Holding device for a window-detector-arrangement comprising at least one electrode of an ionization device

Abstract

A holding device (22) for a window-detector-arrangement (12) that is designed to hold an optical detection device (20), in particular a camera, at a window (16), in particular at a window (16) of a vehicle, in particular at a windshield (16) of a vehicle, an optical detection system (18), a window-detector-arrangement (12), a cleaning device for a window-detector-arrangement (12) and a method for reducing the particle load in at least one air-conducting area (40) of a holding device (22) are described. The holding device (22) comprises a main body (28) with a frame section (36) surrounding a frame opening (38), a mounting section (32) for the detection device (20), at least a wall section (30, 34) which extends between the frame section (36) and the mounting section (32) and at least partially delimits an intermediate space (40) between the frame opening (38) and the mounting section (32), and at least one ventilation opening (46, 48) that leads from the surrounding of the holding device (22) to the intermediate space (40). The holding device (22) comprises at least one electrode (50, 52) which is arranged in an air-conducting area (46) of the holding device (22) and which is designed to be operated as an electrode (50, 52) of an ionization device (54).

Description

[0001] / Zl 2023PF01671

[0002] Description

[0003] Holding device for a window-detector-arrangement comprising at least one electrode of an ionization device

[0004] Technical Field

[0005] The invention relates to a holding device for a window-detector-arrangement that is designed to hold an optical detection device, in particular a camera, at a window, in particular at a window of a vehicle, in particular at a windshield of a vehicle, comprising a main body with a frame section surrounding a frame opening, a mounting section for the detection device, at least a wall section which extends between the frame section and the mounting section and at least partially delimits an intermediate space between the frame opening and the mounting section, and at least one ventilation opening that leads from the surrounding of the holding device to the intermediate space.

[0006] Further, the invention relates to an optical detection system that is designed to be mounted on a window, in particular on a window of a vehicle, in particular on a windshield of a vehicle, comprising at least one optical detection device, in particular a camera, and at least one holding device that is designed to hold the at least one optical detection device on the window.

[0007] Furthermore, the invention relates to a window-detector-arrangement, in particular a win- dow-detector-arrangement of a vehicle, in particular a windshield-detector-arrangement of a vehicle, comprising at least one optical detection device, in particular a camera, at least one holding device and a window, wherein the at least one detection device is attached to the window using the at least one holding device.

[0008] Moreover, the invention relates to a cleaning device for a window-detector-arrangement, in particular a window-detector-arrangement of a vehicle, in particular a windshield-detector-arrangement of a vehicle, wherein the window-detector-arrangement comprises at least one optical detection device, in particular a camera, at least one holding device according to the invention and a window, wherein the at least one detection device is attached to the window using the at least one holding device, wherein the cleaning device is designed to reduce the particle load in at least one air-conducting space of the window- detector-arrangement. 2 / 27 2023PF01671

[0009] Additionally, the invention relates to a method for reducing the particle load in at least one air-conducting area of a holding device according to the invention of a window-detector- arrangement, in particular of a window-detector-arrangement of a vehicle, in particular of a windshield-detector-arrangement of a vehicle.

[0010] State of Technology

[0011] From the US 5 096 287 a video camera for an automobile is known that is mounted on the arm which carries a rear view mirror. The camera is directed forwardly to take pictures through the front windshield of an automobile and a boot is connected between the camera and the windshield to isolate the camera lens from moisture and dust. An air duct may be connected between the boot and the air conditioner to provide a flow of air through the boot. The arm is provided with a passage for the electric cables of the video camera and a passage for air. The end portion of the passage towards the front windshield has a larger diameter and the video camera is mounted in that portion of the passage. The boot is connected to an end of the arm and the other end of the boot is pressed against the windshield. The boot defines a closed chamber with the windshield so the video camera is isolated from both the outside atmosphere and the inside atmosphere of the automobile. The boot has a small opening through which air sent from the air passage into the boot is evacuated.

[0012] It is an objective of the invention to create a holding device, a detection system, a window- detector-arrangement, a cleaning device and a method of the type mentioned above in which a load of particles in an intermediate space in front of the detection device can be reduced.

[0013] Disclosure of Invention

[0014] The objective according to the invention is solved with the holding device in that the holding device comprises at least one electrode which is arranged in an air-conducting area of the holding device and which is designed to be operated as an electrode of an ionization device.

[0015] According to the invention, the holding device comprises at least one electrode. The electrode can be connected to an ionization voltage source of an ionization device. Using the 3 / 27 2023PF01671 ionization device, particles can be ionized with at least one electrode designed as an ionizing electrode. The ionized particles can be transported by an airflow passing through the holding device. The ionized particles can be collected with at least one electrode of the ionization device designed as a collecting electrode. The at least one collecting electrode and the at least one ionizing electrode are oppositely charged. In this way, an electrostatic air filter for the window-detector-arrangement can be realized. The ionization device can reduce particle loading of the intermediate space.

[0016] “Ionizing” means, that the particles are electrically charged, either positively or negatively, depending on the charge of the at least one ionizing electrode.

[0017] The window-detector-arrangement is an arrangement wherein a detector in the form of a detection device is arranged at a window.

[0018] "Optical” means that the components are designed for the use of optical radiation. The optical radiation can be visible light or nonvisible light.

[0019] Advantageously, the intermediate space lies in the field of view of the detection device. This allows for more flexible mounting of the detection device on the window. The intermediate space can compensate for a distance between the window and the detection device.

[0020] Advantageously, the field of view of the detection device can pass through the intermediate space and the frame opening. In this way, the detection device can be mounted on a sloping window, in particular a windshield. The intermediate space can compensate the difference of the sloping of the optical axis of the detection device and the sloping of the window. When the detection device is mounted on a windshield of a vehicle, the optical axis of the detection device is usually horizontal to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. The windshield of the vehicle usually is steeply inclined.

