Vehicle Key with Integrated Cleaning Means for Camera Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle key designs do not effectively address the need for quick and easy cleaning of external camera elements, such as rear view cameras, which can compromise driver safety due to dirt accumulation.
Innovation Solution
A key device integrated with cleaning means, including a container for cleaning fluid, mechanical dirt removal tools, and sensory units for notification, allowing for automatic activation and use of cleaning tools without opening the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cleaning cloth with roll-up mechanism is integrated into a key ring, then cleaning functionality is provided, but the device requires a large amount of space making it impractical for key ring application
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning function is extracted from a separate cleaning device and integrated into the key device. The cleaning means (cloth, brush, or spray) is incorporated into the key body, allowing the key to serve both as an access tool and cleaning device, eliminating the need for a separate compact cleaning tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning means is merged with the key device structure. The cleaning components (container, applicator, or mechanical element) are combined with the key body, creating a multi-functional device that provides both key operations and cleaning capabilities in a single compact unit.
2Ease of operation
If cleaning means are integrated into the key device, then cleaning of outer elements becomes quick and easy, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The key device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a traditional key for vehicle access and as a cleaning device for outer elements. This universal design allows a single device to perform multiple functions without requiring separate tools for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning means is nested within the key device structure. The container for cleaning fluid or the mechanical cleaning elements are housed within the key body, allowing compact integration while maintaining functionality. The cleaning components can be retracted or hidden when not in use.
3Extent of automation
If the key device includes automatic activation based on contamination detection, then cleaning can be initiated automatically, but the device requires additional sensory units and communication systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of contamination on outer elements before cleaning is required. The sensory units detect dirt or contamination levels, and the key device is prepared for automatic activation, allowing the cleaning function to be triggered based on detected conditions rather than manual initiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensory units continuously monitor the condition of outer elements (such as camera lenses). Based on the detected contamination level, the system provides feedback to the key device, which automatically activates the cleaning function when contamination exceeds a threshold, creating a closed-loop control system.
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
Enhances operational safety by enabling drivers to clean external camera elements directly with their key device, receiving contamination alerts and using integrated cleaning tools, ensuring clear visual information for safe vehicle operation.
Implementation Method 1
a pump for applying pressure to the cleaning fluid in order to force the cleaning fluid through the nozzle
Implementation Method 2
an optical element, in particular a lens, of a rear view camera
Data Source
AI summary
A key device for opening or starting a vehicle includes a main body, and at least one cleaning means which is in or on the main body for cleaning an optical element of a rear view device of the vehicle. Further, a method is provided for cleaning an outer element of a vehicle, in particular at least one optical element of a rear view device of a motor vehicle by detecting a contamination state including a predetermined degree of contamination or a predetermined type of contamination of the outer element, emitting at least one signal that is characteristic for the detected degree of contamination including an input signal for a key device, and transmitting an optically, acoustically, or haptically detectable output signal by the key device, with a request for cleaning using the at least one cleaning means of the key device or which is connectable with the key device.