System for expelling materials deposited on a vehicle window, associated process, and vehicle equipped with such a system.

Abstract

The invention aims to provide a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window, with low maintenance costs for the user and a low environmental footprint. The solution proposed by the invention is a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window, notable in that it comprises an air projection device (1) configured to project an airflow capable of expelling said materials from said window.

Description

Title of the invention: System for expelling materials deposited on a vehicle window, associated method, and vehicle equipped with such a system. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of vehicle window cleaning systems and more particularly to systems for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on the vehicle windshield. State of the art

[0002] Windshield wiper-type cleaning systems are known that equip contemporary vehicles. A windshield wiper comprises a scraper driven in motion on the surface of the vehicle's windshield so as to scrape off solid and / or liquid materials deposited on said windshield. The invention of the windshield wiper seems to date back to the 1900s; for example, a description can be found as early as 1903 in document US743801A (ANDERSON M.). Since then, the windshield wiper has been improved numerous times.

[0003] Nevertheless, the windshield wiper has certain major drawbacks. Indeed, friction on the windshield causes significant wear of the wiper, the wiper then losing efficiency as said wear progresses. However, this loss of efficiency is accompanied by a deterioration in the driver's visibility through the windshield, which can be very dangerous. The wiper must therefore be changed regularly, which generates both a cost for the user, and a negative ecological impact on the one hand due to the waste produced by the used wipers and on the other hand due to the large quantity manufacturing of replacement wipers.

[0004] Also, the windshield wiper often proves ineffective when snow or frost accumulates on the windshield. Indeed, it is not uncommon for the wiper to get stuck under the weight of the snow, or for the scraper to slide over the frost without removing it from the windshield.

[0005] Furthermore, when solid materials are deposited on the windshield, the scrapers tend to press said solid materials onto said windshield when they move them, thus producing scratches on the surface of said windshield. The appearance of this scratching phenomenon is, in particular, very frequent in regions of the globe where sand is found in abundance, for example in the Middle East countries. In the long run, the multiple scratches make the windshield opaque and thus degrade the driver's visibility through said windshield. The windshield must then be changed regularly, generating as previously both a cost for the user, and times a negative ecological impact.

[0006] Finally, polluted ambient air may contain fatty compounds that can be deposited on the windshield by rainwater. When the windshield wiper attempts to sweep away these fatty compounds, greasy traces form on the surface of the windshield, further impairing the driver's visibility through said windshield. To clean these greasy traces, it is possible to spray a chemical product such as a detergent. However, these chemical products have a cost for the user and also pose major ecological problems, on the one hand due to their manufacturing process, and on the other hand due to their spraying outside the vehicle and therefore in nature.

[0007] Therefore, the invention aims to provide a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window: • safe, that is to say, allowing good visibility to be maintained by the driver through said window, • low maintenance cost for the user, i.e., extending the maintenance-free life of the system, and • low ecological footprint, in particular by limiting the production of spare parts and waste, as well as by limiting the use of chemical products. Disclosure of the invention

[0008] The solution proposed by the invention is a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window, remarkable in that it comprises an air projection device configured to project a flow of air capable of expelling said materials from said window.

[0009] Thus, such a system makes it possible to do without a squeegee or any element rubbing against the window, and in particular against the windshield and / or the rear window. The user therefore no longer needs to change the squeegees, which no longer need to be produced. In addition, the parts of such a system need little, if any, replacement over time. This results in a reduction in maintenance costs for the user as well as a reduction in the ecological footprint through production savings and waste reduction.

[0010] Also, the system does not require the use of chemicals, such as detergents. The user therefore no longer needs to obtain chemicals that no longer need to be produced. This also results in a reduction in maintenance costs for the user as well as a reduction in the ecological footprint through production savings and waste reduction.

[0011] In addition, by blowing the solid and / or liquid materials deposited on the window, the system makes it possible to limit the pressure exerted on said materials so as to reduce significantly reduces the risk of scratching or spreading of greasy compounds on said window. This system therefore allows the driver to maintain good visibility through said window and therefore increases safety for the driver and any passengers. The user also no longer needs to replace the window, and in particular the windshield, which no longer needs to be produced in such large quantities. This also results in a reduction in maintenance costs for the user as well as a reduction in the ecological footprint through production savings and waste reduction.

[0012] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to provide an efficient air projection device, the air projection device comprises: • a collection member configured to collect an incoming air flow flowing at an initial speed, • an acceleration member configured to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow, • an ejection member configured to eject the accelerated air flow so as to create an ejected air flow capable of expelling said materials from said window.

[0013] According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to use at least part of the air opposing the movement, in forward gear, of the vehicle to supply air to the air projection device, the collection member comprises an inlet orifice capable of collecting a flow of air opposing the movement, in forward gear, of the vehicle.

[0014] According to yet another advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to accelerate the air flow passively, the acceleration member comprises an acceleration tube whose internal section area decreases in the direction of flow so as to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow.

[0015] According to yet another advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to actively accelerate the air flow, the acceleration member comprises an air compressor so as to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow.

[0016] According to yet another advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to switch between passive operation using air opposing the movement, when moving forward, of the vehicle and active operation using an air compressor when the vehicle is stationary: • the air compressor has a suction port capable of collecting an air flow separate from the air flow coming from the inlet port, • the throttle member includes a selector valve configured to stop the flow of air from the inlet port when the air compressor is operating.

