Brine mist spray nozzle system integrated with truck splash guard

Abstract

A vehicle can comprise a wheel well, a splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within the wheel well, and a plurality of nozzles. The splash shield assembly can comprise a splash shield body having an inner surface. The plurality of nozzle assemblies can each comprise at least one exit orifice facing the inner surface of the splash shield body. Fluid can be sprayed from the plurality of nozzle assemblies onto the inner surface of the splash shield body to de-ice and / or anti-ice the inner surface of the splash shield body, thereby beneficially removing or preventing the buildup of snow and / or ice within the wheel well.

Description

BRINE MIST SPRAY NOZZLE SYSTEM INTEGRATED WITH TRUCK SPLASH GUARDCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Indian Patent Application No. 202311050126, filed July 25, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to fenders and splash shields for vehicles.BACKGROUND

[0003] A vehicle typically includes a wheel well and a wheel positioned within the wheel well. In some environments, snow can build up in the wheel well. The snow can turn into ice, which can be difficult to remove and can negatively impact vehicle performance. Improvements to vehicles are thus desirable to prevent the buildup of snow and / or ice in wheel wells.SUMMARY

[0004] Described herein are vehicles, splash shield assemblies, and methods of operating vehicles. The disclosed vehicles, assemblies, and methods can, for example, help prevent snow buildup in a vehicle’s wheel well, thereby beneficially improving vehicle performance.

[0005] In some examples, a vehicle can comprise a wheel well.

[0006] In some examples, the vehicle can comprise a splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within the wheel well.

[0007] In some examples, the splash shield assembly can comprise a splash shield body having an inner surface.

[0008] In some examples, the splash shield assembly can comprise plurality of nozzle assemblies.

[0009] In some examples, each of the plurality of nozzle assemblies can comprise at least one exit orifice facing the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0010] In some examples, the plurality of nozzle assemblies can comprise a first row of nozzle assemblies and a second row of nozzle assemblies.

[0011] In some examples, first row and the second row can be spaced apart in one of a lateral direction and a longitudinal direction.

[0012] In some examples, the splash shield assembly can further comprise a nozzle assembly mount extending from the splash shield body.

[0013] In some examples, the nozzle assembly mount can secure a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies to the splash shield body.

[0014] In some examples, the nozzle assembly mount can be integrally formed with the splash shield body.

[0015] In some examples, the nozzle assembly mount can be formed separately from the splash shield body.

[0016] In some examples, at least one of the plurality of nozzles can have a spray angle in a range from 80 degrees to 85 degrees.

[0017] In some examples, the plurality of nozzle assemblies can be positioned to spray a fluid onto the entirety of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0018] In some examples, the fluid can comprise a brine solution.

[0019] In some examples, the fluid can comprise potassium acetate.

[0020] In some examples, the fluid can have a temperature from 55 °C to 80 °C when sprayed from the plurality of nozzles.

[0021] In some examples, a vehicle can comprise a wheel well and a splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within the wheel well. The splash shield assembly can comprise a splash shield body having an inner surface and a plurality of nozzles. The plurality of nozzle assemblies can each comprise at least one exit orifice facing the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0022] In some examples, a splash shield assembly can include a splash shield body, a first nozzle, and a second nozzle. The splash shield body can comprise an inner surface, an outer surface, and first and second apertures extending from the outer surface to the inner surface. The first nozzle assembly can be mounted to the outer surface of the splash shield body and aligned with the first aperture. The second nozzle assembly can be mounted to the outer surface of the splash shield body and aligned with the second aperture. Each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle can comprise an exit orifice. The exit orifice of at least one of the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly can face the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0023] In some examples, a de-icing and anti-icing assembly for a vehicle can comprise a splash shield body and a plurality of nozzles. The splash shield body can have an inner surface and an outer surface. The plurality of nozzles can be coupled to the outer surface of the splash shieldbody. The plurality of nozzles can be positioned to spray a fluid onto the entirety of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0024] In some examples, a method of operating a vehicle can comprise measuring a temperature of an ambient environment surrounding the vehicle, determining whether the measured temperature is below a threshold temperature, and in response to the determination, activating a pump to spray a fluid onto an inner surface of a splash shield assembly of the vehicle.

[0025] In some examples, a vehicle and / or a splash shield assembly can comprise one or more of the components recited in Examples 1-21 below.

[0026] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary vehicle.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a side view of a portion of an exemplary vehicle.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0030] FIG. 4A is a bottom-up view of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0031] FIG. 4B is a side view of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0032] FIG. 4C is a top-down view of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a magnified perspective view of a portion of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a magnified perspective view of a portion of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0036] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an exemplary nozzle assembly mount for a splash shield assembly.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary nozzle assembly mount for a splash shield assembly.

[0038] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an exemplary nozzle assembly mount for a splash shield assembly.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary nozzle assembly mount for a splash shield assembly.

[0040] FIGS. 12A-12C are rear, side, and bottom-up views of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0041] FIGS. 13A-13B are diagrams showing spray coverages of exemplary splash shield assemblies.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary splash shield assembly.

[0043] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary vehicle comprising a plurality of splash shield assemblies.

[0044] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary splash shield assembly.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONExplanation of Terms

[0045] For purposes of this description, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the embodiments of this disclosure are described herein. The disclosed methods, apparatus, and systems should not be construed as being limiting in any way. Instead, the present disclosure is directed toward all novel and nonobvious features and aspects of the various disclosed embodiments, alone and in various combinations and sub-combinations with one another. The methods, apparatus, and systems are not limited to any specific aspect or feature or combination thereof, nor do the disclosed embodiments require that any one or more specific advantages be present or problems be solved. The scope of this disclosure includes any features disclosed herein combined with any other features disclosed herein, unless physically impossible.

[0046] Although the operations of some of the disclosed embodiments are described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that this manner of description encompasses rearrangement, unless a particular ordering is required by specific language set forth below. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways in which the disclosed methods can be used in conjunction with other methods.

[0047] As used in this disclosure and in the claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the term “includes” means “comprises.” Further, the terms “coupled” and “associated” generally mean electrically,electromagnetically, and / or physically (e.g., mechanically or chemically) coupled or linked and does not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the coupled or associated items absent specific contrary language.

[0048] In the description, certain terms may be used such as “forward,” “front,” “rear,” “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “left,” “right,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. However, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and / or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an “upper” surface can become a “lower” surface by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object.

[0049] Similar components in different embodiments are described in the specification and illustrated in the figures with similar reference numbers for improved understanding and readability. However, it should be understood that this numbering convention is merely for convenience and is not intended to limit and / or exclude any claim scope.

[0050] Although there are alternatives for various components, parameters, operating conditions, etc., set forth herein, that does not mean that those alternatives are necessarily equivalent and / or perform equally well. Nor does it mean that the alternatives are listed in a preferred order unless stated otherwise.Overview of the Disclosed Technology

[0051] A vehicle (such as a car, truck, semi-trailer truck, etc.) typically includes a plurality of wheel wells. A wheel assembly is typically disposed within each wheel well.

