Exterior Mirror Display Moisture Detection Using Reflected Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moisture detection systems in motor vehicles are complex and energy-intensive, particularly in electric vehicles, leading to reduced vehicle range and increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A simplified moisture detection system integrated into display devices, using a sensor to detect light emitted and reflected by moisture, with a differential measurement method to isolate reflected light, and optionally incorporating capacitive sensors and a dark chamber for improved accuracy and reduced energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an additional detector system with light source and sensor is used for moisture detection, then moisture detection capability is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The display means is designed to serve dual functions: displaying information to the driver and acting as a light source for moisture detection. The same display elements (LEDs or OLEDs) that provide visual information also emit light that reflects off moisture on the cover, eliminating the need for separate detection lighting components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The moisture detection function is merged with the existing display system by integrating the sensor into the display structure and using the display means as the illumination source. This combination consolidates multiple functions into a single integrated system, reducing the number of separate components needed.
2Reliability
If an additional detector system with light source and sensor is used for moisture detection, then moisture detection capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display means performs dual functions as both information display and illumination source for moisture detection. Since the display must be activated anyway to provide information to the driver, the same activated display elements simultaneously serve as the light source for detection, eliminating the need for additional energy-consuming dedicated detection lighting systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The display system serves itself by using its own activated light-emitting elements to provide the illumination needed for moisture detection. The system leverages its own operational state (when display elements are activated for information display) to simultaneously perform the detection function without requiring external energy input for separate detection lighting.
3Reliability
If an additional detector system with light source and sensor is used for moisture detection, then moisture detection capability is improved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The moisture detection function is merged with the existing display system by integrating the sensor into the display structure and using the display means as the illumination source. This consolidation reduces the total component count, simplifies assembly processes, and lowers production costs by eliminating the need to manufacture and install separate detection lighting assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The display means serves dual purposes as both information display and detection light source, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detection components. This multi-functionality reduces bill of materials costs, simplifies supply chain requirements, and reduces manufacturing complexity, all of which contribute to lower production costs.
4Device complexity
If display means is used for both information display and moisture detection light source, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be affected by ambient light
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic or pulsed activation of display elements for both information display and moisture detection. By synchronizing the detection measurement with specific activation cycles of the display elements, the system can distinguish between reflected detection light and ambient light, improving measurement precision while maintaining the integrated approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements or calibration to establish baseline light levels and reflection characteristics before actual moisture detection. This preliminary characterization of the optical path and ambient conditions enables the system to compensate for ambient light variations and improve the precision of subsequent moisture detection measurements.
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 detects moisture with reduced parts, installation space, and energy consumption, enhancing vehicle efficiency and reducing production costs while maintaining functionality in various environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The moisture detection apparatus (12) is designed to detect light (11) emitted by the display means (10) and light (13) reflected by moisture (14) that is present on at least a portion of the element (4)
Data Source
AI summary
A display device, particularly for an exterior mirror of a motor vehicle, comprising a display means that comprises a lighting means, characterized in that the display device comprises a moisture detection apparatus comprising a sensor device, the moisture detection apparatus being designed to at least partially detect light emitted by the display means and light reflected by moisture.