Modular Sensor Cleaning Housing for Multi-Geometry Vehicle Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor cleaning devices require different constructions to accommodate various motor vehicle sensor sizes and geometries, making them cumbersome to use across different types of sensors.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor cleaning device with a housing and interchangeable fluid distribution devices, allowing for easy adaptation to different sensor sizes by adjusting the number and arrangement of inlets and outlets, ensuring effective cleaning of sensors with varying geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different sensor cleaning devices are used for different sensor sizes and geometries, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple fluid distribution devices with different configurations. The standardized interface and mounting mechanism allow the same housing to work with various sensor sizes and geometries by simply changing the fluid distribution device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized housings.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device is divided into two independent modules: a reusable housing and interchangeable fluid distribution devices. This segmentation allows the fluid distribution device to be changed based on sensor requirements while keeping the housing constant, reducing overall system complexity and inventory needs.
2Reliability
If different sensor cleaning devices are used for different sensor sizes and geometries, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized mounting interface and consistent housing design enable operators to use the same cleaning device housing for different sensors by simply swapping the fluid distribution device. This universal approach maintains ease of operation while adapting to various sensor geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, dedicated design to a dynamic, reconfigurable system where the fluid distribution device can be easily changed based on the specific sensor being cleaned. This dynamic adaptability improves operational flexibility without sacrificing ease of use.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed construction sensor cleaning device is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different sensors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is manufactured as a universal platform with standardized features that can accommodate multiple fluid distribution device variants. This approach maintains manufacturing simplicity for the housing while achieving versatility through the interchangeable fluid distribution devices.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the housing from the fluid distribution device, the manufacturing process is simplified for each component. The housing can be produced in large quantities as a standard part, while the fluid distribution devices can be customized for different sensor types without requiring complex tooling changes.
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 reliable cleaning of diverse motor vehicle sensors by allowing the same device to be used for sensors of different sizes and geometries, with easy assembly and operation, ensuring optimal cleaning results.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid distribution device for guiding fluid, which is introduced into the housing via the at least one first housing inlet and the at least one second housing inlet, to the housing outlet opening
Implementation Method 2
fluid in the form of water and in the form of air are used to clean the front face of motor vehicle sensors whereby the front face of the motor vehicle sensor is exposed to water and air ejected from a sensor cleaning device
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor cleaning device for cleaning a motor vehicle sensor includes a housing with at least one first housing inlet, at least one second housing inlet, and a housing outlet opening for dispensing fluid introduced into the housing via the at least one first housing inlet, and/or the at least one second housing inlet. The device also includes a fluid distribution device that includes first distribution inlets corresponding to first housing inlets; and first distribution outlets corresponding to first distribution inlets. The fluid distribution device further includes second distribution inlets corresponding to second housing inlets; and second distribution outlets corresponding to at least twice the number of second distribution inlets. The fluid distribution device is insertable into the housing. Each first distribution inlet is in fluid communication with one first housing inlet and each second distribution inlet is in fluid communication with one second housing inlet when the fluid distribution device is inserted into the housing.