[0017] According to yet another advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to limiting the maximum air pressure in the ejection member, the acceleration member comprises a pressure regulator configured to regulate the air pressure of the accelerated air flow entering the ejection member.

[0018] According to yet another advantageous characteristic of the invention making it possible to distribute the air flow into several zones of the window, the ejection member comprises: • at least two nozzles capable of ejecting the accelerated air flow, and • a ramp configured to distribute the accelerated air flow between the at least two nozzles.

[0019] A variant having the same advantages relates to a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a motorcycle helmet window, remarkable in that it comprises an air projection device configured to project a flow of air capable of expelling said materials from said window.

[0020] Another aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle comprising at least one window, remarkable in that it is equipped with a system, according to the invention, for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on said at least one window. Such a vehicle makes it possible to offer its driver optimal visibility through its window(s), and in particular the windshield and / or the rear window, without using a windshield wiper or a chemical product.

[0021] Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window, in which a flow of air is projected so as to expel said materials from said window.

[0022] Thus, such a method makes it possible to do without a squeegee or any element rubbing on the window, and in particular on the windshield and / or the rear window. The user therefore no longer needs to change the squeegees which no longer need to be produced. Furthermore, the method can be implemented by a system, the parts of which have little, if any, need to be replaced over time. This results in a reduction in maintenance costs for the user, as well as a reduction in the ecological footprint through production savings and waste reduction.

[0023] Also, this process does not require the use of chemicals, such as detergents. The user therefore no longer needs to obtain chemicals that no longer need to be produced. This also results in a reduction in maintenance costs for the user as well as a reduction in the ecological footprint through production savings and waste reduction.

[0024] Furthermore, by blowing the solid and / or liquid materials deposited on the window, the method makes it possible to limit the pressure exerted on said materials so as to considerably reduce the risks of scratching or spreading of fatty compounds on said window. This method therefore makes it possible to maintain good visibility for the driver through said window and therefore to increase safety for the driver and his passengers. possible. The user also no longer needs to replace the glass, and in particular the windshield, which no longer needs to be produced in such large quantities. This results, again, in a reduction in maintenance costs for the user as well as a reduction in the ecological footprint through production savings and waste reduction. Description of figures

[0025] Other features and advantages of the invention will emerge from reading the description given below of particular embodiments of the invention, given for information purposes only, but not as a limitation, with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0026] [Fig-1] is a schematic view of an embodiment of the expulsion system of solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a window of a vehicle according to the invention,

[0027] [Fig.2] is a schematic view of the orientation of the nozzles of an embodiment of the invention in relation to a vehicle window. Detailed description

[0028] The solution proposed by the invention is a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a window (101) of a vehicle (10), hereinafter referred to as the “system”. This system is intended to equip a vehicle (10), the latter being described in more detail in the remainder of the description. The invention may, in addition, be a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a motorcycle helmet window, hereinafter referred to as the “system for a motorcycle helmet”. The motorcycle helmet window is often referred to as a “visor”.

[0029] The solid and / or liquid materials, hereinafter the "materials", may comprise solely solid materials, and / or solely liquid materials and / or a mixture of the two. The solid and / or liquid materials may, for example, may, in particular, comprise sand, and / or earth, and / or rainwater, and / or snow, and / or frost, and / or oil or an oil derivative, and / or mud, and / or any other material that is deposited on a window (101) of a vehicle (10) and / or a motorcycle helmet.

[0030] Referring to figure [Fig.l], the system that is the subject of the invention comprises an air projection device (1). The latter is configured to project a flow of air capable of expelling the materials from the window (101). Thanks to this flow of air, the materials, and in particular, rain, sand, and greasy particles, are expelled from the window (101) without risking scratching said window or creating greasy traces. Visibility by the driver through the window (101) is therefore maintained optimal, in dry weather as well as in rainy weather. Similarly, the system for a motorcycle helmet comprises an air projection device (1) as described previously.

[0031] As shown in figure [Fig.l], the air projection device (1) can comprise a collection member (2). The latter may be configured to collect an incoming air flow flowing at an initial speed. Similarly, the air projection device (1) of the motorcycle helmet system may comprise a collection member (2) as described previously.

[0032] The collection member (2) may comprise a collection casing (21). The collection casing (21) may be made of metallic material, and / or plastic material, and / or composite material, and / or any other material suitable to a person skilled in the art. The collection member (2) of the motorcycle helmet system may similarly comprise a collection casing (21) of the same type as that previously described.

[0033] The collection member (2) may comprise an inlet orifice (22). The latter may be capable of collecting an air flow opposing the forward movement of the vehicle (10). The inlet orifice (22) may be circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong, or in any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. The inlet orifice (22) may be arranged on the collection casing (21). The inlet orifice (22) may have a diameter of between 100 mm and 300 mm, or a length of between 10 mm and 1500 mm and a width of between 50 mm and 300 mm. When the vehicle (10) has a grille, the inlet orifice (22) may be arranged at the level of said grille. When the vehicle (10) has a hood, the inlet orifice (22) can be arranged at an air intake provided on said hood.The inlet orifice (22) may also be arranged at an air intake provided anywhere on the vehicle (10), for example on the side portion of said vehicle (10), or on the upper portion of said vehicle (10). The collection member (2) may also comprise a plurality of inlet orifices (22) arranged at different locations on the vehicle (10), and in particular those listed above. The collection member (2) of the motorcycle helmet system may, in a similar manner, comprise an inlet orifice (22) of the same type as that previously described. The inlet orifice (22) is then capable of collecting an air flow opposing the forward movement of the motorcycle helmet. The inlet orifice (22) is, in this case, preferably arranged on the upper portion of the motorcycle helmet, above the window or visor.

