Moisture Detection Using Display Light Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moisture detection systems in motor vehicles are complex and energy-intensive, particularly in electric vehicles, leading to reduced vehicle range and increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A simplified, cost-effective moisture detection system integrated into display devices, utilizing a sensor device that detects light emitted by and reflected from the display means, with a differential measurement method to isolate reflected light, and optionally incorporating capacitive sensors and a dark chamber for improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an additional detector system with light source and sensor is used for moisture detection, then moisture detection capability is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the moisture detection function with the existing display device by integrating a sensor into the display housing. The display device's light source illuminates the display surface, and the integrated sensor detects light reflected from moisture on the surface, merging detection functionality into the existing structure rather than adding a separate detector system
Solution Approach 2:
The display device serves multiple functions: it displays information to the driver and simultaneously detects moisture on its surface through the integrated sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated moisture detection equipment, reducing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If an additional detector system with light source and sensor is used for moisture detection, then moisture detection capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the moisture detection function with the existing display device by integrating a sensor into the display housing. The display device's light source illuminates the display surface, and the integrated sensor detects light reflected from moisture on the surface, merging detection functionality into the existing structure rather than adding a separate detector system
Solution Approach 2:
The display device uses its own light source to illuminate the display surface for moisture detection purposes. The existing display lighting serves dual purposes: providing visibility for the display information and enabling the moisture detection function, thereby eliminating the need for additional illumination energy
3Reliability
If traditional detector system is used, then moisture detection is achieved, but number of parts and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the moisture detection function with the existing display device by integrating a sensor into the display housing. The display device's light source illuminates the display surface, and the integrated sensor detects light reflected from moisture on the surface, merging detection functionality into the existing structure rather than adding a separate detector system
Solution Approach 2:
The display device serves multiple functions: it displays information to the driver and simultaneously detects moisture on its surface through the integrated sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated moisture detection equipment, reducing overall system complexity
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 reduces energy consumption, minimizes parts and installation space, and enhances vehicle efficiency while effectively detecting moisture, including ice and dirt, without interfering with external light sources.
Implementation Method 1
The moisture detection apparatus is designed to at least partially detect light emitted by the display means and light reflected by moisture that is present on at least a portion of the element
Data Source
AI summary
A camera system for a motor vehicle includes a camera lens, an image sensor configured to receive light from the camera lens and generate image data from the received light, a light emitting device configured to emit light onto a back side of the camera lens, and a control device. The control device may be configured to (a) cause the light emitting device to emit a pulse of light, (b) receive image data from the image sensor for (i) a first time period before the pulse of light is emitted, (ii) a second time period while the pulse of light is being emitted, and (iii) a third time period after the pulse of light has been emitted, (c) compare image data from the second time period with image data from the first and/or third time periods to determine an amount by which a brightness level increases while the pulse of light is being emitted, and (d) based on the amount by which the brightness level increases while the pulse of light is being emitted, determine whether a foreign substance is on a front side of the camera lens.