Dual-Outlet Spray Nozzle for Simultaneous Camera and Window Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accumulation of debris such as dirt and moisture on exterior vehicle cameras and windows obstructs the view, necessitating an effective cleaning solution that can simultaneously address both surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle assembly incorporating a fluid spray nozzle with dual outlets, one aligned with the longitudinal axis to direct fluid towards the window and another perpendicular to direct fluid towards the camera, mounted on a lamp assembly and connected via a hose to a fluid tank, allowing for simultaneous cleaning of both surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single outlet nozzle is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but it cannot simultaneously clean both the window and camera surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into multiple outlets (first outlet and second outlet) with different spray directions. The first outlet directs spray toward the window surface while the second outlet directs spray toward the camera surface, allowing simultaneous cleaning of multiple surfaces without requiring separate nozzle assemblies
Solution Approach 2:
A single nozzle assembly performs multiple cleaning functions by incorporating outlets oriented in different directions. This multi-functional design allows one nozzle to clean both the window and camera surfaces, eliminating the need for separate cleaning mechanisms for each surface
2Reliability
If separate nozzles are used for window and camera cleaning, then each surface can be cleaned effectively, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cleaning functions are merged into a single nozzle assembly. The first outlet and second outlet are integrated into one nozzle body, both connected to the same fluid supply system, reducing the total number of components while maintaining effective cleaning capability for both window and camera surfaces
3Ease of manufacture
If the nozzle is mounted away from the lamp assembly, then installation is simpler, but the proximity to cleaning surfaces (window and camera) is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is nested within or integrated with the lamp assembly structure. This nesting allows the nozzle to be positioned in close proximity to the window and camera surfaces for effective cleaning while utilizing the existing lamp assembly mounting points, maintaining installation simplicity
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 solution effectively removes debris from both the camera and window, ensuring clear views and maintaining the functionality of the camera and window surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid spray nozzle mounted to the lamp assembly and including a first outlet configured to direct a fluid toward the closure member and a second outlet configured to direct the fluid toward the camera
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid spray nozzles are provided for use with motor vehicle assemblies. An exemplary fluid spray nozzle device may include features for directing cleaning fluid in a first direction toward a first surface and features for directing cleaning fluid in a second direction toward a second surface. The fluid spray nozzle simultaneously cleans the first surface and the second surface.