Vehicle Camera Lens Cleaning via Air Flow and Solvent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle camera systems face functionality compromise due to debris buildup on the camera lens, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed, impacting the reliability of driver assistance systems.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle camera cleaning system incorporating an air source and computer processing unit that applies an air flow to the camera lens based on operational modes and blink rates, using a two-way valve to deliver either cleaning solvent or compressed air to prevent debris accumulation without interfering with image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera is mounted on the exterior of the vehicle to capture images, then the camera can detect objects surrounding the vehicle, but the camera lens becomes exposed to environmental conditions leading to debris buildup
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by using air flow to prevent debris from accumulating on the camera lens before it can compromise image quality. The air source continuously or periodically directs air flow across the lens surface, creating a protective effect that repels dust, dirt, and other contaminants before they can adhere to the lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces air flow as an intermediary substance between the harmful environmental debris and the camera lens. This intermediary air flow acts as a protective barrier that prevents direct contact between debris particles and the lens surface, thereby maintaining optical clarity without requiring physical contact with the lens.
2Reliability
If cleaning solutions are applied to the camera lens to remove debris, then the lens can be cleaned effectively, but the cleaning process may interfere with image capture operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by alternating between cleaning operations and normal camera operation. The controller monitors camera activity and schedules air flow application during non-capturing intervals or between successive image captures. This periodic timing ensures that cleaning actions occur when they will not interfere with image capture, maintaining both lens cleanliness and operational productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by applying air flow to prevent debris accumulation in the first place, rather than waiting for the lens to become dirty and then cleaning it. This proactive approach reduces the frequency and intensity of cleaning operations needed, thereby minimizing interference with image capture operations while maintaining lens cleanliness.
3Reliability
If air flow is applied continuously to the camera lens to prevent debris buildup, then the lens remains clean, but the air flow may interfere with image capture quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by pulsing air flow in short bursts rather than applying it continuously. The controller activates the air source in periodic intervals sufficient to remove debris but brief enough to avoid creating optical interference during image capture. This periodic application maintains lens cleanliness while minimizing disruption to image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamics by making the air flow application adaptive and variable rather than static and continuous. The controller adjusts air flow timing, duration, and intensity based on camera operational state, debris accumulation levels, and environmental conditions. This dynamic control ensures air flow is applied effectively for cleaning while being minimized or paused during critical image capture moments.
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
Effectively prevents debris buildup on the camera lens, ensuring continuous operation of vehicle optical sensors by applying air flow or cleaning solutions during non-operational modes, thereby maintaining the camera's functionality and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
an air source configured to apply an air flow to a lens of a camera
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle camera cleaning system includes an air source and a computer processing unit configured to communicate with the air source. The air source is configured to apply an air flow to a lens of a camera. The camera includes a successive and repeated operational mode and non-operational mode. The computer processing unit includes a non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions to cause the computer processing unit to transmit a signal to the air source to actuate the air flow based on the camera being in the non-operational mode.