Vehicle monitoring device

Abstract

To provide a vehicle monitoring apparatus capable of improving stability and reliability.SOLUTION: A vehicle monitoring apparatus includes: a camera 200 disposed in a vehicle lamp 100; a guide duct 310 configured to guide outside air introduced into the vehicle; and a nozzle connected to the guide duct 310 and configured to jet the outside air to a front side of the camera 200, thereby enabling an advantageous effect of improving stability and reliability.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle monitoring device, and more specifically, to a vehicle monitoring device capable of improving stability and reliability.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, vehicles are equipped with various lamps having a lighting function for easily checking objects located around the vehicle during night driving and a signaling function for notifying other vehicles and road users of the driving state of the vehicle.

[0003] For example, mainly, headlamps (headlights or front headlights) and fog lamps for the purpose of the lighting function, and turn signal lamps, tail lamps, brake lamps, side markers, etc. for the purpose of the signaling function are provided, and such vehicle monitoring devices are regulated by laws regarding their installation standards and specifications so as to fully exhibit each function.

[0004] Among vehicle monitoring devices, headlamps that form a low beam pattern or a high beam pattern to ensure the driver's forward view during night driving play a very important role in safe operation.

[0005] In recent years, various attempts have been made to ensure safe driving during vehicle travel by attaching a camera to a vehicle lamp and enabling the driver to monitor a peripheral image of the vehicle (for example, an image of a blind spot area) taken by the camera through a screen.

[0006] On the other hand, when foreign substances such as moisture and dust are present in front of the camera, the image quality by the camera deteriorates. Therefore, in order to accurately capture a peripheral image of the vehicle, it is necessary to maintain a clean state without moisture and dust in front of the camera.

[0007] However, conventionally, there has been a problem in rainy weather where interference (image distortion) caused by rainwater (water droplets) on the surface of the vehicle's lamp (for example, the outer surface of the outer lens) makes it difficult to accurately capture images of the area around the vehicle.

[0008] Therefore, in recent years, various studies have been conducted to effectively remove rainwater from the front of the camera and acquire accurate image information, but these are still insufficient, and further development is needed. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a vehicle monitoring device that can improve stability and reliability.

[0010] In particular, the embodiments of the present invention aim to effectively remove rainwater from in front of a camera installed on a vehicle lamp using traveling wind, thereby enabling accurate capture of images of the area surrounding the vehicle.

[0011] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present invention aim to simplify the structure and manufacturing process, thereby improving space utilization and design flexibility.

[0012] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention aim to minimize power consumption and effectively remove rainwater in front of the camera.

[0013] The problems that this embodiment aims to solve are not limited to those described here, and can also include the objectives and effects that can be understood from the means and embodiments for solving the problems described below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned objectives of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device includes a camera provided on a vehicle lamp, a guide duct for guiding outside air flowing into the vehicle, and a nozzle connected to the guide duct for spraying outside air in front of the camera.

[0015] This is to effectively remove rainwater from the front of the camera, improving stability and reliability.

[0016] In other words, if moisture and dust or other foreign matter are present in front of the camera installed on the vehicle's lamp, the image quality from the camera will deteriorate. Therefore, in order to accurately capture images of the vehicle's surroundings, the area in front of the camera must be kept clean and free of moisture and dust.

[0017] However, conventionally, there has been a problem in rainy weather where interference (image distortion) caused by rainwater (water droplets) on the surface of the vehicle's lamp (for example, the outer surface of the outer lens) makes it difficult to accurately capture images of the area around the vehicle.

[0018] However, in the embodiment of the present invention, by using outside air flowing into the vehicle (wind generated by the vehicle's movement) to remove rainwater that has accumulated in front of the camera, it is possible to effectively remove rainwater from in front of the camera, thereby obtaining the advantageous effect of accurately capturing images of the area around the vehicle.

[0019] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention can minimize the use of motors and pumps for forcibly supplying air to remove rainwater from the front of the camera, thereby simplifying the structure and manufacturing process, reducing costs, and achieving the advantageous effect of minimizing power consumption.

[0020] The structure of vehicle lamps can be modified in various ways depending on the required conditions and design specifications.

[0021] As an example, a vehicle lamp can include a light source and an outer lens provided in front of the light source to form an appearance, and the camera can be provided inside the outer lens.

[0022] The nozzle can be formed in various structures capable of injecting outside air in front of the camera.

