Nozzle assembly for cleaning sensor, and sensor assembly

Abstract

A nozzle assembly (100) for cleaning a sensor, and a sensor assembly. The nozzle assembly (100) comprises: a housing (110), comprising a fluid inlet (1101), at least one spray outlet (1102), and an internal conduit (1103) that fluidly connects the fluid inlet (1101) and the at least one spray outlet (1102), and the housing (110) being configured to be coupled to a sensor such that a fluid sprayed from the at least one spray outlet (1102) cleans a predetermined surface of the sensor; and an electronic control assembly disposed inside the housing (110). The nozzle assembly (100) further comprises: an electronically controlled valve (1301), comprising at least one controllable valve port and coupled to the internal conduit (1103); a sensor module, configured to at least sense at least one of temperature and pressure in the internal conduit (1103) and obtain sensor data; and a control circuit assembly (1302), coupled to the electronically controlled valve (1301) and the sensor module, and configured to control the electronically controlled valve (1301) on the basis of at least one of the sensor data and an external instruction. Hence, the integration level and reliability of the nozzle assembly can be improved.

Description

Nozzle assembly for cleaning sensors and sensor assembly

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411969993.3, filed on December 30, 2024, entitled "Nozzle Assembly and Sensor Assembly for Cleaning Sensor", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to the field of sensor cleaning, and particularly to a nozzle assembly for cleaning sensors and a sensor assembly. Background Technology

[0003] With the rapid development of autonomous driving technology, intelligent transportation systems, and industrial automation equipment, sensor technology is increasingly widely used in these fields. As components that allow autonomous vehicles, construction machinery (such as mining trucks and port equipment), industrial machinery, and intelligent devices to perceive their surroundings, the performance and stability of sensors directly affect the safety and operational efficiency of these devices. However, when operating in complex environments, the surface of sensors is easily affected by contaminants such as rainwater, dust, mud, frost, snow, leaves, and bird droppings. These contaminants can lead to a decrease in sensor detection accuracy or even complete loss of sensing function, thus threatening the normal operation of the equipment and the safety of users. Currently, existing nozzle assemblies are used to remove contaminants, but this is not an effective method. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a nozzle assembly for cleaning a sensor is provided. The nozzle assembly includes: a housing including a fluid inlet, at least one injection outlet, and an internal conduit fluidly communicating the fluid inlet and the at least one injection outlet, the housing being adapted to be coupled to a sensor for cleaning a predetermined surface of the sensor with fluid injected from the at least one injection outlet; and an electronic control assembly disposed within the housing and including: an electronically controlled valve including at least one controllable valve port and coupled to the internal conduit, the electronically controlled valve being adapted to be controlled to adjust at least one of the flow rate and frequency of the fluid injected from the at least one injection outlet; a sensor module adapted to sense at least one of temperature and pressure in the internal conduit and obtain sensor data; and a control circuit assembly coupled to the electronically controlled valve and the sensor module, and configured to control the electronically controlled valve based on at least one of the sensor data and external commands.

[0005] In embodiments according to this disclosure, the nozzle assembly, through the integration of a fluid inlet, at least one jet outlet, and internal piping connected thereto within the housing, enables efficient and precise fluid jetting for cleaning a predetermined surface of the sensor. The housing is adapted to be directly coupled to the sensor, allowing the jetting fluid to accurately act on the predetermined surface of the sensor, effectively removing raindrops, water stains, dirt, bird droppings, leaves, dust, mud, ice, snow, insects, insect carcasses, debris, and other contaminants, thereby ensuring the normal operation and detection accuracy of the sensor. Secondly, the electrically controlled valve, through at least one controllable valve port, enables precise adjustment of the jetting fluid flow rate and frequency to meet different cleaning needs. The sensor module, by sensing the temperature and pressure data of the internal piping and combining this with the real-time control of the electrically controlled valve by the control circuit assembly, ensures the high efficiency and stability of the nozzle assembly's operation. Simultaneously, based on the dynamic control capability of sensor data and external commands, the nozzle assembly can adjust its cleaning strategy according to actual conditions, improving fluid utilization efficiency. Other benefits will be described below in conjunction with corresponding embodiments.

[0006] In some embodiments, the housing further includes an electrical communication port adapted to connect to an external plug for powering electronic components and / or providing data transmission.

[0007] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly further includes a quick-connect fitting disposed at the fluid inlet for connection to a fluid source.

[0008] In some embodiments, the quick-connect fitting is coupled to the fluid inlet via a threaded connection or a snap-fit ​​connection, or the quick-connect fitting is integrally formed at the fluid inlet.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sensor module includes at least one of the following: a temperature sensor adapted to detect at least one of the temperatures of the nozzle assembly or the fluid; and a pressure sensor adapted to detect the pressure of the fluid in the internal piping.

[0010] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly is configured to: determine the state of the nozzle assembly based on at least one of temperature and pressure; and control the operation of the electrically controlled valve based on the state.

[0011] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly is further configured to: determine whether at least a portion of the injection outlets in at least one injection outlet are blocked based on the pressure in the internal pipeline exceeding a predetermined threshold; and in response to determining that at least a portion of the injection outlets are blocked, control the operation of an electronically controlled valve to clear the blockage by adjusting at least one of the opening degree and opening / closing frequency of a controllable valve port corresponding to at least a portion of the injection outlets.

