Movable Discharge Port for On-Vehicle Optical Sensor Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
On-board optical sensor cleaning devices often obstruct the image capturing range due to the location of the discharge port, which is typically centered and obstructs the view of the optical sensor, reducing its effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The on-board optical sensor cleaning device features a movable discharge port that can shift between a cleaning position, where it is proximal to the image capturing range center, and a non-cleaning position, where it is farther away, allowing for cleaning without obstructing the sensor's view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the discharge port is located at the center of the image capturing range to effectively clean the external image capturing surface, then the cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the discharge port obstructs the image capturing range and reduces the usable image capturing area
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge port is made movable relative to the optical sensor, allowing it to dynamically change position between a cleaning position (proximal to image capturing range center) and a non-cleaning position (farther from center). This dynamic positioning enables the system to optimize for cleaning effectiveness when needed while minimizing obstruction during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation of the discharge port is segmented into distinct positional states: a cleaning position for effective cleaning and a non-cleaning position for unobstructed imaging. This segmentation allows the system to separate the conflicting functions of cleaning and imaging into distinct operational modes.
2Reliability
If the discharge port is positioned proximal to the image capturing range center for cleaning, then cleaning performance is improved, but image capturing is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge port transitions between static positions dynamically based on operational requirements. During normal operation, it remains in a non-cleaning position that does not obstruct imaging. During cleaning operations, it moves to a cleaning position proximal to the center for effective cleaning, then returns to the non-obstructing position afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge port operates periodically, moving to the cleaning position only when cleaning is required and returning to the non-cleaning position during normal imaging operations. This periodic action ensures that the obstructing position is occupied only during brief cleaning intervals rather than continuously.
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 enables effective cleaning of the optical sensor's external image capturing surface without interfering with its image capturing capabilities, ensuring stable and unobstructed image capture.
Implementation Method 1
The discharged fluid removes foreign material collected on the external image capturing surface
Data Source
AI summary
An on-board optical sensor cleaning device includes an on-board camera and a discharge port. The on-board camera is mounted on a vehicle. The on-board camera includes a lens. The discharge port discharges fluid toward the lens. The discharged fluid removes foreign material collected on the lens. The lens and the discharge port are relatively movable. At least one of the lens and the discharge port is movable between a cleaning position, where the discharge port is located proximal to an image capturing range center of the on-board camera, and a non-cleaning position, where the discharge port is located farther from the image capturing range center than the cleaning position.