[0052] In some examples, snow and / or ice (which is also referred to herein as “snow / ice” for convenience) may accumulate within a vehicle’s wheel wells, for example, when the vehicle drives through snow or is parked in a snowy environment. Snow / ice buildup can negatively impact the vehicle’s performance. For example, any combination of snow / ice accumulating within the vehicle’s wheel well can crack, warp, and / or dislodge the vehicle’s fender or splash shield. Furthermore, snow / ice buildup can damage wheel assemblies, obstruct wheel assembly rotation, reduce tire air pressure, and / or cause unwanted vibrations when the built up snow / ice rubs against the wheel assembly. Additionally, snow / ice can settle on brake disks, leading to brake failure. Snow / ice buildup can also damage other portions of the vehicle, such as suspensions and / or electronic sensors. Finally, snow / ice buildup can add extra weight to the vehicle. Any combination of such negative effects can degrade vehicle performance.

[0053] Current methods of removing snow buildup include scraping the snow from the wheel well. However, scraping snow / ice can damage the vehicle’s splash shield, wheel assembly, electronic sensors, or other vehicle components. Thus, there is a need for methods and / or assemblies to help prevent or remove snow / ice buildup within a vehicle’s wheel well.Examples of the Disclosed Technology

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary vehicle 100. Although the exemplary vehicle 100 is illustrated as a truck, the vehicle 100 may be any one of a truck, a semi-trailer truck, a car (for example, a station wagon, a hatchback, a sedan, a pickup truck, a sport utility vehicle (SUV), a van, etc.), a RV, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), heavy equipment (for example, a dump truck, an earthmover, a wheel loader, etc.), farm equipment (for example, a tractor), or any other motor vehicle. The vehicle 100 can have any type of propulsion system, including an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, an alternative fuel system (for example, a natural gas fuel system, a hydrogen fuel cell system, etc.), or any combination thereof (for example, a hybrid propulsion system). In some examples, the vehicle 100 can be a self-driving vehicle. In some examples, the vehicle 100 can be a trailer (for example, a semi-truck trailer) lacking a propulsion system. In some examples, the vehicle 100 can be an autonomous or self-driving vehicle.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a side view of a front portion of the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 comprises a fender 102 forming a wheel well 104. The wheel well 104 defines a substantially semicircular arch 106 and an inner surface 108. A wheel assembly 110 is disposed at least partially within the wheel well 104. The wheel assembly 110 comprises a tire 112 and a tire tread 114 on a circumference of the tire 112. In some examples, the vehicle 100 can optionally comprise a battery protection unit 120. The battery protection unit 120 is configured to protect a battery of the vehicle 100 from damage or debris and / or can be configured to mount the battery to a chassis of the vehicle 100. As shown, the battery protection unit 120 comprises a rigid metal bracket disposed adjacent the wheel well 104 and extending along at least a portion of the length of the vehicle 100.

[0056] The vehicle 100 further comprises a splash shield assembly 130 (which is also referred to herein as a “splash shield,’’ a “splash guard,” a “wheel well guard,” and / or a “wheel well liner”) configured to protect the vehicle’s steering, brakes, and / or suspension systems from road debris, such as ice, snow, water, dirt, sand, gravel, etc. As shown, the splash shield assembly 130 is arranged at least partially around the wheel assembly 110 and is disposed between at least a portion of the fender 102 and the wheel assembly 110. Although the illustrated splash shield assembly 130 is arranged at least partially around the front left-side wheel assembly 1 10 the splash shieldassembly 130 may be arranged around any wheel assembly of the vehicle 100 (for example, a rightside wheel assembly and / or a rear wheel assembly).

[0057] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the splash shield assembly 130. The splash shield assembly 130 comprises a splash shield body 140, a plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 mounted to the splash shield body 140 via a plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170, and a tank assembly 180 mounted to the battery protection unit 120 and in fluid connection with the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150. The splash shield assembly 130 is shown as being adjacent the battery protection unit 120. The illustrated splash shield assembly 130 can beneficially address some of the aforementioned problems caused by snow / ice buildup by preventing and / or removing snow / ice buildup from inside the wheel well.

[0058] The splash shield assembly 130 comprises a longitudinal axis 1 2 and a lateral axis 134. The longitudinal axis 132 is parallel to a longitudinal axis (for example, a front-rear axis) of the vehicle 100 when the splash shield assembly 130 is mounted onto the vehicle 100, and the lateral axis 134 (a side-to-side axis, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 132) is parallel to a lateral axis of the vehicle 100 when the splash shield assembly 130 is mounted onto the vehicle 100.

[0059] The splash shield body 140 comprises a curved shell or a structure configured to be disposed within the wheel well 104. As shown, the splash shield body 140 is a structure contoured to follow at least a portion of the arch 106 of the wheel well 104 and is flush with at least a portion of the inner surface 108 of the wheel well 104. As shown, the splash shield body 140 follows only a portion of the arch 106 and is contoured to be flush with only a portion of the inner surface 108, but some examples of the splash shield body 140 can follow the entire arch 106 and / or can be flush with the entire inner surface 108 to better shield other components of the vehicle 100 from debris.

[0060] As shown best in FIG. 4A, the splash shield body 140 further comprises an inner surface 142. The inner surface 142 is configured to face the wheel assembly 110 when the splash shield assembly 130 is mounted to the vehicle 100. The inner surface 142 can be flush with the inner surface 108 of the wheel well 104. The inner surface 142 can be a surface of the splash shield body 140 that faces the wheel assembly 130 when the wheel assembly 130 is disposed within the wheel well 104. In some examples, snow / ice can accumulate on the inner surface 142, which the splash shield assembly 130 is configured to remove. The splash shield body 140 further comprises an outer surface 144 (FIG. 3) opposite the inner surface 142. The outer surface 144 can be a surface of the splash shield body 140 that faces away the wheel assembly 130 when the wheel assembly 130 is disposed within the wheel well 104. Any one of the inner surface 142 and the outer surface 144 may be curved.

[0061] In some examples, the splash shield body 140 can be coupled to the fender 102 (for example, the inner surface 108 of the fender 102) and / or to the chassis of the vehicle 100. The splash shield body 140 can be coupled to the vehicle 100 using any fastening mechanism (for example, clips, screws, bolts, snaps, press fits, interference fits, keyed joints, adhesives, etc.).

[0062] Now referring hack to FIG. 3, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (comprising nozzle assemblies 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d, 150e, and 150f, which are also referred to herein as “nozzles,” “sprayers,” and / or “misters”) are coupled to the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140. A number of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, a first number of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 comprising nozzle assemblies 150a, 150b, 150e, and 150f) are configured to spray a fluid onto the inner surface 142 of the splash shield body 140. When the at least portion of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 spray the fluid onto the inner surface 142, the fluid can beneficially remove (“de-ice”) or prevent (“anti-ice”) snow / ice buildup. In some examples, a second number of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, nozzle assemblies 150c and 150d) can be configured to spray the fluid onto the wheel assembly 110 (for example, the tire tread 114). In some examples, the second number of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 can help dislodge snow / ice from the splash shield assembly 130 by spraying the fluid away from the inner surface 142 of the splash shield body 140, wherein the sprayed fluid dislodges and carries snow / ice away from the inner surface 142.

[0063] The fluid may comprise any substance that, when mixed with water, lowers the freezing point of the resulting solution. For example, the fluid can comprise a chemical deicer (for example, a chloride-based deicer, a non-chloride deicer, a brine solution, rubbing alcohol, anti-freeze, dish soap, or any combination thereof). When the chemical deicer is sprayed onto the snow / ice, the chemical deicer lowers the melting point of the resulting mixture of snow / ice and chemical deicer. The resulting mixture subsequently melts, thus removing snow / ice from the splash shield assembly 130. Additionally or alternatively, when sprayed onto the inner surface 142 before the inner surface 142 comes into contact with the snow / ice, the chemical deicer will prevent snow / ice buildup on the inner surface 142 by preventing the snow / ice from adhering to the inner surface 142.