[0012] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly is further configured to transmit information about the blockage to an external device in response to determining that at least a portion of the injection outlet is blocked.

[0013] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly is further configured to: determine whether the nozzle assembly is in a leaking state based on the pressure in the internal pipeline being lower than a predetermined threshold; and, in response to determining whether the nozzle assembly is in a leaking state, transmit information about the leaking state to an external device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the injection angle of at least a portion of the injection outlets in at least one injection outlet is adjustable.

[0015] In a second aspect of this disclosure, a sensor assembly is provided. The sensor assembly includes: an environmental sensor for sensing surrounding environmental information; and the nozzle assembly described in the first aspect.

[0016] In some embodiments, the environmental sensor includes at least one of lidar, camera, ultrasonic radar, infrared radar, and millimeter-wave radar.

[0017] It should be understood that the content described in this content section is not intended to limit the key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to restrict the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and other features, advantages, and aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a nozzle assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While some embodiments of this disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that this disclosure can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and complete understanding of this disclosure. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings and embodiments of this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0021] It should be noted that the headings of any section / subsection provided herein are not limiting. Various embodiments are described throughout this document, and embodiments of any type may be included under any section / subsection. Furthermore, embodiments described in any section / subsection may be combined in any way with any other embodiments described in the same section / subsection and / or different sections / subsections.

[0022] In the description of embodiments of this disclosure, the term "comprising" and similar terms should be understood as open-ended inclusion, i.e., "including but not limited to". The term "based on" should be understood as "at least partially based on". The term "one embodiment" or "the embodiment" should be understood as "at least one embodiment". The term "some embodiments" should be understood as "at least some embodiments". Other explicit and implicit definitions may also be included below. The terms "first", "second", etc., may refer to different or the same objects. Other explicit and implicit definitions may also be included below.

[0023] As used in this paper, the term "model" refers to a system that learns the relationship between inputs and outputs from training data, enabling it to generate corresponding outputs for a given input after training. Model generation can be based on machine learning techniques. Deep learning is a machine learning algorithm that uses multiple layers of processing units to process inputs and provide corresponding outputs. In this paper, "model" may also be referred to as a "machine learning model," a "machine learning network," or simply a "network," and these terms are used interchangeably. A model can also include different types of processing units or networks.

[0024] As used herein, a “unit,” “operation unit,” or “subunit” can consist of any suitable machine learning model or network. As used herein, a set of elements or similar expressions can include one or more such elements. For example, “a set of convolutional units” can include one or more convolutional units.

[0025] As briefly mentioned earlier, existing nozzle assemblies cannot effectively clean contaminants from sensor surfaces. Specifically, existing nozzle assemblies arrange the solenoid valve and nozzle as separate components, connected by connectors and pipes. This separate arrangement requires additional connectors and pipe components, thereby increasing the manufacturing, transportation, assembly, and management costs of the nozzle assembly.

[0026] Secondly, the nozzle assembly has poor connection reliability. Specifically, the nozzle and solenoid valve are connected via connectors and air pipes. This multi-point connection method has poor reliability and stability, especially under high-frequency use or extreme environments (such as high temperature and high pressure), which can easily lead to problems such as loose connectors and seal failure. The increase in connection points also directly increases the risk of air leakage and reduces the durability and service life of the nozzle assembly.

[0027] In traditional nozzle assemblies, after the solenoid valve opens, high-pressure gas needs to be delivered to the nozzle through a pipeline to complete the spraying of fluid for cleaning. Due to the presence of the pipeline, fluid resistance is generated during gas delivery, and the length and shape of the connecting pipe also lead to pressure loss. These factors collectively result in a slow response speed and reduced cleaning efficiency of the nozzle assembly, making it particularly difficult to meet the demands for rapid cleaning in dynamic environments.

[0028] Meanwhile, the connecting air pipe between the nozzle and the solenoid valve in the nozzle assembly is a pressureless space when not in use. When the solenoid valve opens, gas must first fill the pipe and establish a certain pressure difference before it can be ejected from the nozzle. This results in insufficient initial injection pressure from the nozzle, leading to poor cleaning performance. The pressure loss is particularly significant when the pipe is long; with a fixed single air output, the injection effect decreases significantly, making it difficult to effectively clean the sensor surface.

[0029] Furthermore, traditional nozzle assemblies require additional piping and connectors, significantly increasing their complexity. This not only increases the workload of installation and commissioning but also raises the likelihood of malfunctions and the difficulty of subsequent maintenance.

[0030] To address, or at least partially address, the aforementioned problems or other potential problems of existing nozzle assemblies for cleaning sensors, embodiments of this disclosure provide a nozzle assembly for cleaning sensors and a sensor assembly solution. The nozzle assembly includes a housing. The housing includes a fluid inlet, at least one injection outlet, and an internal conduit fluidly communicating the fluid inlet and the at least one injection outlet. The housing is adapted to be coupled to a sensor so that fluid injected from the at least one injection outlet cleans a predetermined surface of the sensor. Further, an electronic control assembly is disposed within the housing. The electronic control assembly includes an electronically controlled valve. The electronically controlled valve includes at least one controllable valve port and is coupled to the internal conduit. The electronically controlled valve is adapted to be controlled to adjust at least one of the flow rate and frequency of the fluid injected from the at least one injection outlet. The electronically controlled assembly includes a sensor module adapted to sense at least one of temperature and pressure in the internal conduit and obtain sensor data. The electronically controlled assembly includes a control circuit assembly coupled to the electronically controlled valve and the sensor module, and configured to control the electronically controlled valve based on at least one of the sensor data and external commands.

