SENSOR DEVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE

Abstract

A sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) for a motor vehicle is provided. The sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises a sensor housing (3), a sensor optic (2) arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing (3), and a supply line (6) for a cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optic (2). The sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) includes a lid device comprising a movable lid (5) for covering the sensor optic (2) and a movement mechanism (7; 10, 11) for moving the lid (5), wherein the supply line (6) is arranged at least partially in or on the movement mechanism (7; 10, 11).Alternatively, or in addition to the lid device, the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises a cleaning chamber (15) which is formed inside the sensor housing (3) behind the sensor optics (2), wherein the cleaning chamber (15) can be filled with the cleaning fluid via the supply line (6), and the sensor optics (2) is rotatably mounted such that the sensor optics (2) project at least partially into the cleaning chamber (15) in a rotated position for cleaning the sensor optics (2).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sensor device for motor vehicles, and / or a motor vehicle with the sensor device.

[0002] Driver assistance systems are increasingly being installed in modern motor vehicles, especially automobiles.

[0003] Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are electronic, particularly mechatronic, devices in motor vehicles that support the driver in certain driving situations. These often focus on safety aspects, but also on increasing driving comfort.

[0004] For vehicle assistance systems, corresponding sensors are provided in or on the exterior of the vehicle to collect environmental data of the respective vehicle, e.g., lidar sensors and vehicle exterior cameras. To ensure the functionality of the sensors and thus also of the vehicle assistance systems, these sensors must be cleaned regularly or cyclically, which is usually done automatically by the vehicle or initiated by the driver. For this purpose, separate nozzle technologies are known, for example, which are located in the rear of the vehicle and must be connected and supplied mechanically (e.g., detergent supply lines, holders) and electrically (e.g., power supply, control).

[0005] This connection and separation of cleaning and sensor components is not optimal. Cleaning of sensors, such as cameras, is usually achieved by a relatively coarse, large-area water jet sprayed from the outside by a nozzle. This jet cleans both the sensors, such as the sensor lens, but also contaminates the wastewater and, for example, the vehicle's painted surfaces with each cleaning process, leaving streaks and / or leaving residue. Furthermore, the amount of washer fluid required is relatively high due to the spraying from the nozzle compared to the amount actually required for cleaning.

[0006] DE 10 2021 206 782 A1 describes a sensor cleaning system for cleaning a surface covering a sensor. The sensor cleaning system comprises a spray nozzle system for spraying at least two different cleaning fluids onto the surface covering the sensor.

[0007] DE 10 2013 213 415 A1 describes an optical monitoring device for a motor vehicle, in particular a monitoring camera with an optically transparent cover, a cleaning device for cleaning the transparent cover as needed, which comprises a wiper which is arranged to be movable relative to the cover and has a motor drive unit for carrying out the relative movement.

[0008] DE 10 2017 221 530 A1 describes a device designed for environmental detection, which device has a housing and at least one sensor arranged within the housing. The housing has a transmitting / receiving window. The device has a cover that is transparent to the sensor signals and is designed to cover the transmitting / receiving window from an external environment of the device. The device has a cleaning unit for the cover, which is arranged on an outer side of the housing and is movable relative to the housing by means of a drive unit. The cleaning unit has at least one first nozzle designed to spray a cleaning fluid onto the cover. Furthermore, the cleaning unit has at least one second nozzle designed to blow a gas onto the cover.

[0009] Against the background of this prior art, the object of the present disclosure is to provide a device and / or a method which are each suitable for enriching the prior art.

[0010] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. The subordinate claims and the dependent claims each contain optional developments of the disclosure.

[0011] The task is then solved by a sensor device for a motor vehicle.

[0012] The sensor device comprises a sensor housing, a sensor optic arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing, and a supply line for a cleaning fluid (optionally water and / or washer fluid, e.g., of the motor vehicle) for cleaning the sensor optic (and / or an outer surface of the sensor optic).

[0013] The sensor device comprises an eyelid device and / or a cleaning chamber.

[0014] The eyelid device comprises a movable (e.g., pivotable and / or rotatable) eyelid for covering the sensor optics and a movement mechanism for (optionally mechanical) movement of the eyelid. The supply line is formed at least partially in or on the movement mechanism.

