Optical Sensor Cleaning Nozzle Geometry for Dust Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices for optical sensors in industrial environments, such as paper or cardboard processing machines, are inefficient in removing dirt and dust particles, necessitating manual cleaning despite being used in conjunction with gas discharge systems.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a gas flow channel oriented at an angle of 30° to 70° to the target surface, featuring a nozzle design with a decreasing cross-section and an S-shaped central axis, and incorporating air suction voids adjacent to the outlet to enhance airflow and mechanical stability, allowing for effective and efficient cleaning without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If gas discharge cleaning devices are used for optical sensors, then cleaning automation is improved, but cleaning effectiveness deteriorates compared to manual cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the gas flow channel, specifically orienting the outlet at an angle of 30° to 70° relative to the sensor surface and designing an S-shaped central axis. This parameter optimization enables the gas flow to effectively lift and remove particles while maintaining automated operation, resolving the contradiction between automation and cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The S-shaped curvature of the gas flow channel's central axis creates a swirling gas flow pattern that enhances cleaning effectiveness. The curved geometry generates rotational motion in the gas stream, improving its ability to dislodge and remove particles from the sensor surface while maintaining automated operation.
2Reliability
If the gas flow channel outlet is oriented at an optimal angle to the target surface, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases due to precise geometric requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines a specific angular range (30° to 70°) for the outlet orientation rather than requiring a single precise angle. This parameter range provides manufacturing tolerance while still achieving effective cleaning, thereby reducing device complexity compared to requiring exact geometric precision.
3Speed
If the gas flow channel cross-section decreases along the flow direction, then gas discharge speed is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The S-shaped cross-sectional design of the gas flow channel achieves the desired gas acceleration through its curved geometry rather than requiring precise linear tapering. The curved path naturally accelerates the gas flow while providing more forgiving manufacturing tolerances compared to a straight tapered design.
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 described cleaning device achieves effective separation and removal of dirt particles from the sensor surface, eliminating the need for manual cleaning by ensuring high-speed gas discharge and maximizing airflow effectiveness, resulting in reliable sensor functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a gas flowing through the gas flow channel is discharged onto the target surface
Implementation Method 2
a nozzle is a portion of a gas flow channel with a cross-section decreasing along a central axis thereof. As a result thereof, a gas flow inside the gas flow channel is accelerated
Implementation Method 3
at least one air suction void is provided adjacent to the outlet for providing air to be dragged onto the target surface by the gas flow discharged from the outlet
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A Cleaning device (14) for an optical sensor (12) is described. It comprises a gas flow channel oriented towards a target surface (30) such that a gas flowing through the gas flow channel is discharged onto the target surface (30). Additionally, an outlet (28) of the gas flow channel is facing the target surface (30) and a central axis (32) of the outlet intersects the target surface (30) substantially at a center (34) thereof and is oriented substantially at an angle of 30° to 70° to the target surface (30). Furthermore, a sensor assembly (10) is presented which comprises an optical sensor (12) having a sensing surface (22) and a cleaning device (14) as described above.