[0023] Preferably, the nozzle can inject outside air onto the outer surface of the outer lens corresponding to the front of the camera outside the outer lens.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a part of the guide duct is provided to pass through the engine room of the vehicle, and the outside air can be heated by the heat of the engine room while moving along the guide duct.

[0025] In this way, by making a part of the guide duct pass through the engine room of the vehicle, the outside air injected onto the surface of the outer lens through the guide duct can be heated, so that the rainwater adhering to the surface of the outer lens can be removed and the surface of the outer lens can be dried, and an advantageous effect can be obtained.

[0026] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a part of the guide duct is provided to pass through the internal space of the vehicle lamp, and the outside air can be heated by the internal heat of the vehicle lamp while moving along the guide duct.

[0027] In this way, by making a part of the guide duct pass through the internal space of the vehicle lamp, the outside air injected onto the surface of the outer lens through the guide duct can be heated, so that the rainwater adhering to the surface of the outer lens can be removed and the surface of the outer lens can be dried, and an advantageous effect can be obtained.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device can include a Venturi duct provided between the guide duct and the nozzle.

[0029] The structure of the Venturi duct can be variously changed according to the required conditions and design specifications. As an example, the Venturi duct can be connected to a guide duct and include a first duct portion having a first cross-sectional area, and a second duct portion having a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area, with one end connected to the first duct portion and the other end connected to a nozzle.

[0030] Thus, by providing a Venturi duct between the guide duct and the nozzle, it is possible to increase the injection speed of the outside air injected onto the surface of the outer lens, and an advantageous effect of further improving the removal efficiency of rainwater adhering to the surface of the outer lens can be obtained.

[0031] Furthermore, since it is not necessary to provide another pump or motor for increasing the flow rate of the outside air, an advantageous effect of simplifying the structure and manufacturing process and reducing costs can be obtained.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device can include a valve provided in at least one of the guide duct and the nozzle for selectively adjusting the injection amount of the outside air injected through the nozzle.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device can be provided on a vehicle lamp and include a sensing sensor for sensing rainwater in front of the camera, and a control unit for selectively opening and closing the valve based on a signal sensed by the sensing sensor.

[0034] Thus, by using the sensing sensor to sense rainwater in front of the camera and allowing the valve to open only when rainwater is sensed, an advantageous effect of minimizing contamination and damage to the outer lens caused by foreign matter flowing in through the guide duct can be obtained.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device may include a moving unit that selectively moves the position of the nozzle outlet end relative to the camera.

[0036] This is to selectively vary the position of the nozzle's outlet end, thereby improving the efficiency of rainwater removal.

[0037] Preferably, the control unit can selectively move the position of the nozzle outlet based on video information captured by the camera.

[0038] For example, the control unit can control the movement unit so that the nozzle's outlet end moves towards a target area with moisture among multiple visual information areas detected by the camera.

[0039] In this way, by positioning the nozzle outlet towards the target area where rainwater has accumulated among the multiple visual information areas detected by the camera, outside air can be concentrated on the target area where rainwater has accumulated, resulting in the advantageous effect of shortening the rainwater removal time and further improving the efficiency of rainwater removal.

[0040] The moving unit can be provided with various structures that allow for the selective movement of the nozzle's outlet end.

[0041] As an example, the moving unit may include a first moving part that moves the nozzle outlet end relative to the camera along a first direction, and a second moving part that moves the nozzle outlet end relative to the camera along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0042] In this way, by having the nozzle outlet end move along the first and second directions, which intersect with each other, via the first and second moving parts, the nozzle outlet end can be positioned more accurately in the target area, resulting in the advantageous effect of improving the efficiency of rainwater removal.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first moving part may include a first base member and a first moving member to which the outlet end of a nozzle is connected and which moves relative to the first base member along a first direction.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second moving part may include a second base member and a second moving member connected to the first base member and moving relative to the second base member along a second direction.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device may include a fan provided in the guide duct for forcibly circulating outside air.

[0046] In this way, by installing a fan in the guide duct, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of improving the intake efficiency and intake volume of outside air flowing into the guide duct.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device may include an air compressor provided between the venturi duct and the nozzle for compressing outside air.

[0048] In this way, by installing an air compressor between the venturi duct and the nozzle, and ensuring that the outside air guided along the guide duct is compressed before being sprayed through the nozzle, the spraying force (injection pressure) of the outside air sprayed onto the surface of the outer lens is improved, resulting in the advantageous effect of improving the efficiency of rainwater removal.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device includes an ejector provided at the outlet end of a nozzle, the ejector being provided with a first inlet port into which outside air flows, a second inlet port into which ambient air surrounding the nozzle flows, and an outlet port into which the outside air and ambient air are mixed and injected.

