Vehicle Roof Module With Flush Sensor Cover and Thermal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof modules with sensor modules disturb airflow and adversely affect the aerodynamic characteristics of vehicles due to steps formed by the roof skin covering the sensors, and temperature fluctuations can cause sensor malfunction.
Innovation Solution
A roof module design with a flush-mounted sensor cover adjacent to the windshield and roof panel, separated compartments for sensors and lamps, and temperature control via air conditioning, ensuring a seamless aerodynamic surface and maintaining sensor operation within an optimal temperature range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a step is formed in the roof skin to cover the sensor module, then the sensor module is protected and accessible, but the airflow is disturbed and aerodynamic characteristics are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is housed within a recessed cavity in the roof skin rather than protruding outward. This dimensional change allows the sensor to be protected and accessible while maintaining a flush surface that does not disrupt airflow, effectively resolving the contradiction between sensor protection and aerodynamic performance.
2Ease of operation
If the sensor module is exposed on the roof surface, then sensor access and cooling are improved, but aerodynamic performance deteriorates due to airflow disturbance
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is positioned within a recessed cavity rather than on the external surface. This allows sensors to be accessed through openings in the roof skin while the surrounding surface remains flush, maintaining aerodynamic performance while providing sensor access.
Solution Approach 2:
The roof skin acts as an intermediary structure with a recessed cavity that mediates between the need for sensor access and aerodynamic performance. The cavity allows sensor placement while the flush surface design maintains smooth airflow, resolving the contradiction through this intermediate structural solution.
3Temperature
If temperature control structures are added to the roof module, then sensor temperature stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roof module structure itself provides temperature control functionality through its design. The recessed cavity and integration with the vehicle body create a thermally managed environment for the sensor, eliminating the need for separate active temperature control systems and reducing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A roof module includes a panel member, a sensor unit arranged towards an outer side of a vehicle from the panel member, a sensor cover covering the sensor unit, a lamp unit arranged towards an inner side of the vehicle from the panel member, and an inner cover covering the lamp unit. The sensor cover is adjacent to a windshield of the vehicle and a surface of the sensor cover is flush with a surface of the windshield.