[0015] The cleaning chamber is formed within the sensor housing behind the (rotatably mounted) sensor optics. The cleaning chamber can be filled with cleaning fluid via the supply line. The sensor optics are rotatably mounted in such a way that the sensor optics protrude at least partially into the cleaning chamber in a rotated position (e.g. relative to a normal position) (e.g. in a position rotated by 180° from the normal position) for cleaning the sensor optics. The normal position can correspond to a position of use of the sensor optics, e.g. during normal operation of the sensor device. In the normal position, an outer surface of the sensor optics can be arranged on the outer wall of the sensor housing and / or a cross-section of the sensor optics can be aligned parallel to the outer wall.

[0016] The sensor optics can represent an optical element. Optionally, the sensor device can be configured to couple light out of the sensor device via the optical element and / or to couple light into the sensor device. Optionally, the sensor optics can be configured in the form of an optical lens and optionally referred to as a sensor lens. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor optics can comprise or consist of an optical element without a refractive effect.

[0017] The sensor device described above offers a number of advantages. Among other things, the sensor device has an integrated cleaning device or function for cleaning the sensor optics. In other words, no separate cleaning device or cleaning components are required to clean the sensor optics.

[0018] Furthermore, the eyelid device can advantageously perform a dual function, whereby the eyelid of the eyelid device can keep the sensor optics closed or cover them when the sensor device is not needed to prevent contamination and / or damage to the sensor optics. At the same time, the eyelid device can be designed to guide the cleaning fluid and thus also serve as part of the cleaning function.

[0019] Possible further developments of the sensor device described above are explained in detail below.

[0020] The sensor device may, for example, comprise a lidar sensor and / or a camera and / or may be designed as a lidar sensor device and / or a camera device.

[0021] The sensor device can comprise sensor electronics that are adjacent to and / or in contact with the sensor optics (e.g., on a surface of the sensor optics opposite the outer surface of the sensor optics). Alternatively, the sensor electronics can be formed as part of the sensor optics. The sensor electronics can, for example, have a light-sensitive sensor element.

[0022] The eyelid can have a lip, optionally a rubber lip, which can be guided over an outer surface of the sensor optics for cleaning the sensor optics by moving the eyelid, optionally vertically and / or horizontally (e.g., when the sensor device is mounted in or on the motor vehicle). The lip can be configured such that the lip can be guided over the entire outer surface of the sensor optics by moving the eyelid. The outer surface of the sensor optics can be a surface of the sensor optics that, in the normal position (or use position) of the sensor optics, is arranged on an outer side of the outer wall of the sensor housing.

[0023] Thus, the cleaning function of the sensor device can advantageously be modeled on nature, where in nature the (e.g., human) eyelid, in conjunction with a gland in the eye, creates a film of moisture in the eye, which can be removed by moving the eyelid to improve vision or remove foreign bodies. In a similar way, or based on nature, the cleaning function of the sensor optics can be implemented by the eyelid with the lip of the sensor device.

[0024] The lip can be interchangeable with the eyelid or formed as a single piece. It can serve as a wiper, a guide element, and / or a sealing surface for the sensor optics, optionally for the outer surface of the sensor optics.

[0025] The movement mechanism can have (at least) one pivoting arm for pivoting the eyelid. The (at least one) pivoting arm can be connected to the eyelid at a first end and rotatably mounted at a second end. The supply line can be formed at least partially within the pivoting arm.

[0026] The second end can, for example, be rotatably mounted on or in a pivot bearing (or a suspension) and / or have a pivot bearing. The second end can be rotatably mounted on the sensor housing. The lid device can, for example, have a rotary drive for (optionally automated) rotating the swivel arm at the second end.

[0027] The supply line can extend to the first end of the pivot arm and have an outlet at the first end for discharging the cleaning fluid on an inner side of the eyelid, which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics (e.g., at least when the sensor optics is partially or completely covered by the eyelid). The outlet can, for example, be arranged and / or configured such that discharging the cleaning fluid creates a film of cleaning fluid between the eyelid and the sensor optics (e.g., comparable to a human eye).

[0028] This arrangement allows the cleaning fluid to be used in an advantageous manner with optimum consumption and, due to the low waste water (i.e. the cleaning fluid used for cleaning), as little contamination as possible is generated on the vehicle by the waste water after cleaning.