[0050] By providing an ejector at the nozzle outlet, the flow rate and velocity of the outside air sprayed in front of the camera can be improved, resulting in the advantageous effect of further improving the efficiency of removing rainwater that has accumulated in front of the camera.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device may include a rainwater guide groove provided on the outer surface of an outer lens corresponding to the front of the camera, which guides rainwater adhering to the outer surface of the outer lens along the outer region in front of the camera.

[0052] In this way, by forming a rainwater guide groove along the outer front region of the camera, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of minimizing the amount of rainwater that accumulates on the surface of the outer lens flowing down to the front of the camera.

[0053] Preferably, a rainwater inflow line can be formed at the top of the rainwater guide channel, and a rainwater discharge line can be formed at the bottom of the rainwater guide channel.

[0054] In this way, by forming a rainwater inflow line above the rainwater guide channel that communicates with the rainwater guide channel, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of effectively guiding rainwater that has accumulated on the surface of the outer lens from the front upper part of the camera into the rainwater guide channel.

[0055] Furthermore, by forming a rainwater discharge line at the bottom of the rainwater guide channel so as to communicate with the rainwater guide channel, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect that rainwater flowing into the rainwater guide channel is discharged immediately downwards without stagnating or overflowing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0056] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates a guide duct as part of a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]This diagram illustrates a nozzle as part of a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure illustrates another example of a guide duct as a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure illustrates a sensing sensor and a valve as part of a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates a control unit and a mobile unit as part of a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention, specifically the visual information area captured by a camera. [Figure 8] This figure illustrates a first mobile unit and a second mobile unit as a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure illustrates an ejector as a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure illustrates an ejector as a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates a rainwater guide channel as a vehicle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0057] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0058] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described, and may be realized in various forms that are different from each other. Within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of its components can be selectively combined or substituted between embodiments.

[0059] Furthermore, unless explicitly defined, terms used in embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a way that is generally understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, and commonly used terms, such as those defined in dictionaries, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant art.

[0060] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0061] In this specification, the singular form may also include the plural form unless otherwise specified in the text, and when it says "A and / or at least one of B and C," it may include one or more of all possible combinations of A, B, and C.

[0062] Furthermore, when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used.

[0063] Such terminology is used to distinguish one component from another, and the terminology does not limit the essence, order, or sequence of that component.

[0064] Furthermore, when it is stated that one component is “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, joined, or connected to the other component, but also cases where it is “connected,” “joined,” or “connected” by yet another component between that component and the other component.

[0065] Furthermore, when describing something as being formed or positioned "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or positioned between the two components. Also, when expressed as "above" or "below," it can include not only the meaning of "above" but also "below," with respect to one component.

[0066] Referring to Figures 1 to 11, the vehicle monitoring device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a camera 200 provided on a vehicle lamp 100, a guide duct 310 for guiding outside air flowing into the vehicle, and a nozzle 400 connected to the guide duct 310 for spraying outside air in front of the camera 200.

[0067] For reference, the vehicle lamp 100 constituting the vehicle monitoring device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be used primarily for illumination functions (e.g., headlights, fog lights) or for signaling functions (e.g., turn signal lamps, taillights, brake lights, side markers), and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the application of the vehicle lamp 100.

[0068] As an example, the vehicle lamp 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be installed on the front left and front right sides of a vehicle 20 and used as a headlamp for the vehicle 20.

[0069] The structure of the vehicle lamp 100 can be modified in various ways depending on the required conditions and design specifications, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure of the vehicle lamp 100.

[0070] As an example, referring to Figure 1, the vehicle lamp 100 may include a light source 110 and an outer lens 120 provided in front of the light source 110 to form its exterior.

[0071] Various objects or devices capable of emitting light can be used as the light source 110, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and characteristics of the light source 110.

[0072] As an example, a semiconductor light-emitting element, such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), can be used as the light source 110, and depending on the required conditions and design specifications, multiple LEDs emitting light of the same or different colors can be used. According to other embodiments of the present invention, a laser diode, bulb, halogen, xenon (HID), etc., can also be used as the light source.