[0021] Particles such as dust, dirt and impurity, can affect the detection performance of the detection device. In particular, the particles can cause optical degradation and reflection in the optical path of the optical detection device. The loading with particles can be much MZ1 2023PF01671 worse with nicotine dust from smokers in the cabin of the vehicle. Particles can be transported by airflow into air-conducting areas of the window-detector-arrangement, in particular the intermediate space and / or the at least one ventilation opening.

[0022] Advantageously, the ionization device can be operated while the window-detector-ar- rangement is in operation. In this way, the airflow in front of the window, in particular in the cabin of the vehicle, can be used to transport the particles from at least one electrode designed as ionizing electrodes to at least one electrode designed as collecting electrode. In addition, the airflow can be used to cool components of the detection device, in particular electronic components. During operating of the window-detector-arrangement, the air could be automatically ionized. In this way, additional health benefits can be achieved for the people in the vehicle cabin.

[0023] Advantageously, the electrical energy consumption of the ionization device can be measured. The energy consumption depends of the number of particles that have been charged. The energy consumption can be precisely measured. A number of particles in the air can be estimated based on the energy consumption. In this way, the holding device according to the invention can be combined with an air quality monitoring system.

[0024] Another advantage of using the ionization device to remove particles is that the parts of the ionization device can be cleaned. There is no need to replace dirty parts with new ones. This reduces the maintenance and cleaning costs.

[0025] In addition, an optical path through the intermediate space can be kept free of particles by using the ionization device to clean the window-detector-arrangement. In this way, the lifetime of the window-detector-arrangement, in particular of the detection device, can be improved.

[0026] The holding device is designed to hold an optical detection device. In this way, a monitoring area can be observed through the window using optical radiation.

[0027] Advantageously, the optical detection device can be a camera, in particular a front camera or windshield camera. The camera can be mounted on the inside of a window, in particular a windshield of the vehicle. This allows to take pictures or videos through the 5 / 27 2023PF01671 window.

[0028] Advantageously, the frame section can be designed to hold the holding device at a window, in particular at a windshield. This allows the detection device to be held very stable against the window. The detection device can see through the intermediate space, the frame opening and the window.

[0029] Advantageously, at least one ventilation opening can be realized at least Partly in the frame section. In this way, an airflow near the window can flow through the at least one ventilation opening into the intermediate space.

[0030] Advantageously, at least two ventilation openings can be realized on opposite sides of the frame opening. In this way, air can flow into the intermediate space through at least one of the at least two ventilation openings. The air can leave the intermediate space through the at least one ventilation opening on the opposite side.'

[0031] Advantageously, the holding device, in particular a main body of the holding device, can consist of or comprise plastic. In this way, a lightweight holding device can be realized.

[0032] The invention can be used with vehicles. A key functional characteristic of a vehicle is its ability to move. Vehicles can be motor vehicles. Advantageously, the invention can be used in land vehicles, in particular passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, drones, mobile robots, mobile machines, in particular construction or transport machines, such as cranes, excavators or the like, aircraft, in particular flying drones, and / or (under)water vehicles, in particular (under)water drones. The invention can also be used with vehicles that can be operated autonomously or semiautonomously. However, the invention is not limited to vehicles. It can also be used in stationary operation.

[0033] According to a favorable embodiment, the mounting section can comprise at least one detector opening for the detection device. In this way, at least a part of the detection device can reach into the intermediate space and / or the detection device can look through the at least one detector opening. 6 / 27 2023PF01671

[0034] Advantageously, receiving means of the detection device for receiving optical radiation and / or transmitting means of the detection device for transmitting optical radiation may be located on the outside of the holding device. Optical radiation passing through the window, the frame opening and the intermediate space can reach the receiving means through the at least one detector opening. Accordingly, optical radiation from the transmitting means can pass through the at least one detector opening into the intermediate space and from there through the window into the monitoring area.

[0035] Advantageously, the at least one detector opening can be designed to receive at least a part of the detection device. In this way, at least a part of the detection device can protrude through the at least one detector opening into the intermediate space. The field of view of the detection device can extend through the intermediate space, the frame opening and the window.

[0036] Advantageously, the at least one detector opening can be designed to receive an objective lens of the detection device. This allows the objective lens to be protected from environmental moisture and dust.

[0037] According to another favorable embodiment, at least one electrode can be an ionizing electrode and / or at least one electrode can be a collecting electrode. An ionizing electrode can be used to ionize particles. The ionized particles can be repelled by the ionizing electrode. A collecting electrode can be used to collect ionized particles. The ionized particles can be attracted to the collecting electrode.

[0038] A combination of at least one ionizing electrode and at least one collecting electrode can act as an electrostatic air filter. This allows particles to be efficiently removed from an airflow.

[0039] Advantageously, the collecting electrode and the ionizing electrode can be oppositely charged. In this way, particles can be ionized by the ionizing electrode and the ionized particles can be attracted by the collecting electrode.

[0040] Advantageously, at least one electrode designed as a collecting electrode can be arranged in an easily accessible area, in particular in at least one ventilation opening. In l / Zl 2023PF01671 this way, particles collected by the collecting electrode can be easily removed.

[0041] Advantageously, at least one collecting electrode can be placed in a spacious area. In this way, there is enough space for the collected particles.

[0042] Advantageously, at least one electrode designed as an ionizing electrode of the ionization device can be connected to one pole of a DC voltage source and at least one electrode designed as a collecting electrode of the ionization device can be connected to the other pole of the DC voltage source. In this way, the at least one ionizing electrode and the at least one collecting electrode can be charged oppositely.