[0064] In some examples, the fluid can be a brine solution comprising a mixture of rock salt (sodium chloride), water, and magnesium chloride and / or potassium acetate. In such examples, such brine solutions comprising potassium acetate be particularly effective at de-icing and / or anti- icing the splash shield assembly 130 because potassium acetate can effectively de-ice a surface at very low temperatures (for example, as low as -75 °C). In some examples, the fluid can comprise a mixture of approximately 50% water and approximately 50% propylene glycol. In some examples,the fluid can comprise a mixture of dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and water. In some examples, the fluid can further comprise one or more additives. Example additives include an anti-corrosion agent and / or an anti-freeze agent. Example anti-corrosion agents include anodic inhibitors (for example, sodium chromate, potassium chromate, nitrates, and phosphates) and cathodic inhibitors (for example, polyphosphates, pyrophosphates, metaphosphates, and organic phosphates).Example anti-freeze agents include propylene glycol, methanol, and isopropanol. In some examples, the additives can comprise 0% to 5% of the fluid.

[0065] In some examples, the fluid can be heated to further increase the fluid’s de-icing and / or anti-icing effectiveness. In some examples, the fluid can optionally be heated to a temperature above 0 °C, such as from 35 °C to 100 °C, from 45 °C to 90 °C, from 55 °C to 80 °C, etc. When the heated fluid contacts the snow / ice adhered on the inner surface 142, the snow / ice can absorb heat from the heated fluid and melt, thereby de-icing the splash shield assembly 130. Additionally or alternatively, heated fluid sprayed onto the splash shield body 140 can help anti-ice the splash shield assembly 130 by transferring heat to the splash shield body 140 upon contact. Since snow / ice is less likely to adhere to a heated surface than to an unheated surface, heating the inner surface 142 can help inhibit the buildup of snow / ice on the splash shield body 140.

[0066] Now referring back to FIG. 3, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 are mounted on the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140. In some examples, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 can be organized into a plurality of rows. In the illustrated example, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 are arranged into a first row 152 (comprising nozzle assemblies 150a and 150b), a second row 154 (comprising nozzle assemblies 150c and 150d) and a third row 156 (comprising nozzle assemblies 150e and 150f). However, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 can be arranged in any number of rows, including one row, two rows, four rows, five rows, six rows, etc. As further shown, the first row 152 comprises four nozzle assemblies, the second row 154 comprises six nozzle assemblies (best seen in FIG. 4B), and the third row 156 comprises four nozzle assemblies (best seen in FIG. 4C). Although the second row 154 is shown as comprising a greater number of nozzle assemblies than each of the first row 152 and the third row 156, the second row 154 can alternatively comprise fewer nozzle assemblies than any one of the first row 152 or the third row 156. Furthermore, other examples of each row 152, 154, and 156 can each comprise the same number of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150. Finally, it should be understood that each row 152, 154, and 156 can comprise any number of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150, including one nozzle assembly, two nozzle assemblies, three nozzle assemblies, four nozzle assemblies, five nozzle assemblies, six nozzle assemblies, seven nozzle assemblies, eight nozzle assemblies, etc. As shown, each row 152, 154, and 156 is spaced apart in the lateraldirection (along the lateral axis 134) from adjacent rows. For example, the second row 154 is shown as spaced apart in the lateral direction from both the first row 152 and the third row 156. However, any combination of rows may additionally or alternatively be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction (along the longitudinal axis 132).

[0067] FIG. 4B is a side view of the splash shield assembly 130. For clarity and convenience, the tank assembly 180 is not shown in FIG. 4B. As shown, the splash shield assembly 130 comprises the first row 152 (comprising nozzle assemblies 150a and 150b) of the plurality of nozzles 150 and the second row 154 (comprising nozzle assemblies 150c and 150d) of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 mounted to the splash shield body 140. As shown, each nozzle assembly 150c and 150d is oriented such that an exit orifice 168 (FIG. 4A) of each nozzle assembly 150c and 150d is substantially normal to the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140. In this orientation, the nozzle assemblies 150c and 150d can spray fluid out of their respective exit orifices 168 and directly onto the wheel assembly 110 (for example, onto the tire tread 114 of the wheel assembly 110) to better de-ice and / or anti-ice the wheel assembly 110. However, the nozzle assemblies 150c and 150d may be oriented at any angle relative to the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140.

[0068] FIG. 4C is a top-down view of the splash shield assembly 130. As shown, each of the nozzle assemblies 150a and 150b in the first row 152 are oriented such that their respective exit orifices 168 face in substantially the lateral direction (in the direction of lateral axis 134) and face at least a portion of the inner surface 142. Furthermore, the exit orifice 168 of each nozzle assembly 150a and 150b aligns with a respective aperture formed on the splash shield body 140. This orientation beneficially allows each nozzle assembly 150a and 150b to spray fluid directly onto the inner surface 142 of the splash shield body 140 to de-ice and / or anti-ice the splash shield assembly 130, thereby removing and / or preventing snow / ice buildup on the splash shield body 140.

[0069] As further shown in FIG. 4C, each nozzle assembly 150e and 150f in the third row 156 is oriented such that their respective exit orifices 168 face in substantially the lateral direction (in the direction of lateral axis 134) and face at least a portion of the inner surface 142. In some examples, the exit orifices 168 of nozzle assemblies 150e and 150f may face in substantially the opposite direction as the exit orifices 168 of nozzle assemblies 150a and 150b. Furthermore, the exit orifice 168 of each nozzle assembly 150e and 150f aligns with a respective aperture formed on the splash shield body 140. This orientation beneficially allows each nozzle assembly 150e and 150f to spray fluid directly onto the inner surface 142 of the splash shield body 140 to de-ice and / or anti-ice the splash shield assembly 130, thereby removing and / or preventing snow / ice buildup.

[0070] In some examples, some of or all the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, any combination of nozzle assemblies 150a, 150b, 150e, and 150f) can be positioned on the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140 such that the fluid can be sprayed onto the entirety of the inner surface 142 of the splash shield body 140. This positioning can beneficially allow the entirety of the inner surface 142 to be de-iced and / or anti-iced by allowing the entirety of the inner surface 142 to be sprayed with de-icing and / or anti-icing fluid.

[0071] Within each row 152, 154, and 156, adjacent ones of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 are fluidly connected by tubing segments 158. As shown, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 within each row 152, 154, and 156 are connected in series to better minimize the number or length of tubing segments 158. However, in some examples, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 within each row 152, 154, and 156 can be connected in parallel to better minimize pressure losses along the length of the tubing segments 158. In some examples, the tubing segments 158 can be formed from polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0072] FIG. 5 is a magnified perspective view of a portion of the splash shield assembly 130. The illustrated portion comprises one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, nozzle assembly 150a) mounted to a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 extending from the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140. Although the nozzle assembly 150a is shown as an exemplary one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150, other ones of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, nozzle assembly 150c and / or nozzle assembly 150e) may have similar constructions and / or mountings.

