LiDAR Sensor Window Wiper Trajectory to Prevent Re-Deposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical sensing devices, such as LiDAR sensors, on vehicles face contamination issues with rain droplets, particulates, bugs, etc., on their sensor windows, leading to obstructed views and erroneous sensor data.
Innovation Solution
A modular cleaning system comprising a housing module, a wiper module with a cyclic wiper trajectory, a drive module, and a kinematic transformer module, which transforms rotary motion into a cyclic wiper trajectory for efficient cleaning of the sensor window.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional wiper system is used to clean the sensor window, then the sensor window can be wiped, but contaminants may be re-deposited onto the sensor window and liquid film residue remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional wiper trajectory by implementing a unidirectional wiping motion that starts from the bottom of the sensor window and moves upward, rather than the conventional top-to-bottom motion. This inversion prevents contaminants from being re-deposited onto the cleaned surface and minimizes liquid film residue by allowing gravity to assist in the removal of contaminants and cleaning solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by cycling the wiper through a specific trajectory that includes both a wiping section (where the wiper contacts the sensor window) and a non-wiping section (where the wiper is lifted or positioned away from the sensor window). This periodic engagement and disengagement allows the wiper to clean the sensor window effectively while preventing contaminant re-deposition during the return stroke.
2Measurement precision
If the sensor window is exposed to the environment for unobstructed viewing, then optical sensing can be performed, but contaminants such as rain droplets, particulates, and bugs accumulate on the sensor window
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service cleaning system that automatically cleans the sensor window without requiring manual intervention. The system includes a wiper module with a cyclic trajectory that periodically cleans the sensor window, and a heating element that prevents contaminant accumulation by maintaining the sensor window temperature above the dew point. This self-service approach ensures the sensor window remains clean and free of contaminants, maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by using a heating element to pre-heat the sensor window before contaminants can accumulate and adhere to the surface. By maintaining the sensor window temperature above the dew point, the system prevents rain droplets and other contaminants from condensing or sticking to the window, thereby preserving optical sensing accuracy without requiring frequent mechanical cleaning.
3Reliability
If a modular cleaning system with cyclic wiper trajectory is used, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cleaning system into distinct modular components: a housing module that receives the sensor window, a wiper module that performs the cleaning action, a drive module that powers the wiper, and a kinematic transformer module that converts rotary motion to the required cyclic trajectory. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently and facilitates easier maintenance and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing the housing module to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support for the sensor device, defines the sensor window plane, receives the sensor window, and houses the cleaning system components. The wiper module also serves dual purposes by both cleaning the sensor window and preventing contaminant re-deposition through its cyclic trajectory. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed and simplifies the system structure.
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 effectively reduces contamination on the sensor window, ensuring unobstructed views and accurate sensor data by using a unidirectional wiping mechanism that prevents re-deposition of contaminants and minimizes liquid film residue.
Implementation Method 1
a wiper module including a wiper for wiping the sensor window
Implementation Method 2
a kinematic transformer module interconnected between the drive module and the wiper module and configured for transforming a rotation of the rotary output organ of the drive module so as to drive the wiper in a cyclic wiper trajectory
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a cleaning system for cleaning a sensor window of an optical sensing device of a motor vehicle. More particular, the invention relates to a cleaning system for cleaning a sensor window of an optical distance measuring device, such as a LiDAR sensing device, of a motor vehicle. The system comprising a housing module for holding the sensing device, comprising a window opening, that defines a sensor window plane, for receiving therein the sensor window of the optical sensing device; a wiper module including a wiper for wiping the sensor window; a drive module, having a rotary output organ,; and a kinematic transformer module interconnected between the drive module and the wiper module and configured for transforming a rotation of the rotary output organ of the drive module into a cyclic wiper trajectory of the wiper.