[0034] The collection member (2) may comprise a collection chamber (23). The latter may be arranged inside the collection casing (21). The collection chamber (23) may be in the form of a cylinder with a cross-section of shape and / or dimensions identical or similar to that of the inlet orifice (22). The collection chamber (23) may also be in the form of a cylinder with a cross-section of shape and / or dimensions different from that of the inlet orifice (22). Generally speaking, the collection chamber (23) may be in the form of a cylinder with a cross-section of circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong, or other shape, in the form of a parallelepiped, or in any other form suitable to a person skilled in the art. The collection chamber (23) may have a depth of between 10 mm and 200 mm. The collection member (2) of the motorcycle helmet system may also comprise a collection chamber (23) of the same type as that previously described.

[0035] The collection member (2) may comprise an inlet air filter (24). The latter may be configured to filter the air flow entering through the inlet orifice (22). In particular, the inlet air filter (24) may be configured to filter sand particles contained in the inlet air flow. The air filter (24) may also be configured to filter other solid and / or liquid particles. The inlet air filter (24) may be arranged at the inlet orifice (21). In other embodiments, the inlet air filter (24) may be arranged in the collection chamber (23). The inlet air filter (24) is an air filter known to those skilled in the art. The inlet air filter (24) may be flat, or cylindrical, or have any shape suitable to those skilled in the art. The inlet air filter (24) can also be in the form of a grid.The inlet air filter (24) may be made of metallic material, and / or plastic material, and / or paper, and / or any other material suitable to a person skilled in the art. The inlet air filter (24) may be removable from the collection housing (21) and, as such, may be fixed to said collection housing by screwing, by clipping, or by any other removable fixing means suitable to a person skilled in the art. The inlet air filter (24) may advantageously be dry-cleanable, and / or under running water, and / or by reversing the direction of circulation of the air flow. The collection member (2) of the motorcycle helmet system may also comprise an inlet air filter (24) of the same type as that previously described.

[0036] As shown schematically in figure [Fig.l], the air projection device (1) may comprise an acceleration member (3). The latter may be configured to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow. Similarly, the air projection device (1) of the motorcycle helmet system may comprise an acceleration member (3).

[0037] In a first passive embodiment of the acceleration member (3), the latter may comprise an acceleration tube (32) whose internal section area decreases in the direction of flow so as to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow. The acceleration tube (32) may be made of metallic material, and / or plastic material, and / or composite material, and / or any other material suitable to a person skilled in the art. The acceleration tube (32) may be fixed to the collection casing (21) by permanent or removable mechanical assembly. Preferably, the acceleration tube (32) forms an acceleration chamber (323) communicating with the collection chamber (23). The acceleration tube (32) may be equipped with a hatch access hatch (324) allowing access to the acceleration chamber (323). The user can then, via the access hatch (324), carry out maintenance operations, in particular, checks on the integrity of the acceleration chamber (323) or cleaning it. The acceleration tube (32) comprises an internal inlet section (321) and an internal outlet section (322). The internal inlet section (321) may have a circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong shape, or any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. The internal inlet section (321) may have a diameter of between 100 mm and 300 mm, or a length of between 10 mm and 1,500 mm and a width of between 50 mm and 300 mm. Preferably, the internal inlet section (321) is of identical or similar shape and / or dimensions to that of the collection chamber (23).The internal outlet section (322) may have a circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong shape, or any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the internal outlet section (322) has a circular shape. The internal outlet section (322) may have a diameter of between 20 mm and 70 mm. Advantageously, the area of ​​the internal outlet section (322) is at least 10 times smaller than the area of ​​the internal inlet section (321). The reduction in the area of ​​the internal section is preferably progressive. Thus, the internal inlet section (321) may be spaced from the internal outlet section (322) by a length of between 30 mm and 200 mm. Advantageously, the shape of the tube (2) between the internal inlet section (321) and the internal outlet section (322) is substantially conical. The acceleration member (3) of the motorcycle helmet system may comprise an acceleration tube (32) similar to that previously described.Advantageously, the acceleration tube (32) is arranged on the upper and / or rear part of the helmet.

[0038] In a second active embodiment of the acceleration member (3), the latter may comprise an air compressor (33) so as to increase the flow rate of the collected air flow. The air compressor (33) is of the type known to those skilled in the art. In particular, the air compressor (33) may be of the axial compressor, vane compressor, screw compressor, scroll compressor, gear compressor, lobe compressor, diaphragm compressor, or any other compressor suitable to those skilled in the art. The compressor is preferably configured to operate at an operating pressure of between 0.5 bar and 10 bar. In certain embodiments, the air compressor (33) may be driven by the vehicle engine (10) via pulleys, a belt and possibly a reducer or a multiplier.

[0039] The air compressor (33) may comprise a suction port (331). The latter may be connected to the collection chamber (23) so as to allow the passage of the air flow coming from the inlet port (22). Alternatively, the port suction port (331) may be open to the air. Thus, the suction port (331) may be capable of collecting an air flow separate from the air flow coming from the inlet port (22). In such a configuration where the acceleration member (3) comprises an air compressor (33), but no acceleration tube (32), and where the suction port (331) is open to the air, then the suction port (331) acts as an inlet port (22) of the collection member (2).