[0029] It is conceivable that the movement mechanism has several, e.g., two, pivoting arms. Furthermore, the lid and / or (at least) one pivoting arm can be designed to be replaceable.

[0030] The swivel arm can be arranged on the side of the eyelid and / or the sensor housing (e.g., when the sensor device is mounted in or on the motor vehicle). The motion detector can, for example, have two swivel arms, which can be arranged on two opposite sides of the eyelid and / or the sensor housing.

[0031] The pivoting lid can be pivoted between a covered position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) covered by the lid, and an open position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) uncovered or open. The pivoting lid can assume multiple positions between the covered position and the open position and / or can be arranged outside the sensor housing in all positions.

[0032] The (e.g., pivoting) lid can be made of rubber, plastic, metal, and / or a (multi-material) composite. The lid can be made of a hard and / or bend-resistant material.

[0033] The (e.g. pivotable) eyelid may have a curved and / or concave (and / or hollow) shape which is adapted (at least in sections) to the shape of the outer surface of the sensor optics.

[0034] The movement mechanism may include a drive mechanism for rotating the lid. The drive mechanism may be located in the sensor housing, and the supply line may terminate with an outlet for discharging the cleaning fluid on or in the drive mechanism.

[0035] The eyelid can be rotatable into the sensor housing and, in a position in which the sensor optics are not completely covered by the eyelid, can be arranged within the sensor housing at least partially behind the sensor optics.

[0036] The (e.g. rotatable) lid can be made of a flexible material and can be made of, for example, rubber and / or (multi-material) composite.

[0037] The (e.g. rotatable) eyelid can have a curved and / or concave (and / or hollow) shape, which is, for example, shaped and / or formed such that the eyelid encloses at least a part of the sensor optics (and optionally additionally the sensor electronics arranged on the sensor optics) in every rotational position of the eyelid and / or the lips rest against the sensor optics (and / or the sensor electronics) in every rotational position of the eyelid.

[0038] The rotatable lid can be rotated between a covered position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) covered by the lid, and an open position, in which the sensor optics are (e.g., completely) uncovered or open. The pivotable lid can assume multiple positions between the covered position and the open position. It is conceivable that the lid can be arranged completely outside the sensor housing in the covered position and / or can be arranged completely inside the sensor housing in the open position.

[0039] The drive mechanism may have a drive chamber into which the cleaning fluid can flow via the outlet.

[0040] The drive mechanism may comprise a drive element which is mechanically connected to the eyelid (e.g. via a drive shaft and / or rotary shaft) for rotating the eyelid and which can be driven by the cleaning fluid flowing in.

[0041] The drive element can be a paddle wheel, which can be mechanically connected to the eyelid, for example, via a rotating or drive shaft (and / or as a suspension on a rotational axis of the eyelid). Alternatively, or additionally, the drive element can comprise a (e.g., electric) servomotor or be a servomotor.

[0042] The outlet may have a nozzle and / or a taper in the direction of the drive chamber, e.g., for the cleaning fluid to flow in at a minimum pressure and / or in a direction of the drive element.

[0043] The drive mechanism may have an outlet opening formed on the drive chamber such that the cleaning fluid can be discharged on an inner side of the lid facing the outer surface of the sensor optics.

[0044] The drive element can be designed to rotate the lid and at the same time act as a pump for the cleaning fluid through the outlet opening.

[0045] The outlet opening can be arranged and / or designed in such a way that a cleaning fluid film can be generated between the eyelid and the sensor optics by discharging the cleaning fluid.

[0046] By this arrangement of the rotatable lid, analogous to the arrangement of the sensor device with the pivoting lid, the cleaning fluid can be used in an advantageous manner with optimal consumption and thus, due to the low waste water after cleaning, as little contamination as possible can be generated on the vehicle.

[0047] The sensor optics can be rotatable by 180° (e.g. from the normal position) and / or can be rotatable such that an outer surface of the sensor optics is arranged, optionally completely, within the cleaning chamber in the rotated position of the sensor optics.

[0048] The (rotatable) sensor optics (and optionally the sensor electronics) can be housed in a rotating body (or rotating body). The rotating body can, for example, be designed as a frame in which the sensor optics (optionally with the sensor electronics) are housed.