[0031] In this way, the nozzle assembly, through its integrated design, combines the fluid inlet, jet outlet, internal piping, and electronic control components within a housing, significantly improving its compactness and reliability. Through the adaptive coupling between the housing and the sensor, the nozzle can precisely align with the sensor's designated surface for fluid jet cleaning, effectively removing contaminants and ensuring the sensor's detection performance. The electronically controlled valve within the electronic control component can flexibly adjust the fluid jet flow rate and frequency to adapt to different cleaning needs, improving cleaning efficiency and effectiveness. The sensor module monitors the temperature and pressure in the internal piping in real time, providing operational data. Combined with the control circuit components' functions, it enables precise adjustment of the nozzle's jet state, further improving the nozzle assembly's response speed and operational stability. Furthermore, the electronic control component can autonomously adjust based on sensor data and external commands, ensuring cleaning under varying operating conditions.

[0032] The following description, in conjunction with FIG1, illustrates an example structure and operation of a nozzle assembly 100 in a sensor assembly. According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the nozzle assembly 100 includes an environmental sensor and a nozzle assembly 100. By integrating the environmental sensor and the nozzle assembly 100, this sensor assembly is capable of real-time monitoring of surrounding environmental information and uses the nozzle assembly 100 to clean the detection surface of the environmental sensor (i.e., the predetermined surface described above), thereby preventing contaminants on the detection surface from affecting the detection performance of the environmental sensor.

[0033] Specifically, environmental sensors include a detection surface (such as a lens, window, or housing surface) used to sense various information from the surrounding environment, such as visual information, distance and spatial information, temperature information, humidity and weather information, ambient light information, audio information, air quality information, magnetic field information, vibration and acceleration information, or other information. Understandably, environmental sensors are placed in areas exposed to the outside world, and their detection surfaces are susceptible to the effects of rain, dust, mud, leaves, and other pollutants. In other words, the cleanliness of the detection surface directly affects the sensor's performance and the accuracy of the output data.

[0034] Furthermore, the detection surface of the environmental sensor is cleaned using the nozzle assembly 100. The nozzle assembly 100 is used in conjunction with the environmental sensor and is positioned adjacent to the sensor. The nozzle assembly 100 adjusts the jet pressure, flow rate, frequency, and angle of the fluid according to the degree of contamination on the detection surface to clean a predetermined surface of the sensor, thereby achieving efficient cleaning.

[0035] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly 100 can be linked to data feedback from an environmental sensor. For example, when the environmental sensor detects contamination on the detection surface, the nozzle assembly 100 can initiate a cleaning process, spraying fluid to clean the detection surface. The nozzle assembly 100 can also be integrated with an external control system to initiate or adjust the cleaning operation by receiving external commands, thereby ensuring that the sensor maintains good performance and high detection accuracy in various operating environments.

[0036] In this way, by integrating the nozzle assembly 100 with the environmental sensor into a single unit, the sensor assembly can provide continuous and reliable performance in a variety of application scenarios, while reducing maintenance requirements and improving the stability and operating efficiency of the cleaning sensor.

[0037] In some embodiments, the environmental sensor may include any one or more of the following types of sensors: lidar, camera, ultrasonic radar, infrared radar, and millimeter-wave radar.

[0038] Specifically, lidar can be used to measure the distance and shape of target objects, possessing high-precision spatial perception capabilities. However, its surface optical windows are easily contaminated by dust, rainwater, or other debris, affecting its measurement accuracy. Furthermore, cameras are used for visual information acquisition, such as environmental perception in autonomous vehicles and image acquisition in monitoring equipment; their lens surfaces need to be kept clean to avoid image quality degradation. Ultrasonic radar uses ultrasonic signals to perceive the distance of target objects and can be used in vehicle parking assistance systems, but its probes are prone to accumulating dirt in harsh environments, affecting functionality. Infrared radar detects objects and the environment by sensing thermal radiation or infrared light signals; its lens surface is susceptible to interference from dirt, affecting thermal signal conduction. Finally, millimeter-wave radar is used to detect the speed, direction, and distance of objects for vehicle collision avoidance and environmental perception; its surface antenna windows are also easily covered by contaminants, reducing signal propagation and reception efficiency.

[0039] Any of the aforementioned sensors can work in conjunction with the nozzle assembly 100. The nozzle assembly 100 can adjust its cleaning strategy, such as spray pressure, flow rate, angle, and frequency, according to the sensor type and contamination level, to effectively clean the sensor's detection surface or sensing components. This not only ensures the sensor's continuous and stable operation but also extends its service life.

[0040] The specific structure of the nozzle assembly 100 will now be described with reference to Figure 1. In the embodiments of this disclosure, the nozzle assembly 100 generally includes a housing 110 and an electronic control assembly for precisely controlling the flow rate and frequency of the ejected fluid, thereby achieving an efficient sensor cleaning function.