[0040] The air compressor (33) may be equipped with a suction air filter (332). This air filter is of a type known to those skilled in the art. In a configuration where the acceleration member (3) comprises an air compressor (33), but no acceleration tube (32), and where the suction orifice (331) is in the open air, then the suction air filter (332) acts as an inlet air filter (24) of the collection member (2).

[0041] In a third hybrid embodiment of the acceleration member (3), shown in [Fig.l], said acceleration member may comprise: • both an acceleration tube (32) as previously described, and • both an air compressor (33) as described previously.

[0042] In such a configuration, the suction orifice (331) is distinct from the inlet orifice office (22), and the possible suction air filter (332) is different from the possible inlet air filter (24). The acceleration member (3) can then comprise a connector (34) comprising: • a first input branch communicating with the acceleration tube (32), • a second input branch communicating with the air compressor (33), and • an output branch.

[0043] The connector (34) is a pneumatic connector of the type known to those skilled in the art. In particular, the connector (34) may be a T or Y connector, or any other connector suitable to those skilled in the art. The connector (34) may be made of metallic material, and / or plastic material, and / or composite material, and / or any other material suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0044] The acceleration member (3) may then comprise a selection valve (35). The latter may be configured to stop the flow of the air stream from the inlet orifice (22) when the air compressor (33) is in operation. The selection valve (35) is a pneumatic valve of the type known to those skilled in the art. The selection valve (35) may for example be arranged between the first inlet branch of the connector (34) and the acceleration tube (32).

[0045] The acceleration member (3) may also comprise a non-return valve (36). The latter may be configured to: • stop the flow of air towards the air compressor (33), when said air compressor is stopped, and • allow the flow of air from said air compressor, when said air compressor is operating.

[0046] The non-return valve (36) is a pneumatic non-return valve of the type known to those skilled in the art. The non-return valve (36) may for example be arranged between the second inlet branch of the connector (34) and the air compressor (33).

[0047] The acceleration member (3) may further comprise a reversing valve (37). The latter may be configured to stop the flow of the air stream circulating in the outlet branch of the connector (34). Thus, by opening the selection valve (35), and closing the reversing valve (37), the air compressor (33) may be configured to circulate an air stream in the opposite direction through the inlet air filter (24) so ​​as to extract the filtered particles from said inlet air filter. The latter may thus be cleaned without needing to dismantle it from the collection casing (21). The reversing valve (37) is a pneumatic valve of the type known to those skilled in the art. The reversing valve (37) may for example be arranged downstream of the outlet branch of the connector (34).

[0048] Similarly, by opening the selector valve (35), and closing the reversing valve (37), the air compressor (33) may be configured to operate in reverse so as to circulate a flow of air in reverse direction through the suction air filter (332) so as to extract the filtered particles from said suction air filter (332). The suction air filter (332) may thus be cleaned without the need to disassemble it from the air compressor (33). In this embodiment, a bypass equipped with a bypass valve may be arranged so as to be able to bypass the non-return valve (36). The bypass valve may, for example, be a normally closed pneumatic valve known to those skilled in the art.

[0049] The air projection device (1) may comprise an ejection member (4). The latter may be configured to eject the accelerated air flow so as to create an ejected air flow capable of expelling said materials from the window (101). Similarly, the air projection device (1) of the motorcycle helmet system may also comprise an ejection member (4).

[0050] The ejection member (4) may comprise at least two nozzles (41) capable of ejecting the accelerated air flow. The nozzles (41) may be arranged at the lower edge (1014) of the window (101), and / or at the upper edge (1015) of said window, and / or at the right lateral edge of said window, and / or at the left lateral edge of said window. In an advantageous embodiment, the nozzles (41) are only arranged at the lower edge (1014) of the window (101). Preferably, the nozzles (41) arranged at an edge are spaced 50 mm to 250 mm apart along the edge. Advantageously, the number of nozzles (41) arranged at a border corresponds to the maximum number of nozzles that can be arranged along said border while respecting a determined spacing between said nozzles. In certain embodiments, the number of nozzles (41) arranged at a border may be less than this maximum number.

[0051] The nozzles (41) are blowing nozzles of the type known to those skilled in the art. The nozzles (41) may all be identical, or differ from each other.

[0052] According to a first example of embodiment of a nozzle (41) shown diagrammatically in figure [Fig.l], said nozzle may be in the form of a tube of constant circular internal section. Preferably, the internal section has a diameter of less than 1 mm.

[0053] According to an advantageous embodiment of a nozzle (41), the latter may be in the form of a tube, comprising a circular internal inlet section and a circular internal outlet section, the area of ​​said circular internal inlet section being greater than the area of ​​said circular internal outlet section. Thus, by its reduction in circular internal section, the nozzle (41) is configured to accelerate the flow of air passing through. Preferably, the circular internal outlet section has a diameter less than 5 mm and the circular internal inlet section has a diameter at least 3 times greater than said diameter of said circular internal outlet section. In particular, the nozzle (41) may comprise at least one conical part as shown in the figure [Fig.2].

