Rotating Cylindrical Lens Self-Cleaning for Outdoor Imagers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lens cleaning devices fail to effectively protect and maintain the clarity of images in adverse environmental conditions such as dust and moisture, particularly in outdoor and mobile applications like vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A rotating lens apparatus with a cylindrical lens housed in a sealed enclosure, coupled with a gear assembly and motor for self-cleaning, and an imager with a field of view extending through the cylindrical lens, utilizing wiping assemblies and a fluid delivery system to remove debris and dust, ensuring continuous clear image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the imager is exposed to the environment for clear image capture, then image quality is improved, but the imager is vulnerable to dust and moisture damage
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional zones: a sealed internal cavity housing the imager and lens, and an external environment. The cylindrical lens acts as an interface between these zones, allowing optical penetration while maintaining physical separation and protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical lens serves as an intermediary element that transmits light from the external environment to the imager while preventing direct contact between environmental contaminants and the imager. The lens is positioned such that its outer surface faces the environment while the imager remains in the protected cavity.
2Reliability
If the lens is sealed in a housing to protect the imager, then reliability is improved, but the lens accumulates dust and moisture reducing image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The lens is made rotatable rather than fixed, allowing it to be dynamically cleaned by wiping assemblies. The rotation mechanism enables periodic contact with cleaning elements without compromising the sealed protective housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-cleaning functionality through wiping assemblies that automatically remove dust and moisture from the lens surface during operation, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining image quality.
3Measurement precision
If a wiping assembly is added to clean the lens, then image clarity is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wiping function is integrated into the existing lens rotation mechanism. The wiping assemblies are positioned to contact the rotating lens surface, combining the cleaning function with the rotational movement already required for other operational purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating lens mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables the lens to scan or track targets, and simultaneously allows wiping assemblies to clean the lens surface during rotation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated cleaning mechanisms.
4Loss of time
If the lens is made rotatable for cleaning, then self-cleaning capability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wiping assemblies use flexible wiping elements that can conform to the lens surface and accommodate minor rotational misalignments. This flexibility compensates for manufacturing tolerances in the rotational mechanism while maintaining effective cleaning contact.
Data Source
AI summary
A lens cleaning device having a housing. A cylindrical lens is disposed inside the housing and defines an inner cavity. An imager is disposed in the cavity. A gear assembly operably couples the cylindrical lens with a motor. The motor is operational to rotate the gear assembly and consequently the cylindrical lens.