Rotating Sensor Window Assembly for Clear Vehicle Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Obstructions such as moisture, debris, and dust on vehicle sensors degrade sensor data, leading to inaccurate environmental perception, particularly in autonomous systems.
Innovation Solution
A sensor cleaning assembly with a rotating transparent sensor window that removes obstructions via centrifugal force, using an actuator-driven housing to rotate the window and maintain a clear field of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sensor is used to perceive the environment, then the vehicle can detect objects and locate positions, but the sensor effectiveness is compromised when obstructions such as water, moisture, or debris block the field of view
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor window is introduced as an intermediary component between the environment and the sensor. This window can be rotated to dispel obstructions (such as water, moisture, or debris) that would otherwise block the sensor's field of view, thereby maintaining sensor effectiveness without direct contact between obstructions and the sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor window is made rotatable relative to the sensor, transforming a static protective barrier into a dynamic component. This rotation capability allows the window to actively dispel obstructions from its surface, enabling the system to adapt to varying environmental conditions and maintain clear viewing conditions for the sensor.
2Measurement precision
If computing-based techniques are used to mitigate obstructions, then sensor data accuracy can be maintained, but the system becomes more complex and less reliable in autonomous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex computing-based obstruction mitigation techniques with a simpler mechanical rotation system. Instead of using algorithms to detect and compensate for obstructions through software processing, a mechanical sensor window rotation mechanism physically removes obstructions, reducing system complexity while maintaining or improving measurement precision.
3Reliability
If the sensor window is rotated to remove obstructions, then the field of view remains clear, but the device complexity increases due to the actuator and housing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor window serves multiple functions: it acts as a protective barrier against obstructions, a rotatable component for active obstruction removal, and an integrated part of the housing structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining a clear field of view.
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 system effectively prevents obstructions from contacting the sensor, ensuring high-quality sensor data by maintaining a clear view of the environment, reducing reliance on computing-based obstruction mitigation techniques.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor cleaning assembly with a rotating transparent sensor window that removes obstructions via centrifugal force
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor assembly includes one or more sensors configured to collect data from an environment. A sensor window is disposed in a field of view of the sensor, such that the sensor senses the environment through the sensor window to generate sensor data. The sensor window is rotated relative to the sensor to cause obstructions on the sensor window, like water or debris, to disperse.