Vehicle Camera and Conductor Structure Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera and sensor arrangements on vehicle windshields occupy a large area due to separate mounting, affecting aesthetics and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A camera arrangement where a camera is positioned to view through a window with an integrated electrical conductor structure, such as a capacitive moisture sensor or antenna, that shares the same viewing region, allowing for simultaneous use of the window space for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the camera and sensor are mounted separately on the window, then each component can be positioned independently for optimal performance, but the total area occupied on the window increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera and sensor into a single integrated housing unit. The camera and sensor are positioned alongside each other within the same housing, allowing both components to share a common mounting area on the window. This merging approach reduces the total window area occupied compared to completely separate mounting, while still allowing independent positioning of each component within the housing for optimal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides mounting for both the camera and sensor, offers protective enclosure for both components, and enables coordinated operation of the detection system. The integrated design allows the same structural element to support multiple detection functions, reducing the need for additional separate mounting structures.
2Area of stationary object
If the camera and sensor are integrated into the same housing, then the mounting area is reduced, but the structural complexity of the housing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with segmented or modular internal structures that allow the camera and sensor to be positioned independently within distinct compartments or mounting areas. This segmentation enables each component to be optimally positioned for its specific detection requirements while still being contained within a single integrated housing unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the camera and sensor are positioned within the same housing structure, with one component potentially positioned within or adjacent to the other's mounting space. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization within the housing, allowing both components to coexist in a compact configuration without requiring excessive housing volume.
3Area of stationary object
If the conductor structure is placed within the camera's detection region, then the window space is utilized more efficiently, but the conductor structure may obstruct the camera view
Solution Approach 1:
The conductor structure is designed with spatially varying properties: it is positioned within the camera's detection region but configured to be transparent or transparent in specific areas where the camera needs to view through. The conductor tracks are arranged to provide electrical functionality in regions where obstruction is acceptable, while maintaining optical transparency in regions critical for camera detection. This local differentiation of conductor properties allows simultaneous optimization of both electrical functionality and optical transmission.
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
This configuration optimizes window space usage by allowing the camera to view through the conductor structure without significant image distortion, enabling efficient monitoring functions like lane recognition and moisture detection while minimizing visual obstruction.
Implementation Method 1
a camera (2) pointed at a window (1)
Implementation Method 2
the camera has a viewing detection region through the pane
Implementation Method 3
The conductor structure can form an electronic component of a sensor. For instance, the component forms an antenna, a coil, a capacitor, etc.
Implementation Method 4
The operating principle of a capacitive moisture sensor is based on water having a different dielectric property than air. As a result, when the sensor is inserted into an electromagnetic field, the sensor is measurably affected enabling moisture on a window to be detected.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera arrangement for a vehicle includes a camera and an electrical conductor structure. The camera is separated from a pane which divides an outside region from an inside region. The camera is in the inside region and is pointed at a portion of the pane such that the camera has a viewing detection region through the pane. The conductor structure forms a device and is on the portion of the pane within the viewing detection region of the camera whereby the camera and the device use the same portion of the pane for their operations.