[0073] The outer lens 120 is positioned in front of the light source 110 to protect the light source 110 and surrounding components from moisture, dust, and external impacts, and to form the exterior.

[0074] The outer lens 120 can be formed from a light-transmitting material that allows light to pass through, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the material and structure of the outer lens 120.

[0075] In another embodiment of the present invention, an inner lens (e.g., an aspherical lens) or other optical element may be provided between the light source and the outer lens to project the light reflected from the reflector outwards. Alternatively, the light generated from the light source may be configured to be reflected to the outer lens through a reflector (not shown).

[0076] Camera 200 is installed on the vehicle ramp 100 to capture images of the area surrounding the vehicle 20 (for example, images of the side of the vehicle), and the driver can monitor the images of the area surrounding the vehicle 20 captured by camera 200 through a screen installed inside the vehicle 20.

[0077] As an example, referring to Figures 1 and 3, the camera 200 can be mounted inside the outer lens 120. Below, an example is described in which the lens portion of the camera 200 is formed to protrude from the outer surface of the outer lens 120. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the camera can also be positioned at a distance from the inner surface of the outer lens 120.

[0078] Various types of cameras 200 capable of capturing images of the surrounding area of ​​the vehicle 20 can be used as the camera 200, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and characteristics of the camera 200. For example, the camera 200 can be a camera 200 using a CCD (solid-state image sensor) image sensor or a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) image sensor.

[0079] The guide duct 310 is provided to guide outside air flowing into the vehicle to the nozzle 400, and the outside air guided along the guide duct 310 to the vehicle lamp 100 can be sprayed in front of the camera 200.

[0080] Here, the outside air flowing into the vehicle can be defined as the traveling wind that flows into the vehicle while the vehicle 20 is in motion.

[0081] The guide duct 310 can be formed in various structures that can guide outside air flowing into the vehicle to the vehicle lamp 100, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure of the guide duct 310.

[0082] As an example, the inlet end of the guide duct 310 can be located in the front grille of the vehicle 20 (see 22 in Figure 3), and the outside air flowing in through the inlet end of the guide duct can be guided along the guide duct 310 to the nozzle 400 (in front of the camera). According to another embodiment of the present invention, the inlet end of the guide duct can also be located in a place more adjacent to the vehicle lamp than the front grille of the vehicle (for example, below the vehicle lamp) (or in a place where the inflow of rainwater and foreign matter can be minimized).

[0083] The nozzle 400 is configured to spray outside air, guided along the guide duct 310, forward of the camera 200.

[0084] The nozzle 400 can be formed in various structures that can eject outside air in front of the camera 200, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the nozzle 400.

[0085] Preferably, the nozzle 400 can spray outside air onto the outer surface of the outer lens 120, which is located outside the outer lens 120 and in front of the camera 200.

[0086] As an example, a portion of the nozzle 400 may be located inside the outer lens 120, while the remaining portion of the nozzle 400 (e.g., the nozzle exit end) may pass through the outer lens 120 and be located outside the outer lens 120. According to another embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to position the entire nozzle outside the outer lens.

[0087] The injection angle and number of injection points of the outside air by the nozzle 400 can be changed in various ways depending on the required conditions and design specifications, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the injection angle and number of injection points of the outside air.

[0088] Referring to Figure 3, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the guide duct 310 is provided to pass through the engine compartment 24 of the vehicle 20, and outside air can be heated by the heat of the engine compartment 24 (e.g., heat generated from the engine) as it travels along the guide duct 310.

[0089] The path (bent path) of the guide duct 310 passing through the engine compartment 24 can be varied depending on the required conditions and design specifications. Preferably, the guide duct 310 is provided in a structure that does not alter the existing layout of the engine compartment 24.

[0090] In this way, by having a portion of the guide duct 310 pass through the engine compartment 24 of the vehicle 20, the outside air sprayed onto the surface of the outer lens 120 via the guide duct 310 can be heated, thereby providing the advantageous effect of removing rainwater RW from the surface of the outer lens 120 and drying the surface of the outer lens 120.

[0091] Referring to Figure 4, according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the guide duct 310 is provided to pass through the internal space 102 of the vehicle lamp 100, and outside air can be heated by the internal heat of the vehicle lamp 100 (heat generated from the light source) as it travels along the guide duct 310.