[0041] Specifically, the housing 110 includes a fluid inlet 1101, at least one spray outlet 1102, and an internal conduit 1103 connecting the fluid inlet 1101 and the spray outlet 1102. The fluid inlet 1101 is connected to a cleaning fluid source, such as high-pressure gas, via an adapter interface. At least one spray outlet 1102 guides fluid to a predetermined surface of the sensor for cleaning via the internal conduit 1103. The number and spray pattern of the spray outlets 1102 can be configured according to cleaning requirements. The housing 110 is adapted to couple with the sensor surface to ensure that the sprayed fluid can directly act on the sensor surface to remove contaminants such as dirt, raindrops, and dust. For example, the housing 110 of the nozzle assembly 100 can be the outer shell structure of the entire device (such as for cleaning sensors). Furthermore, the material of the housing 110 can be selected according to actual environmental requirements, and can be a high-temperature resistant, corrosion-resistant, and UV-resistant material, not limited to materials such as metals, carbon fibers, and plastics.

[0042] Furthermore, an electronic control assembly is arranged inside the housing 110. This electronic control assembly includes an electronically controlled valve 1301, a sensor module, and a control circuit assembly 1302. Further, the electronically controlled valve 1301 includes at least one controllable valve port and is connected to an internal pipeline 1103. The electronically controlled valve 1301 is used to adjust at least one of the flow rate and frequency of the sprayed fluid via an external control signal for precise control according to different cleaning conditions. For example, the electronically controlled valve 1301 can be a solenoid valve, a proportional valve, or other valve type suitable for fluid control, which is not specifically limited in the embodiments of this disclosure. By controlling the opening degree and frequency of the electronically controlled valve 1301, the spray pressure, spray duration, and spray interval of the fluid can be adjusted, thereby improving the cleaning effect and avoiding excessive fluid consumption.

[0043] In some embodiments, the diameter and cumulative diameter of the controllable valve port are adjustable, and the material of the controllable valve port can be selected according to actual environmental requirements. Materials with high temperature resistance, low temperature resistance, high pressure resistance, and durability can be used, but are not limited to plastics, metals, carbon fibers, etc. Furthermore, the number of opening and closing cycles of the controllable valve port can meet the entire lifespan of the nozzle assembly. For example, the controllable valve port is compatible with 12V and 24V power supply systems and has high-speed opening and closing response performance.

[0044] Furthermore, a sensor module is built into the housing 110 to sense the operating status of the internal piping 1103 of the nozzle assembly 100. Specifically, by sensing sensor data of at least one of temperature and pressure through the sensor module, the control circuit assembly 1302 can determine in real time whether the fluid is in a normal operating state and make timely adjustments. The sensor data can also be used for fault diagnosis. For example, if the temperature is too high or the pressure is too low, the control circuit assembly 1302 can issue an alarm or take automatic adjustment measures to prevent damage to the nozzle assembly 100 or performance degradation.

[0045] Furthermore, the control circuit assembly 1302 is coupled to the electronically controlled valve 1301 and the sensor module to adjust the state of the electronically controlled valve 1301 based on data collected by the sensors and external commands (such as commands from the vehicle control system). The control circuit assembly 1302 can not only automatically adjust the fluid injection conditions based on real-time monitored temperature and pressure data, but also receive external commands, such as user-defined cleaning modes, cleaning cycles, or cleaning intensities. Exemplarily, the control circuit assembly 1302 includes components such as a microprocessor, circuit board, and control chip, capable of performing complex calculations and decisions to ensure that the nozzle assembly 100 operates efficiently and stably under various working environments.

[0046] During use, external control system or sensor data sends control signals to the solenoid valve 1301 via control circuit component 1302, adjusting the valve opening level and thus controlling the flow rate and frequency of the sprayed fluid. The sensor module continuously monitors the temperature and pressure within the internal pipeline 1103 and feeds the monitoring data back to control circuit component 1302 for further adjustments to the fluid spraying status. For example, in low-temperature environments, control circuit component 1302 can automatically increase the fluid flow rate to ensure that the cleaning effect is not affected; while in cases of excessive pressure, control circuit component can automatically reduce the flow rate or adjust the spraying frequency to avoid excessive spraying and damage to the sensor surface.

[0047] In addition, the control circuit assembly can receive commands from external sources, such as the vehicle's central control system or user settings. These commands can control the nozzle's on / off time, spray frequency (e.g., continuous spraying or spraying at a fixed / variable frequency), cleaning mode, etc., ensuring that the nozzle assembly 100 can flexibly adapt to different working scenarios. For example, in rainy or dirty environments, the nozzle assembly 100 can automatically increase the spray frequency and flow rate, while in environments with lower cleaning requirements, it can reduce the spray parameters to save resources.

[0048] In this way, the nozzle assembly 100 achieves precise fluid control, ensuring cleaning effectiveness and extending equipment life. The coordinated operation of the electronically controlled valve 1301 and the control circuit assembly 1302 makes fluid use more efficient and reduces energy waste during the cleaning process. Through real-time feedback of sensor data, the control circuit assembly 1302 can promptly detect abnormalities, such as excessive temperature or pressure, preventing equipment damage due to improper operation. Based on changes in external commands and internal sensor data, the nozzle assembly 100 can flexibly adjust under different environmental and operating conditions to meet the cleaning needs of different sensors. Furthermore, this nozzle assembly 100 not only reduces manufacturing, management, transportation, and assembly costs, but also eliminates unnecessary piping and connectors, resulting in a higher degree of integration and a simpler design.

