Sensor system with heating
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Sensor operation in autonomous vehicles can be impaired by dirt, smudges, or condensation on lenses, which affect the accuracy and reliability of sensors such as LIDAR devices and cameras.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system with a duct, heating element, and valves that control airflow to preheat and direct air to remove ice and condensation on sensors, using a computer to manage valve positions and heating levels based on temperature differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a heating element is used to remove ice and condensation from sensors, then sensor clarity is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies heating selectively only when and where needed - when temperature sensors detect that panel temperatures are below freezing or condensation is present. The heating element is activated locally at the sensor assembly rather than heating the entire vehicle, and only for the duration necessary to clear ice or condensation, thereby maintaining sensor clarity while minimizing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses temperature sensors and humidity sensors to detect conditions before ice or condensation significantly impairs sensor operation. By activating the heating element in advance when sub-freezing temperatures or high humidity are detected, the system prevents ice and condensation formation rather than waiting until sensors are already impaired, reducing the need for prolonged heating.
2Reliability
If airflow is directed at sensors to remove ice and condensation, then sensor clarity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a blower to generate airflow and ducting to direct it at the sensor assembly. This pneumatic approach uses readily available vehicle systems (blower motor from the climate control system) to create air movement that helps remove ice and condensation from sensor surfaces, providing an effective clearing mechanism without requiring complex mechanical or chemical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The airflow system serves multiple functions: it helps remove ice and condensation from sensors, and the same blower and ducting can be integrated with the vehicle's existing climate control system. The airflow path can also potentially serve other purposes such as cooling sensors or removing debris, reducing the need for separate dedicated systems and thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If multiple valves are used to control airflow to heating element, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses two valves that can be dynamically positioned in different configurations based on real-time sensor feedback. The first valve controls the main airflow to the heating element, while the second valve adjusts the airflow distribution. The computer controller continuously monitors temperature and humidity sensors, then dynamically adjusts valve positions to optimize heating efficiency - for example, opening both valves when rapid heating is needed, or closing one valve when gentler heating suffices, thereby improving energy efficiency while using control logic to manage the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates temperature sensors and humidity sensors that provide continuous feedback to the computer controller. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the valve positions and heating element activation to maintain optimal conditions with minimal energy consumption. The feedback loop ensures that heating is applied only when and where needed, and at the appropriate intensity, improving energy efficiency while the automated control reduces the burden of managing the multiple valves.
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 removes ice and condensation from sensors while maintaining energy efficiency by targeted heating and airflow management, ensuring sensor clarity and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
A heating element 20 is disposed in the duct 18
Implementation Method 2
A blower 46 may be positioned to direct air across at least one sensor 14
Implementation Method 3
The sensor system 12 may include a lens thermocouple 70
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor system includes a sensor and a plurality of panels connected to each other in a loop around the sensor. A duct is positioned to direct air towards the sensor. A heating element is disposed in the duct. First and second valves are disposed in the duct and spaced from each other along the duct. The first and second valves are selectively actuatable between an open position permitting airflow through the duct and a closed position blocking airflow through the duct. A computer is communicatively coupled to the heating element and the first and second valves. The computer is programmed to, upon determining a first difference between one respective panel temperature and an ambient temperature is greater than a first threshold, actuate the second valve to the closed position and maintain the first valve in the open position. The computer is further programmed to actuate the heating element to a first heating level based on the first difference.