Rotating Sensor Shell Deflector for Clear LIDAR Field of View
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle sensor assemblies face challenges in maintaining a clear field of view for LIDAR sensors due to debris and water accumulation, which can obstruct the sensor's ability to detect external environments effectively, especially during rotation.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly design featuring a rotatable shell with a deflector and vent system that directs air and debris radially outward, combined with a motor for rotation at 600 rpm, ensures a clear field of view by using a unitary shell and deflector with grooves and channels to guide water and debris away from the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the sensor assembly rotates at high speed (600 rpm) to improve detection coverage, then productivity is improved, but debris and water accumulate on the sensor surface causing measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful elements (debris and water) from the sensor assembly by introducing a deflector that actively removes these contaminants from the sensor surface. The deflector creates a separation between the rotating sensor assembly and the accumulated debris, preventing measurement errors while maintaining high-speed rotation for comprehensive detection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector acts as an intermediary element between the rotating sensor assembly and the external environment. It mediates the interaction by creating a protective barrier that allows the sensor to rotate at high speed for improved productivity while preventing debris and water from directly contacting the sensor surface, thus maintaining measurement precision.
2Reliability
If a protective cover is added to protect the sensor from debris, then reliability is improved, but the field of view is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the protective element (deflector) rotate together with the sensor assembly. This dynamic configuration allows the deflector to maintain a consistent protective function while rotating, ensuring that it does not create a static obstruction to the field of view. The rotating deflector protects the sensor from debris while allowing an unobstructed view for detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector is designed with specific local qualities - it is positioned and shaped to provide protection only where needed (at the periphery and leading edges of the sensor assembly) while leaving the central detection area clear. This localized protection approach ensures reliability by shielding vulnerable areas without obstructing the overall field of view required for sensor operation.
3Reliability
If the deflector extends far outward to improve debris deflection, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the deflector with the sensor assembly housing, creating an integrated structure rather than a separate component. This merging reduces device complexity by eliminating additional mounting mechanisms and structural supports that would be required for a standalone deflector. The integrated design maintains effective debris deflection while simplifying the overall device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it deflects debris away from the sensor, maintains structural integrity of the sensor assembly, and rotates with the assembly to provide continuous protection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
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 solution effectively maintains a clear field of view for LIDAR sensors by deflecting air and debris, ensuring reliable environmental detection around the vehicle, even during rotation, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicle systems.
Implementation Method 1
a deflector and vent system that directs air and debris radially outward
Implementation Method 2
grooves and channels to guide water and debris away from the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly includes a housing. The assembly includes a sensor supported by the housing. The assembly includes a shell enclosing the sensor and rotatable relative to the housing in a first direction, the shell defining a window. The assembly includes a deflector extending radially outward from the shell at a leading edge of the window.