[0073] As shown, the nozzle assembly 150a comprises a T-connector 160 and a nozzle head 166 coupled to the T-connector 160. The T-connector 160 comprises two main legs 162 and a third leg 164. As shown, the nozzle head 166 is coupled to the third leg 164 of the T-connector 160 and the tubing segments 158 are coupled to the main legs 162. However, the nozzle head 166 can alternatively be coupled to either of the main legs 162 in other examples. The nozzle head 166 comprises at least one exit orifice 168. In some examples, the nozzle head 166 may comprise multiple exit orifices 168 to better diffuse the fluid sprayed by the nozzle head 166. In some examples, the nozzle head 166 can have a spray angle from 45 degrees to 120 degrees, such as from 65 degrees to 100 degrees, from 70 degrees to 95 degrees, from 75 degrees to 90 degrees, and / or from 80 degrees to 85 degrees. In some examples, the nozzle head 166 can have a spray distance from 1 foot to 4 feet, 1.5 feet to 3.5 feet, and / or 2 feet to 3 feet. In such examples, configuring at least a subset of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, any combination of nozzle assemblies 150a, 150b, 150e, and 150f) to have such spray distances and / or spray angles canbeneficially maximize the spray coverage of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150, thereby increasing the likelihood that the entirety of the inner surface 142 is sprayed with the fluid and deiced and / or anti-iced. In some examples, the nozzle head 166 can be a self-cleaning nozzle head (for example, a maximum free passage nozzle head) to minimize the likelihood of nozzle clogging.

[0074] Although the nozzle assembly 1 0a illustrated in FIG. 6 comprises the T-connector 160, some of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 can comprise other types of connectors. For example, as best seen in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4B, nozzle assemblies 150b, 150d, and 150f can comprise an elbow connector instead of the T-connector 160 because each of nozzle assemblies 150b, 150d, and 150f is only in direct fluid connection with one adjacent nozzle assembly.

[0075] As shown, the illustrated one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 comprises a U-shaped cradle 172, first and second L-shaped brackets 174, first and second zip ties 176, and first and second zip tie mounts 178. The third leg 164 of the T-connector 160 is disposed within a recess of the U-shaped cradle 172. The first and second main legs 162 of the T-connector 160 are configured to rest on the first and second L-shaped brackets 174. Furthermore, the first and second main legs 162 of the T-connector 160 are secured to the splash shield body 140 using the first and second zip ties 176. The first and second zip ties 176 are coupled to the first and second zip tie mounts 178, which are adhered to the splash shield body 140. However, the nozzle assembly 150a may be secured within the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 using any combination of screws, bolts, clips, hooks, adhesives, press-fits, interference fits, keyed joints, etc.

[0076] In some examples, some of or all the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 can extend from or be disposed at least partially in recesses 146 formed on the outer surface 144 of the splash shield body 140. The recess 146 can help minimize the profile of the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 and can help protect the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 (for example, nozzle assembly 150a) from damage by at least partially receiving the component therein.

[0077] In some examples, some or all of the components of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 can be integrally formed with the splash shield body 140. For example, as shown, the splash shield body 140, the U-shaped cradle 172, and the first and second L-shaped brackets 174 can form a unitary structure. In some examples, integrally forming at least a number of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 with the splash shield body 140 can beneficially reduce part count, thereby improving manufacturability of the splash shield assembly 130. In some examples, the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170 can be formed separately from the splashshield body 140, which in some examples can allow for conventional splash shields to be retrofitted to include the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 and the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 170.

[0078] Now referring back to FIG. 3, the tank assembly 180 comprises a tank bracket 182, at least one fastener 184, a surge tank 186, an ultrasonic sensor 188, an optional filter 190, an optional heater 192, and a pump 194. The tank assembly 180 is configured to store the fluid sprayed from plurality of nozzle assemblies 150 prior to use. In some examples, the tank assembly 180 can store the fluid prior to use and pump the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150. In some examples, the tank assembly 180 can optionally heat and / or filter the fluid before the fluid is sprayed from the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150.

[0079] As shown, the tank bracket 182 (which is also referred to herein as a “mounting bracket”) is mounted to the battery protection unit 120 using three fasteners 184. The fasteners 184 can comprise screws, bolts, rivets, clips, etc. However, any number of fasteners 184 may be used, and other fastening mechanisms (for example, adhesives, keyed joints, press fits, interference fits, etc.) may alternatively be used. In some examples, the tank bracket 182 and the battery protection unit 120 can be formed as a unitary structure, thereby beneficially reducing part count and improving manufacturability. Since some examples of the vehicle 100 can lack the battery protection unit 120, some examples of the tank bracket 182 can be coupled to another component of the vehicle 100.

[0080] The surge tank 186 acts as a reservoir for the fluid supplied to the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150. The surge tank 186 can comprise an enclosed, blow-molded structure. In some examples, the surge tank 186 can be formed from nylon.

[0081] The ultrasonic sensor 188 is configured to sense a fluid level within the surge tank 186. The ultrasonic sensor 188 can be mounted to a top portion and / or a top surface of the surge tank 186. The ultrasonic sensor 188 can comprise a transmitter for generating an outgoing sound wave and a receiver receiving a reflected sound wave. The outgoing sound wave reflects off the top surface of the fluid disposed within the surge tank 186. The ultrasonic sensor 188 can measure the fluid level based on the length of time between the time that the outgoing sound wave is generated and the time that the reflected sound wave is received.

[0082] The optional filter 190 is configured to filter impurities from the fluid exiting the surge tank 186. The filter 190 is in direct fluid connection with the surge tank 186 and the heater 192. However, it should be understood that the surge tank 186, the filter 190, the heater 192, and the pump 194 can be arranged in any order or configuration. As shown, the filter 190 is mounted to the tank bracket 182, but the filter 190 can be mounted to any other component. For example, the filter190 can be mounted directly to the battery protection unit 120, the surge tank 186, etc. Although the filter 190 should be understood to be optional, the filter 190 can beneficially filter impurities from the fluid, further reducing the likelihood that such impurities will clog the exit orifices 168 of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150.

[0083] The optional heater 192 is configured to heat the fluid exiting the surge tank 186. As shown, the heater 192 is mounted to the surge tank 186 and is in direct fluid connection with the filter 190 and the pump 194. However, other examples of the heater 192 can be mounted to any other component (for example, the battery protection unit 120, the tank bracket 182) and can be arranged in any order or configuration with the surge tank 186, the filter 190, and the pump 194. The heater 192 can comprise an inlet, an outlet, and a heating element. The heating element can transfer heat energy to fluid entering the inlet. Heated fluid can exit the outlet of the heater 192. The heater 192 can optionally further comprise insulation to reduce heat loss and / or increase heating efficiency. In some examples, the heater 192 can be a tankless heater. The heater 192 can be configured to heat the fluid to a temperature above 0 °C, such as from 35 °C to 100 °C, from 45 °C to 90 °C, from 55 °C to 80 °C, etc. Although the heater 192 should be understood to be optional, the heater 192 can beneficially further improve the de-icing and / or anti-icing capabilities of the splash shield assembly 130.

[0084] The pump 194 is configured to draw fluid from the surge tank 186 and propel the fluid through the plurality of nozzle assemblies 150. As shown, the pump 194 is mounted to the tank bracket 182. However, some examples of the pump 194 can be mounted to any other component (for example, the battery protection unit 120, the surge tank 186, etc.).

[0085] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a splash shield assembly 230 and a portion of the battery protection unit 120. The splash shield assembly 230 comprises a splash shield body 240, a plurality of nozzle assemblies 250, a plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270 for mounting the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 to the splash shield body 240, and a tank assembly 180 for supplying the fluid to the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250.

