Integrated Light Rain Sensor and Antenna Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light/rain sensors and communication antennae are typically implemented as separate modules, which occupy valuable space and are not efficiently integrated, particularly in compact vehicles where space behind the rearview mirror is limited.
Innovation Solution
An integrated light/rain sensor and communication antenna module is designed, featuring a lens assembly with orthogonal optical paths and a printed circuit board that houses both sensing and communication components, allowing for rain sensing, ambient light sensing, tunnel detection, and sunload sensing, while utilizing the space behind the rearview mirror for a compact and cost-effective solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate standalone modules are used for light/rain sensors and communication antennae, then each module can be optimized independently, but the overall space consumption increases and integration efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light/rain sensor module and communication antenna module into a single integrated assembly. The sensor housing and antenna housing are merged to form a unified structure that occupies a single space behind the rearview mirror, eliminating the need for separate mounting locations and reducing overall vehicle interior space consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it performs rain detection, ambient light sensing, tunnel detection, sunload sensing, and wireless communication (GPS, cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth). This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate modules.
2Area of stationary object
If the integrated module is placed behind the rearview mirror, then optimal space utilization and open sky visibility are achieved, but the limited space in compact vehicles constrains the design
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated module is designed with a compact nested structure where the antenna housing contains the sensor housing, which in turn contains the optical components and electronics. This nested arrangement minimizes the overall footprint of the module, allowing it to fit within the limited space behind the rearview mirror in compact vehicles while maintaining all required functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The module employs a vertically-oriented design that extends in the depth dimension rather than occupying excessive horizontal space. The optical paths are arranged orthogonally to maximize space efficiency, and the antenna elements are positioned to utilize the vertical dimension for signal transmission, thereby adapting to the constrained geometry of compact vehicle interiors.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple orthogonal optical paths are implemented, then comprehensive sensing capabilities are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensing system is segmented into four distinct orthogonal optical paths, each handled by dedicated emitters and detectors positioned at specific locations within the housing. This segmentation allows each optical path to be independently optimized for its specific sensing function while maintaining overall system integration through the unified housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sensor housing are optimized for different functions: the front region contains the optical emitters and detectors for rain and light sensing, the side regions accommodate the antenna elements for wireless communication, and the internal structure provides specific optical path routing. Each local region is designed with properties optimized for its specific function, reducing overall system complexity through functional zonation.
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 integrated module provides a more compact and cost-effective solution, enabling efficient rain sensing, ambient light sensing, and communication functions, while maintaining performance across varying windshield thicknesses and curvatures, and facilitating vehicle-to-everything communication.
Implementation Method 1
The lens assembly may be configured to provide at least four orthogonal optical paths
Implementation Method 2
The printed circuit board may be disposed below the lens assembly and generally comprises an antenna and ground plane
Implementation Method 3
a first emitter, a second emitter, a first detector and a second detector mounted on the printed circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a lens assembly and a printed circuit board. The lens assembly may be configured to provide at least four orthogonal optical paths and a central atrium. The printed circuit board may be disposed below the lens assembly and generally comprises an antenna and ground plane on a front surface of the printed circuit board, and a first emitter, a second emitter, a first detector and a second detector mounted on the printed circuit board. The antenna is generally aligned with the central atrium. The first emitter is generally located between a first pair of the four orthogonal optical paths. The second emitter is generally located between a second pair of the four orthogonal optical paths. The first detector is generally located between a third pair of the four orthogonal optical paths. The second detector is generally located between a fourth pair of the four orthogonal optical paths.