[0054] Referring to figures [Fig.l] and [Fig.2], a nozzle (41) generally comprises a blowing axis (411). The latter corresponds to the average direction in which the air flow is ejected from the nozzle (41). The blowing axis (411) is preferably substantially parallel to the outer surface plane (1013) of the window (101). In alternative embodiments, the blowing axis (411) may be inclined at an angle (a) relative to the outer surface plane (1013) of the window (101) and in the direction of the outer surface (1011) of said window. Cleverly, the angle (a) is between 1° and 10°. In other alternative embodiments, the blowing axis (411) is oriented at any inclination suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0055] The ejection member (4) of the motorcycle helmet system may also comprise at least two nozzles (41) as previously described. These nozzles (41) are advantageously arranged at the level of the maxillary protection of the helmet, under the window or visor. In alternative embodiments, the nozzles (41) may be arranged on the upper part of the helmet, above the window or visor.

[0056] Referring to figure [Fig.l], the ejection member (4) may comprise a ramp (42) configured to distribute the accelerated air flow between the at least two nozzles (41). The ramp (42) may be made of metallic material, and / or plastic material, and / or composite material, and / or any other material suitable for humans of the art. The ramp (42) may be in the form of a tube. The latter may be straight, or curved, or have any shape allowing it to adapt to the bodywork and / or any other part of the vehicle (10). The tube forming the ramp (42) may have a circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong cross-section, or any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. The tube may have a constant internal cross-section or a variable cross-section. The internal cross-section of the tube may have a diameter of between 10 mm and 70 mm, or a length and / or a width of between 10 mm and 70 mm. The tube may have a height of between 500 mm and 5,000 mm, or even more. In particular, when the vehicle is a car, the tube may have a height of between 500 mm and 2,000 mm. Advantageously, the height of the tube corresponds to the length of the window (101) to within plus or minus 400 mm.The ramp (42) may comprise an inlet opening (421) communicating with the outlet branch of the connector (34). The ramp (42) may also comprise a series of outlet openings. Each nozzle (41) may then be arranged at one of the outlet openings. In a particular embodiment, each outlet opening acts as a nozzle (41).

[0057] The ejection member (4) of the motorcycle helmet system may also comprise a ramp (42) as previously described. This ramp (42) is advantageously arranged inside the maxillary protection of the helmet.

[0058] The system may also comprise a nozzle cleaning device (41). This cleaning device may be configured to clean a single nozzle (41) at a time. In this case, the cleaning device is configured to be arranged at a nozzle (41). In alternative embodiments of the cleaning device, the latter may be configured to clean several nozzles at a time, or even all the nozzles at a time. In this case, the cleaning device is configured to be arranged against the ramp (42). The cleaning device may comprise one or more active cleaning members such as one or more brushes, and / or one or more air jets, and / or one or more water jets, and / or any other active cleaning member suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0059] The ejection member (4) may comprise a pressure regulator (43) configured to regulate the air pressure of the accelerated air flow entering said ejection member. The pressure regulator (43) is a pneumatic pressure regulator of the type known to those skilled in the art. In particular, the pressure regulator (43) may be configured to: • maintain the circulation of the air flow from the outlet branch of the connector (34) to the ramp (42) as long as the air pressure in the ramp (42) is below a threshold pressure, • stop the circulation of the air flow from the outlet branch of the connector (34) to the ramp (42) when the air pressure in the ramp (42) is equal to or greater than said threshold pressure.

[0060] The threshold pressure of the pressure regulator (43) may be adjustable. The threshold pressure of the pressure regulator (43) may, for example, be between 1 bar and 10 bar.

[0061] The air projection device (1) may comprise a heating member (5). The latter may be configured to heat the air flow. The heating member (5) may be arranged between the acceleration member (3) and the ejection member (4). In an alternative embodiment, the heating member (5) may be integrated into the ejection member (4). The heating member (5) is particularly relevant when the materials deposited on the window (101) comprise snow and / or frost. Indeed, the projection of a hot air flow cleverly makes it possible to melt the snow and / or frost. The heating member (5) may comprise a heating resistor (51). The latter is a heating resistor of the type known to those skilled in the art. The heating resistor may be configured to heat the air to a temperature between 30°C and 70°C.

[0062] The air projection device (1) may comprise a detection member. The latter may be configured to detect the presence of solid and / or liquid materials deposited on the window (101). The detection member may also be configured to detect the movement and / or speed of the vehicle (10). The detection member may comprise one or more optical sensors, and / or one or more acoustic sensors, and / or one or more thermal sensors and / or one or more movement sensors and / or one or more speed sensors and / or any other sensor suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0063] The air projection device (1) may comprise a control console (7). The latter may comprise one or more switches and / or one or more selectors that can be manually operated by a user. The switch(es) and / or the selector(s) may be mechanical, or even digital, for example, in the form of a touch interface. The control console (7) is advantageously arranged in the passenger compartment of the vehicle (10).

[0064] The air projection device (1) may comprise a control member (6). The latter may be configured to control the various actuators of the air projection device (1). In particular, the control member (6) may be configured to control the following actuators: the air compressor (33), the selection valve (35), the reversing valve (37), the heating resistor (51). The control of the actuators may be pneumatic, hydraulic or electrical. The control member (6) may be in the form of an electronic circuit. The latter may also be configured to acquire data from the sensor(s) of the control member (6). detection and / or the switch(es) and / or selector(s) of the control panel (7). The control member (6) may comprise a microprocessor and a memory on which a computer program is recorded. In practice, the execution of the computer program by the microprocessor allows the acquisition of data and the control of the various actuators previously described.

[0065] Several of the previously described organs, and components of the air projection device (1), can be physically combined into a single physical organ fulfilling all of the functions of said organs.