[0043] Advantageously, the ionization voltage source can be a high voltage source. This allows high voltage to be applied between the ionizing electrode and the collecting electrodes.

[0044] According to another favorable embodiment, at least one electrode can be arranged close to, in particular inside, at least one ventilation opening, in particular at least one inlet ventilation opening. This allows the particles to be ionized and / or collected before entering the intermediate space.

[0045] According to another favorable embodiment at least one electrode designed as an ionizing electrode can be arranged in front of at least one electrode designed as a collecting electrode in direction of the airflow through the holding device. In this way, the particles can be transported from the at least one ionizing electrode to the at least one collecting electrode using the airflow.

[0046] Advantageously at least one ionizing electrode can be placed close to the entrance of at least one ventilation opening, in particular at least one inlet ventilation opening, and the at least one collecting electrode can be placed inside this ventilation opening or close to the outlet of this ventilation opening. This allows the particles to be ionized and collected inside the ventilation opening. The ventilation opening is easily accessible so that the collected particles can be easily removed from the outside.

[0047] According to another favorable embodiment, at least one electrode, in particular at least one electrode designed as an ionizing electrode, can be arranged on the inside of at least 8 / 27 2023PF01671 one wall section facing the intermediate space. In this way, the particles can be collected or repelled from the inside of the wall section, depending on the charge of the particles.

[0048] The at least one electrode on the inside of the at least one wall section may be deactivated during normal operation of the window-detector-arrangement. Particles can be mechanically trapped on the inside of the at least one wall section during the operation.

[0049] During servicing the window-detector-arrangement, the at least one electrode on the inside of the at least one wall section may be operated as an ionizing electrode. In this way, the particles trapped on the wall section can be repelled. The repelled particles can be extracted from the intermediate space using a suction device. Alternatively or additionally, the repelled particles can be blown out of the intermediate space using a blowing device. The at least one collecting electrode assigned to the ionizing electrode can be placed in the vicinity of an air outlet opening, in particular a detector opening. In this way, the charged particles carried by the airflow can be additionally attracted by the collecting electrode.

[0050] According to another favorable embodiment, at least one electrode can be formed as an electrically conductive surface, in particular as an electrically conductive coating, on at least one inner side of at least one wall section of the holding device. In this way, the at least one electrode can be implemented in a space-saving manner.

[0051] Advantageously, the at least one electrode can be formed as an electrically conductive surface at the inner side of the at least one wall section facing the intermediate space. In this way, particles trapped on the inside of the at least one wall section can be repelled over a large area by charging the at least one electrode.

[0052] Advantageously, the at least one electrode can be a conductive surface consisting of or comprising plastic with conductive particles such as silver or carbon or the like. In this way, the conductive surface can be formed on a main body of the holding device made of plastic.

[0053] Advantageously, at least one electrode, in particular a collecting electrode, can be realized by at least one conductive portion of a housing of the detection device. In this way, 9 / 27 2023PF01671 existing components can be used as electrodes. Advantageously, a housing of the detection device can consist of or comprise electrically conductive parts, in particular metal parts such as aluminum. In this way, the housing can be used as at least one electrode.

[0054] According to another favorable embodiment, at least one detector opening and / or at least one ventilation opening of the holding device can be designed for connecting at least one device to move air, in particular at least one external device to move air, and / or at least one detector opening and / or at least one ventilation opening of the holding device can be designed for connecting at least one suction device, in particular at least one external suction device, and / or at least one detector opening and / or at least one ventilation opening of the holding device can be designed for connecting at least one blowing device, in particular at least one external blowing device.

[0055] Advantageously, at least one detector opening and / or the at least one ventilation opening of the holding device can be designed for connecting at least one device to move air, in particular at least one external device to move air. The device to move air can move air through air-conducting areas of the window-detector-arrangement, in particular through the intermediate space. The air can carry particles from the window detector arrangement. Deep cleaning of the window-detector-arrangement removes any accumulated particles that may affect the performance of the optical path of the detection system.

[0056] Advantageously, the holding device can be designed for connection to at least one suction device, in particular at least one external suction device, to at least one detector opening and / or to the at least one ventilation opening. In this way, air and particles can be extracted from the intermediate space using the at least one suction device. The air and the particles can be extracted through the at least one detector opening. Alternatively or additionally, the air and the particles can be extracted through the at least one ventilation opening. In this way, existing openings can be used to extract the air and the particles.

[0057] Advantageously, the holding device can be designed to connect at least one blowing device, in particular at least one external blowing device, to at least one detector opening and / or to the at least one ventilation opening. In this way, the particles can be blown out of the intermediate space by means of the at least one blowing device. 10 / 27 2023PF01671

[0058] Advantageously, the at least one suction device and / or the at least one blowing device can be part of the window-detector-arrangement. In this way, the particles can be removed from the intermediate space during operation of the detection device.

[0059] Alternatively, the at least one suction device and / or the at least one blowing device can be external. "External" means, that the at least one suction device or the at least one blowing device is not part of the holding device. In this way, the at least one suction device and / or the at least one blowing device can be attached to the window-detector-arrangement during service operation. So, the number of components of the window-detector- arrangement can be reduced outside that service operation.

[0060] Advantageously, at least one suction device and / or at least one blowing device can be part of a cleaning device for the window-detector-arrangement. In this way, the cleaning device can be connected to the window-detector-arrangement for maintenance, if required.

[0061] Advantageously, the at least one suction device may consist of or comprise at least one suction pump. In this way, air and particles can be extracted from the intermediate space.

[0062] Advantageously, the at least one blowing device may consist of or comprises at least one blowing pump. In this way, air can be blown into the intermediate space and the air can blow the particles out of the intermediate space.