[0049] The sensor optics can be rotatable about a vertical axis of the sensor optics (and / or the sensor device, e.g., when the sensor device is mounted in or on the motor vehicle) and / or about a cross-sectional axis of the sensor optics. The sensor optics can be rotatable, e.g., horizontally and / or vertically when the sensor device is mounted in or on the motor vehicle.

[0050] The sensor device may include a rotary drive, e.g., an electric motor, for rotating the sensor optics. The rotary drive may be arranged in or on the sensor housing and / or mechanically connected to the sensor optics via a mechanical connection, e.g., a rotary shaft.

[0051] The cleaning chamber can have a controllable and / or closable outlet for the cleaning fluid. This advantageously allows for as much of the cleaning fluid as possible to be drained away for further use after cleaning the sensor optics.

[0052] The cleaning chamber can be designed as a cavity in the sensor housing. The cavity can, for example, be bounded at least partially on one side by the sensor optics (and / or the sensor electronics).

[0053] The supply line may end at or within the cleaning chamber and / or have the outlet. The outlet may have a nozzle and / or a taper toward the cleaning chamber.

[0054] The cleaning chamber (and / or a side or wall of the cleaning chamber) can have an opening in which the sensor optics are (at least partially) rotatably mounted. The sensor optics (and / or optionally the sensor electronics) can close the opening, optionally in a fluid-tight manner, when the sensor optics are either in the normal position (or use position) or in a position rotated 180° from the normal position. The opening can have a sealing lip and / or a sealing ring for fluid-tight closure of the opening by the sensor optics.

[0055] The supply line can be connected or can be connected to a washer fluid cycle of the motor vehicle, e.g. as a branch from a front and / or rear window wiper device of the motor vehicle.

[0056] The cleaning chamber and / or the supply line can be designed to fill the cleaning chamber with the cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics when the sensor optics is in the position rotated by 180° from the normal position.

[0057] The sensor device can be designed as a structural unit and / or as a module.

[0058] The sensor device may comprise a control unit and / or be connectable to a control unit of the motor vehicle via signal technology.

[0059] The control unit can be configured to control the supply of cleaning fluid to the supply line, e.g., to open and / or close the supply line. The supply of cleaning fluid and / or the cleaning of the sensor optics can be automated (e.g., during operation of the motor vehicle) regularly and / or cyclically and / or can be triggered manually (e.g., via an input unit of the motor vehicle).

[0060] The control unit can be configured to open the supply line and / or discharge the cleaning fluid onto the inside of the eyelid to perform the cleaning of the sensor optics (and / or the outer surface of the sensor optics). The control unit can be configured to control the (pivotable and / or rotatable) eyelid, to guide the lip at least once over the, optionally entire, outer surface of the sensor optics by moving the eyelid, as soon as the cleaning fluid has been discharged onto the inside of the eyelid and / or a film of cleaning fluid has formed between the eyelid and the sensor optics.

[0061] Alternatively, or additionally, the control unit can be configured to rotate the (rotatable) sensor optics 180° from the normal position, so that the outer surface of the sensor optics is arranged, optionally completely, within the cleaning chamber. The control unit can be configured to fill the cleaning chamber with the cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics as soon as the sensor optics is rotated 180° (from the normal position). The control unit can be configured to open the drain to drain the cleaning fluid after cleaning the sensor optics and to rotate the sensor optics back to the normal position as soon as the cleaning fluid has drained away.

[0062] The control unit can be part of the driver assistance system or represent it. The control device can be, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU). The electronic control unit can be an intelligent processor-controlled unit that can communicate with other modules, for example, via a central gateway (CGW), and can form the vehicle's on-board network via fieldbuses such as the CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus, FlexRay, and / or via the automotive Ethernet, e.g., together with telematics control units and / or environmental sensors.

[0063] It is conceivable that the control unit controls functions relevant to the vehicle's driving behavior, such as the steering, engine control, power transmission, and / or the braking system. Furthermore, driver assistance systems such as a parking assistant, adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keeping assistant, lane change assistant, traffic sign recognition, traffic light recognition, start-off assistant, night vision assistant, and / or intersection assistant can be controlled by the control unit.

[0064] The above description can be summarized in other words and in a possible more concrete embodiment of the disclosure as described below, whereby the following description is not to be interpreted as limiting the disclosure.