[0066] The system that is the subject of the invention may also comprise a liquid projection device, not shown. The latter may be configured to project a liquid capable of detaching the materials from the window (101). Thus, in certain particular cases, it may be advantageous to detach the materials from the window (101) before projecting a flow of air by means of the air projection device (1). The projected liquid is preferably water. In alternative embodiments, the projected liquid may be any other liquid suitable to a person skilled in the art, for example a detergent product.

[0067] The liquid projection device may comprise a reservoir. The latter is configured to contain the liquid to be projected. The reservoir may have a cylindrical, parallelepiped, cubic, spherical shape, or any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. The reservoir may have a capacity of between 500 ml and 100,000 ml, or even more. The reservoir may be made of metallic material, and / or plastic material, and / or composite material, and / or any other material suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0068] The tank may comprise a feed orifice. The latter may be configured to allow the introduction of liquid into the tank. The feed orifice may have a circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong shape, or any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. The feed orifice may have a diameter of between 10 mm and 100 mm, or a length of between 10 mm and 100 mm and a width of between 10 mm and 100 mm. Advantageously, the feed orifice is arranged on the upper part of the tank. The feed orifice may be equipped with a removable cap configured to close said orifice so as to prevent liquid from escaping from the tank through said feed orifice when the vehicle (10) is in motion.The removable cap may be temporarily attached to the feed port to close it by screwing, by press-fitting, or by any other temporary attachment means suitable to those skilled in the art.

[0069] The reservoir may include an extraction orifice. The latter may be configured to allow extraction of the liquid contained in the reservoir. The extraction orifice may have a circular, rectangular, triangular, oval, oblong shape, or any other shape suitable to a person skilled in the art. The extraction orifice may have a diameter of between 3 mm and 100 mm, or a length of between 3 mm and 100 mm and a width of between 3 mm and 100 mm. Advantageously, the extraction orifice is arranged on the upper part of the tank.

[0070] The liquid projection device may comprise a pump. The latter may be configured to pump the liquid contained in the tank through the extraction orifice. The pump may be of the axial rotary pump type, centrifugal rotary pump or any other type of pump suitable to a person skilled in the art. The pump may have a flow rate of 30 l / h to 800 l / h. In certain embodiments, the pump may be driven by the engine of the vehicle (10) via pulleys, a belt and possibly a reducer or a multiplier.

[0071] The liquid projection device may comprise one or more hydraulic nozzles. The latter are capable of ejecting the pumped liquid. The hydraulic nozzle(s) may be arranged at the lower edge (1014) of the window (101), and / or at the upper edge (1015) of said window, and / or at the right lateral edge of said window, and / or at the left lateral edge of said window. In an advantageous embodiment, the hydraulic nozzle(s) are only arranged at the lower edge (1014) of the window (101). Preferably, the hydraulic nozzle(s) arranged at an edge are spaced 50 mm to 250 mm along the edge. Advantageously, the number of hydraulic nozzles arranged at a border corresponds to the maximum number of hydraulic nozzles that can be arranged along said border while respecting a determined spacing between said hydraulic nozzles.In some embodiments, the number of hydraulic nozzles arranged at a border may be less than this maximum number. The hydraulic nozzles are of the nozzle type known to those skilled in the art. The hydraulic nozzles may all be identical, or differ from each other.

[0072] A hydraulic nozzle generally comprises a spray axis. The latter corresponds to the average direction in which the liquid is ejected from the hydraulic nozzle. The spray axis is preferably substantially parallel to the outer surface plane (1013) of the window (101). In alternative embodiments, the spray axis may be inclined at an angle (b) relative to the outer surface plane (1013) of the window (101) and in the direction of the outer surface (1011) of said window. Cleverly, the angle (b) is between 1° and 10°. In other alternative embodiments, the spray axis is oriented at any inclination suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0073] The liquid projection device may comprise a hydraulic ramp configured to distribute the pumped liquid between the hydraulic nozzle(s). The hydraulic ramp may have a shape, dimensions and be made of materials similar to the ramp (42) previously described. The hydraulic ramp may have an inlet opening communicating with the pump. The hydraulic ramp may also have a series of outlet openings. Each hydraulic nozzle may then be arranged at one of the outlet openings of the hydraulic ramp. In a particular embodiment, each outlet opening acts as a hydraulic nozzle.

[0074] The liquid projection device may comprise a heating member. The latter may be configured to heat liquid. The heating member may be arranged between the pump and the hydraulic ramp. In an alternative embodiment, the heating member may be integrated into the hydraulic ramp. The heating member is particularly relevant when the materials deposited on the window (101) comprise snow and / or frost. Indeed, the projection of a hot liquid cleverly makes it possible to melt the snow and / or frost. The heating member may comprise a sealed heating resistor. The latter is a sealed heating resistor of the type known to those skilled in the art. The sealed heating resistor may be configured to heat the liquid to a temperature between 30°C and 70°C.

[0075] The liquid projection device may comprise a control panel. The latter may comprise one or more switches and / or one or more selectors that can be manually operated by a user. The switch(es) and / or the selector(s) may be mechanical, or may be digital, for example, in the form of a touch interface. The control panel is advantageously arranged in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The control panel (7) of the air projection device (1) and the control panel of the liquid projection device may be physically combined into a single control panel.