[0063] Advantageously, the at least one blowing pump and / or the at least one suction pump can be a high-pressure pump. In this way, a strong airflow can be generated through the window-detector-arrangement. Advantageously, the at least one blowing pump and / or the at least one suction pump can be a compressor device. A compressor device can generate high-pressure.

[0064] According to another favorable embodiment, at least one electrode can comprise a surface that is designed to trap particles, in particular a surface with a sawtooth like profile, in particular a sawtooth profile. In this way, particles in an airflow passing through the 11 / 27 2023PF01671 holding device, in particular through the intermediate space, may be trapped on the surface during normal operation of the window-detector-arrangement. In this way, the number of free-moving particles in the intermediate space that can enter the optical path during operation of the window-detector-arrangement can be reduced. The trapped particles can be repelled from the surface by charging the at least one electrode during servicing. The repelled particles can be removed by section and / or blowing.

[0065] According to another favorable embodiment, the holding device can comprise at least one electrical connector that is electrically connected to at least one electrode of the holding device and that is designed to be connected to an ionization voltage source, in particular to an external ionization voltage source. In this way, the holding device can be prepared as one component of a modular window-detector-arrangement. The electrical connector can be connected to the ionization voltage source when mounting the window- detector-arrangement. Alternatively, the ionization voltage source can be connected to the electrical connector electrode if required, especially for service purposes.

[0066] Advantageously, at least one voltage source can be part of an external cleaning device. In this way, the at least one external voltage source can be connected to the at least one electrode if required, especially for service purposes. "External" means, that the ionization voltage source is not part of the holding device or even the window-detector-arrangement.

[0067] Advantageously, at least one voltage source external ionization voltage source can be part of a control unit of a vehicle. In this way, the charging of the at least one electrode can be controlled by the control unit of the vehicle.

[0068] Advantageously, at least one ionization voltage source can be part of the holding device. In this way, the holding device can be prepared together with the ionization voltage source and mounted together on the window.

[0069] Further, the objective according to the invention is achieved with the optical detection system in that the at least one holding device is a holding device according to the invention.

[0070] According to the invention, the detection system comprises at least parts of an ionization 12 / 27 2023PF01671 device. The ionization device can form an electrostatic air filter. The electrostatic air filter is at least partly integrated in the detection system. The electrostatic air filter can keep particles out of air-conducting areas of the detection system, in particular out of the field of view of the detection device.

[0071] The detection system can be mounted on a window, in particular on the inside of a windshield of a vehicle, using the at least one holding device.

[0072] Furthermore, the objective of the invention is achieved with the window detection arrangement in that the at least one holding device is a holding device according to the invention.

[0073] According to the invention, an electrostatic air filter is realized that keeps the intermediate space between the detection device and the window free of particles.

[0074] Advantageously, the at least one ventilation opening can be arranged between the window and the frame section. In this way, the ventilation opening can be defined by the surface of the frame section on one side and with the window on the other side. So, a tubular ventilation opening can be realized.

[0075] Advantageously, at least one ventilation opening can be realized with a slot in the surface of the frame section facing the window. This makes it easier to manufacture the holding device.

[0076] Moreover, the objective of the invention can be achieved with the cleaning device in that the cleaning device comprises at least one device to move air that is designed to be connected to at least one opening which leads to the intermediate space of the at least one holding device.

[0077] According to invention, the cleaning device has a device to move air through the at least one opening of the holding device. In this way, the air can be moved through the opening into the intermediate space or vice versa, depending on the direction of the airflow.

[0078] Advantageously, at least one device to move air can comprise or consist of at least one suction device. In this way, air can be extracted from the intermediate space through the 13 / 27 2023PF01671 opening.

[0079] Alternatively or additionally, at least one device to move air can comprise or consist of a blowing device. In this way, air can be blown into the intermediate space through the opening.

[0080] Advantageously, the at least one device to move air can be designed to be connected to a detector opening of the holding device. In this way, air can be extracted from the intermediate space or blown into the intermediate space through the detector opening.

[0081] Advantageously, the detection device can be detachably mounted to the mounting section of the holding device. This allows the detection device to be removed for service. A detector opening in the mounting section is then accessible. A cleaning device can then be mounted on the detector opening.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one device to move air can be designed to be connected to at least one ventilation opening of the holding device. In this way, air can be extracted from the intermediate space and / or blown into the intermediate space through the at least one ventilation opening.

[0083] Advantageously, the cleaning device may comprise at least one electrical connector designed to be connected to an electrical connector of the holding device. In this way, an ionizing voltage source, which may be part of the cleaning device, can be electrically connected to an electrode, which is part of the holding device.

[0084] Advantageously, the cleaning device can comprise at least one ionizing voltage source. The electrodes of the ionization device can be charged using the at least one integrated ionizing voltage source. In this way, no additional ionization voltage source is required.

[0085] Advantageously, the cleaning device can comprise at least one electrode of the ionization device, in particular a collecting electrode. In this way, the at least one electrode on the holding device can be dispensed with. The at least one electrode is attached to the win- dow-detector-arrangement only when necessary, particularly for service. / zi 2023PF01671

[0086] Advantageously, at least one electrode of the ionization device, in particular a collecting electrode, can be combined with at least one suction device of the cleaning device. In this way, particles collected by the electrode may be extracted with the at least one suction device. This improves particle removal.

[0087] Additionally, the objective of the invention can be achieved with the method in that at least a portion of the particles is ionized by means of at least one ionizing electrode of an ionization device, the ionized particles are transported by an airflow to at least one collecting electrode of the ionization device, and the ionized particles are collected by the at least one collecting electrode, wherein the at least one ionizing electrode and the at least one collecting electrode are oppositely charged using at least one ionization voltage source.