[0049] In some embodiments, the housing 110 of the nozzle assembly 100 further includes an electrical communication port 1104. This electrical communication port 1104 connects to an external plug to provide power and data transmission required by the electronic control components. Specifically, the electrical communication port 1104 connects to an external control system via a standardized interface, supporting the provision of necessary power (such as 12V, 24V, or other voltages) to the electronic control components inside the nozzle assembly 100, ensuring the proper functioning of the electronic control components. Furthermore, the electrical communication port 1104 can also be used to interact with external control systems (such as a vehicle's onboard computer system, sensor management system, etc.) to achieve data transmission.

[0050] Furthermore, the electrical communication port 1104 can be connected to an external plug via a wired connection. Through this wired connection, the electronic control components can receive power from external devices, and data can also be transmitted bidirectionally. In addition, the wired connection avoids communication instability caused by wireless signal interference, making it suitable for scenarios with high reliability requirements.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally, the electrical communication port 1104 can also exchange data with external devices wirelessly. In this case, the electronic control components can communicate with external devices or cloud systems via wireless modules (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.) without the need for physical plug connections. This wireless communication method provides greater flexibility for cleaning sensors, especially in applications with limited space or requiring remote control. For example, the sensor module can wirelessly upload real-time data to a cloud system for analysis and decision-making by users or back-end monitoring systems, while also receiving instructions from the cloud for operational adjustments.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, the electrical communication port 1104 may also include both wired and wireless dual-mode communication. Specifically, when the nozzle assembly 100 is connected to an external device at close range, it can use wired communication for high-bandwidth, low-latency data transmission, while at long distances or when flexible installation is required, it can switch to wireless communication. In this way, the nozzle assembly 100 can adaptively select the appropriate communication method in different working environments, ensuring the stability and efficiency of the nozzle assembly 100.

[0053] Furthermore, the electrical communication port 1104 can adopt a dustproof and waterproof interface structure to adapt to harsh conditions such as high temperature, humidity, and vibration in the vehicle environment. For example, the nozzle assembly 100 can meet the dustproof and waterproof rating of IP67 or higher and the vehicle's EMC requirements. The interface of the electrical communication port 1104 can be selected according to actual needs, using different standards such as CAN bus interface, LIN bus interface, PWM interface, USB interface, RJ45 interface, or dedicated connector plug, etc. Users can choose to adapt different connection methods as needed, and no specific limitation is made in the embodiments of this disclosure. In addition, multiple pins can be arranged for the electrical communication port 1104 to ensure future scalability.

[0054] In this way, the electrical communication port 1104 can not only provide power, but also communicate with external controllers, sensor systems and other devices to transmit parameters including but not limited to sensor status, device diagnostic information, temperature and pressure data, cleaning mode settings and other parameters.

[0055] In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly 100 further includes a quick-connect fitting 140. The quick-connect fitting 140 is disposed at the fluid inlet 1101 of the housing 110 and is designed for quick and easy connection to an external fluid source. Specifically, the quick-connect fitting 140 enables the nozzle assembly 100 to quickly dock with a fluid source (e.g., a compressed air source), reducing the time required for connection and the complexity of operation.

[0056] Furthermore, the quick-connect fitting 140 can adopt a standardized interface structure, making it compatible with fluid pipelines of different types and sizes. Through a simple insertion action, the quick-connect fitting 140 can securely connect to the pipeline interface, ensuring leak-proof fluid flow and a stable connection, avoiding leakage problems caused by improper connection. The quick-connect fitting 140 has highly efficient sealing performance, ensuring a tight seal even under high pressure or complex environments.

[0057] In this way, by setting the quick-connect connector 140, the nozzle assembly 100 can be quickly and reliably connected to the fluid source, further improving the installation, maintenance and replacement of the nozzle assembly 100, and improving the working efficiency and reliability of the nozzle assembly 100.

[0058] In some embodiments, the quick-connect fitting 140 can be connected to the fluid inlet 1101 in two ways to ensure a secure connection and efficient fluid transfer between the nozzle assembly 100 and the fluid source. Specifically, the quick-connect fitting 140 can be coupled to the fluid inlet 1101 via a threaded connection or a snap-fit ​​connection. A threaded connection provides a more robust fixation and is suitable for applications requiring high connection strength and long-term stability; while a snap-fit ​​connection is more convenient, allowing for quick connection and disconnection through simple plugging and unplugging, suitable for scenarios involving frequent fluid source replacement or maintenance. Both threaded and snap-fit ​​connections ensure no fluid leakage and maintain stable fluid flow. In some embodiments, the quick-connect fitting 140 can be a pluggable type or a pluggable-only type, which is not specifically limited in the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, the quick-connect fitting 140 is integrally formed at the fluid inlet 1101. Specifically, the quick-connect fitting 140 is directly integrated into the fluid inlet 1101 portion of the housing 110, and the quick-connect fitting 140 is fused to the housing 110 through an integral molding process. This structure simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces the number of parts, and improves the integration and structural compactness of the nozzle assembly 100. This makes the connection portion of the nozzle assembly 100 more robust and reliable, not only avoiding loosening or leakage problems caused by external connecting parts, but also improving the durability and stability of the nozzle assembly 100. In addition, the quick-connect fitting 140 can also be connected to the fluid inlet 1101 by laser welding or potting. The material of the quick-connect fitting 140 can be selected according to the actual environmental requirements, and can be made of materials that are resistant to high temperatures, low temperatures, high pressures, and have durability.

