Vehicle Sensor Module Segmentation for Rain Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor modules for detecting aerosols and raindrops on vehicle windshields must be directly attached, which impairs the driver's field of vision and requires complex cable routing, limiting their installation flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module that uses a reference transmitter and receiver with a known transfer function to analyze reflected signals, allowing installation away from the windshield, using a non-visible wavelength for the transmission signal and enabling efficient evaluation of the received signal to detect aerosols and raindrops without impairing visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sensor module is directly attached to the windshield, then the detection precision is improved, but the driver's field of vision is impaired and cable routing becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into two independent parts: a light source unit that can be installed away from the windshield, and a sensor unit that detects reflected light. This segmentation allows the light source to be positioned in the vehicle interior without blocking the driver's view, while the sensor can be placed on the windshield for precise detection of aerosols and raindrops.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a separate light source that illuminates the windshield area to be detected, rather than integrating the light source directly with the sensor on the windshield. This allows the illumination system to be positioned independently, avoiding obstruction of the driver's field of vision while maintaining detection precision.
2Measurement precision
If the sensor module is directly attached to the windshield, then the detection precision is improved, but the cable routing becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into spatially separated components (light source and sensor), which allows for more flexible cable routing. The light source can be connected to power and control systems through interior cable paths, while the sensor on the windshield has shorter, simpler connections, reducing overall cable routing complexity.
3Productivity
If a visible wavelength is used for the transmission signal, then the detection efficiency is improved, but the visibility for the driver is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the transmission signal from the visible range to the infrared range (or other non-visible wavelengths). This allows the light to be used for detection purposes without interfering with the driver's visibility, as the human eye cannot perceive infrared wavelengths. The detection efficiency is maintained through the use of appropriate sensors that are sensitive to the chosen wavelength.
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
Enables precise and efficient detection of aerosols and raindrops without obstructing the driver's view, allowing for flexible installation and simplified cable connections, while distinguishing between different types of disturbances based on their reflection and transmission properties.
Implementation Method 1
GB 2 394 282 A discloses a rain sensor on a vehicle window with a light source that emits light through the window. The light reflected back from raindrops on the windshield is detected by a number of detectors
Implementation Method 2
the time functions of the signals add up to a DC signal at least over a predefinable time range
Data Source
Figure 1~3a
Figure 3b~3d
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor module (500) for the detection of aerosols and/or raindrops, particularly on a windscreen (600) of a motor vehicle. According to the invention, said sensor module comprises at least one optical sensor device (100), which is designed to subject a region that is spatially remote from the sensor module (500), in particular the windscreen (600), to at least one first optical transmission signal (s1), and an evaluation unit (130) designed to analyze a first reception signal (s1'), which has been reflected and/or transmitted in the region, particularly at the aerosol or the raindrop, and a reference signal (sr) for deducing the presence of an aerosol and/or raindrops.