[0088] According to the invention, an electrostatic air filter is realized for keeping at least one airconducting area of a holding device of a window-detector-arrangement free of particles. Electrostatic air filters can be made washable. In this way, service costs and cleaning costs can be reduced. The parts of an electrostatic air filter do not need to be replaced if they become dirty.

[0089] When the at least one ionizing electrode is positively charged, the at least one collecting electrode is negatively charged and vice versa.

[0090] According to a favorable embodiment, at least a portion of the particles can be ionized and collected during operation of the window-detector-arrangement and / or at least a portion of the particles can be ionized and collected during servicing the window- detector-arrangement.

[0091] Advantageously, at least a portion of the particles can be ionized and collected during operation of the window-detector-arrangement. In this way, it can be prevented that particles can enter the intermediate space. 15 / 27 2023PF01671

[0092] Additionally or alternatively, advantageously, at least a portion of the particles may be ionized and collected during maintenance of the window-detector-arrangement. In this way, particles that have entered the intermediate space can be removed.

[0093] According to another favorable embodiment, at least a portion of the particles can be collected before entering an intermediate space of the holding device and / or at least a portion of the particles can be trapped on at least one wall surface adjacent to the intermediate space and can be ionized by means of the at least one ionizing electrode and removed from the intermediate space by means of at least one device to move air, in particular by means of at least one suction device and / or at least one blowing device.

[0094] Advantageously at least a portion of the particles can be collected before entering the intermediate space. In this way, the load of particles in the intermediate space can be limited.

[0095] Alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the particles can be trapped on at least one wall surface adjacent to the intermediate space and can be ionized by means of the at least one electrode and removed from the intermediate space by means of at least one device to move air. In this way particles, that have entered the intermediate space, can be removed, in particular during maintenance.

[0096] Advantageously, the amount of collected particles can be estimated based on an energy consumption of the ionization device. If the method for reducing the particle load is carried out during regular operation, a required remaining time of service interval for cleaning and purging the holding device can be estimated in this way. If the method for reducing the particle load is carried out during service operation, a service interval time for the next required service operation can be estimated in this way.

[0097] Otherwise, the features and advantages shown in connection with the holding device according to the invention, the detection system according to the invention, the window- detector-arrangement, the cleaning device and the method according to the invention and their respective advantageous configurations shall apply mutatis mutandis to each other and vice versa. The individual features and advantages can, of course, be combined with each other, whereby further advantageous effects can occur which go beyond the sum of 16 / 27 2023PF01671 the individual effects.

[0098] Brief Description of Drawings

[0099] The present invention together with the above-mentioned and other objects and advantages may best be understood from the following detailed description of the embodiments, but not restricted to the embodiments, wherein is shown schematically

[0100] Figure 1 a vehicle with a window-detector-arrangement comprising a detection device which is attached to the windshield of the vehicle using a holding device;

[0101] Figure 2 a sectional view of a window-detector-arrangement according to a first embodiment used with the vehicle of Figure 1 ;

[0102] Figure 3 a view of the window-detector-arrangement of Figure 2 through the windshield;

[0103] Figure 4 a sectional view of a window-detector-arrangement according to a second embodiment used with the vehicle of Figure 1 during the operation;

[0104] Figure 5 a view of the window-detector-arrangement of Figure 4 through the windshield;

[0105] Figure 6 the sectional view of the window-detector-arrangement of Figure 4 during service;

[0106] Figure 7 the view of the window-detector-arrangement of Figures 6 through the windshield during service;

[0107] Figure 8 a sectional view of a window-detector-arrangement according to a third embodiment used with the vehicle of Figure 1 during the operation;

[0108] Figure 9 a view of the window-detector-arrangement of Figure 8 through the windshield;

[0109] Figure 10 a view of a window-detector-arrangement according to a fourth embodiment used with the vehicle of Figure 1 during service.

[0110] In the drawings, equal or similar elements are referred to by equal reference numerals. The drawings are merely schematic representations, not intended to portray specific parameters of the invention. Moreover, the drawings are intended to depict only typical embodiments of the invention and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. 17 / 27 2023PF01671

[0111] Embodiment(s) of Invention

[0112] Figure 1 shows a top view of a vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 comprises a window-detector- arrangement 12 and a control unit 14. The window detection arrangement 12 comprises a window, for example the windshield 16 of the vehicle 10, and an optical detection system 18.

[0113] "Optical” means that the components are designed for the use of optical radiation, for example visible light or nonvisible light.

[0114] Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a window-detector-arrangement 12 according to a first embodiment for use in the vehicle 10 of Figure 1. Figure 3 shows the window-detector- arrangement 12 from Figure 2 viewed through the windshield 16.

[0115] The optical detection system 18 comprises an optical detection device 20, a holding device 22 and an ionization voltage source 24.

[0116] The optical detection device 20 can be a front camera, for example. The detection device 20 is attached to the inside of the windshield 16 using the holding device 22. The detection device 20 is directed to a monitoring area 26 in front of the vehicle 10. The detection device 20 can be used to monitor the monitoring area 26.

[0117] The detection device 20 is connected to the control unit 14. The detection device 20 can be controlled by use of the control unit 14. Information about the monitoring area 26 captured by the detection device 20 can be transmitted to the control unit 14. The control unit 14 can be used to operate functions of the vehicle 10 autonomously or semiautono- mously.

[0118] The holding device 22 comprises a main body 28. The main body 28 is formed in one piece. The main body 28 is made of plastic. Alternatively, the main body 28 can be made of another material, such as a composite material.

[0119] The main body 28 comprises a lower wall section 30, a mounting section 32, two side wall sections 34 and a frame section 36. 18 / 27 2023PF01671

[0120] “Lower", "upper" and "side" refer to the orientation of the window-detector-arrangement 12 shown in Figures 2 and 3. The orientation of the window-detector-arrangement 12 with the windshield 16 of a vehicle 10 typically is as shown in Figures 2 and 3. In other arrangements, such as in other vehicles, the orientation of the window detection arrangement 12 may be different.

