Vehicle Roof Sensor Cleaning Nozzle for De-Icing and Low Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof module cleaning systems for vehicle environments are complex, space-intensive, and energy-inefficient, requiring multiple compressed air nozzles and components that increase installation costs, complexity, and energy consumption, while also being inadequate for de-icing in cold conditions.
Innovation Solution
A roof module with a simplified cleaning apparatus using a single oblong nozzle body or flow guiding contour connected to a vehicle's fan or air-conditioning system, which provides a directional air current for cleaning and de-icing, eliminating the need for multiple compressed air nozzles and heating wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple compressed air nozzles and components are used for cleaning the see-through area, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and installation effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate compressed air nozzles into a single integrated cleaning device that is attached to the environment sensor. This single device incorporates multiple ejection openings that direct cleaning fluid onto different areas of the see-through area, thereby maintaining comprehensive cleaning effectiveness while reducing system complexity and the number of separate components required
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device is designed to serve multiple functions: it cleans various areas of the see-through area (front, side, rear surfaces) through its multiple ejection openings, and it can be universally attached to different environment sensor types. The device integrates both cleaning and de-icing functions, making it a multi-functional solution that replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate components
2Adaptability or versatility
If compressed air components are installed in the roof module, then cleaning capability is provided, but installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is nested directly onto the environment sensor housing, utilizing the existing sensor structure as a mounting base. This nesting approach allows the cleaning device to be integrated into the existing sensor assembly without requiring additional installation space in the roof module. The device attaches to the sensor housing and directs cleaning fluid onto the see-through area, effectively nesting the cleaning function within the existing sensor structure
3Ease of operation
If compressed air system is used for cleaning, then cleaning function is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the compressed air system (which requires a compressor and high energy input) with a pump-driven liquid cleaning system. The pump delivers cleaning fluid through hoses to the cleaning device, which then ejects the liquid onto the see-through area. This substitution of the compressed air mechanical system with a liquid delivery system reduces energy consumption while maintaining effective cleaning and de-icing functions
4Reliability
If multiple compressed air nozzles are positioned in front of the see-through area, then cleaning coverage is improved, but the nozzles create elevations that restrict the field of vision
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is designed to be movable relative to the see-through area. It can be positioned adjacent to the see-through area during cleaning operation, then retracted or moved away when not in use. This dynamic positioning allows the device to provide comprehensive cleaning coverage when needed while minimizing its impact on the field of vision during normal sensor operation. The device may also be designed to follow the contour of the see-through area to reduce elevation restrictions
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
This solution reduces installation effort and costs, conserves energy, and effectively prevents soiling and icing, improving the functionality and accuracy of environment sensors with a quieter operation.
Implementation Method 1
The cleaning apparatus is connected to a fan, in particular to a fan of a vehicle cooling system, at least via a supply line so an air current generated by the fan is ejected from the at least one ejection nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
A roof module for forming a vehicle roof on a motor vehicle, the roof module having a panel component, whose outer surface forms at least sections of a roof skin of the motor vehicle, the roof skin acting as an outer sealing surface of the roof module, the roof module having at least one environment sensor which sends and/or receives electromagnetic signals for charting the vehicle environment via a see-through area and having at least one cleaning apparatus by which the see-through area is cleaned. The cleaning apparatus may have an essentially oblong nozzle body having a plurality of ejection nozzles and/or flow guiding contour formed by the panel component or by the environment sensor.