Parallel Motion Sensor Window Wiper for Clear Optical Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in maintaining clear optical sensors due to environmental factors like rain and fog, which can lead to incorrect depth readings and reduced performance, as conventional windshield wipers are not suited for the unique window forms of these vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A parallel motion window wiper system featuring a wiper assembly with a linkage mechanism and a longitudinally oriented wiper blade that translates perpendicular to the sensor axis, using a four-bar linkage mechanism to maintain contact and cleanliness without obstructing the sensors' field of view, and an actuator for rotation, along with nozzles for fluid application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional windshield wipers are used, then the window can be cleaned, but the wiper blade obstructs the optical sensors' field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper blade is segmented into multiple sections that can independently move and adjust their position. This allows the blade to clean the window surface while retracting or positioning itself to minimize obstruction of the optical sensors' field of view during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper blade transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one that can change its configuration. The blade includes movable sections that can retract, extend, or adjust their angle based on operational requirements, allowing it to clear the sensor's field of view when not actively cleaning
2Productivity
If the wiper blade is positioned to clean the window effectively, then cleaning coverage is improved, but the field of view of optical sensors is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper blade is designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing it to move between a cleaning position that maximizes window coverage and a retracted position that clears the sensor's field of view. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to alternate between cleaning operations and sensor operation without permanent compromise to either function
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper blade operates in periodic cycles, alternating between cleaning phases where it contacts the window surface and retraction phases where it moves away from the sensor's field of view. This periodic motion allows both cleaning coverage and sensor visibility to be optimized at different times in the operational cycle
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wiper assembly is designed to accommodate the unique window form of autonomous vehicles, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper assembly is divided into modular segments that can be independently configured and adjusted. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different window geometries and sizes by reconfiguring the modular components, rather than requiring a completely custom design for each window form factor
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper assembly incorporates universal mounting mechanisms and adjustable components that can accommodate various window shapes and sizes found in autonomous vehicles. This multi-functionality allows a single wiper design to serve multiple vehicle models and window configurations, reducing overall system complexity despite the need for adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of the present disclosure provide an apparatus comprising: a wiper assembly and a sensor assembly. The wiper assembly may include: a linkage assembly; a wiper blade removably attached to the linkage assembly; and a actuator coupled to the linkage assembly and configured to enable rotation of the linkage assembly around a shaft. The sensor assembly may include: a plurality of optical sensors arranged along a linear axis; and a window between the plurality of optical sensors and the wiper assembly. The wiper blade is longitudinally oriented parallel to the linear axis, and the wiper blade is configured to translate in a direction perpendicular to the linear axis while maintaining contact with the window during translation.