[0121] The frame section 36 is trapezoidal when viewed through the windshield 16. The frame section 36 is attached to the inner side of the windshield 16. The frame section 36 surrounds a frame opening 38. The lower wall section 30 extends from the lower part of the frame section 36 in direction to the interior of the vehicle 10, for example in a horizontal direction. In the shown example, the lower wall section 30 is aligned horizontally. The lower wall section 30 is inclined relative to the window 16.

[0122] The mounting section 32 is formed as a wall section of the main body 28. The mounting section 32 extends from the upper part of the frame section 36 to the edge of the lower wall section 30 opposite the lower part of the frame section 36. The mounting section 32 extends vertically.

[0123] The two side wall sections 34 extend on opposite sides of the main body 28 between the lower wall section 30, the mounting section 32 and the side portions of the frame section 36.

[0124] The lower wall section 30, the mounting section 32, the two side wall sections 34, the frame section 36 and the windshield 16 delimit an intermediate space 40.

[0125] Further, the main body 28 comprises a detector opening 42. The detector opening 42 is located in the mounting section 32. The detector opening 42 leads through the mounting section 32 into the intermediate space 40. The detector opening 42 is accessible from the outside of the holding device 22 when the detection device 20 is not attached to the holding device 22. The detector opening 42 connects the surroundings to the intermediate space 40.

[0126] The detector opening 42 is designed to receive an objective lens 44 of the detection device 20. The detection device 20 is attached to the outside of the mounting section 32. 19 / 27 2023PF01671

[0127] The objective lens 44 reaches through the detector opening 42. The objective lens 44 is directed to the frame opening 38. A field of view of the detection device 20 extends through the intermediate space 40 and the windshield 16 into the monitoring area 26.

[0128] The main body 28 further comprises ventilation openings 46 and 48. For ease of differentiation, the ventilation openings 46 on the lower side of the holding device 22 are referred to as "lower ventilation openings 46". The ventilation openings 48 on the upper side of the holding device 22 are referred to as "upper ventilation openings 48”.

[0129] Four lower ventilation openings 46 are arranged in the lower portion of the frame section 36. The lower ventilation openings 46 are each formed as grooves in the lower portion of the frame section 36. The lower ventilation openings 46 are defined between the frame section 32 and the inside of the windshield 16. The lower ventilation openings 46 connect the intermediate space 40 with the surrounding of the detection system 18.

[0130] Two upper ventilation openings 48 are arranged in the upper portion of the frame section 36. The upper ventilation openings 48 are each formed as grooves in the upper portion of the frame section 36. The upper ventilation openings 48 are defined between the frame section 32 and the inside of the windshield 16. The upper ventilation openings 48 connect the intermediate space 40 with the surrounding of the detection system 18.

[0131] Further, the holding device 22 comprises ionizing electrodes 50 and collecting electrodes 52 of an ionization device 54. The ionization device 54 comprises the ionizing electrodes 50, the collecting electrodes 52 and the ionization voltage source 24.

[0132] The ionizing electrodes 50 and the collecting electrodes 52 are arranged in the lower ventilation openings 46. An ionizing electrode 50 and two collecting electrodes 52 are arranged in each lower ventilation opening 46. The ionizing electrodes 50 each are arranged on the side of the respective lower ventilation opening 46 facing the environment. The collecting electrodes 52 are arranged on the side of the lower ventilation openings 46 facing the intermediate space 40. The ionizing electrodes 50 are connected to one pole of the ionization voltage source 24. The collecting electrodes 52 are connected to the other pole of the ionization voltage source 24. 20 / 27 2023PF01671

[0133] The ionization voltage source 24 is a high-voltage DC voltage source. The ionization voltage source 24 can charge the ionizing electrodes 50 and the collecting electrodes 52 in opposite directions. For example, the ionizing electrodes 50 may be positively charged and the collecting electrodes 52 may be negatively charged.

[0134] When operating the vehicle 10, air is circulating in the cabin of the vehicle 10. In the figures an airflow 56 is indicated by arrows, only some of which are numbered for clarity. The airflow 56 enters the intermediate space 40 of the window-detector-arrangement 12 through the lower ventilation openings 46. The airflow 56 leaves the intermediate space 40 through the upper ventilation openings 48. The airflow 56 through the intermediate space 40 prevents moisture from concentrating in the intermediate space 40 and fogging the inside of the windshield 16.

[0135] Typically, the airflow 56 carries along particles 58 like dust, dirt or possibly nicotine particles. Only a few particles 58 are shown in the figures for clarity, and only some of them are numbered. Particles 58 such as dust, dirt and impurity or worse yet, nicotine dust, can cause optical degradation and reflection in front of the detection device 20. Therefore, it is essential to the performance of the detection system 18, that the optical path of the detection device 20 be free of particles 58. For this purpose, particles 58 carried along with the airflow 56 are removed from the airflow 56 by use of the ionization device 54. The ionization device 54 functions as an electrostatic air filter.

[0136] The ionizing electrodes 50 are arranged in front of the collecting electrodes 52 in direction of airflow 56 through the holding device 22. When entering the ventilation openings 46 the particles 58 are ionized by use of the ionizing electrode 50. The ionized particles 58 are then repelled from the ionizing electrodes 50. The ionized particles 58 are transported by the airflow 56 to the collecting electrodes 52. The ionized particles 58 are attracted from the collecting electrodes 52. The ionized particles 58 are collected by the collecting electrodes 52 before entering the particles 52 the intermediate space 40. The airflow 56 entering the intermediate space 40 is reduced from particles 58, ideally free of particles 58. Particles 58 collected during normal operation of the detection system 18 may be removed during maintenance. 21 / 27 2023PF01671

[0137] Figures 4 and 5 show a window-detector-arrangement 12 according to a second embodiment normal regular operation. Figure 6 and 7 show the window-detector-arrangement 12 according to the second embodiment during service. Those elements similar to those of the first embodiment in figures 2 and 3 are provided with the same reference signs. The second embodiment example differs from the first embodiment in that instead of the ionizing electrodes 50 in the lower ventilation openings 46, an ionizing electrode 150 is disposed on the inside of the lower wall section 30 facing the intermediate space 40.

