Windshield Cleaning System Image-Based Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
In computer-operated vehicles, determining whether windshield cleaning mechanisms are operating properly can be challenging, as existing systems lack effective diagnostics to identify issues such as clogged nozzles or inadequate fluid application.
Innovation Solution
A windshield monitoring and cleaning system that uses a computer to capture pre- and post-spray images, either visually or with infrared sensors, to diagnose cleaning conditions and actuate remediation mechanisms like heaters or defrosters, ensuring proper operation and maintenance of the cleaning system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If image capture devices and comparison analysis systems are added to diagnose windshield cleaning conditions, then the ability to detect and measure cleaning system performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures images of the windshield before and after fluid application, compares these images to detect cleaning conditions, and uses this feedback information to diagnose system performance and trigger remediation actions. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables continuous monitoring and diagnosis of the windshield cleaning system.
Solution Approach 2:
Image capture devices serve as intermediaries between the windshield cleaning system and the diagnostic function. Rather than directly measuring fluid application or cleaning effectiveness, the system uses images as an intermediary representation to infer system conditions through image comparison analysis.
2Reliability
If remediation mechanisms such as heaters and defrosters are integrated into the cleaning system, then the reliability of windshield cleaning operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary diagnosis by comparing pre-spray and post-spray images to identify potential issues with fluid application or heating performance. By detecting problems early through image analysis, the system can trigger remediation mechanisms before cleaning failures occur, ensuring reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The windshield cleaning system monitors its own performance through image capture and comparison, automatically diagnosing issues with fluid application, heating, or defrosting. The system self-regulates by triggering remediation mechanisms based on its own diagnostic findings, enabling autonomous operation and maintenance.
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 diagnoses and addresses issues with windshield cleaning, ensuring effective fluid distribution and temperature increase, thereby maintaining clear windshields and preventing driving hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid heater to heat the fluid before the fluid is sprayed from the nozzle on the windshield
Implementation Method 2
the first and second images are generated by infrared light sensors that capture images in the infrared spectrum
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a windshield cleaning system including a computer in electronic communication with a windshield wiper controller, an image device, a fluid applicator, and a fluid heater. The system captures and compares a pre-spray image with a post-spray image, the post spray image acquired after actuating the fluid applicator and before actuating the windshield wiper. The comparison is performed by the computer to determined potential conditions with the windshield cleaning system.