Sensor Lens Cleaning Coupling Device with Guided Fluid Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices for industrial sensor lenses installed in hard-to-reach locations require specialized labor and equipment, making them time-consuming and risky to maintain, and there is a need for a safer, faster, and more efficient cleaning solution.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with fixing tabs and a routing channel that allows a single person to install and operate, enabling direct injection of cleaning fluid to the lens from a safe location, eliminating the need for scaffolding and specialized professionals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If sensors are installed in hard-to-reach locations (at height, over sea, on towers), then sensor coverage and protection area are improved, but cleaning complexity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is designed to be self-installing through the self-expanding mechanism that engages with the sensor housing, eliminating the need for specialized installation equipment or personnel. The device serves itself by integrating the cleaning function directly into the sensor assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device is divided into separate functional modules: the cleaning head with nozzle, the expanding mounting mechanism, and the control system. This segmentation allows for easy maintenance and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire system.
2Area of stationary object
If sensors are installed in hard-to-reach locations, then sensor coverage is improved, but the equipment and resources required for cleaning increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is designed to be universally compatible with various sensor models through its adaptive expanding mechanism that conforms to different sensor housing dimensions. The same basic device structure can service multiple sensor types, reducing the need for specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs multiple functions automatically: self-installation through expansion, self-positioning of the cleaning nozzle, and self-control of the cleaning cycle, eliminating the need for complex external support equipment.
3Ease of operation
If specialized labor (industrial climbers) and equipment (scaffolding) are used for cleaning, then cleaning can be performed, but safety risks and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device completely eliminates the need for human intervention at height by performing self-installation and self-cleaning operations, removing all safety risks associated with industrial climbers and scaffolding.
Solution Approach 2:
The expanding mounting mechanism acts as an intermediary between the cleaning device and the sensor housing, providing a safe remote mounting interface that eliminates the need for direct human contact with hazardous locations.
4Reliability
If cleaning is performed frequently to prevent contamination buildup, then sensor effectiveness is maintained, but the complexity of maintenance operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic periodic cleaning cycles at predetermined intervals, maintaining sensor effectiveness without requiring manual intervention. The controller automatically activates the cleaning mechanism based on time-based or contamination-detection triggers.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device performs automatic self-maintenance through its self-activating mechanism, eliminating the need for complex scheduled maintenance operations by human personnel.
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
Facilitates quick and safe cleaning of sensor lenses, reducing the risk of accidents and costs, while enabling frequent and scheduled maintenance to prevent contamination buildup.
Implementation Method 1
a routing channel (30), wherein the routing channel (30) includes a straight channel section (31) and a curved channel section (32)
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is applied to the field of maintenance of camera and sensor lenses and, more particularly, relates to a coupling device for cleaning sensor lenses including: a fixing portion having two fixing tabs, a hose guide rod, and a routing channel. The routing channel includes a straight channel section and a curved channel section having a termination facing the region formed between the two fixing tabs.