Multi-Sensor Cleaning Bracket for LIDAR and Camera Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicle sensors, particularly LIDAR devices and cameras, face operational impairment due to dirt and smudges on their lenses and windows, which existing technologies have not effectively addressed for efficient cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A compact sensor apparatus with a bracket and channel plate system that includes nozzles and a channel for fluid distribution, allowing for efficient cleaning of multiple sensor windows, integrating a combined cleaning mechanism with the sensors to maintain a low profile and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cleaning mechanism is added to the sensor apparatus, then the cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system merges multiple nozzles into a single integrated bracket structure that serves both the LIDAR sensor and camera sensor. The bracket combines sensor mounting functions with cleaning nozzle functions, eliminating the need for separate cleaning mechanisms for each sensor and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it mounts the LIDAR sensor, mounts the camera sensor, positions the cleaning nozzles, and provides structural support for the entire sensor assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple nozzles are integrated into a single bracket, then the cleaning coverage is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed with segmented nozzle positions that can be independently adjusted or positioned. Each nozzle is placed in a specific location optimized for cleaning its corresponding sensor window, allowing the complex cleaning coverage to be achieved through modular positioning rather than a monolithic difficult-to-manufacture structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzles are positioned in three-dimensional space around the sensor windows, utilizing vertical, horizontal, and angular dimensions to achieve comprehensive cleaning coverage. This spatial arrangement allows multiple nozzles to cover different areas of the sensor windows without requiring an overly complex two-dimensional layout.
3Volume of moving object
If a channel plate is added to cover the channel, then the system compactness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The channel plate is nested within the bracket structure, with the fluid channel embedded in the bracket and the plate covering it. This nesting arrangement consolidates the fluid distribution system within the existing structural components, minimizing additional volume while providing the necessary channel coverage and fluid distribution function.
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 apparatus provides effective cleaning of sensor windows, ensuring continuous operation of LIDAR and camera sensors by maintaining their transparency and field of view, enhancing the reliability of autonomous vehicle navigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
The bracket includes a first nozzle aimed at the first sensor window and a second nozzle aimed at the second sensor window
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor apparatus includes a first sensing device, a sensor housing, a bracket, a second sensor, and a channel plate. The sensor housing includes a first sensor window and a top panel, and the first sensing device has a field of view through the first sensor window. The bracket is mounted on top of the top plate. The second sensor is held by the bracket and includes a second sensor window. The channel plate is fixed to the bracket. The bracket includes a first nozzle aimed at the first sensor window and a second nozzle aimed at the second sensor window. The bracket includes a channel fluidly connected to the first nozzle and the second nozzle. The channel plate covers the channel.