[0076] The liquid projection device may comprise a control member. The latter may be configured to control the various actuators of the liquid projection device. In particular, the control member may be configured to control the following actuators: the pump and the sealed heating resistor. The pump may be controlled pneumatically, hydraulically or electrically. The control member may be in the form of an electronic circuit. The latter may also be configured to acquire data from the sensor(s) of the detection member described above and / or from the switch(es) and / or selector(s) of the control panel of the liquid projection device. The control member may comprise a microprocessor and a memory on which a computer program is recorded. In practice, the execution of the program in computerized by the microprocessor allows data acquisition and control of the pump and possibly the sealed heating resistor. The control member (6) of the air projection device (1) and the control member of the liquid projection device can be physically combined into a single control member.

[0077] Another aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle (10). The vehicle (10) may be a car, a truck, a tractor, an airplane, a boat, or any other vehicle suitable to those skilled in the art. The vehicle (10) comprises at least one window (101). In particular, one of the windows (101) may be a windshield. Similarly, one of the windows (101) may be a rear window. Some vehicles (10) may comprise a single windshield. Other vehicles (10) may comprise two or more windshields. Similarly, some vehicles (10) may comprise a single rear window and others a plurality of rear windows. The windows (101) of the vehicle (10) may also be side windows. The invention may further relate to a motorcycle helmet, hereinafter the “motorcycle helmet”. The latter also comprises a window, often referred to as a “visor”.

[0078] The window (101) generally comprises an outer surface (1011) arranged outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle (10), a lower edge (1014), an upper edge (1015), a right side edge and a left side edge. The outer surface (1011) of the window (101) may be flat. In this case, the outer surface plane (1013) is called the outer surface (1011) of the window (101). The outer surface (1011) of the window (101) may be curved. In this case, the outer surface plane (1013) is called the plane tangential to the outer surface (1011) of the window (101) passing through the middle (1012) of said window. The window of the motorcycle helmet is similar to the window (101) previously described.

[0079] This vehicle (10) is remarkable in that it is equipped with a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on the at least one window (101) such as that described above. When a vehicle (10) has several windows (101), said vehicle may be equipped with a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials per window (101). In alternative embodiments, the vehicle (10) may be equipped with a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials on several windows (101). In still other alternative embodiments, the vehicle (10) may be equipped with a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials on one or some windows (101). Similarly, the motorcycle helmet is remarkable in that it is equipped with a system for motorcycle helmets such as that described above.

[0080] Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a window (101) of a vehicle (10). This method comprises the following step: • projecting a flow of air so as to expel the materials from the window (101).

[0081] To do this, the method may, for example, comprise the following sub-steps: • al) collecting an incoming airflow flowing at an initial speed, • bl) increasing the flow speed of the collected airflow, • dl) eject the accelerated airflow so as to create an ejected airflow capable of expelling said materials from the glass (101).

[0082] According to a first passive mode of implementation of the method, when the air projection device (1) comprises a collecting member (2), step a1) can be implemented by said collecting member. Step a1) can then comprise the sub-step: • a1 1) collecting an air flow opposing the forward movement of the vehicle (10).

[0083] In practice, step a1 1) is implemented by the inlet orifice (22) facing the front of the vehicle (10) and making it possible to collect this air flow when the vehicle (10) moves forward. Also, when the air projection device (1) comprises an air compressor (33), a non-return valve (36), a selection valve (35) and a control member (6), the latter controls the opening, or maintaining the opening, of said selection valve, and the stopping, or maintaining it when stopped, of said air compressor. The non-return valve (36) for its part remains normally closed. Similarly, when the air projection device (1) comprises a reversing valve (37), the control member (6) controls the opening, or maintaining the opening, of said reversing valve.

[0084] Step a1) may also comprise a second sub-step: • a12) filtering the air flow.

[0085] In practice, step a12) is implemented by the inlet air filter (24).

[0086] According to a second active mode of implementation of the method, when the device of air projection device (1) comprises an air compressor (33), step a1) can be implemented by the suction port (331) of said air compressor which acts as an inlet port (22) of the collector member (2). When the air projection device (1) also comprises an inlet port (22), a non-return valve (36), a selection valve (35) and a control member (6), the latter controls the closing, or maintaining the closure, of said selection valve, and the starting of the air compressor (33). The non-return valve (36) under the effect of the pressure of the air leaving the air compressor (33) opens so as to allow the air flow to pass. Likewise, when the air projection device (1) comprises a reversing valve (37), the control member (6) controls the opening, or the maintenance of the opening, of said reversing valve.

[0087] In this alternative, step a1) may also comprise a second sub-step: a 12) filter the air flow.

[0088] In practice, step al2) of the method is implemented by the suction air filter (332).

[0089] According to the first passive mode of implementation of the method, step b1) can be implemented by the acceleration tube (32). According to the second active mode of implementation of the method, step b1) can be implemented by the air compressor (33).

[0090] Regardless of the method of implementing the method, step dl) can be implemented by the ejection member (4). In particular, step dl) can comprise the two sub-steps: dl 1) distribute the accelerated airflow, dl2) eject the accelerated airflow.

[0091] Step dl 1) can, in practice, be implemented by the ramp (42) and step dl2) implemented by the nozzles (41).

[0092] According to a third heating mode of implementation, the method can comprise the following sub-steps: al) collect an incoming air flow flowing at an initial velocity, bl) increase the flow rate of the collected airflow, cl) heat the accelerated air flow, d2) ejecting the accelerated and heated air flow so as to create a heated ejected air flow capable of expelling said materials from the window (101).

