LIDAR Sensor Window Replacement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicle sensors, particularly LIDAR devices, face challenges in withstanding harsh external environments such as hail, dust, and extensive sun exposure, leading to increased maintenance and ownership costs due to the need for replacing the entire sensor apparatus when the window is damaged.
Innovation Solution
A sensor apparatus design featuring a releasably coupled cylindrical window with hydrophobic surface treatment, allowing for easy replacement without requiring the substitution of more expensive sensor components, and adjustable housings for secure and durable attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire sensor apparatus is replaced when the window is damaged, then the sensor functionality is restored, but the cost of ownership increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor apparatus is divided into separable components: the sensor assembly (housing, sensor, electronics) and the window are designed as independent replaceable parts. The window can be detached from the housing through a releasable coupling mechanism, allowing only the window to be replaced when damaged, while the expensive sensor components remain in place and can be reused.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the window is made durable to withstand harsh environments, then protection against hail and dust improves, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window is designed as a thin, transparent protective element that can be made from durable materials resistant to hail, dust, and UV exposure. Despite its thin construction, it provides adequate protection while maintaining optical clarity for LIDAR operation. The simplicity of the thin-window design reduces overall device complexity compared to more robust protective structures.
3Strength
If the window is permanently attached to the housing, then structural integrity is maintained, but maintenance and replacement become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling between the window and housing transitions from a permanent static attachment to a dynamic releasable connection. The releasable coupling mechanism allows the window to be securely attached during operation (maintaining structural integrity) while enabling easy detachment and replacement when needed (improving ease of repair). This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between strength and maintainability.
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
This design reduces the cost of ownership by enabling the replacement of the window independently, thus extending the lifespan of the sensor apparatus while maintaining its functionality and durability in harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The window may include a hydrophobic surface treatment
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor apparatus includes a housing, a LIDAR sensor attached to the housing, and a window releasably coupled to the housing. The window may be cylindrical. The housing may be a first housing, and the sensor apparatus may include a second housing. The window may be releasably coupled to the second housing.