[0086] The splash shield body 240 comprises an outer surface 244. The plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 (comprising nozzle assemblies 250a, 250b, 250c, and 250d) are mounted to the outer surface 244 of the splash shield body 240. One exemplary difference between the splash shield assembly 230 and the splash shield assembly 130 illustrated in FIGS. 3-5 is that the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 are arranged in a first row 252 comprising nozzle assemblies 250a and 250b and a second row 254 comprising nozzle assemblies 250c and 250d. The first row 252 and the second row 254 can be spaced apart in at least one of the longitudinal direction (alonglongitudinal axis 232) and the lateral direction (along lateral axis 234). Adjacent ones of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 within each row 252 and 254 are fluidly connected by tubing segments 258.

[0087] FIG. 7 is a magnified perspective view of a portion of the splash shield assembly 230 showing one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 and a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270. One exemplary difference between the splash shield assembly 230 and the splash shield assembly 130 illustrated in FIGS. 4-6 is that the splash shield body 240 and the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270 are formed as separate components. In some examples, the splash shield body 240 can be a conventional splash shield body retrofitted to form the illustrated splash shield assembly 230. Such a configuration can beneficially allow the splash shield assembly 230 to be retrofitted to an existing vehicle and / or can allow for the splash shield assembly 230 to be more easily integrated into an existing vehicle design. For example, a kit for retrofitting or adapting a vehicle can comprise the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 and the plurality nozzle assembly mounts 270. The plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 and the plurality nozzle assembly mounts 270 can be formed separately from the splash shield body 240, which can be an original part of the vehicle. After the initial assembly of the vehicle, apertures or holes can be formed in the splash shield body 240. The plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270 can subsequently be coupled to the splash shield body 240. Then, each one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 can be coupled to corresponding ones of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270, such that the nozzle assemblies 250 align with the apertures or holes in the splash shield body 240 to allow fluid to be sprayed onto the inner surface of the splash shield body 240.

[0088] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270. The illustrated one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 comprises a T-connector 260 and a nozzle head 266. The T-connector 260 comprises two main legs 262 and a third leg 264. The nozzle head 266 comprises at least one exit orifice 268. As shown, the nozzle head 266 is coupled to the third leg 264 of the T-connector 260, while the two main legs 262 are configured to couple to the tubing segments 258.

[0089] Each of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270 comprises a base 271 and a cap 275. The base 271 is configured to be mounted to the outer surface 244 of the splash shield body. The corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 is secured by sandwiching the T- connector 260 between the base 271 and the cap 275.

[0090] As shown, the base 271 comprises two legs 272 and a junction 273 joining the two legs 272. The base 271 is mounted to the outer surface 244 of the splash shield body 240 by couplingeach leg 272 to the outer surface 244 of the splash shield body 240. The junction 273 comprises an aperture 274 through which the third leg 264 of the T-connector 260 and the nozzle head 266 extend when the illustrated one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 and the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270 are mounted to the splash shield body 240. The cap 275 comprises a body 276 and at least one clip 277 extending in a downward direction from the body 276. Although three clips 277 are shown in the present figure, the cap 275 can comprise any number of clips 277, including one clip, two clips, four clips, five clips, six clips, etc. Each clip 277 is configured to engage a corresponding recess 278 in the base 271 when the base 271 and the cap 275 are coupled together.

[0091] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies 250 secured to the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 270. Each leg 272 forms a hollow cavity having a bottom surface 272a and an aperture 272b extending therethrough. Each leg 272 of the base 271 can be mounted to the splash shield body 240 by inserting a fastener 279 through an aperture in the splash shield body 240, through the aperture 272b of the leg 272, and at least partially into the hollow cavity of the leg 272. In some examples, the leg 272 may optionally comprise internal threads for engaging the fastener 279. The fastener 279 is presently shown as a clip, but can be any of a screw, a bolt, a hook, a rivet, etc.

[0092] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of one of a plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 370 that can be mounted to the splash shield body 240 in addition to or in lieu of nozzle assembly 250. The plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 370 can be used in any of the splash shield assemblies disclosed herein (for example splash shield assemblies 130 and / or 230). One exemplary difference between the nozzle assembly mount 370 and the nozzle assembly mount 270 illustrated in FIGS. 8- 9 is that the cap 375 is secured to the base 371 using at least one fastener 377 rather than a clip (for example, clips 277). Each of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 370 comprises a base 371, a cap 375, and at least one fastener 377 coupling the base 371 and cap 375 together. The base 371 comprises two legs 372, a junction 373 joining the two legs 372, and an aperture 374 formed in the junction 373. The cap 375 comprises a body 376. The fastener 377 engages a through hole on the cap 375 and further engages a corresponding threaded hole 378 of the base 371. Although four fasteners 377 are presently shown, any number of fasteners 379 may be used, such as one fastener, two fasteners, three fasteners, five fasteners, six fasteners, etc.

[0093] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of one of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts 370. Each leg 372 forms a hollow cavity having a bottom surface 372a and an aperture 372b extending therethrough. Each leg 372 of the base 371 can be mounted to the splash shield body 240 byinserting a threaded fastener 379 through an aperture in the splash shield body 240, through the aperture 372b of the leg 372, and at least partially into the hollow cavity of the leg 372. The leg 372 further comprises internal threads 372c for engaging the fastener 379.

[0094] FIGS. 12A-12C are rear, side, and bottom-up views of a splash shield assembly 430, respectively. The splash shield assembly 430 comprises a splash shield body 440 and nozzle assemblies 450a, 450b, 450c, 450d, 450e, and 450f. The splash shield body 440 comprises an inner surface 442. As shown, nozzle assemblies 450a and 450b are arranged in a first row 452, nozzle assemblies 450c and 450d are arranged in a second row 454, and nozzle assemblies 450e and 450f are arranged in a third row 456. As shown, each one of the nozzle assemblies 450a, 450b, 450e, and 450f of the first row 452 and the third row 456 can be configured to spray fluid onto at least a portion of the inner surface 442 of the splash shield body 440, while the nozzle assemblies 450c and 450d can be configured to spray fluid onto a wheel (not shown in the present figure).

[0095] The nozzle assemblies 450a, 450b, 450e, and 450f (and additionally, in some examples, nozzle assemblies 450c and 450d) can collectively define a spray coverage, which is the proportion of the inner surface 442 of the splash shield body 440 onto which fluid is sprayed by the nozzle assemblies 450a, 450b, 450e, and 450f (and nozzle assemblies 450c and 450d). In some examples, the spray coverage can range from 60% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body 440, such as from 70% to 100%, 60% to 70%, 70% to 80%, 80% to 90%, and / or 90% to 100%. In preferred embodiments, the spray coverage is between 90-100%, more preferably between 95- 100%. In some embodiments, the spray coverage is 100%. The spray coverage can be determined in part by the spray angle and spray distance of the nozzle assemblies 450a, 450b, 450e, and 450f (and nozzle assemblies 450c and 450d). In some examples, the spray coverage can be additionally determined in part by the angle, orientation, and / or position of the nozzle assemblies 450a, 450b, 450e, and 450f (and nozzle assemblies 450c and 450d) relative to the inner surface 442 of the splash shield body 440.