[0093] Steps a1) and b1) can be implemented in an identical manner to the implementations previously described and in particular according to one or other of the first passive mode or the second active mode.

[0094] Step cl) can in practice be implemented by the heating resistor (51).

[0095] Step d2) can be implemented in a manner identical to the implementation of step dl).

[0096] In order to ensure maintenance of the system, a method of cleaning the inlet filter (24) may comprise the step: n24) circulating a reverse flow of air through said inlet air filter.

[0097] In practice, to implement step n24), the control member (6): controls the closing, or maintaining the closing, of the reversing valve (37) controls the opening, or maintaining the opening, of the selection valve (35) controls the start of the air compressor (33).

[0098] The non-return valve (36) under the effect of the pressure of the air leaving the air compressor opens so as to allow the flow of air which circulates in the opposite direction to pass through through the tube (32), then through the inlet air filter (24). By passing through it in the opposite direction, the air flow detaches the filtered particles and thus cleans the inlet air filter (24).

[0099] Also for the purpose of ensuring system maintenance, a method of cleaning the intake air filter (332) may comprise the step:

[0100] n332) circulating a flow of air in the opposite direction through said air filter suction.

[0101] In practice, to implement step n332), the control member (6): • controls the closing, or the maintenance of the closing, of the reversing valve (37), • controls the opening, or keeping the opening, of the selection valve (35), • control the opening of the bypass valve, • controls the start of the air compressor (33) in the reverse direction.

[0102] The check valve (36) remains closed, but air can flow through the bypass and the bypass valve. The air is drawn in through the inlet port. The air flow flows through the tube (32), through the bypass, into the air compressor (31) and then is discharged in the opposite direction through the suction air filter (332). By passing through it in the opposite direction, the air flow dislodges the filtered particles and thus cleans the suction air filter (332).

[0103] The first passive mode, the second active mode and the third heating mode for implementing the method can be selected via the control panel (7), or automatically by the control member (6) based on data from the detection member. For example, if the detection member detects the presence of snow, the control member (6) can select the third heating mode. Similarly, if the detection member detects that the vehicle (10) is stationary, the control member (6) can select the second active mode. Similarly, if the detection member detects that the vehicle (10) is moving at a speed greater than a threshold value, the control member (6) can select the first passive mode. If the vehicle (10) decreases its speed below the threshold value, then the control member (6) can reselect the second active mode and so on.Likewise, it is also possible to select the implementation of a cleaning process for the inlet filter (24) or the suction air filter (332) by means of the control panel (7). Alternatively, the control unit can automatically decide on the implementation of a cleaning process for the inlet filter (24) or the suction air filter (332), for example, cyclically after a determined number of operating hours.

[0104] The method may also comprise the following step: • spray a liquid so as to detach said materials from the glass (101).

[0105] This step can be carried out before and / or after the step of projecting a flow of air so as to expel the materials from the window (101). In practice, this step is implemented by pumping the liquid contained in the reservoir by means of the pump, the pumped liquid then circulating in the hydraulic ramp to the hydraulic nozzles through which said liquid is projected.

[0106] The method may also comprise the following step: • spray a liquid at a temperature above 30°C so as to detach said materials from said window (101).

[0107] This step can be carried out before and / or after the step of projecting a flow of air so as to expel the materials from the window (101). In practice, this step is implemented by pumping the liquid contained in the reservoir by means of the pump, by heating the liquid by means of the sealed heating resistor, the pumped liquid then circulating in the hydraulic ramp to the hydraulic nozzles through which said liquid is projected.

Claims

Claims

1. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window, characterized in that it comprises an air projection device (1) configured to project a flow of air capable of expelling said materials from said window.

2. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to claim 1 characterized in that the air projection device (1) comprises: • a collection member (2) configured to collect an incoming air flow flowing at an initial speed, • an acceleration member (3) configured to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow, • an ejection member (4) configured to eject the accelerated air flow so as to create an ejected air flow capable of expelling said materials from said window.

3. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to claim 2, characterized in that the collection member (2) comprises an inlet orifice (22) capable of collecting an air flow opposing the forward movement of the vehicle.

4. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the acceleration member (3) comprises an acceleration tube (32) whose internal section area decreases in the direction of flow so as to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow.

5. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the acceleration member (3) comprises an air compressor (33) so as to increase the flow speed of the collected air flow.

6. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to claim 5 in combination with claim 3 characterized in that: • the air compressor (33) comprises a suction orifice (331) capable of collecting an air flow distinct from the air flow coming from the inlet orifice (22), • the acceleration member (3) comprises a selection valve (35) configured to stop the flow of air flow from the inlet port (22) when the air compressor (33) is in operation.

7. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the ejection member (4) comprises a pressure regulator (43) configured to regulate the air pressure of the accelerated air flow entering said ejection member.

8. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the ejection member (4) comprises: • at least two nozzles (41) capable of ejecting the accelerated air flow, and • a ramp (42) configured to distribute the accelerated air flow between said at least two nozzles.

9. System for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a motorcycle helmet window, characterized in that it comprises an air projection device (1) configured to project a flow of air capable of expelling said materials from said window.

10. Vehicle (10) comprising at least one window (101) characterized in that it is equipped with a system for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on said at least one window according to one of claims 1 to 8.

11. Method for expelling solid and / or liquid materials deposited on a vehicle window, in which a flow of air is projected so as to expel said materials from said window.

Images