Vehicle Sensor Cleaning Device with Movable Blocking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices for optical detection systems in vehicles require distributors to alternate between cleaning and drying fluids, which increase costs and risk of malfunction.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a movable blocking element that selectively allows either cleaning or drying fluid to flow through distinct sets of runs, using pressure differentials to switch between positions, eliminating the need for an external distributor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a distributor is used to alternate between cleaning and drying fluids, then the cleaning device can effectively switch between fluids, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the distributor component from the system entirely. Instead of using a distributor to alternate between cleaning and drying fluids, the invention uses a movable blocking element that selectively blocks one fluid path while allowing the other fluid to pass through, thereby simplifying the device architecture while maintaining effective fluid switching capability
Solution Approach 2:
The movable blocking element automatically positions itself based on pressure differentials between the cleaning fluid and drying fluid sources. The system self-regulates fluid flow paths without requiring external control mechanisms, reducing complexity while ensuring reliable alternation between cleaning and drying modes
2Volume of moving object
If the cleaning device is made compact to meet bulk constraints, then the vehicle integration is improved, but the distribution of fluids close to the sensor surface becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable blocking element that can dynamically position itself within the compact distribution device. This dynamic positioning allows the fluid distribution orifices to be placed close to the sensor surface while maintaining the ability to selectively block and alternate between cleaning and drying fluid paths, thus achieving both compactness and effective fluid delivery
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
Simplifies the architecture, reduces costs, and ensures effective cleaning and drying without residual fluid contact, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the optical sensor cleaning process.
Implementation Method 1
using pressure differentials to switch between positions
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning device, intended to spray at least one fluid towards a surface to be cleaned of a motor vehicle, such as an optical sensor of an optical detection system, comprises at least one fluid intake and distribution device (D) into which are selectively admitted a cleaning fluid and a drying fluid through two distinct sets of runs from an intake end-fitting (110, 111) specific to each fluid.According to the invention, a blocking element (5) is provided in the intake and distribution device (D). This blocking element is movable between a first position of blocking of the set of runs for a cleaning fluid and a second position of clearing of this set of runs for a cleaning fluid.