Sensor Cleaning Apparatus With Segmented Nozzles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sensor operation in vehicles can be impaired due to dirt and smudges on sensor lenses and covers, which existing technologies fail to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A sensor-cleaning apparatus with a robust design featuring a tubular segment and nozzles that distribute fluid efficiently for cleaning, using a combination of air and liquid to maintain sensor clarity without moving parts, allowing for precise fluid distribution and easy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If moving parts are used in the cleaning apparatus, then cleaning effectiveness can be improved, but device complexity and reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning apparatus is divided into multiple tubular segments that can be separately assembled to form different cleaning patterns. Each segment contains nozzles positioned at specific locations and angles, allowing the system to achieve complex cleaning coverage without requiring complex moving parts. The segments can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using moving parts to direct cleaning fluid at the sensor, the patent inverts the approach by positioning fixed nozzles around the sensor and using the natural flow of fluid combined with sensor rotation to achieve comprehensive cleaning coverage. The nozzles are arranged to spray fluid outward in multiple directions simultaneously, eliminating the need for moving cleaning components.
2Manufacturing precision
If fluid distribution precision is improved, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each nozzle in the apparatus is designed with specific local characteristics including unique positioning, orientation, and spray patterns tailored to clean specific portions of the sensor. The nozzles are arranged at different angles and locations to target different areas, with each nozzle optimized for its specific cleaning zone. This local optimization achieves precise fluid distribution without requiring complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses the sensor's own rotation and operation to assist in the cleaning process. As the sensor rotates or operates, different portions of the sensor surface are exposed to the spray from fixed nozzles, allowing comprehensive cleaning coverage without requiring the nozzles to move or adjust their positioning dynamically.
3Reliability
If comprehensive sensor coverage is achieved, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning apparatus is divided into multiple tubular segments that can be separately assembled to form different cleaning patterns. Each segment contains nozzles positioned at specific locations and angles, allowing the system to achieve complex cleaning coverage without requiring complex moving parts. The segments can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane cleaning approach to a three-dimensional cleaning configuration by arranging nozzles at multiple angles and positions around the sensor in radial and axial directions. This spatial distribution of nozzles in multiple dimensions enables comprehensive coverage of the sensor surface from all sides simultaneously, achieving thorough cleaning without requiring complex mechanical movements.
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 apparatus ensures effective cleaning of vehicle sensors, maintaining their operational integrity by preventing dirt accumulation and ensuring continuous sensor functionality, particularly for LIDAR devices and other external sensors.
Implementation Method 1
Each nozzle includes a deflection surface and a tunnel from the chamber to the deflection surface
Implementation Method 2
The upper piece and the lower piece form a tubular segment that is elongated along an arc of circle and encloses a chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor-cleaning apparatus includes an upper piece, a lower piece fixed to the upper piece, a plurality of inserts inserted into the upper piece, and a plurality of nozzles. The upper piece and the lower piece form a tubular segment that is elongated along an arc of a circle and encloses a chamber. Each nozzle is formed of the upper piece and one of the inserts. Each nozzle includes a deflection surface and a tunnel from the chamber to the deflection surface, and each tunnel is partially formed of the upper piece and partially formed of the respective insert.