[0138] The ionizing electrode 150 is designed as an electric conductive surface of the lower wall section 30. The electric conductive surface can be an electric coating on the surface of the lower wall section 30, for example. The surface of the ionizing electrode 150 facing the intermediate space 40 is designed to trap the particles 58. For example, electrode 150 has a sawtooth profile. The vertical sides of the saw teeth faces the lower ventilation openings 46. The slanted sites of the saw teeth faces the mounting section 32. Particles 58 entering the intermediate space 40 and transported by the airflow 56 along the surface of the ionizing electrode 150 are trapped at the saw teeth. Thus, the particles 58 do not enter the optical path of the detection device 20 in the intermediate space 40.

[0139] The ionizing electrode 150 is electrically connected to an electrical connector 60. The electrical connector 60 is designed to be connected to an external electrical connector 62. The external electrical connector 62 is part of a cleaning device 64, which is described later on in connection with Figures 6 and 7. During normal operation of the window-detector-arrangement 12 the ionizing electrode 150 is not charged electrically charged.

[0140] Also unlike the first embodiment, there are no fixed collecting electrodes 52 arranged in the window-detector-arrangement 12. The collecting electrodes 52 are attached to the window-detector-arrangement 12 for service.

[0141] Figures 6 and 7 show the window-detector-arrangement 12 according to the second embodiment of from Figures 4 and 5 during service. The detection device 20 is removed from the holding device 22 during service. Instead, the cleaning device 64 is attached to the mounting section 32. 22 / 27 2023PF01671

[0142] The cleaning device 64 comprises a suction device 66, the external connector 62, a collecting electrode 52 and the ionization voltage source 24. The suction device 66 comprises a suction pump and a suction tube. The suction pump is a high-pressure pump such as a compressor device. The collecting electrode 52 is positioned in the suction tube of the suction device 66. The collecting electrode 52 is electrically connected to one pole of the voltage source 24. The other pole of the voltage source 24 is electrically connected to the external connector 62.

[0143] The cleaning device 64 is attached to mounting section 32 in such a way that the suction tube of the suction device 66 extends through the detector opening 42 of the mounting section 32. The inlet of the suction tube faces the intermediate space 40. The external connector 62 is connected to the electrical connector 60 of the ionizing electrode 150.

[0144] The ionizing electrode 150 is connected to the corresponding pole of the ionization voltage source 24 via the electric external connector 62. The ionizing electrode 150 and the collecting electrode 52 are oppositely charged by the ionized ionizing voltage source 24. The particles 58 trapped on the surface of the ionizing electrode 150 during normal operation are ionized and repelled from the ionizing electrode 150. The suction device 66 generates a strong airflow 56 through the lower ventilation openings 46 and the upper ventilation openings 48 into the intermediate space 40. The airflow 56 carries the ionized particles 58 into the suction tube of the suction device 66. The ionized particles 58 are electrically neutralized at the collecting electrode 52. The particles 58 are extracted through the suction device 66. Deep cleaning of the window-detector-arrangement 12 removes any accumulated particles 58 that may affect the performance of the optical path of the detection system 18.

[0145] Figures 8 and 9 show a window-detector-arrangement 12 according to a third embodiment. Those elements similar to those of the first embodiment and the second embodiment in 2 and 3 are provided with the same reference signs. The third embodiment combines the ionizing electrodes 50 arranged in the lower ventilation openings 46 of the first embodiment and the ionizing electrode 150 on the lower wall section 30 of the second embodiment. With the third embodiment, during normal operation of the window-detector- arrangement 12, a portion of the particles 58 entrained in the airflow 56 are captured by the collecting electrodes 52 before entering the intermediate space 40. Those particles 23 / 27 2023PF01671

[0146] 58 that enter the intermediate space 40 are trapped by the surface of the ionizing electrode 150. The trapped particles 58 can be removed during servicing in a manner analogous to the second embodiment of Figures 6 and 7.

[0147] Figure 10 shows a window-detector-arrangement according to a fourth embodiment. Those elements similar to those of the second embodiment in Figures 4 to 7 are provided with the same reference signs. The fourth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the fourth embodiment is designed to be connected to a cleaning device 164 comprising a blowing device 166 during maintenance.

[0148] The cleaning device 164 comprises a blowing device 166, the external connector 62, collecting electrode 52 and the ionization voltage source 24. The external connector 62, the collecting electrode 52 and the ionization voltage source 24 are not shown in Figure 10 for clarity.

[0149] The blowing device 166 comprises a blowing pump and a blowing tube. The glowing pump is a high-pressure pump such as a compressor device. The blowing tube of the blowing device 166 may be attached to the lower ventilation openings 46 for service, as shown in Figure 10. The airflow 56 enters the intermediate space 40 through the lower ventilation openings 46. The airflow 56 exits the intermediate space 40 through the upper ventilation openings 48 and the detector opening 42. As in the second embodiment, the particles 58 trapped on the surface of the ionizing electrode 150 are ionized by the ionizing device 54 and blown out of the intermediate space 40 by the airflow 56.