[0060] In some embodiments, the sensor module of the nozzle assembly 100 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 1304 and a pressure sensor 1303, for real-time monitoring of the operating status of the nozzle assembly 100 to ensure the efficiency and safety of fluid injection.

[0061] Specifically, the temperature sensor 1304 is configured to detect the temperature of the nozzle assembly 100 or the fluid. It can monitor temperature changes inside the nozzle assembly 100 in real time to prevent unstable operation or damage to the nozzle assembly 100 due to excessively high or low temperatures. For example, the temperature sensor 1304 can be located at the nozzle outlet to monitor the temperature of the ejected fluid, ensuring the ejected fluid is within a predetermined operating range; or it can be located in the housing 110 of the nozzle assembly 100 to detect the temperature of the nozzle assembly 100 itself, preventing malfunctions caused by overheating. The temperature sensor 1304 provides accurate temperature data for the control circuit assembly 1302 to make real-time adjustments or issue alarms, ensuring that the nozzle assembly 100 always operates within a safe temperature range.

[0062] Furthermore, the pressure sensor 1303 is used to detect the pressure of the fluid in the internal pipeline 1103. It can monitor pressure changes in the pipeline in real time, ensuring a stable fluid supply and preventing excessively high or low pressure from affecting the performance of the nozzle assembly 100. The pressure sensor 1303 can be installed at the fluid inlet 1101 of the internal pipeline 1103 or in a section of the pipeline near the nozzle, collecting pressure data in the pipeline in real time. The pressure sensor 1303 ensures that the nozzle assembly 100 is always maintained within the set pressure range, preventing unstable spraying effects due to pressure fluctuations or safety issues such as leaks caused by excessive pressure. In addition, the material of the pressure sensor 1303 can be selected according to actual environmental requirements, and can be made of materials resistant to high temperatures, low temperatures, high pressures, and possessing durability.

[0063] By integrating temperature sensor 1304 and pressure sensor 1303, the sensor module provides real-time monitoring of the nozzle assembly 100, enabling dynamic adjustment of the spray (such as automatic flow adjustment when temperature or pressure is too high). It also provides fault diagnosis data for effective maintenance of the nozzle assembly 100. Furthermore, the materials of temperature sensor 1304 and pressure sensor 1303 can be selected according to actual environmental requirements, including high-temperature resistance, low-temperature resistance, high-pressure resistance, and durability.

[0064] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly 1302 of the nozzle assembly 100 is configured to have a self-diagnostic function, which can determine the operating state of the nozzle assembly 100 based on real-time monitored temperature and pressure data, and control the operation of the electronically controlled valve 1301 based on the state information.

[0065] Specifically, the state of the nozzle assembly 100 is determined based on at least one of temperature and pressure data. The control circuit assembly 1302 can receive real-time data from a temperature sensor 1304 and a pressure sensor 1303. The temperature sensor 1304 provides information about the temperature of the nozzle assembly 100 or the fluid, and the pressure sensor 1303 provides data about the pressure in the fluid line. The control circuit assembly 1302 evaluates the operating state of the nozzle assembly 100 in real time based on this data. For example, when the temperature or pressure exceeds a predetermined normal range, the control circuit assembly 1302 can identify abnormalities in the nozzle assembly 100, such as overheating, overpressure, or underpressure.

[0066] Furthermore, the operation of the solenoid valve 1301 is controlled based on the status. If the control circuit assembly 1302 detects that the temperature is too high or the pressure is too low, the control circuit assembly 1302 can change the fluid flow rate by adjusting the opening degree of the solenoid valve 1301, thereby preventing damage to the nozzle assembly 100 or a reduction in its working efficiency. In addition, the control circuit assembly 1302 can also take different coping strategies according to different abnormal situations, such as closing the solenoid valve 1301 to prevent further damage to the nozzle assembly 100, or adjusting the injection frequency and flow rate to restore normal operation.

[0067] Furthermore, the self-diagnostic function of the control circuit assembly 1302 is not limited to real-time status monitoring, but also includes fault diagnosis and alarms. When sensor data such as temperature and pressure exceed the set safety range, the control circuit assembly can automatically identify and trigger the corresponding alarm signal, prompting the user to perform equipment inspection or maintenance. At the same time, through continuous monitoring of sensor data, the control circuit assembly 1302 can also assess whether there are faults or deviations in the sensor module, thereby preventing the nozzle assembly 100 from malfunctioning.

[0068] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly 1302 is also configured to have a nozzle blockage self-diagnosis function and a self-unblocking function, which can determine whether there is a blockage in the nozzle assembly 100 based on the pressure data in the internal pipeline 1103, and effectively unblock the blockage by adjusting the operation of the electronic control valve 1301 to ensure the normal jetting operation of the fluid.

[0069] Furthermore, the control circuit assembly 1302 monitors the fluid pressure in the internal conduit 1103 and compares the real-time pressure value with a predetermined normal operating threshold. If the pressure value exceeds the predetermined threshold (i.e., fluid flow is obstructed), the control circuit assembly 1302 determines that at least one injection outlet 1102 is blocked. In other words, when fluid cannot pass through the blocked nozzle, the pressure in the internal conduit 1103 will rise sharply, thereby triggering the abnormal detection function of the control circuit assembly 1302.

