Modular LiDAR Sensor Cleaning Nozzle for Variable FOV
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LiDAR sensors face contamination issues due to their exposure, affecting performance, and current cleaning apparatuses are not universally applicable across different sensor sizes and field of view regions, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing and cleaning effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A modularized washer fluid flow path system with adjustable flow paths and nozzles, allowing for universal cleaning by assembling/disassembling components to match sensor size and field of view, including multiple housings and cover units to accommodate various LiDAR configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed cleaning apparatus design is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but it cannot accommodate different sensor sizes and FOV regions
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning apparatus is divided into modular components including multiple housing units (first housing, second housing, third housing) that can be selectively assembled. Each housing contains specific cleaning components, allowing the system to be configured in different arrangements (e.g., single housing for 180° FOV, multiple housings for 360° FOV) depending on the sensor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses standardized connecting members and assembling holes that enable the same modular components to serve multiple functions across different sensor configurations. The fluid flow path units can be universally assembled to match various sensor sizes and FOV regions, making one cleaning apparatus design applicable to multiple sensor types.
2Reliability
If custom cleaning apparatuses are designed for each sensor type, then cleaning effectiveness is optimized, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning apparatus employs universal modular components with standardized interfaces (connecting members, assembling holes) that can be configured to match different sensor types while using the same base parts. This allows manufacturing efficiency through component standardization while maintaining cleaning effectiveness through proper configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus provides localized cleaning solutions by selectively assembling housing units with specific nozzle arrangements and fluid flow paths tailored to the local requirements of different sensor regions. Each housing can be optimized for its specific function while using standardized components from the modular system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cleaning apparatus is fixed for a specific FOV region, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot be applied to sensors with different FOV regions
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning apparatus is segmented into independent housing units (first, second, third housings) that can be selectively assembled based on the required FOV region. For example, a single housing may suffice for 180° FOV while multiple housings are assembled for 360° FOV, allowing easy adaptation to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system where housing units can be assembled and disassembled according to the specific FOV region requirements. The connecting members and assembling holes enable quick reconfiguration without requiring complex tools or procedures.
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective cleaning of LiDAR sensors regardless of size or field of view, enhancing cleaning efficacy and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
spraying the washer fluid through the nozzle as the washer pump of the reservoir operates
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for cleaning a sensor includes: at least one fluid flow path unit assembled and arranged to correspond to a size and a field of view (FOV) region of a sensor unit and formed with a spray flow path for flowing a fluid supplied through an inlet nozzle, a cover unit coupled to each of the fluid flow path units to shield an opened upper surface of the fluid flow path unit, and a spray nozzle unit selectively coupled to the cover unit and formed so that the fluid flowing along the spray flow path is sprayed toward the FOV region.