[0092] The path (bent path) of the guide duct 310 passing through the internal space 102 of the vehicle lamp 100 can be varied depending on the required conditions and design specifications. Preferably, the guide duct 310 can be positioned along the inner surface of a bezel (not shown) provided inside the outer lens 120 that defines an opening, so as not to block (interfere with) the light emitted from the light source 110 and to minimize the deterioration of design characteristics (deterioration of design characteristics due to the external exposure of the guide duct 310).

[0093] In this way, by allowing a portion of the guide duct 310 to pass through the internal space 102 of the vehicle lamp 100, the outside air sprayed onto the surface of the outer lens 120 via the guide duct 310 can be heated, thereby obtaining the advantageous effect of removing rainwater RW from the surface of the outer lens 120 and drying the surface of the outer lens 120.

[0094] In the embodiments of the present invention described above and illustrated, an example is given in which outside air is heated using heat generated from the vehicle (for example, heat generated from the engine or heat generated from a light source). However, according to other embodiments of the present invention, it is also possible to provide another heater inside the guide duct and use the heater to selectively heat the outside air moving along the guide duct.

[0095] Referring also to Figure 3, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include a venturi duct 320 provided between the guide duct 310 and the nozzle 400.

[0096] Various venturi structures can be used as the venturi duct 320, which can increase the velocity (flow rate) of the outside air guided along the guide duct 310, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the venturi duct 320.

[0097] As an example, the venturi duct 320 may include a first duct section 322 connected to the guide duct 310 and having a first cross-sectional area, and a second duct section 324 having a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area, with one end connected to the first duct section 322 and the other end connected to the nozzle 400.

[0098] For example, the second duct section 324 can be formed to have a smaller diameter than the first duct section 322, and the Venturi effect that occurs when outside air flowing into the first duct section 322 passes through the second duct section 324, which has a smaller diameter than the first duct section 322, can increase the flow velocity of the outside air.

[0099] In this way, by providing the venturi duct 320 between the guide duct 310 and the nozzle 400, the injection speed of the outside air sprayed onto the surface of the outer lens 120 can be increased, thus providing the advantageous effect of further improving the efficiency of removing rainwater RW from the surface of the outer lens 120.

[0100] Furthermore, since there is no need to install a separate pump or motor to increase the airflow velocity, the structure and manufacturing process can be simplified, resulting in the advantageous effect of reducing costs.

[0101] Referring to Figure 5, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include a valve 520 provided in at least one of the guide duct 310 and the nozzle 400 for selectively adjusting the amount of outside air injected through the nozzle 400.

[0102] The following explanation describes an example in which a valve 520 for adjusting the amount of outside air injected is provided in the guide duct 310. Alternatively, valves can be provided in both the guide duct and the nozzle.

[0103] In embodiments of the present invention, adjusting the amount of outside air injected through the nozzle 400 can be defined as either intermittently switching the flow of outside air guided along the guide duct 310 on and off, or adjusting the flow rate by adjusting the opening ratio.

[0104] Various valve 520 means capable of adjusting the amount of outside air injected can be used as the valve 520, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type of valve 520 or its operating structure. As an example, a conventional solenoid valve can be used as the valve 520.

[0105] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include a sensing sensor 510 provided on the vehicle lamp 100 and sensing rainwater RW in front of the camera 200, and a control unit 500 that selectively opens and closes a valve 520 based on the signal sensed by the sensing sensor 510.

[0106] For example, the sensing sensor 510 can be installed inside the outer lens 120 to detect rainwater (water droplets) RW in front of the camera 200.

[0107] As the sensing sensor 510, a standard rain sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) capable of sensing rainwater RW in the area in front of the camera 200 (e.g., sensing the intensity and amount of rainwater) can be used, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type of sensing sensor 510 or the sensing method.

[0108] The control unit 500 is configured to selectively open and close the valve 520 based on the signal detected by the sensing sensor 510.

[0109] For example, if the sensing sensor 510 does not detect rainwater RW (for example, when it is sunny), the control unit 500 shuts off the valve 520 to prevent foreign matter (for example, dust, insects) from entering through the guide duct 310.

[0110] On the other hand, when the sensing sensor 510 detects rainwater RW (for example, during rainy weather), the control unit 500 can either open (turn on) the valve 520 or adjust the opening degree of the valve 520 in accordance with the amount of rainwater RW detected by the sensing sensor 510.

