Motor Vehicle Sensor Cleaning Nozzle with Merged Piston Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor cleaning devices for motor vehicles are inefficient in terms of size and fluid distribution, failing to ensure optimal cleaning and drying of sensors like video cameras, which can lead to image pollution from residual cleaning fluids.
Innovation Solution
A compact cleaning device with a distribution nozzle that moves between rest and deployed positions, utilizing a piston-driven mechanism to simultaneously or sequentially distribute different fluids through separate admission channels, ensuring effective cleaning and drying of sensors by controlling fluid flow and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a cleaning device is designed to be compact to address size constraints, then the overall size is reduced, but the complexity of fluid distribution and nozzle positioning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the nozzle positioning mechanism with the fluid distribution system by using a single piston that performs dual functions: positioning the distribution nozzle and distributing cleaning/drying fluids through integrated admission channels. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution nozzle is designed to perform multiple functions: it positions itself for cleaning operations, distributes cleaning fluid through a first admission channel, and distributes drying fluid through a second admission channel. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanisms, reducing both size and complexity.
2Reliability
If cleaning fluid is sprayed onto the sensor to expel dirt, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but residual liquid may pollute the image
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary cleaning action with cleaning fluid, followed by a subsequent drying action with drying fluid. The drying fluid is distributed through the same distribution nozzle after the cleaning fluid, ensuring that residual cleaning liquid is removed before detection, preventing image pollution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a continuous cleaning-drying sequence where the distribution nozzle remains in position and sequentially distributes cleaning fluid followed by drying fluid without retracting. This continuous action ensures complete removal of residual liquid, maintaining sensor quality throughout the process.
3Reliability
If the distribution nozzle is moved between rest and deployed positions to avoid interference and protect from impacts, then operational safety is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle positioning function is merged with the fluid distribution system. A single piston mechanism serves both to position the distribution nozzle between rest and deployed positions and to drive the fluid distribution through integrated admission channels, reducing overall mechanism complexity while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution nozzle positions itself automatically based on fluid pressure requirements. When cleaning or drying fluid is distributed, the nozzle is in the deployed position; when not in use, it returns to the rest position protected from impacts, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms.
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 efficient cleaning and rapid drying of sensor lenses, preventing image pollution and maintaining sensor quality by allowing precise control over fluid distribution and nozzle positioning, addressing size constraints and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one piston rendered mobile by the pressure exerted by the first fluid
Implementation Method 2
means for simultaneous or sequential distribution via a distribution orifice in a distribution nozzle of a first fluid and/or a second fluid separately routed to the distribution nozzle via a first admission channel and/or via a second admission channel
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a device for cleaning a sensor of a motor vehicle. The device in accordance with the invention includes means for simultaneous or sequential distribution via a distribution orifice (11) in a distribution nozzle (1) of a first fluid and/or a second fluid separately routed via a first admission channel (2) and/or via a second admission channel (3), respectively, to a common distribution chamber (10) in said distribution nozzle (1). It also includes means for moving said distribution nozzle (1) between a rest position and a deployed position, and these said means for moving the distribution nozzle (1) include means shared with the means for feeding the first admission channel (2) with the first fluid.