[0065] A variant of the present disclosure may be modeled on nature. In living beings, the function of vision is performed by the eyes. The cleaning of the lens of the eye to improve vision or remove foreign bodies occurs in 100% of cases by an eyelid in conjunction with a moist film in the eye and a separate gland within the eye.

[0066] Inspired by nature, this variant allows cleaning to be achieved with an eyelid, which can be technically relatively simple to implement. The sensor, e.g., a camera, can be concealed with a simple mechanical eyelid. The eyelid can be part of the camera, i.e., mounted on the camera with one or two joints and, for example, be designed to be replaceable. The eyelid can be made of rubber or plastic with a rubber lip, or as a separate multi-material composite part. The eyelid can be closed or remain closed when the camera function is not needed (similar to nature), thus protecting the camera from dirt or, if necessary, improving the vehicle's appearance (since the camera is less or not visible).

[0067] The water supply line (e.g., as a branch from the rear window wiper) can be connected to the camera as an inlet. Wastewater can then drain to the outside. The water supply can be triggered cyclically by the vehicle or controlled by the driver. For cleaning, the eyelid can be moved vertically or horizontally with the rubber lip over the lens of the camera or sensor. The water supplied behind the eyelid, together with the rubber lip, can ensure sufficient cleaning of the camera. Multiple eyelid wipes per stroke are conceivable (e.g., three times, similar to the wiper water on a vehicle's windshield).

[0068] This cleaning function can optimize washer fluid consumption and, due to the reduced wastewater, cause minimal external contamination on the vehicle. Furthermore, a separate cleaning device can be eliminated.

[0069] In a further variant of the present disclosure, cleaning can be performed by pivoting a sensor (e.g., camera) or lens by 180°, e.g., in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The camera can be connected to the washer fluid cycle. Behind the camera lens (in the camera housing) there can be a cavity that can serve as a washer chamber. The washer chamber can be connected to the washer fluid inlet. A drain can also be provided at the end of the washer chamber, through which the washer fluid can be removed after cleaning.

[0070] The camera lens can be mounted on a rotatable mount and can be swiveled 180°, e.g., to the vertical axis, by an electric motor during the cleaning cycle. When the camera lens is deflected, i.e., swiveled 180°, it can be rinsed or cleaned by flowing cleaning water at the appropriate pressure in the camera's internal cleaning water chamber. After the rinsing cycle, the camera can be swiveled back to its original position.

[0071] Furthermore, a motor vehicle is provided which comprises the sensor device described above.

[0072] The motor vehicle may be a passenger car, in particular an automobile, or a commercial vehicle, such as a truck.

[0073] The sensor device can be arranged on or in an outer side (and / or outer skin) of the motor vehicle.

[0074] The sensor device can be designed as part of a vehicle assistance system or vehicle assistance systems of the motor vehicle.

[0075] The motor vehicle can be automated, e.g., taking into account sensor data from the sensor device. The motor vehicle can be configured to at least partially and / or at least temporarily assume longitudinal and / or lateral guidance during automated driving of the motor vehicle by means of a control device and / or the control unit.

[0076] Automated driving can be implemented in such a way that the motor vehicle's movement is (largely) autonomous. Automated driving can be controlled at least partially and / or temporarily by a control device and / or the control unit.

[0077] What has been described above with reference to the sensor device also applies analogously to the motor vehicle and vice versa.

[0078] Below are optional embodiments with reference to Fig. 1 to 8 described. Fig. 1 to 3 schematically show a sensor device according to the disclosure according to a first embodiment, Fig. 4 to 6 schematically show the sensor device according to a second embodiment, and Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 schematically shows the sensor device according to a third embodiment.

[0079] The Fig. Figures 1 to 8 show three embodiments of the sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C for a motor vehicle. These embodiments can be combined with one another, and it is also conceivable that individual aspects of one embodiment could also be provided in another embodiment.

[0080] For better comparison, the sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C is aligned identically with respect to the respective coordinate system displayed in the figures, with the X-direction being aligned parallel to the viewing direction SR of the sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C. The Y-direction and Z-direction run transversely and perpendicularly to the viewing direction SR, respectively, with the Y-direction corresponding to a width direction and the Z-direction to a height direction of the sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C, e.g., in a mounted state in or on a motor vehicle.