[0096] FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating spray coverages of exemplary pluralities of nozzle assemblies 550. FIG. 13A shows a splash shield assembly 530a comprising a splash shield body 540 and the plurality of nozzle assemblies 550 in a first configuration. As shown, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 550 are arranged in a pattern in which left-hand and right-hand nozzle assemblies 550 are placed to maximize spray coverage (as indicated by the cross-hatching and stippling). As further shown, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 550 are evenly spaced in the illustrated configuration and, furthermore, are each aligned to be perpendicular to an axis of the splash shield assembly 530a. In such a configuration, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 550 canspray substantially the entirety of an inner surface 542 of the splash shield body 540 with fluid to beneficially maximize spray coverage. In some examples, at least some of the nozzle assemblies 550 can have a spray angle from 45 degrees to 120 degrees, such as from 65 degrees to 100 degrees, from 70 degrees to 95 degrees, from 75 degrees to 90 degrees, and / or from 80 degrees to 85 degrees. In some examples, at least some of the nozzle assemblies 550 can have a spray distance from 1 foot to 4 feet, 1.5 feet to 3.5 feet, and / or 2 feet to 3 feet.

[0097] FIG. 13B shows a splash shield assembly 530b comprising the splash shield body 540 and the plurality of nozzle assemblies 550 in a different configuration than the configuration illustrated in FIG. 13A. In some examples, the spray coverage (as indicated by the cross-hatching and stippling) of the splash shield assembly 530b can range from 60% to 100% of the inner surface 542 of the splash shield body 540, such as from 70% to 100%, 60% to 70%, 70% to 80%, 80% to 90%, and / or 90% to 100%. In preferred embodiments, the spray coverage is between 90-100%, more preferably between 95-100%. In some embodiments, the spray coverage is 100%. In some examples, the plurality of nozzle assemblies 550 can be configured to concentrate fluid spray on portions of the inner surface 542 that are especially prone to snow / ice buildup. In some examples, reducing the spray coverage to cover only a certain portion of the inner surface 542 (for example, the entirety of a desired area or portion of the inner surface 542) can beneficially reduce fluid consumption.

[0098] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a splash shield assembly 630. The splash shield assembly 630 comprises a power source 632, an anti-icing switch 634, a de-icing switch 636, a thermistor 638, a microcontroller 640, a first relay 642, a second relay 644, a display 646, a nozzle assembly 650, a T-connector 660, a surge tank 686, an ultrasonic sensor 688, a filter 690, a heater 692, and a pump 694.

[0099] The splash shield assembly 630 is configured to selectively operate in an anti-icing mode and in a de-icing mode to anti-ice or deice an inner surface (similar to inner surface 142) of the splash shield assembly 630, respectively. In both modes of operation, the pump 694 draws fluid from the surge tank 686, draws the fluid through the filter 690 and the heater 692, and propels the fluid out of the nozzle assembly 650 to spray the fluid onto the inner surface. In some examples, one exemplary difference between the anti-icing mode and the de-icing mode can be that the heater 692 is only activated in the de-icing mode. In some examples, the heater 692 may heat the fluid to different temperatures in the anti-icing mode and the de-icing mode. In some examples, the pump 694 may have different flow rates in the anti-icing mode and the de-icing mode. In some examples,at least one of the heater 692 and the pump 694 may operate for different durations of time in the anti-icing mode and the de-icing mode.

[0100] In some examples, a user (for example, the vehicle’s driver) may manually activate the anti-icing mode by activating the anti-icing switch 634. When the user activates the anti-icing switch 634, the anti-icing switch 634 allows current to flow from the power source 632, through the first relay 642, and to the pump 694, thereby activating the pump 694. In some examples, activating the anti-icing switch 634 may close a circuit connecting these components. In some examples, activating the anti-icing switch 634 may send a signal to the microcontroller 640, which can produce an output signal allowing current to flow from the power source 632, through the relay 642, and to the pump 694. In some examples, the first relay 642 only allows current to flow to the pump 694 for a first duration of time. In some examples, the first relay 642 only allows current to flow to the pump 694 after a first time delay.

[0101] In some examples, the microcontroller 640 can determine the length of the first duration of time. The first duration of time can be based on the number of nozzle assemblies 650, the size of the exit orifice(s) of the nozzle assembly 650, the pressure of the fluid exiting the pump 694, the spray distance of the nozzle assembly 650, the size of the splash shield body and / or splash shield assembly 630, etc.

[0102] In some examples, the splash shield assembly 630 may automatically activate the anti- icing mode in response to environmental conditions. The thermistor 638 is configured to measure the temperature of the environment surrounding the splash shield assembly 630. For example, the environment can be an ambient environment surrounding the vehicle on which the splash shield assembly 630 is mounted. In some examples where the thermistor 638 is coupled to the microcontroller 640, the microcontroller 640 produces an output signal allowing current to flow through the first relay 642 and to the pump 694 if an input signal received from the thermistor 638 corresponds to a temperature within a particular range or below a threshold value (for example, at or below 0 °C) or a temperature decrease (for example, a temperature drop estimated to result in a temperature at or below 0 °C). In some examples, the first relay 642 only allows current to flow to the pump 694 for the first duration of time. In some examples, the first relay 642 only allows current to flow to the pump 694 after the first time delay.

[0103] In some examples, the user may manually activate the de-icing mode by activating the de-icing switch 636. When the user activates the de-icing switch 636, the de-icing switch 636 allows current to flow from the power source 632, through the second relay 644, and to the heater 692, thereby activating the heater 692. In some examples, activating the de-icing switch 636 mayclose a circuit connecting these components. In some examples, activating the de-icing switch 636 may send a signal to the microcontroller 640, which produces an output signal allowing current to flow through the second relay 644 and to the heater 692. Activating the de-icing switch 636 additionally allows current to flow from the power source 632, through the first relay 642, and to the pump 694, thereby activating the heater 692.

[0104] In the de-icing mode, the first relay 642 only allows current to flow to the pump 694 for the first duration of time and after the first time delay. Furthermore, in the de-icing mode, the second relay 644 only allows current to flow to the heater 692 for a second duration of time after a second time delay. In some examples, the first time delay can be greater than the second time delay, which can beneficially allow the heater 692 to warm up and preheat the fluid before the fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly 650.

[0105] In some examples, the splash shield assembly 430 may automatically activate the anti- icing mode in response to environmental conditions. In some examples where the thermistor 638 is coupled to the microcontroller 640, the microcontroller 640 can produce an output signal allowing current to flow from the power source 632, through the first relay 642, and to the pump 694 and further allowing current to flow from the power source 632, through the second relay 644, and to the heater 692. The microcontroller 640 can produce the output signal in response to receiving an input signal from the thermistor 638 indicating that the temperature of the surrounding environment is within a particular range or below a threshold value (for example, at or below 0 °C) or decreasing (for example, a temperature drop estimated to result in a temperature at or below 0 °C).

[0106] The display 646 is configured to display information to the user. In some examples, the display 646 can be configured to display the temperature measured by the thermistor 638. In some examples, the display 646 can be configured to display a fluid level measured by the ultrasonic sensor 688 and / or indicate when the surge tank 686 needs to be refilled. In some examples, the display 646 can be configured to indicate to the user whether the splash shield assembly 630 is currently operating in an anti-icing mode and / or a de-icing mode. However, the display 646 can be configured to display any information to the user.

[0107] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary vehicle 700 comprising a plurality of splash shield assemblies 730. For example, the vehicle 700 can comprise a plurality of wheels and / or wheel wells, and each splash shield assembly 730 can be disposed in a corresponding one of the plurality of wheel wells.

