Sensor Optical Surface Cleaning with Arc Nozzles and Deflectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices for vehicle sensors are complex and fail to effectively clean the entire optical surface, leading to operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A device with circular-arc shaped segments featuring a cleaning fluid circulation channel, nozzles, and deflectors that angle the cleaning fluid flow to ensure comprehensive coverage of the optical surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cleaning devices are used, then cleaning function is provided, but the structure becomes complex and the entire surface cannot be cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is divided into multiple segments arranged in a circular pattern, each segment containing simplified nozzle and deflector components. This segmentation allows the device to cover the entire optical surface area while keeping each individual segment structurally simple and easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The device adopts a circular-arc shaped configuration with nozzles and deflectors arranged along a circular path. This curved geometry naturally conforms to the optical surface being cleaned, enabling complete surface coverage while simplifying the overall structural design compared to complex mechanical systems.
2Area of stationary object
If conventional cleaning devices are used, then some cleaning function is provided, but the entire optical surface cannot be cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cleaning segments are distributed around the optical surface, with each segment responsible for cleaning a specific portion. The combined coverage of all segments ensures the entire optical surface is cleaned, preventing operational disruptions caused by dirt accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each segment is positioned and oriented to address specific local cleaning needs of different regions of the optical surface. The deflector angles and nozzle positions are optimized for their respective locations, ensuring uniform cleaning quality across the entire surface area.
3Area of stationary object
If deflectors are added to change fluid flow angle, then cleaning coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector and nozzle are integrated into a single unified component rather than separate parts. This merging simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the ability to deflect fluid flow at appropriate angles for comprehensive surface coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector is designed with a curved surface that naturally guides the cleaning fluid flow at the required angles. This geometric approach simplifies the deflector design compared to complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, while achieving the desired flow direction for complete surface coverage.
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 device ensures thorough cleaning of the sensor's optical surface, enhancing its operational efficiency by improving fluid flow direction and reducing waste, with a simple and adaptable structure.
Implementation Method 1
the deflector being able to deflect the flow of cleaning fluid by a given angle toward the optical surface
Data Source
AI summary
A device for cleaning an optical surface of a sensor of a vehicle including at least one segment that has a circular-arc shape with a cleaning fluid circulation channel. The segment including at least one cleaning fluid inlet in the channel and at least one nozzle for spraying cleaning fluid toward the optical surface from the fluid circulation channel. The at least one nozzle includes a cleaning fluid outlet duct and a deflector, and the deflector extends in line with the duct, the deflector being able to deflect the flow of cleaning fluid by a given angle toward the optical surface.