[0081] The sensor device 1A, 1B, 1C comprises a sensor housing 3, a sensor optics 2 arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing 3, and a supply line 6 for a cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics 2.

[0082] In the Fig. 1 to 3, the first embodiment of the sensor device 1A comprises an eyelid device. The eyelid device has a movable eyelid 5 for covering the sensor optics 2 and a movement mechanism for moving the eyelid 5, wherein the supply line 6 is formed at least partially in or on the movement mechanism.

[0083] The lid 5 has a lip 4, e.g. a rubber lip, which can be guided over an outer surface of the sensor optics 2 by moving the lid 5 for cleaning the sensor optics 2.

[0084] The eyelid 5 can be guided by pivoting over the sensor optics 2 to selectively cover or open the sensor optics 2. For this purpose, the movement mechanism has a pivot arm 7 for pivoting the eyelid 5. The pivot arm 7 is connected to the eyelid 5 at a first end and rotatably mounted at a second end, e.g., on a suspension or pivot bearing 8.

[0085] In Fig. 1, the lid 5 can be pivoted downward to cover the sensor optics 2 or pivoted upward to open (or expose) the sensor optics 2 or the field of view of the sensor optics 2. The pivot bearing 8 can be arranged, for example, on a fastening arrangement not shown, e.g., a scaffold, and / or on the motor vehicle. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the sensor housing 3 and the length of the pivot arm 7 are dimensioned such that the pivot bearing 8 can be arranged on the sensor housing 3.

[0086] As shown, the lid 5 can have a curved or concave shape that is adapted (at least in sections) to the shape of the outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can, for example, be made of a hard or bend-resistant material, so that the lips 4 rest against the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 in any pivoting position of the lid 5.

[0087] The supply line 6 of the sensor device 1A is formed, at least in part, within the pivoting arm 7. The supply line 6 can extend to the first end of the pivoting arm 7 and, at the first end, have an outlet 12 for discharging the cleaning fluid on an inner side of the eyelid 5, which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 (at least when the sensor optics 2 is partially or completely covered by the eyelid 5).

[0088] When cleaning the sensor optics 2 or its outer surface, the cleaning fluid is discharged via the supply line 6 at the outlet 12, so that the cleaning fluid can be distributed between the inside of the lid 5 and the outer surface of the sensor optics 2, thus forming a cleaning fluid film. Accordingly, the lid 5 is controlled to pivot and thereby guide the lip 4 over the entire outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can be pivoted several times between a covered position, in which the sensor optics 2 is completely covered by the lid 5, and an open position, in which the sensor optics is not covered, in order to guide the lip 4 several times over the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 and thereby remove as much of the cleaning fluid as possible from the sensor optics 2 (or thereby clean the outer surface of the sensor optics 2).

[0089] In the Fig. Figures 4 to 6 show a second embodiment of the sensor device 1B, which, similar to the first embodiment (sensor device 1A), has an eyelid device with a movable eyelid 5 and a movement mechanism. Furthermore, the eyelid 5 also has a lip 4, which can be guided over an outer surface of the sensor optics 2 by moving the eyelid 5 to clean the sensor optics 2.

[0090] In this second embodiment, the eyelid 5 can be guided over the sensor optics 2 by rotating it to selectively cover or open the sensor optics 2. For this purpose, the movement mechanism has a drive mechanism 10, 11 for rotating the eyelid 5, wherein the drive mechanism 10, 11 is arranged in the sensor housing 3.

[0091] The lid 5 of the sensor device 1B can be rotatable into the sensor housing 3 and, in a position in which the sensor optics 2 are not completely covered by the lid 5, can be arranged within the sensor housing 3 at least partially behind the sensor optics 2.

[0092] In Fig. 4 shows a state in which the lid 5 covers approximately half of the sensor optics 2 or the outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can be rotated by means of the drive mechanism 10, 11 such that the lid 5 moves upwards or downwards (over the sensor optics 2) in the directions indicated by the double arrow shown, thereby covering the sensor optics 2 (at least partially or completely) or opening the sensor optics 2 or the field of view of the sensor optics 2.

[0093] As shown, the eyelid 5 can have a curved or concave shape and, for example, be made of a flexible material, so that the eyelid 5 encloses at least a part of the sensor optics 2 and optionally additionally at least a part of the sensor electronics 9 arranged on the sensor optics 2 in every rotational position of the eyelid 5 and the lip(s) 4 rests against the sensor optics 2 or the sensor electronics 9 in every rotational position.