[0070] Furthermore, when a nozzle blockage is detected, the control circuit assembly 1302 will automatically control the operation of the solenoid valve to take effective measures to clear the blockage. Specifically, the control circuit assembly 1302 can clear the blockage by adjusting at least one of the opening degree (i.e., degree of opening) and opening / closing frequency of the solenoid valve 1301 corresponding to at least partially blocked nozzles. For example, the control circuit assembly 1302 can increase the opening time of the solenoid valve, prolong the injection cycle, or increase the injection frequency, thereby increasing the impact force of the fluid (e.g., high-pressure gas), which helps to clear the blockage. In addition, the control circuit assembly 1302 can also adjust the injection flow rate by frequency conversion to ensure that the blocked nozzle is adequately cleaned and restored.

[0071] Furthermore, upon detecting a blockage, the control circuit assembly 1302 continuously monitors the status of the nozzle assembly 100 and automatically adjusts the spraying conditions until the blockage is cleared. In this way, the nozzle assembly 100 can automatically clear blockages without manual intervention, ensuring that the nozzle assembly 100 is in good working order. Once the blockage is cleared, the feedback from the pressure sensor 1303 will return to the normal range, and the control circuit assembly 1302 will automatically switch back to normal operating mode.

[0072] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly 1302 is further configured to transmit information about the blockage status to an external device when it is determined that at least a portion of the injection outlet 1102 is blocked. Specifically, the control circuit assembly 1302 interacts with external devices (such as vehicle control systems, diagnostic tools, or user terminal devices) via a built-in communication module. When the control circuit assembly 1302 detects an abnormal blockage in the injection outlet 1102 via the pressure sensor 1303 and other monitoring components, the control circuit assembly 1302 automatically generates a fault message containing detailed information such as the location of the blockage, the severity of the blockage, and its impact on the operation of the nozzle assembly 100.

[0073] Furthermore, this information transmission can be accomplished via wireless communication (such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular networks) or wired communication (such as CAN bus, LIN bus, etc.). Upon receiving the congestion information, external devices can issue alarms to users or maintenance personnel, or automatically trigger further diagnostic and repair procedures.

[0074] It is understood that the control and diagnostic methods in the embodiments of this disclosure include not only IO drive methods (such as low-side drive, high-side drive, PWM drive, HSD drive, etc.), but also multiple bus control methods (including but not limited to CAN bus, LIN bus, FlexRay, Ethernet, IIC, RS232 / 485, etc.). The controller can be directly integrated into the nozzle assembly 100 to achieve a high degree of integration, or it can exist as an independent controller unit to adapt to the architectural requirements of different cleaning sensors. In this embodiment of the disclosure, no specific limitation is made.

[0075] In some embodiments, the control circuit assembly 1302 is also configured to detect and diagnose air leaks. When the nozzle assembly 100 is in operation, the control circuit assembly 1302 can determine whether the nozzle assembly 100 is in a leaking state based on the pressure data in the internal pipeline 1103, and when a leak is detected, transmit the relevant information to an external device for further processing.

[0076] Furthermore, the control circuit assembly 1302 can monitor the pressure value in the internal pipeline 1103 in real time. Under normal circumstances, the fluid in the internal pipeline 1103 is maintained within a predetermined pressure range. When the nozzle assembly 100 leaks, the pressure in the internal pipeline 1103 will drop below a set normal operating threshold. By comparing the pressure with the predetermined pressure threshold, the control circuit assembly 1302 can detect the pressure anomaly and determine that there is a leak in the nozzle assembly 100.

[0077] Furthermore, if the control circuit assembly 1302 determines that the nozzle assembly 100 is in a leaking state, it will automatically generate and transmit an alarm message regarding the leak to an external device. This external device can be the vehicle's main control system, maintenance diagnostic tools, user terminals, etc. Through this information transmission, the external device can promptly issue a leak warning to the operator or record the leak event for subsequent maintenance.

[0078] Furthermore, information transmission can be accomplished via wireless communication (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) or wired communication (such as CAN bus, LIN bus, etc.). Upon receiving a leak signal, the external device can display a warning message, which helps maintenance personnel to promptly locate the leak source and take appropriate repair measures, preventing the leak from causing a decrease in the efficiency of the nozzle assembly 100 or further damage to the nozzle assembly 100.

[0079] In some embodiments, the spray angle of at least a portion of the spray outlets 1102 is adjustable, so that the nozzle assembly 100 can flexibly adjust the direction of the sprayed fluid according to different cleaning needs or installation environments, thereby improving cleaning efficiency and meeting the cleaning requirements of different sensors.

[0080] Furthermore, the spray angle of the spray outlet 1102 can be controlled by a built-in adjustment mechanism. This adjustment mechanism can take various forms, such as mechanical, electronic, or hydraulic adjustment, and is not specifically limited in the embodiments disclosed herein. The spray outlet 1102 in the nozzle assembly 100 may be equipped with a rotatable nozzle component, which can rotate or tilt about one or more axes to change the direction of the spray outlet 1102. The adjustment can be manual or electric, and is automatically adjusted by the control circuit assembly 1302 as needed.

