Plasma Actuator Sensor Lens Cleaning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated and autonomous vehicle systems face challenges in maintaining the cleanliness of sensors such as lidar, cameras, and radar due to environmental debris, which can impair their functionality and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A sensor cleaning apparatus featuring a plasma actuator with a dielectric element, electrodes, and a plasma layer is positioned around the sensor lens to induce airflow, effectively clearing debris and maintaining the sensor's cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plasma actuator is used to induce airflow over the sensor lens, then the sensor cleanliness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical cleaning systems (wipers, brushes, or blowers) with a plasma actuator that uses electrohydrodynamic forces to induce airflow. The plasma actuator comprises a dielectric barrier discharge mechanism that generates ionized air flow to clear debris from the sensor lens without mechanical contact, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through non-mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The plasma actuator changes the physical state of air by creating a plasma field through dielectric barrier discharge. By applying high voltage across the plasma actuator electrodes, the air molecules are ionized and excited, creating a controlled plasma flow that dynamically adjusts to cleaning requirements. This parameter change from normal air to plasma state enables effective debris removal without mechanical components.
2Reliability
If a plasma actuator is positioned at the periphery of the sensor lens, then the optical path is preserved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma actuator is strategically positioned at the periphery of the sensor lens where it does not obstruct the optical path. The dielectric element and electrodes are configured to generate plasma flow that directs cleaning force toward the lens surface from the peripheral location. This local positioning optimizes both optical performance and cleaning effectiveness, with the plasma flow pattern tailored to the specific geometric constraints of the sensor assembly.
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 plasma actuator efficiently clears debris from sensor lenses, ensuring they remain clean and functional, enhancing the reliability of autonomous vehicle systems by maintaining clear optical paths for sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a plasma actuator comprising a dielectric element, a first electrode disposed under the dielectric element, a second electrode disposed on the dielectric element such that the second electrode is exposed, and a plasma layer disposed in between the first electrode and the second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus configured to induce airflow over a sensor lens is provide. The apparatus includes a sensor lens; and a plasma actuator. The plasma actuator may include a dielectric element, a first electrode disposed under the dielectric element, a second electrode disposed on the dielectric element such that the second electrode is exposed, and a plasma layer disposed in between the first electrode and the second electrode. The plasma actuator may be disposed at a periphery of the sensor lens.