Plasma Actuator Air Flow Generator for Vehicle Sensor Lens
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic mirrors for vehicles are affected by foreign matter such as raindrops adhering to the lens surface, which impairs view and is not effectively addressed by existing technologies, especially at low vehicle velocities or in rainy conditions.
Innovation Solution
A rectifying device with a plasma actuator that generates an air flow to separate traveling wind from the detector of a sensor, using a three-electrode or two-electrode configuration to create an air flow that prevents foreign matter from adhering to the lens, with a control system to manage the air flow direction and strength based on vehicle velocity and rainfall detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a camera-based electronic mirror is used to secure view, then the lens part can be made compact and air resistance is reduced, but foreign matter such as raindrops adheres to the lens surface and impairs view
Solution Approach 1:
A plasma actuator is introduced as an intermediary device between the traveling wind and the lens surface. The plasma actuator generates plasma that interacts with the air flow to create a protective flow pattern that prevents foreign matter from reaching the lens, while not interfering with the compact lens design or aerodynamic properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical methods (such as wipers or blowers) with a plasma-based system. The plasma actuator uses electrical discharge to generate ionized gas that manipulates air flow patterns, eliminating the need for moving mechanical parts while effectively preventing foreign matter adhesion to the lens surface
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a structure with wing section shape is provided to project from vehicle body with imaging window along air flow, then the imaging window is suppressed by air flow from being stained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the air flow control function from the exterior member structure itself and separates it into an independent plasma actuator system. This allows the exterior member to maintain its simple structural form while the plasma actuator, mounted separately, provides the air flow manipulation needed to prevent staining of the imaging window
Solution Approach 2:
The plasma actuator changes the physical parameters of the air flow (velocity, direction, turbulence) through plasma-induced body force without requiring changes to the geometric parameters of the exterior member structure. This allows effective air flow control while maintaining structural simplicity
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
Effectively suppresses adherence of foreign matter like raindrops, dust, and grime to the sensor detector, ensuring clear visibility and camera functionality even in rainy conditions, with a simple configuration and responsive air flow direction control.
Implementation Method 1
an air flow generator that includes a plasma actuator including at least a pair of electrodes and a power source that applies an alternating current (AC) voltage to the electrodes
Implementation Method 2
a plasma actuator that includes at least a pair of electrodes and a power source that applies an alternating current (AC) voltage to the electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
A rectifying device includes an air flow generator. The air flow generator is disposed at an exterior member of a vehicle. The exterior member is adjacent to a detector of a sensor that is disposed such that at least a portion of a detection range of the detector includes a rear region behind a plane in a traveling direction of the vehicle. The plane is parallel to a width direction and a vertical direction of the vehicle. The air flow generator is configured to generate an air flow that separates, from the detector of the sensor, travelling wind that accompanies travel of the vehicle. The air flow generator includes a plasma actuator that includes at least a pair of electrodes and a power source that is configured to apply an alternating current voltage to the electrodes.