[0111] For reference, the control unit 500 may include a semiconductor device that performs processing on instruction words stored in the central processing unit (CPU) or memory and / or storage. The memory and storage may include various volatile or non-volatile storage media. For example, the memory may include ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0112] In this way, by using the sensing sensor 510 to detect rainwater RW in front of the camera 200, and opening the valve 520 only when rainwater RW is detected, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of minimizing contamination and damage to the outer lens 120 by foreign matter flowing in through the guide duct 310.

[0113] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include a moving unit 600 that selectively moves the position of the outlet end of the nozzle 400 relative to the camera 200.

[0114] This is to improve the efficiency of removing rainwater RW by selectively varying the position of the outlet end of nozzle 400.

[0115] Preferably, the control unit 500 can selectively move the position of the outlet end of the nozzle 400 based on the video information captured by the camera 200.

[0116] The position adjustment of the nozzle 400's outlet end, based on video information captured by camera 200, can be achieved in various ways depending on the required conditions and design specifications.

[0117] For example, the control unit 500 can control the moving unit 600 so that the exit end of the nozzle 400 is directed toward a target area with moisture among the multiple visual information areas sensed by the camera 200.

[0118] In this way, by directing the outlet end of the nozzle 400 toward the target area with rainwater RW among the multiple visual information areas sensed by the camera 200, outside air can be concentrated on the target area with rainwater RW, thereby shortening the rainwater RW removal time and improving the efficiency of rainwater RW removal, which are advantageous effects.

[0119] For example, referring to Figure 7, if the camera 200 detects that rainwater RW is present in a specific target area (e.g., the first visual information area IR1, the second visual information area IR2, the sixth visual information area IR6, and the tenth visual information area IR10) among the 20 visual information areas IR defined by the video information captured by the camera 200, the control unit 500 can control the moving unit 600 so that the outlet end of the nozzle 400 faces the target area.

[0120] The mobile unit 600 can be provided with various structures that allow for selective movement of the position of the outlet end of the nozzle 400, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure of the mobile unit 600.

[0121] As an example, referring to Figure 8, the moving unit 600 may include a first moving part 610 that moves the exit end of the nozzle 400 relative to the camera 200 along a first direction, and a second moving part 620 that moves the exit end of the nozzle 400 relative to the camera 200 along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0122] In this way, by moving the position of the outlet end of the nozzle 400 along the first and second directions that intersect (for example, orthogonal) with each other via the first moving part 610 and the second moving part 620, the outlet end of the nozzle 400 can be positioned more precisely in the target area, thereby obtaining the advantageous effect of further improving the efficiency of rainwater removal.

[0123] The first movable part 610 can be formed with various structures that allow the exit end of the nozzle 400 to move relative to the camera 200 along a first direction (for example, the left-right direction with reference to Figures 7 and 8).

[0124] As an example, the first movable part 610 may include a first base member 612 and a first movable member 614 to which the outlet end of the nozzle 400 is connected and which moves relative to the first base member 612 along a first direction.

[0125] The first base member 612 can be installed inside the vehicle ramp 100, and the first movable member 614 can be connected to the first base member 612 so as to be linearly movable along the left-right direction.

[0126] In this case, the linear movement of the first movable member 614 can be performed by various known driving means. For example, the first movable member 614 can be configured to move linearly relative to the first base member 612 by a conventional air cylinder.

[0127] According to another embodiment of the present invention, permanent magnets (not shown) with north and south poles can be alternately arranged on the first base member, and a coil can be attached to the first moving member. By controlling the current applied to the coil, the first moving member can be configured to move linearly relative to the first base member using the principle of a linear motor. Alternatively, the first moving member can be configured to move linearly by a lead screw or other conventional linear motion system that is rotated by the driving force of a drive motor.

[0128] The second movable part 620 can be formed with various structures that allow the exit end of the nozzle 400 to move relative to the camera 200 along a second direction (for example, the vertical direction with reference to Figures 7 and 8).

[0129] As an example, the second movable part 620 may include a second base member 622 and a second movable member 624 connected to the first base member 612 and moving relative to the second base member 622 along a second direction.

[0130] The second base member 622 can be provided inside the vehicle ramp 100 so as to intersect (for example, perpendicular to) the first base member 612, and the second movable member 624 can be coupled to the second base member 622 so as to be linearly movable along the vertical direction.

[0131] As the second movable member 624 moves linearly in the second direction relative to the second base member 622, the first base member 612 connected to the second movable member 624 moves linearly in the second direction together with the second movable member 624, thereby allowing adjustment of the position of the outlet end of the nozzle 400 along the second direction.

