Arc-Shaped Heating Element for Glare-Free Imaging Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically heated windows with resistance heating elements, such as those used in vehicles, cause glare and interference with imaging devices like cameras due to their crimped or meandered wire patterns, especially under sunny conditions, which affects the clarity and analysis of images.
Innovation Solution
An electrically heated window with a resistance heating element comprising conducting wires arranged in arc-shaped paths across the viewing area, with each path being equal or less than half a wavelength, minimizing glare points and interference with imaging devices and analysis equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If crimped or meandered wire patterns are used for the resistance heating element, then the heating function is effective, but glare and interference with imaging devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by transitioning from straight or meandered wire patterns to arc-shaped wire configurations. The conducting wire follows curved paths with specific radii (R1, R2, R3) that are optimized to minimize reflections and glare while maintaining heating effectiveness. This curvature principle directly addresses the harmful reflections caused by straight wire segments that act as mirrors for imaging devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes geometric parameters of the heating element, specifically the wire path configuration. By defining arc-shaped paths with specific radius parameters (R1 for upper portion, R2 for middle portion, R3 for lower portion) and controlling the number of crossings (4-20 times), the patent optimizes the balance between heating performance and reduction of glare/interference with imaging devices.
2Area of stationary object
If the conducting wire extends across the viewing area multiple times, then the heating coverage is improved, but the amount of glare points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses arc-shaped wire paths that curve across the viewing area multiple times, allowing extensive heating coverage while minimizing glare points. The curved configuration ensures that wire segments are not parallel to the imaging device's optical axis, reducing reflective interference even when the wire crosses the viewing area 4-20 times.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the number of wire crossings across the viewing area to between 4-20 times, balancing heating coverage with glare reduction. This parameter control, combined with arc-shaped paths of specific radii, allows the wire to provide comprehensive heating while minimizing the formation of glare points that would interfere with imaging.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The arc-shaped path configuration reduces glare and interference, ensuring a clear view for imaging devices and minimizing unwanted interactions with processing units, while effectively heating the area to remove moisture or ice, thus enhancing road safety systems.
Implementation Method 1
a resistance heating element comprising a first and a second electrical connection means for connection to an electrical supply, and at least one conducting wire extending between the first and second electrical connection means
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an electrically heated window intended to be fitted with an imaging device which views an object to be imaged through a viewing area of the window. The viewing area of the window comprises a first and a second edge and an upper and a lower edge. The window comprises a resistance heating element comprising a first and a second electrical connection means for connection to an electrical supply, and at least one conducting wire extending between the first and second electrical connection means. The at least one conducting wire extends across the viewing area a plurality of times along an arc shaped path, the arc shaped path being equal or less than a half wavelength.