Two-Part Spray Nozzle Structure for Low-Loss Optical Sensor Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical detection system cleaning devices face inefficiencies in fluid distribution, leading to pressure loss and suboptimal cleaning of optical sensors, which affects the quality of data acquisition in driving assistance systems.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a distribution element formed in two parts, where the first part is a base fixed to the conveying body and the second part is a cover pressed against it, forming a distribution channel with complementary indentations, and featuring a projection nozzle with a ramp inclined at an angle of 20° to 80°, optimizing fluid ejection onto the optical sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a distribution element is formed as a single integrated piece, then manufacturing is simpler, but fluid distribution efficiency is reduced due to pressure loss
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution element is divided into a base element and a cover element that are assembled together. This segmentation allows the distribution channels to be formed by joining two separate components, each with optimized channel paths, thereby reducing overall pressure loss while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution channels are formed by creating complementary recesses in the base element and corresponding protrusions in the cover element. When assembled, these nested features form the complete distribution channel pathway, allowing efficient fluid flow while simplifying manufacturing through separate component production.
2Ease of operation
If the projection nozzle is aligned perpendicular to the distribution channel, then fluid flow is simpler, but cleaning effectiveness is reduced due to suboptimal impact angle
Solution Approach 1:
The projection nozzle is deliberately designed with an asymmetric orientation, inclined at an angle between 20° and 80° relative to the distribution channel axis. This asymmetric configuration optimizes the fluid impact angle on the optical sensor surface, significantly improving cleaning effectiveness while the inclined ramp structure guides fluid flow efficiently along the asymmetric path.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle orientation introduces a angular dimension to the fluid flow path. Instead of simple perpendicular ejection, the fluid is directed at an optimized angle through the inclined ramp, adding a dimensional aspect to the flow control that enhances cleaning performance on the sensor surface.
3Loss of energy
If the distribution channel is formed with smooth transitions, then pressure loss is minimized, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution channel is segmented into multiple sections formed in the base and cover elements. Each section can be manufactured with standard precision using conventional processes, while the assembled configuration creates smooth transitions between sections. This segmentation approach minimizes pressure loss through continuous flow paths while avoiding the need for high-precision single-piece manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The complementary recesses and protrusions are pre-formed in the base and cover elements during manufacturing. These preliminary features are designed to mate together, automatically creating smooth channel transitions when assembled. This preliminary action approach allows smooth flow paths to be achieved through assembly rather than requiring complex single-piece machining.
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
This design minimizes pressure loss and ensures effective cleaning of optical sensors by guiding the cleaning fluid efficiently to the projection nozzle, enhancing the quality of data acquisition in driving assistance systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one projection nozzle includes a ramp projecting from the contact face of the distribution element cover; the ramp is inclined relative to the extension axis of the distribution channel at an angle between 20° and 80°
Implementation Method 2
The first and second parts of the cleaning fluid distribution element are joined together to form the distribution channel, with at least one of the first and second parts having an indentation on the face in contact with the other part
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a cleaning device intended for spraying at least one fluid onto a surface to be cleaned of a motor vehicle, such as an optical sensor of an optical detection system, which comprises at least one conveyor body (8) inside of which a distribution duct (11) is arranged and which includes, at the terminal distribution portion (36) thereof, a fluid distribution element (9) in which at least one cleaning fluid spray nozzle (10) is formed, the distribution element (9) including a distribution channel (12) in fluid connection with the distribution duct (11) arranged in the conveyor body (8) and with the spray nozzle (10). According to the invention, the cleaning fluid distribution element (9) is made up of two portions (16, 17): a first portion (16) including a base (16a) of the distribution element (9) attached to the conveyor body (8) and a second portion (17) including a cover (17a) urged against the first portion (16).