[0094] Fig. 6 shows the sensor device 1B, similar to Fig. 5, in a front view, whereby the sensor housing 3 and the sensor optics 2 are not shown to illustrate the drive mechanism 10, 11. In other words, in Fig. 6 only the eyelid 5 with its drive mechanism 10, 11 is shown.

[0095] Thus, the drive mechanism 10, 11 of the sensor device 1B comprises a drive chamber 10 and a drive element 11. The cleaning fluid can flow into the drive chamber via the outlet 12. The drive element 11 is mechanically connected to the lid 5 via the mechanical connection 13 to rotate the lid 5. The drive element 11, which can be designed, for example, as a paddle wheel, can be driven by the inflowing cleaning fluid.

[0096] Furthermore, an outer outlet opening 14 is formed on the drive chamber 10 such that the cleaning fluid can be discharged onto an inner side of the lid 5, which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The outlet opening 14 can, for example, be a passage that extends through an outer wall of the drive chamber 10 and a portion of the lid 5 and is formed, for example, on or adjacent to the mechanical connection 13.

[0097] When cleaning the sensor optics 2 or their outer surface, the cleaning fluid is discharged via the outlet opening 14, e.g., without pressure, so that the cleaning fluid can spread between the inside of the lid 5 and the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 (and / or the sensor electronics 9) and thus form a cleaning fluid film. Accordingly, the lid 5 is controlled to rotate and thereby guide the lip 4 over the entire outer surface of the sensor optics 2. The lid 5 can be rotated several times between a covered position, in which the sensor optics 2 is completely covered by the lid 5, and an open position, in which the sensor optics is not covered, in order to guide the lip 4 several times over the outer surface of the sensor optics 2 and thereby remove as much of the cleaning fluid as possible from the sensor optics 2.

[0098] In the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 shows a third embodiment of the sensor device 1C, which is characterized, among other things, in that the sensor optics 2 (optionally together with or separately from the sensor electronics 9) is rotatably mounted.

[0099] Thus, the sensor device 1C comprises a cleaning chamber 15, which is formed within the sensor housing 3 behind the sensor optics 2. The cleaning chamber 15 can be filled with the cleaning fluid via the supply line 6 or the outlet 12 of the supply line 6.

[0100] The sensor optics 2 are rotatably mounted such that, in a rotated position, the sensor optics 2 protrudes at least partially into the cleaning chamber 15 for cleaning the sensor optics 2. For example, the sensor optics 2 can be rotatable by 180° and / or rotatable such that an outer surface of the sensor optics 2 is arranged within the cleaning chamber 15 in the rotated position of the sensor optics 2.

[0101] The cleaning chamber 15 can be formed as a cavity in the sensor housing 3, which is bounded at least partially on one side by the sensor optics 2 (and / or the sensor electronics 9). For this purpose, the cleaning chamber 15 can have an opening in which the sensor optics 2 is rotatably arranged. Accordingly, the sensor optics 2 can rotate within this opening and, in a rotated position, protrude at least partially into the cleaning chamber 15.

[0102] The sensor optics 2 (and / or optionally the sensor electronics 9) can close the opening, optionally in a fluid-tight manner, when the sensor optics 2 is either in the normal position or in a position rotated by 180° for cleaning the sensor optics 2. A sealing lip or sealing ring 17 can be provided to ensure fluid-tight closure of this opening by the sensor optics 2.

[0103] Fig. 7 shows, by way of example, the sensor optics 2 in a position in which the sensor optics is rotated by 90° from its normal position or position of use.

[0104] As in Fig. 8, a rotary drive 18, e.g. an electric motor, for rotating the sensor optics 2 can be provided in or on the sensor housing 3, which can be mechanically connected to the sensor optics 2, e.g. via a rotary shaft.

[0105] The Fig. The double arrows shown in Figure 8 show, by way of example, that the sensor optics 2 can be rotated horizontally and / or vertically. Other directions of rotation, e.g., around a cross-sectional axis of the sensor optics 2, are also conceivable.

[0106] Furthermore, the cleaning chamber 15 can have a controllable and / or closable outlet 16 for the cleaning fluid, so that the cleaning fluid can be reused after cleaning the sensor optics 2.

