Modular Washer Distributor with Segmented Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current washer liquid distribution systems for vehicles lack the ability to provide sufficient flow rates and pressures for various cleaning targets, including windshields, cameras, and LiDAR devices, which is essential for maintaining a clear environment for both human and autonomous driving.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple washer pumps connected in parallel and distributors with multiple distribution units, controlled by a controller to manage flow rates and pressures, allowing for selective operation of pumps and distribution units to meet specific cleaning requirements, including redundancy to handle failures and varying contamination levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single washer pump and distributor are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the flow rate and pressure required for various cleaning targets cannot be sufficiently provided
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor is divided into multiple distribution units (first, second, third distribution units) that can independently control flow to different nozzles. This segmentation allows each unit to handle specific cleaning zones, enabling sufficient flow rate distribution to multiple cleaning targets simultaneously without requiring a single complex high-capacity pump.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs controllable valves in each distribution unit that can dynamically adjust opening degrees based on cleaning requirements. The controller activates specific distribution units and adjusts valve openings to match the flow rate and pressure demands of different cleaning targets, providing dynamic adaptation without increasing overall system complexity.
2Power
If multiple washer pumps are added to increase flow rate and pressure, then the cleaning capability for various targets is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple pumps, the patent segments the single pump's output through multiple distribution units with controllable valves. Each distribution unit can independently regulate pressure and flow to specific nozzle groups, achieving the effect of multiple specialized pumps while maintaining a single pump system that is easier to manage and maintain.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distributor is designed to serve multiple cleaning targets, then the versatility is improved, but the ease of repair deteriorates due to increased complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor is segmented into independent distribution units, each serving specific cleaning targets through dedicated nozzles. This modular segmentation allows individual units to be isolated, tested, and repaired without affecting other units, improving ease of repair while maintaining versatility through the coordinated operation of multiple units for different cleaning targets.
Solution Approach 2:
Each distribution unit functions as an extractable module that can be independently accessed and serviced. The controllable valves and nozzle groups are organized in separable units that can be removed or replaced individually, facilitating maintenance operations without requiring disassembly of the entire distributor system.
4Productivity
If the flow rate is increased to handle heavy contamination, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional pumps or larger distributors
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves high productivity for heavy contamination by dynamically activating multiple distribution units and adjusting valve openings to maximum flow capacity when needed. The controller can coordinate all distribution units to operate simultaneously at high flow rates, providing the necessary cleaning power for severe contamination without requiring permanent oversized hardware.
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 enables convenient and effective distribution of washer liquid with adjustable flow rates and pressures, ensuring clear visibility for drivers and maintaining a measurable environment for autonomous systems, while providing ease of maintenance through modular design.
Implementation Method 1
at least one washer pump connected to a reservoir to pressurize the washer liquid
Data Source
AI summary
A system for distributing washer liquid includes at least one washer pump connected to a reservoir to pressurize the washer liquid, at least one distributor including at least one distribution unit fluidly connected to the washer pump, a plurality of nozzles fluidly connected to the at least one distribution unit in a distributor among the at least one distributor to face a cleaning target, and a controller configured to control opening or closing of the distribution unit formed in the at least one distribution unit and to control pressure of the washer pump.