[0132] In this case, the linear movement of the second moving member 624 can be performed by various known driving means, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the driving means.

[0133] Referring to Figure 9, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include a fan 700 provided in the guide duct 310 for forcibly circulating outside air.

[0134] In this way, by providing the fan 700 in the guide duct 310, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of improving the intake efficiency and intake volume of outside air flowing into the guide duct 310.

[0135] Preferably, various fans 700 can be used as the fan 700 depending on the required conditions and design specifications, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the fan 700.

[0136] As an example, an axial fan, such as a propeller fan, which generates airflow along the axial direction (the direction of rotation), can be used as the fan 700.

[0137] Referring also to Figure 9, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include an air compressor 800 provided between the venturi duct 320 and the nozzle 400 for compressing outside air.

[0138] In this way, by installing an air compressor 800 between the venturi duct 320 and the nozzle 400, and by having the outside air guided along the guide duct 310 be compressed and then sprayed through the nozzle 400, the spraying force (injection pressure) of the outside air sprayed onto the surface of the outer lens 120 is improved, and the advantageous effect of improving the efficiency of removing rainwater RW can be obtained.

[0139] As the air compressor 800, a conventional compression type air compressor 800, a rotary type air compressor 800, a centrifugal type air compressor 800, etc., can be used, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the type and structure of the air compressor 800.

[0140] Referring to Figure 9, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 includes an ejector 900 provided at the outlet end of the nozzle 400, the ejector 900 may be provided with a first inlet port 910 into which outside air A1 flows, a second inlet port 920 into which ambient air A2 of the nozzle 400 flows, and an outlet port 930 into which the outside air A1 and ambient air A2 are mixed A3 and injected.

[0141] The ejector 900 includes a first inlet port 910, a second inlet port 920, and an outlet port, and can be formed in various structures capable of mixing and injecting outside air A1 and ambient air A2, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the structure of the ejector 900.

[0142] In this way, by providing an ejector 900 at the outlet end of the nozzle 400, the flow rate and velocity of the outside air sprayed in front of the camera 200 can be improved, thus providing the advantageous effect of further improving the efficiency of removing rainwater RW attached to the front of the camera 200.

[0143] Referring to Figures 10 and 11, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle monitoring device 10 may include a rainwater guide groove 122 provided on the outer surface of an outer lens 120 corresponding to the front of the camera 200, which guides rainwater RW attached to the outer surface of the outer lens 120 along the outer region in front of the camera 200.

[0144] In this way, by forming a rainwater guide groove 122 along the outer area in front of the camera 200, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of minimizing the flow of rainwater RW that adheres to the surface of the outer lens 120 towards the front of the camera 200.

[0145] The rainwater guide channel 122 can be formed in various forms and structures that can guide rainwater RW on the surface of the outer lens 120 to the outer area in front of the camera 200, and the present invention is not limited or restricted by the form and structure of the rainwater guide channel 122.

[0146] For example, the rainwater guide channel 122 can be formed in a ring shape (or arc shape) that encloses the front periphery of the camera 200, and rainwater RW that adheres to the surface of the outer lens 120 can flow down along the rainwater guide channel 122.

[0147] Preferably, a rainwater inflow line 122a can be formed at the top of the rainwater guide channel 122 along the direction of gravity, and a rainwater discharge line 122b can be formed at the bottom of the rainwater guide channel 122.

[0148] In this way, by forming a rainwater inflow line 122a above the rainwater guide channel 122 so as to communicate with the rainwater guide channel 122, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of effectively guiding rainwater RW that has accumulated on the surface of the outer lens 120 in front of the camera 200 to the rainwater guide channel 122.

[0149] Furthermore, by forming a rainwater discharge line 122b at the lower part of the rainwater guide channel 122 so as to communicate with the rainwater guide channel 122, the advantageous effect can be obtained in that the rainwater RW that flows into the rainwater guide channel 122 is discharged immediately downwards without stagnating or overflowing.

[0150] As described above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the advantageous effect of improving stability and reliability can be obtained.

[0151] In particular, according to the embodiment of the present invention, rainwater can be effectively removed from in front of a camera installed on a vehicle lamp using traveling wind, and the advantageous effect of accurately capturing images of the area around the vehicle can be obtained.

[0152] Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, advantageous effects such as simplifying the structure and manufacturing process, and improving space utilization and design flexibility can be obtained.