[0107] When cleaning the sensor optics 2 or its outer surface, the rotatable sensor optics 2 is rotated 180° from its normal position so that the outer surface of the sensor optics 2, optionally completely, is located in the cleaning chamber 15. The cleaning chamber is then filled with the cleaning fluid. After cleaning, e.g., after a predetermined period of time after the cleaning chamber has been filled with the cleaning fluid, the drain 16 is opened to allow the cleaning fluid to drain away, and the sensor optics 2 is then rotated back to its normal position. List of reference symbols 1A, 1B, 1C Sensor device 2 Sensor optics 3 sensor housings 4 Lippe 5 Eyelids 6 Supply line 7 Swivel arm 8 pivot bearings 9 Sensor electronics 10 drive chamber 11 Drive element 12 Outlet 13 mechanical connection 14 Outlet opening 15 Cleaning chamber 16 Procedure 17 Sealing ring 18 Rotary drive 19 Rotating shaft QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2021 206 782 A1

[0006] DE 10 2013 213 415 A1

[0007] DE 10 2017 221 530 A1

[0008]

Claims

[1] Sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) for a motor vehicle, the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprising: - a sensor housing (3); - a sensor optics (2) arranged in an outer wall of the sensor housing (3); and - a supply line (6) for a cleaning fluid for cleaning the sensor optics (2); characterized by that the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) comprises: - an eyelid device, comprising: - a movable lid (5) for covering the sensor optics (2); and - a movement mechanism (7; 10, 11) for moving the eyelid (5), wherein the supply line (6) is formed at least in sections in or on the movement mechanism (7; 10, 11); and / or - a cleaning chamber (15) formed within the sensor housing (3) behind the sensor optics (2), wherein - the cleaning chamber (15) can be filled with the cleaning liquid via the supply line (6), and - the sensor optics (2) are rotatably mounted in such a way that the sensor optics (2) in a rotated position for cleaning the sensor optics (2) protrudes at least partially into the cleaning chamber (15). [2] Sensor device (1A; 1B) according to claim 1, characterized by that the lid (5) has a lip (4) which can be guided over an outer surface of the sensor optics (2) for cleaning the sensor optics (2) by a movement of the lid (5). [3] Sensor device (1A) according to claim 2, characterized by in that the movement mechanism (7) has a pivoting arm (7) for pivoting the eyelid (5), which is connected to the eyelid (5) at a first end and is rotatably mounted at a second end, wherein the supply line (6) is formed at least in sections within the pivoting arm (7). [4] Sensor device (1A) according to claim 3, characterized bythat the supply line (6) is formed up to the first end of the pivoting arm (7) and has an outlet (12) at the first end for discharging the cleaning fluid on an inner side of the lid (5), which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics (2). [5] Sensor device (1B) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by in that the movement mechanism (10, 11) has a drive mechanism (10, 11) for rotating the lid (5), wherein the drive mechanism (10, 11) is arranged in the sensor housing (3) and the supply line (6) ends with an outlet (12) for discharging the cleaning liquid on or in the drive mechanism (10, 11). [6] Sensor device (1B) according to claim 5, characterized bythat the lid (5) can be rotated into the sensor housing (3) and, in a position in which the sensor optics (2) are not completely covered by the lid (5), is arranged at least partially behind the sensor optics (2) within the sensor housing (3). [7] Sensor device (1B) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that the drive mechanism (10, 11) comprises: - a drive chamber (10) into which the cleaning liquid can flow via the outlet (12); - a drive element (11) which is mechanically connected to the lid (5) for rotating the lid (5) and which can be driven by the inflowing cleaning fluid; and - an outlet opening (14) which is formed on the drive chamber (10) in such a way that the cleaning fluid can be discharged on an inner side of the lid (5) which faces the outer surface of the sensor optics (2). [8] Sensor device (1C) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the sensor optics (2) is rotatable by 180° and / or is rotatable such that an outer surface of the sensor optics (2) is arranged within the cleaning chamber (15) in the rotated position of the sensor optics (2). [9] Sensor device (1C) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by that the cleaning chamber (15) has a controllable and / or closable outlet (16) for the cleaning liquid. [10] Motor vehicle, characterized by that the motor vehicle comprises the sensor device (1A; 1B; 1C) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

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