Motorized Arm Sensor Cleaner for Autonomous Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle sensor cleaning systems are inadequate in effectively removing debris from multiple sensors due to limited movement range and potential obstruction of the sensor field of view, which can impede autonomous vehicle functionality.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning assembly with a track and adjustable arm equipped with a nozzle, controlled by motors and actuators, that moves along the vehicle's exterior to position the nozzle precisely near sensor debris and expels fluid for effective removal, while avoiding interference with the sensor's field of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed cleaning system is used for vehicle sensors, then the structure is simple, but it cannot effectively clean multiple sensors with different positions and may obstruct sensor field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system employs a motorized arm assembly that can dynamically move along a track and adjust its position to clean multiple sensors at different locations on the vehicle. The arm assembly includes a motor that drives movement along the track, enabling the system to adapt to various sensor positions rather than being fixed in one location
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system is designed with a universal arm assembly that can service multiple types of sensors (cameras, LIDAR, radar) positioned at different locations on the vehicle. The track system and adjustable arm provide a multi-functional cleaning capability that replaces the need for separate fixed cleaning mechanisms for each sensor
2Manufacturing precision
If a cleaning system operates close to sensors, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but it may obstruct the sensor field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The arm assembly is designed to dynamically adjust its position and orientation to approach sensors for effective cleaning while automatically retracting or repositioning to clear the sensor field of view when cleaning is complete. The motorized control enables precise positioning that balances cleaning effectiveness with maintaining unobstructed sensor views during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system separates the cleaning function from the sensor operation function through time-based segmentation. The arm assembly approaches the sensor, performs cleaning, then retreats to a position that does not obstruct the sensor field of view, allowing sensor operations to proceed without interference
3Area of stationary object
If a motorized arm system is added to enable movement along the track, then cleaning coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A motor assembly is integrated into the arm mechanism to enable dynamic movement along a track positioned near the sensors. The motor drives the arm to extend and retract, allowing the cleaning system to reach multiple sensor locations while maintaining a compact overall structure that does not excessively increase device complexity
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 solution enables efficient removal of debris from multiple vehicle sensors without obstructing their field of view, thereby improving autonomous vehicle safety and functionality by ensuring a clear path for sensor data collection.
Implementation Method 1
a pump fluidly coupled to the nozzle configured to expel the fluid from the nozzle to remove the debris
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatus, and methods to remove vehicle sensor debris are disclosed. A disclosed cleaning assembly for a vehicle includes a track coupled to the vehicle. The cleaning assembly also includes an arm adjustably coupled to the track and having a nozzle positioned on the arm. The arm is moveable, via the track, near an exterior surface of the vehicle that is associated with a vehicle sensor. The cleaning assembly also includes a first motor operatively coupled to the arm configured to move the arm along the track relative to debris positioned on the exterior surface. The cleaning assembly also includes a pump fluidly coupled to the nozzle configured to expel the fluid from the nozzle to remove the debris.