[0108] As shown, the vehicle 700 further comprises a central surge tank 786 and a central pump 794 in fluid connection with each of the plurality of splash shield assemblies 730. The centralsurge tank 786 and the central pump 794 are configured to supply and deliver fluid, respectively, to each of the plurality of splash shield assemblies 730. Thus, unlike splash shield assemblies 130 and 230, each of the plurality of splash shield assemblies 730 can lack an individual surge tank (for example, surge tank 186) and an individual pump (for example, pump 194). In some examples, the vehicle 700 can further comprise a central filter (similar to filter 190) and / or a central heater (similar to heater 192) for filtering and / or heating the fluid flowing from the central surge tank 786 and through the central pump 794. In such examples, it can be more space-efficient and / or cost- effective for the plurality of splash shield assemblies 730 to share certain components (for example, any combination of surge tanks, fdters, heaters, pumps, microcontrollers, thermistors, relays, etc.).

[0109] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary splash shield assembly 830. The splash shield assembly 830 comprises a thermistor 838, a microcontroller 840, a relay 842, and a pump 894. One exemplary difference between the microcontroller 840 and the microcontroller 640 illustrated in FIG. 12 is that the microcontroller 840 is additionally or alternatively connected to a mobile device 846. The mobile device 846 is configured to display a notification (for example, any combination of the notifications discussed in relation to display 646) to the user other otherwise notify the user (for example, by emitting a sound, vibrating, etc.). The microcontroller 840 may connect to the mobile device 846 over a wired connection (for example, any one of a USB connection, an Ethernet connection, etc.) or a wireless connection (for example any one of a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection, a cellular connection, etc.). In some examples, the microcontroller 840 may additionally be connected (for example, over a wired connection or a wireless connection) to the relay 842 to control current flowing to the pump 894. In some examples, the microcontroller 840 can be connected (for example, over a wired connection or a wireless connection) to any one of the thermistor 838, the relay 842, the pump 894, etc. to control those components. In some examples, the relay 842 may additionally or alternatively control current flowing to a heater for heating fluid pulled into the pump 894.Additional Examples of the Disclosed Technology

[0110] In view of the above-described implementations of the disclosed subject matter, this application discloses the additional examples enumerated below. It should be noted that one feature of an example in isolation or more than one feature of the example taken in combination and, optionally, in combination with one or more features of one or more further examples are further examples also falling within the disclosure of this application.

[0111] The features described herein with regard to any example can be combined with other features described in any one or more of the other examples, unless otherwise stated. For example,any one or more features of one vehicle can be combined with any one or more features of another vehicle. As another example, any one or more features of one splash shield assembly can be combined with any one or more features of another splash shield assembly.

[0112] Example 1. A vehicle can comprise a wheel well and a splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within the wheel well. The splash shield assembly can comprise a splash shield body having an inner surface and a plurality of nozzles. The plurality of nozzle assemblies can each comprise at least one exit orifice facing the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0113] Example 2. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly example 1, wherein the plurality of nozzle assemblies comprises a first row of nozzle assemblies and a second row of nozzle assemblies, wherein each of the first row and the second row comprise at least one nozzle assembly.

[0114] Example 3. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly example 2, wherein one of the first row and the second row can comprise a plurality of nozzle assemblies.

[0115] Example 4. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 2-3, wherein the first row and the second row can be spaced apart in a lateral direction.

[0116] Example 5. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 2-4, wherein the first row and the second row can be spaced apart in a longitudinal direction.

[0117] Example 6. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 1-5, further comprising a battery protection unit disposed adjacent the splash shield assembly, wherein at least a portion of the splash shield assembly can be mounted to the battery protection unit.

[0118] Example 7. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 1-6, wherein the wheel well is a first wheel well, the splash shield assembly is a first splash shield assembly, and the vehicle comprises a second splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within a second wheel well.

[0119] Example 8. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly example 7, wherein the vehicle can comprise a central surge tank and a central pump, and wherein the central surge tank and the central pump can be in fluid connection with both first splash shield assembly and the second splash shield.

[0120] Example 9. A splash shield assembly can include a splash shield body, a first nozzle, and a second nozzle. The splash shield body can comprise an inner surface, an outer surface, and first and second apertures extending from the outer surface to the inner surface. The first nozzle assembly can be mounted to the outer surface of the splash shield body and aligned with the firstaperture. The second nozzle assembly can be mounted to the outer surface of the splash shield body and aligned with the second aperture. Each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle can comprise an exit orifice. The exit orifice of at least one of the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly can face the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0121] Example 10. The splash shield assembly of any example herein, particularly example 9, can further comprise a nozzle assembly mount extending from the splash shield body, wherein the first nozzle assembly can be secured within the first nozzle assembly mount.

[0122] Example 11. The splash shield assembly of any example herein, particularly example 10, wherein the splash shield body can further comprise a recess formed on the outer surface of the splash shield body, and wherein the nozzle assembly mount can be at least partially disposed within the recess.

[0123] Example 12. The splash shield body of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 10-11, wherein the nozzle assembly mount can be integrally formed with the splash shield body.

[0124] Example 13. The splash shield body of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 10-11, wherein the nozzle assembly mount can be formed separately from the splash shield body.

[0125] Example 14. A de-icing and anti-icing assembly for a vehicle can comprise a splash shield body and a plurality of nozzles. The splash shield body can have an inner surface and an outer surface. The plurality of nozzles can be coupled to the outer surface of the splash shield body. The plurality of nozzles can be positioned to spray a fluid onto the entirety of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0126] Example 15. The de-icing and anti-icing assembly of any example herein, particularly example 14, wherein the fluid can comprise a brine solution.

[0127] Example 16. The de-icing and anti-icing assembly of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 14-15, wherein the fluid can comprise potassium acetate.

[0128] Example 17. The de-icing and anti-icing assembly of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 15-16, wherein each of the plurality of nozzles can have a spray angle in a range from 80 degrees to 85 degrees.

[0129] Example 18. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 14-17, wherein the plurality of nozzles can define a spray coverage of at least a portion of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0130] Example 19. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly example 18, wherein the spray coverage can be in a range from 60% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0131] Example 20. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 18-19, wherein the spray coverage can be in a range from 60% to 70% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0132] Example 21. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 9- 10, wherein the spray coverage can be in a range from 70% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0133] Example 22. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly example 21, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 70% to 80% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0134] Example 23. The vehicle of any example herein, particularly example 21, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 80% to 90% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0135] Example 24. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 90% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

[0136] Example 25. A method of operating a vehicle can comprise measuring a temperature of an ambient environment surrounding the vehicle, determining whether the measured temperature is below a threshold temperature, and in response to the determination, activating a pump to spray a fluid onto an inner surface of a splash shield assembly of the vehicle.

[0137] Example 26. The method of any example herein, particularly example 18, can further comprise, prior to spraying the fluid onto the inner surface of the splash shield assembly and after determining whether the measured temperature is below the threshold temperature, activating a heater to heat the fluid.

[0138] Example 27. The method of any example herein, particularly example 19, wherein the fluid can be heated to a temperature from 55 °C to 80 °C.

[0139] Example 28. The method of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 19-20, wherein the pump can be activated after a first time delay, the heater can be activated after a second time delay, and the first time delay can be greater than the second time delay.

