Vehicle Camera Module Low-Noise Deployment and Integrated Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems on vehicles face challenges with noise generation during deployment and effective cleaning of optical elements, which can impede functionality and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A camera device with a low-noise deployment system using actuators like SMA or piezo actuators, and integrated cleaning means that include static and active components for optical element cleaning, such as wiper blades and fine spray jets, to maintain clear optics and reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional actuators are used for deploying the camera module, then deployment speed is improved, but noise generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical actuators with piezoelectric actuators that convert electrical energy directly to mechanical motion without traditional motors, gears, or belts. This substitution eliminates mechanical friction and motor noise while maintaining deployment speed, as the piezoelectric elements can rapidly change shape in response to electrical signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a pneumatic system with compressed air reservoirs to actuate the camera module deployment. The sudden release of compressed air provides rapid, high-speed deployment while the pneumatic actuation itself generates minimal noise compared to mechanical motors, effectively decoupling speed from noise generation.
2Reliability
If cleaning means are integrated into the camera device, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates cleaning functions directly into the camera module housing by combining wiper blades, spray nozzles, and heating elements with the camera structure. The cleaning means are merged with existing housing components rather than added as separate assemblies, maintaining cleaning effectiveness while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera housing serves multiple functions: it protects the camera sensor, provides structural mounting, and integrates cleaning mechanisms. The housing elements are designed to perform both protective/structural roles and cleaning functions, reducing the need for additional dedicated components and thereby limiting complexity growth despite enhanced cleaning capabilities.
3Shape
If the camera module is deployed from a cavity, then a sleek vehicle design is achieved, but mechanical stress on the deployment system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic deployment mechanisms that can adjust their motion characteristics during actuation. The deployment system uses controlled acceleration and deceleration phases, with dampers and springs that adapt to loading conditions, reducing peak mechanical stresses while maintaining the rapid deployment needed for sleek integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements such as rubber buffers and spring dampers in the deployment path before the camera module reaches its fully deployed position. These elements absorb impact forces and reduce mechanical stress on the actuation system, allowing the module to be recessed deeper into the cavity for aesthetic purposes without compromising the deployment mechanism.
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 reduces noise and mechanical stress, enhances cleaning efficiency, and maintains a sleek vehicle design by using low-noise actuators and integrated cleaning mechanisms, ensuring optimal camera functionality and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first actuator, in particular comprising a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator, for moving the camera module
Implementation Method 2
at least one second actuator, in particular comprising a piezo actuator, for moving the camera module
Implementation Method 3
cleaning means for cleaning the optical element during a movement of the camera module between the retracted state and the deployed state
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a camera device for a motor vehicle with a vehicle body (1, 1') having a cavity and a vehicle data bus (29), comprising: a camera module (20, 20') with a module body (2, 2') having at least one aperture (3, 3'), at least one sensor adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation of at least one specific spectral range and being arranged within the module body (2, 2') such that electromagnetic radiation can reach the sensor when passing the aperture (3, 3'), and at least one optical element (4, 4') mounted to substantially cover, fill or close the aperture (3, 3'); and a deployment system for moving the camera module (20, 20') between a retracted state, in which at least the optical element (4, 4') is arranged within the cavity of the vehicle body (1, 1'), with preferably the outer surface of the camera module body (2, 2') being generally flush with the exterior of the vehicle body (1, 1'), and a deployed state, in which the camera sensor is operable and at least the optical element (4, 4') protrudes from the vehicle body (1, 1'); and/or cleaning means for cleaning the optical element (4, 4'), preferably during a movement of the camera module (20, 20') between the retracted state and the deployed state; and a control unit (30) for controlling the deployment system and/or the cleaning means, with the control unit (30) comprising a vehicle bus interface (31) and a microcontroller (32), wherein the vehicle bus interface (31) is configured to convert command instructions from the vehicle data bus (29) into command instructions for the microcontroller (32).