Vehicle Sensor Cleaning System with Segmented Air and Fluid Nozzles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicle sensors become soiled or obstructed by environmental factors like moisture and dirt, reducing their effectiveness in providing accurate data for navigation and operation.
Innovation Solution
A sensor cleaning system that includes air and fluid-based cleaning devices, controlled by a vehicle computing system, which uses solenoids, pumps, and regulators to deliver compressed air and cleaning fluid to sensors such as cameras and lidar, ensuring thorough cleaning and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are exposed to environmental conditions for autonomous vehicle operation, then the vehicle can navigate and operate autonomously, but the sensors become soiled or obstructed by moisture, dirt, and particles
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary cleaning actions by positioning cleaning devices (nozzles, wipers) near the sensors and activating them before the sensors become significantly obstructed. The control system monitors sensor conditions and triggers cleaning operations proactively to prevent performance degradation, rather than waiting for severe soiling to occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous vehicle performs self-maintenance by automatically detecting when sensors require cleaning and executing cleaning operations without human intervention. The control system monitors sensor performance and autonomously activates appropriate cleaning devices (air nozzles, fluid nozzles, wipers) to maintain sensor functionality during operation.
2Reliability
If cleaning devices are added to remove debris from sensors, then sensor performance is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into multiple independent cleaning devices, each designed for specific sensor types or locations. Air nozzles are positioned for cameras, fluid nozzles for lidar sensors, and wiper blades for specific camera lenses. This segmentation allows selective activation of only the necessary cleaning device based on which sensor needs cleaning, reducing overall system complexity and enabling modular maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system serves multiple functions by integrating sensor monitoring, condition assessment, and cleaning device activation into a single autonomous control unit. The same control system that manages vehicle operation also monitors sensor performance and triggers appropriate cleaning operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If multiple cleaning devices (air nozzles, fluid nozzles, wipers) are used to clean different sensors, then thorough cleaning is achieved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different cleaning devices with specific properties are positioned at different locations to match the specific cleaning needs of each sensor type. Air nozzles with specific flow characteristics are positioned for camera sensors, fluid nozzles with appropriate fluid types are positioned for lidar sensors, and wiper blades with specific materials are positioned for camera lenses. This localized optimization ensures each sensor receives the most effective cleaning method for its specific requirements.
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 system effectively removes debris and dirt from sensors, maintaining their performance and ensuring reliable operation in various environmental conditions, enhancing the vehicle's navigation and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an air nozzle configured to direct air onto a surface of the sensor
Implementation Method 2
a fluid nozzle configured to direct fluid onto a surface of the sensor
Implementation Method 3
a wiper blade configured to contact the sensor and remove debris from the sensor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A device for cleaning a sensor can include a first valve, a second valve, a set of fluid nozzles, and a housing structure. The housing structure includes a first channel to enable fluid to move from the first valve to the set of fluid nozzles, a cavity, a second channel to enable air to move from the second valve to the cavity, and a slit opening to enable air to move from the cavity to outside the housing structure.