[0081] Furthermore, the angle of the spray outlet 1102 can be automatically adjusted via an electric drive. The control circuit assembly 1302 can control an electric motor or a servo motor to precisely adjust the angle of the nozzle components. This automatic adjustment method, combined with sensor data, adjusts the spray angle in real time to ensure cleaning effectiveness.

[0082] Furthermore, the adjustable spray angle of the spray outlet 1102 can be applied to sensors such as cameras (e.g., long-range, medium-range, and short-range cameras), LiDAR, millimeter-wave radar, infrared cameras, traffic light recognition cameras, fisheye cameras, ultrasonic radar, or other vehicle-mounted sensors. In other words, the nozzle assembly 100 can be applied to remote vehicles, not limited to automobiles, mining trucks, port equipment, and industrial machinery, etc., which are not specifically limited in the embodiments of this disclosure. By adjusting the spray angle, the nozzle assembly 100 can control the spray direction of the cleaning fluid according to the sensor's installation angle, the surrounding environment, and the distribution of contaminants, thereby improving the cleaning effect and reducing energy consumption.

[0083] Furthermore, the control circuit assembly 1302 can monitor the nozzle angle in real time via an angle sensor to ensure that the spray angle is adjusted within a predetermined range. When the user or operator needs to adjust the spray angle, the control circuit assembly 1302 can receive commands through an external interface and adjust automatically, or in a specific working environment, automatically adjust the spray angle according to the preset content of the control circuit assembly 1302.

[0084] Various implementations of this disclosure have been described above. These descriptions are exemplary and not exhaustive, nor are they limited to the disclosed implementations. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described implementations. The terminology used herein is chosen to best explain the principles, practical applications, or improvements to technology in the market, or to enable others skilled in the art to understand the various implementations disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A nozzle assembly for cleaning a sensor, comprising: A housing (110) includes a fluid inlet (1101), at least one injection outlet (1102), and an internal conduit (1103) fluidly connecting the fluid inlet (1101) and the at least one injection outlet (1102), the housing (110) being adapted to be coupled to the sensor so that fluid injected from the at least one injection outlet (1102) cleans a predetermined surface of the sensor; as well as An electronic control assembly is disposed inside the housing (110) and includes: An electrically controlled valve (1301) includes at least one controllable valve port and is coupled to an internal conduit (1103), the electrically controlled valve (1301) being adapted to be controlled to adjust at least one of the flow rate and frequency of the fluid injected by the at least one injection outlet (1102); A sensor module adapted to sense at least one of temperature and pressure in the internal conduit (1103) and obtain sensor data; and A control circuit assembly (1302) is coupled to the solenoid valve (1301) and the sensor module, and is configured to control the solenoid valve (1301) based on at least one of the sensor data and external commands.

2. The nozzle assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing (110) further comprises: An electrical communication port (1104) is adapted to connect to an external plug for powering the electrical control components and / or providing data transmission.

3. The nozzle assembly according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A quick-connect fitting (140) is arranged at the fluid inlet (1101) for easy connection to a fluid source.

4. The nozzle assembly of claim 3, wherein the quick-connect fitting (140) is coupled to the fluid inlet (1101) via a threaded connection or a snap-fit ​​connection, or The quick-connector (140) is integrally formed at the fluid inlet (1101).

5. The nozzle assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 4, wherein the sensor module comprises at least one of the following: A temperature sensor (1304) is adapted to detect at least one of the temperatures of the nozzle assembly or the fluid; A pressure sensor (1303) is adapted to detect the pressure of the fluid in the internal conduit (1103).

6. The nozzle assembly of claim 5, wherein the control circuit assembly (1302) is configured to: The state of the nozzle assembly is determined based on at least one of the temperature and the pressure; and The operation of the electrically controlled valve (1301) is controlled based on the state.

7. The nozzle assembly of claim 6, wherein the control circuit assembly (1302) is further configured to: Based on the pressure in the internal pipeline (1103) exceeding a predetermined threshold, determine whether at least a portion of the at least one injection outlet (1102) is blocked; and In response to determining that at least a portion of the injection outlet (1102) is blocked, the operation of the electronically controlled valve is controlled to clear the blockage by adjusting at least one of the opening degree and opening and closing frequency of the controllable valve port corresponding to the at least a portion of the injection outlet (1102).

8. The nozzle assembly of claim 7, wherein the control circuit assembly (1302) is further configured to: In response to determining that at least a portion of the injection outlet (1102) is blocked, information about the blockage is transmitted to an external device.

9. The nozzle assembly of claim 6, wherein the control circuit assembly (1302) is further configured to: The nozzle assembly is determined to be in a leaking state based on the pressure in the internal pipeline (1103) being lower than a predetermined threshold; and In response to determining whether the nozzle assembly is in a leaking state, information about the leaking state is transmitted to an external device.

10. The nozzle assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4 and 6-9, wherein the spray angle of at least a portion of the spray outlets (1102) is adjustable.

11. A sensor assembly, comprising: Environmental sensors are used to sense information about the surrounding environment; as well as The nozzle assembly according to any one of claims 1-10.

12. The sensor assembly of claim 11, wherein the environmental sensor comprises at least one of lidar, camera, ultrasonic radar, infrared radar, and millimeter-wave radar.

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