Retractable Vehicle Camera System Aerodynamics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems for vehicles, when in operating position, negatively affect the aerodynamic behavior and appearance of the vehicle, and lack adequate protection from the elements.
Innovation Solution
A retractable camera monitoring system with a protective cover that moves between non-operating and operating positions, integrating seamlessly with the vehicle's exterior surface to minimize aerodynamic disruption and enhance watertightness, using a pivot axis and driving unit to position the camera and cover flush with the surface, and incorporating a mechanical gasket and illumination module for sealing and visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera is moved outside the recess to perform imaging, then the imaging function is enabled, but the aerodynamic behavior and appearance of the vehicle deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The camera unit is designed to be movable between a retracted position (inside the recess) and an extended position (outside the recess). This dynamic positioning allows the system to optimize aerodynamic performance when retracted and enable imaging functionality when extended, resolving the contradiction between maintaining vehicle aerodynamics and achieving imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is segmented into separate functional components: the imaging camera unit and the protective cover. This segmentation allows the cover to remain stationary and maintain aerodynamic flow while the camera unit can be independently positioned outside the recess for imaging operations, thus resolving the conflict between aerodynamic integrity and imaging functionality.
2Reliability
If the camera is moved outside the recess for imaging, then the imaging function is enabled, but the vehicle appearance and watertightness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A protective cover is introduced as an intermediary element between the camera system and the external environment. This cover can be positioned to protect the opening of the recess when the camera is retracted, maintaining vehicle appearance and watertightness, while allowing the camera to extend outside for imaging operations. The cover acts as a mediator that preserves protective functions while enabling imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cover is designed to be movable between different positions: covering the recess opening when the camera is retracted to maintain appearance and protection, and allowing the camera to extend when imaging is needed. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between maintaining vehicle integrity and enabling imaging function.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a protective cover is added to cover the recess opening, then aerodynamic behavior and appearance improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover and camera unit are merged into a single integrated assembly that moves together as one unit. This combination simplifies the mechanical system by eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms for the cover and camera, reducing overall device complexity while still providing aerodynamic benefits and protecting the recess opening.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for capturing optical information configured for being installed in a recess of an exterior surface of a vehicle, comprising at least an imaging means configured for obtaining optical information of the surroundings of the vehicle. The imaging means are movable between an operating position and a non-operating position, wherein in the non-operating position the imaging means is able to be located in the recess of the vehicle. The device also comprises a protective cover configured for being able to cover the opening of the recess when the imaging means is in an operating position outside the recess.