[0140] Example 29. A kit to modify a vehicle can comprise a plurality of nozzle assemblies, a plurality of nozzle assembly mounts, a plurality of tubing segments, and a surge tank. The plurality of nozzle assemblies can be configured to spray a fluid onto a splash shield body of the vehicle.Each nozzle assembly can comprise an exit orifice. The exit orifice of each nozzle assembly can beconfigured to align with a corresponding aperture in the splash shield body when the respective nozzle assembly is mounted to the splash shield body, such that the exit orifice faces an inner surface of the splash shield body. Each nozzle assembly mount can be configured mount a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies to the splash shield body. The plurality of tubing segments can be configured to fluidly connect the plurality of nozzle assemblies when the plurality of nozzle assemblies are mounted to the splash shield body. The surge tank can be configured to be mounted to the vehicle. The surge tank can be configured to supply the fluid to the plurality of nozzle assemblies when the plurality of nozzle assemblies are mounted to the splash shield body.

[0141] Example 30. The kit of any example herein, particularly example 29, wherein the plurality of nozzle assemblies and the splash shield body can be formed separately.

[0142] Example 31. The kit of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 29-30, wherein the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts and the splash shield body can be formed separately.

[0143] Example 32. The kit of any example herein, particularly any one of examples 29-31, wherein each of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts can comprise a first leg, a second leg, and an aperture disposed between the first leg and the second leg, wherein the exit orifice of the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies can be configured to extend through the aperture of the nozzle assembly mount.

[0144] Example 33. The kit of any example herein, particularly example 32, wherein each of the first leg and the second leg can be hollow, and wherein each of the first leg and the second leg can be configured to accept a portion of a fastener therein for coupling the nozzle assembly mount to the splash shield body.

[0145] In view of the many possible ways in which the principles of the disclosure may be applied, it should be recognized that the illustrated configurations depict examples of the disclosed technology and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the disclosure nor the claims. Rather, the scope of the claimed subject matter is defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

We claim:

1. A vehicle comprising: a wheel well; a splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within the wheel well, the splash shield assembly comprising: a splash shield body having an inner surface; and a plurality of nozzle assemblies, each comprising at least one exit orifice facing the inner surface of the splash shield body.

2. The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of nozzle assemblies comprises a first row of nozzle assemblies and a second row of nozzle assemblies, wherein each of the first row and the second row comprise at least one nozzle assembly.

3. The vehicle of claim 2, wherein one of the first row and the second row comprises a plurality of nozzle assemblies.

4. The vehicle of any one of claims 2-3, wherein the first row and the second row are spaced apart in a lateral direction.

5. The vehicle of any one of claims 2-4, wherein the first row and the second row are spaced apart in a longitudinal direction.

6. The vehicle of any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a battery protection unit disposed adjacent the splash shield assembly, wherein at least a portion of the splash shield assembly is mounted to the battery protection unit.

7. The vehicle of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the wheel well is a first wheel well, the splash shield assembly is a first splash shield assembly, and the vehicle comprises a second splash shield assembly disposed at least partially within a second wheel well.

8. The vehicle of claim 7, wherein the vehicle comprises a central surge tank and a central pump, and wherein the central surge tank and the central pump are in fluid connection with both first splash shield assembly and the second splash shield.

9. A splash shield assembly comprising: a splash shield body comprising an inner surface, an outer surface, and first and second apertures extending from the outer surface to the inner surface; a first nozzle assembly mounted to the outer surface of the splash shield body and aligned with the first aperture; and a second nozzle assembly mounted to the outer surface of the splash shield body and aligned with the second aperture, wherein each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle comprises an exit orifice, and wherein the exit orifice of at least one of the first nozzle assembly and the second nozzle assembly faces the inner surface of the splash shield body.

10. The splash shield assembly of claim 9, further comprising a nozzle assembly mount extending from the splash shield body, wherein the first nozzle assembly is secured within the first nozzle assembly mount.

11. The splash shield assembly of claim 10, wherein the splash shield body further comprises a recess formed on the outer surface of the splash shield body, and wherein the nozzle assembly mount is at least partially disposed within the recess.

12. The splash shield body of any one of claims 10-11, wherein the nozzle assembly mount is integrally formed with the splash shield body.

13. The splash shield body of any one of claims 10-11, wherein the nozzle assembly mount is formed separately from the splash shield body.

14. A de-icing and anti-icing assembly for a vehicle comprising: a splash shield body having an inner surface and an outer surface; and a plurality of nozzles coupled to the outer surface of the splash shield body, wherein the plurality of nozzles are positioned to spray a fluid onto the entirety of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

15. The de-icing and anti-icing assembly of claim 14, wherein the fluid comprises a brine solution.

16. The de-icing and anti-icing assembly of any one of claims 14-15, wherein the fluid comprises potassium acetate.

17. The de-icing and anti-icing assembly of any one of claims 14-16, wherein each of the plurality of nozzles has a spray angle in a range from 80 degrees to 85 degrees.

18. The vehicle of any one of claims 14-17, wherein the plurality of nozzles defines a spray coverage of at least a portion of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

19. The vehicle of claim 18, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 60% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

20. The vehicle of any one of claims 18-19, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 60% to 70% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

21. The vehicle of any one of claims 18-19, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 70% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

22. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 70% to 80% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

23. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 80% to 90% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

24. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein the spray coverage is in a range from 90% to 100% of the inner surface of the splash shield body.

25. A method of operating a vehicle comprising: measuring a temperature of an ambient environment surrounding the vehicle; determining whether the measured temperature is below a threshold temperature; and in response to the determination, activating a pump to spray a fluid onto an inner surface of a splash shield assembly of the vehicle.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising, prior to spraying the fluid onto the inner surface of the splash shield assembly and after determining whether the measured temperature is below the threshold temperature, activating a heater to heat the fluid.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the fluid is heated to a temperature from 55 °C to 80 °C.

28. The method of any one of claims 26-27, wherein the pump is activated after a first time delay, the heater is activated after a second time delay, and the first time delay is greater than the second time delay.

29. A kit to modify a vehicle comprising: a plurality of nozzle assemblies configured to spray a fluid onto a splash shield body of the vehicle, wherein: each nozzle assembly comprises an exit orifice; andthe exit orifice of each nozzle assembly is configured to align with a corresponding aperture in the splash shield body when the respective nozzle assembly is mounted to the splash shield body, such that the exit orifice faces an inner surface of the splash shield body; a plurality of nozzle assembly mounts, wherein each nozzle assembly mount is configured mount a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies to the splash shield body; a plurality of tubing segments configured to fluidly connect the plurality of nozzle assemblies when the plurality of nozzle assemblies are mounted to the splash shield body; and a surge tank configured to be mounted to the vehicle, wherein the surge tank is configured to supply the fluid to the plurality of nozzle assemblies when the plurality of nozzle assemblies are mounted to the splash shield body.

30. The kit of claim 29, wherein the plurality of nozzle assemblies and the splash shield body are formed separately.

31. The kit of any one of claims 29-30, wherein the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts and the splash shield body are formed separately.

32. The kit of any one of claims 29-31, wherein each of the plurality of nozzle assembly mounts comprises a first leg, a second leg, and an aperture disposed between the first leg and the second leg, wherein the exit orifice of the corresponding one of the plurality of nozzle assemblies is configured to extend through the aperture of the nozzle assembly mount.

33. The kit of claim 32, wherein each of the first leg and the second leg are hollow, and wherein each of the first leg and the second leg are configured to accept a portion of a fastener therein for coupling the nozzle assembly mount to the splash shield body.

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