Low-Profile Camera Lens Cleaning Nozzle Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle backup camera systems and wide-angle video cameras face issues with debris accumulation on exterior lenses, leading to distorted images and safety concerns, as conventional cleaning methods are either ineffective or aesthetically unappealing.
Innovation Solution
A compact, remotely controllable lens washing system with laterally offset nozzles that spray cleaning fluid at a shallow angle to effectively remove debris from exterior camera lenses without obstructing the camera's field of view, integrated into the vehicle's design to conserve washer fluid and maintain aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional lens cleaning system is used, then the lens can be cleaned, but the camera system becomes visually conspicuous and intrudes into the vehicle's design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the camera housing and lens cleaning system into a single integrated assembly. The fluid delivery system, pump, and nozzle are all incorporated within or adjacent to the camera housing, creating a unified component that serves both imaging and cleaning functions without requiring separate visible cleaning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the lens cleaning components within the camera housing structure. The fluid delivery system and pump are positioned inside or adjacent to the camera housing, with the nozzle arranged to spray the lens from within this nested configuration, making the cleaning system invisible when not in use.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional washer nozzle is used, then cleaning function is provided, but it obstructs the camera's field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the nozzle laterally offset from the camera's optical axis, directing the spray at a shallow angle specifically at the lens surface. This localized positioning ensures the nozzle and its spray path are outside the camera's field of view while still effectively cleaning the lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges the nozzle and spray path in a different spatial dimension relative to the camera's optical axis. By positioning the nozzle laterally offset and directing spray at a shallow angle, the cleaning mechanism operates in a dimension that does not interfere with the forward-looking field of view.
3Reliability
If more washer fluid is used, then cleaning effectiveness improves, but fluid consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a pump to deliver fluid in controlled periodic pulses rather than continuous flow. The pump is activated only when cleaning is needed, delivering precise amounts of fluid through the nozzle, which reduces overall fluid consumption while maintaining effective cleaning through targeted application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hydraulic pump system to control fluid delivery precisely. The pump mechanism allows for metered dispensing of washer fluid, ensuring that only the necessary amount is used for effective cleaning rather than excessive fluid application.
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 system ensures clear camera lenses by efficiently removing debris, enhancing driver visibility and safety while maintaining the vehicle's cosmetic appearance and conserving washer fluid.
Implementation Method 1
a fluidic oscillator operable on a selectively actuated flow of pressurized washing fluid flowing through the oscillator's chamber to generate an exhaust flow in the form of an oscillating spray of fluid droplets
Implementation Method 2
a nozzle in fluid communication with the oscillator's exhaust flow and configured to spray the oscillating spray of washing fluid droplets onto the external lens surface
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2
AI summary
A low profile, integrated camera wash nozzle assembly 1010 is readily and unobtrusively integrated into a vehicle's exterior trim surfaces 1420 to make a more visually appealing exterior design while not compromising spray performance. A system and nozzle assembly (e.g., 710, 810, 1010) for cleaning an exterior objective lens or wide-angle sensor's exterior surface 1022 to remove accumulated debris sprays washer fluid at a selected shallow angle which is substantially transverse to the lenses central viewing axis 1050. A low-profile conformal housing fixture 1011 is adapted to receive and aim a very compact fluidic circuit insert 1200 that can generate a wide spray which substantially covers the lens surface, despite being very close to the edge of the lens 1022.