, or Figure 13 The control device 1300 shown, or the control system including the above, such as those described above. Figure 9 The control system in the system.

[0184] Optionally, when the vehicle includes the above control devices, the control devices may specifically be a domain controller for steer-by-wire or a vehicle control unit, etc.

[0185] Based on the above, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method provided in any of the above-described method embodiments to be implemented. The computer-readable storage medium may include various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, portable hard drive, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0186] Based on the above, this application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program (also called code or instructions) that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method provided in any of the above method embodiments.

[0187] Based on the above, this application also provides a chip, which includes at least one processing unit and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to provide program instructions or data to the at least one processing unit, and the at least one processing unit is used to execute the program instructions to implement the method provided in any of the above method embodiments.

[0188] It should be noted that the processing of personal information and data protected by the laws and regulations of the relevant countries and regions involved in this application, such as collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision and disclosure, complies with the relevant laws and regulations of the relevant countries and regions.

[0189] It should also be noted that, unless otherwise specified or there is a logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions of different implementation schemes are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features of different implementation schemes can be combined into new implementation schemes based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0190] In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. Furthermore, the various numbers used in this application (such as the numerical designations "first," "second," "third," etc.) are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the sequence numbers of the above processes does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

[0191] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0192] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to this application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart illustrations. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0193] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0194] These computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable device for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

Claims

1. A detection device, characterized in that, Includes the casing and the flow guide tube; The inlet of the guide tube is connected to the interior of the housing, and the outlet of the guide tube is located on the exterior of the housing; The flow guide tube is used to guide the liquid inside the housing to the outside of the housing.

2. The detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection device further includes a heating element disposed inside the housing; the heating element is used to maintain the liquid state of the liquid or to cause the liquid to convert into a gaseous state.

3. The detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heating element is located at the bottom of the housing.

4. The detection device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The heating conditions of the heating element include at least one of the following: The temperature inside and / or outside the housing is below a first threshold. The humidity inside and / or outside the housing is higher than the second threshold. The detection device is positioned in a scenario where the liquid is being transformed into a solid.

5. The detection device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The detection device further includes a unidirectional flow device; the unidirectional flow device is connected to the flow guide tube, and the unidirectional flow device is used to allow the liquid to flow in the direction from the inlet to the outlet of the flow guide tube.

6. The detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The unidirectional conduction device is located at the inlet of the guide tube, the outlet of the guide tube, or any position between the inlet and the outlet.

7. The detection device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The detection device also includes a water collection structure; The water collection structure is located at the bottom of the interior of the shell and is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe.

8. The detection device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water collection structure forms a low-level water collection area, which is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe.

9. The detection device according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The detection device also includes a sediment settling structure, which is located at the bottom of the housing. The sediment settling structure includes a sediment settling section and a liquid filtration section, and the liquid filtration section is connected to the inlet of the guide pipe.

10. The detection device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The detection device further includes a negative pressure guiding structure, which includes a guiding section and a gas filtering section. The guiding section is disposed outside the housing, and the gas filtering section is disposed on the side wall of the housing. The gas filtering section is used to connect the inside and outside of the housing.

11. A control method, characterized in that, The method includes: The detection device acquires environmental information; the housing of the detection device is equipped with a heating element and a flow guide tube. The flow guide tube is used to guide the liquid inside the housing to the outside of the housing, and the heating element is used to maintain the liquid state of the liquid or to cause the liquid to turn into a gaseous state. The heating component is controlled to operate based on the environmental information.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The heating conditions for controlling the operation of the heating element include at least one of the following: The environmental information indicates rainfall and that the ambient temperature is below the third threshold. The environmental information indicates snowfall; A temperature sensor is provided inside or outside the housing, and the temperature collected by the temperature sensor is lower than a fourth threshold. A humidity sensor is provided inside or outside the housing, and the humidity collected by the humidity sensor is higher than a fifth threshold. Received user instructions for instructing the heating element to operate.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the heating component is turned on, if the environmental information is detected to no longer meet the heating conditions, the heating component is controlled to continue working for a first duration, and then the heating component is controlled to stop working.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the environmental information, determine the environmental level; The operation of the heating component is controlled according to the environmental level.

15. A control device, characterized in that, Includes units and / or modules for performing the method as described in any one of claims 11-14.

16. A control device, characterized in that, It includes at least one processor, said at least one processor being configured to run a computer program to cause the control device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11-14.

17. A chip, characterized in that, It includes at least one processing unit and an interface circuit, the interface circuit being used to provide program instructions or data to the at least one processing unit, the at least one processing unit being used to execute the program instructions to implement the method of any one of claims 11-14.

18. A terminal device, characterized in that, It includes the detection device as described in any one of claims 1-10, or the control device as described in claims 15 and 16, or the chip as described in claim 17.

19. The terminal device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The terminal device is a vehicle, and the detection device is located on the outside of the vehicle body.

20. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed, implement the method of any one of claims 11-14.

21. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes instructions that, when executed, implement the method of any one of claims 11-14.

Images