[0153] Furthermore, according to the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to obtain the advantageous effects of minimizing power consumption and effectively removing rainwater in front of the camera.

[0154] Although the above description has focused on embodiments, these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Those with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of these embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be modified and implemented. Furthermore, any differences in such modifications and applications should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0155] 10. Vehicle monitoring device 20 vehicles 100 Vehicle Lamps 110 Light source 122 Rainwater drainage channel 122a Rainwater inflow line 122b Rainwater drainage line 120 Outer Lens 200 Cameras 310 Guide duct 320 Venturi duct 322 First duct section 324 Second duct section 400 nozzles 500 Control Unit 510 Sensing Sensor 520 valve 600 Mobile Units 610 First Mobile Unit 612 First base member 614 First movable member 620 Second Mobile Unit 622 Second base member 624 Second movable member 700 fans 800 Air Compressor 900 Ejectors 910 First Inflow Port 920 Second Inflow Port 930 Exit Port

Claims

1. A camera installed on a vehicle lamp, A guide duct that directs outside air into the vehicle, A nozzle connected to the guide duct and which sprays the outside air in front of the camera, A valve provided in at least one of the guide duct and the nozzle, which selectively adjusts the amount of outside air injected through the nozzle, A sensing sensor is provided in the vehicle lamp and detects rainwater in front of the camera, A control unit that selectively opens and closes the valve based on the signal detected by the sensing sensor, The unit includes a moving unit that selectively moves the position of the nozzle's outlet end relative to the camera, The aforementioned mobile unit is A first moving unit moves the outlet end of the nozzle relative to the camera along a first direction, A vehicle monitoring device comprising a second moving unit that moves the outlet end of the nozzle relative to the camera along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

2. The aforementioned vehicle lamp is Light source and The light source is provided in front of the outer lens which forms the exterior, The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the camera is provided inside the outer lens.

3. The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 2, wherein the nozzle injects the outside air onto the outer surface of the outer lens that is outside the outer lens and in front of the camera.

4. At least a portion of the guide duct is provided to pass through the engine compartment of the vehicle, The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the outside air is heated by the heat of the engine compartment as it moves along the guide duct.

5. At least a portion of the guide duct is provided to pass through the internal space of the vehicle lamp, The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the outside air is heated by the internal heat of the vehicle lamp as it moves along the guide duct.

6. The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, further comprising a venturi duct provided between the guide duct and the nozzle.

7. The aforementioned venturi duct is A first duct section connected to the guide duct and having a first cross-sectional area, The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 6, further comprising a second duct portion having a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area, one end of which is connected to the first duct portion and the other end of which is connected to the nozzle.

8. The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 6, comprising an air compressor provided between the venturi duct and the nozzle for compressing the outside air.

9. The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit selectively moves the position of the outlet end of the nozzle based on video information captured by the camera.

10. The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the moving unit so that the outlet end of the nozzle is directed toward a target area where rainwater is present among a plurality of visual information areas captured by the camera.

11. The first moving part is, First base member and The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, further comprising a first moving member to which the outlet end of the nozzle is connected and which moves relative to the first base member along the first direction.

12. The second moving part is, The second base member and The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 11, further comprising a second moving member connected to the first base member and moving relative to the second base member along the second direction.

13. The vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, further comprising a fan provided in the guide duct for forcibly circulating the outside air.

14. A camera installed on a vehicle lamp, A guide duct that directs outside air into the vehicle, A nozzle connected to the guide duct and which sprays the outside air in front of the camera, The nozzle includes an ejector provided at the outlet end of the nozzle, The vehicle monitoring device is provided with an ejector that has a first inlet port into which outside air flows, a second inlet port into which ambient air surrounding the nozzle flows, and an outlet port into which the outside air and ambient air are mixed and ejected.

15. A camera installed on a vehicle lamp, A guide duct that directs outside air into the vehicle, It includes a nozzle connected to the guide duct and which sprays the outside air in front of the camera, The aforementioned vehicle lamp is Light source and The light source is provided in front of the outer lens which forms the exterior, The camera is provided inside the outer lens, The outer lens includes a rainwater guide groove provided on the outer surface of the outer lens corresponding to the front of the camera, which guides rainwater that has accumulated on the outer surface of the outer lens along the outer region in front of the camera. A rainwater inflow line is formed at the upper part of the aforementioned rainwater guide channel. A vehicle monitoring device in which a rainwater discharge line is formed at the lower part of the aforementioned rainwater guide channel.

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