Claims

24 / 27 2023PF01671Claims1. Holding device (22) for a window-detector-arrangement (12) that is designed to hold an optical detection device (20), in particular a camera, at a window (16), in particular at a window (16) of a vehicle (10), in particular at a windshield (16) of a vehicle (10), comprising a main body (28) with a frame section (36) surrounding a frame opening (38), a mounting section (32) for the detection device (20), at least a wall section (30, 34) which extends between the frame section (36) and the mounting section (32) and at least partially delimits an intermediate space (40) between the frame opening (38) and the mounting section (32), and at least one ventilation opening (46, 48) that leads from the surrounding of the holding device (22) to the intermediate space (40), characterized in that the holding device (22) comprises at least one electrode (50, 52; 150) which is arranged in an air-conducting area (40, 46, 48) of the holding device (22) and which is designed to be operated as an electrode (50, 52; 150) of an ionization device (54).

2. Holding device according to claim 1 , characterized in that the mounting section (32) comprises at least one detector opening (42) for the detection device (20).

3. Holding device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one electrode (50; 150) is an ionizing electrode (50; 150) and / or at least one electrode (52) is a collecting electrode (52).

4. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that at least one electrode (50, 52) is arranged close to, in particular inside, at least one ventilation opening (46), in particular at least one inlet ventilation opening (46).

5. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that at least one electrode (50; 150) designed as an ionizing electrode (50; 150) is arranged in front of at least one electrode (52) designed as a collecting electrode (52) in direction of the airflow (56) through the holding device (22).

6. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that at25 / 27 2023PF01671 least one electrode (150), in particular at least one electrode (150) designed as an ionizing electrode (150), is arranged on the inside of at least one wall section (30) facing the intermediate space (40).

7. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that at least one electrode (150) is formed as an electrically conductive surface, in particular as an electrically conductive coating, on at least one inner side of at least one wall section (30) of the holding device (22).

8. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that at least one detector opening (42) and / or at least one ventilation opening (46, 48) of the holding device (22) is designed for connecting at least one device (64; 164) to move air, in particular at least one external device to move air, and / or at least one detector opening (42) and / or at least one ventilation opening of the holding device (22) is designed for connecting at least one suction device (66), in particular at least one external suction device, and / or at least one detector opening and / or at least one ventilation opening (46) of the holding device (22) is designed for connecting at least one blowing device (166), in particular at least one external blowing device.

9. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that at least one electrode (150) comprises a surface that is designed to trap particles (58), in particular a surface with a sawtooth like profile, in particular a sawtooth profile.

10. Holding device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the holding device (22) comprises at least one electrical connector (60) that is electrically connected to at least one electrode (150) of the holding device (22) and that is designed to be connected to an ionization voltage source (24), in particular to an external ionization voltage source (24).1 1 . Optical detection system (18) that is designed to be mounted on a window (16), in particular on a window (16) of a vehicle (10), in particular on a windshield (16) of a vehicle26 / 27 2023PF01671(10), comprising at least one optical detection device (20), in particular a camera, and at least one holding device (22) that is designed to hold the at least one optical detection device (20) on the window (16), characterized in that the at least one holding device (22) is a holding device according to one of the claims 1 to 10.

12. Window-detector-arrangement (12), in particular a window-detector-arrangement (12) of a vehicle (10), in particular a windshield-detector-arrangement (12) of a vehicle (10), comprising at least one optical detection device (20), in particular a camera, at least one holding device (22) and a window (16), wherein the at least one detection device (20) is attached to the window (16) using the at least one holding device (22), characterized in that the at least one holding device (22) is a holding device according to one of the claims 1 to 10.

13. Cleaning device (64; 164) for a window-detector-arrangement (12), in particular a window-detector-arrangement (12) of a vehicle (10), in particular a windshield-detector- arrangement (12) of a vehicle (10), wherein the window-detector-arrangement (12) comprises at least one optical detection device (20), in particular a camera, at least one holding device according to one of the claims 1 to 10 and a window (16), wherein the at least one detection device (20) is attached to the window (16) using the at least one holding device (22), wherein the cleaning device (64; 164) is designed to reduce the particle load in at least one air-conducting space (40) of the window-detector-arrangement (12), characterized in that the cleaning device (64; 164) comprises at least one device (66; 166) to move air that is designed to be connected to at least one opening (42; 46) which leads to the intermediate space (40) of the at least one holding device (22) according to one of the claims 1 to 10.

14. Method for reducing the particle load in at least one air-conducting area (40) of a holding device (22) according to one of the claims 1 to 10 of a window-detector-arrangement (12), in particular of a window-detector-arrangement (12) of a vehicle (10), in particular of a windshield-detector-arrangement of a vehicle (10), characterized in that at least a portion of the particles (58) is ionized by means of at least one ionizing electrode (50; 150) of an ionization device (54), the ionized particles (58) are transported by an airflow (56) to at least one collecting electrode (52) of the ionization device (54),Zl / Zl 2023PF01671 and the ionized particles (58) are collected by the at least one collecting electrode (52), wherein the at least one ionizing electrode (50; 150) and the at least one collecting electrode (52) are oppositely charged using at least one ionization voltage source (24).

15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that at least a portion of the particles (58) is ionized and collected during operation of the window-detector-arrangement (12) and / or at least a portion of the particles (58) is ionized and collected during servicing the window- detector-arrangement (12).

16. Method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that at least a portion of the particles (58) is collected before entering an intermediate space (40) of the holding device (22) and / or at least a portion of the particles (58) is trapped on at least one wall surface adjacent to the intermediate space (40) and is ionized by means of the at least one ionizing electrode (150) and removed from the intermediate space (40) by means of at least one device (66; 166) to move air, in particular by means of at least one suction device (66) and / or at least one blowing device (166).

17. Method according to one of the claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the amount of collected particles is estimated based on an energy consumption of the ionization device.

Images