DE102015217781A1 - A vehicle optical device cleaning apparatus, and a system, a vehicle, and a method of cleaning an optical device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning device for cleaning a light inlet element of an optical device of a vehicle, the cleaning device comprising: a container with a liquid for cleaning the light inlet element, a pump for pumping the liquid from the container, a movable cover, which between a closed position and an open position is movable and having a supply line for discharging supplied liquid, wherein the movable cover is coupled to the container in the closed position via the supply line, so that liquid pumped by the pump from the container to the cover and are discharged from the latter can, wherein the movable cover is coupled to the optical device such that the cover in the closed position forms a closed chamber around the light inlet element of the optical chamber, and liquid from the container you the cover can be dispensed onto the light inlet element.

Description

The invention relates to a cleaning device for an optical device, in particular an image capture device such as a camera in a vehicle, a system of the cleaning device and the optical device, a vehicle with such a system and a method for cleaning an optical device by means of the cleaning device.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Today, optical devices, in particular image capture devices, such as cameras, are increasingly used in vehicles. Image capture devices are used for example for parking assistance or to determine the distance to another vehicle, for determining the position of the vehicle, etc. In the case of a camera, however, the camera lens can be contaminated and the functioning can be considerably impaired. Therefore, a cleaning of the camera lens is provided.

For example, is from the DE 10 2005 049 566 A1 a rearview surveillance camera for a vehicle, wherein the surveillance camera includes an angle adjustment device. In this case, a device for cleaning a lens of the surveillance camera is arranged on the surveillance camera. In this case, an injection pump, a bubble pump and a windshield wiper are provided. The injection pump sprays water onto a transparent glass in the front area of the lens, wipes dirt and dust on the transparent glass, and finally the bubble pump blows the water bubbles dry on the transparent glass to ensure the clarity of the surveillance camera.

The device for cleaning, however, has the disadvantage that water can spray on the vehicle environment to clean the lens to the outside. Furthermore, the use of the windshield wiper and the bladder pump during a ride, especially at high speed is problematic. In addition, the lens may easily scratch or stain when the vehicle is parked, for example.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved vehicle optical device cleaning apparatus.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a cleaning device having the features of patent claim 1, a system having the features of patent claim 10, a vehicle having the features of patent claim 14 and a method having the features of patent claim 15.

Accordingly, a cleaning device is provided for cleaning a light inlet element of an optical device of a vehicle, the cleaning device comprising:
a container with a liquid for cleaning the light inlet element,
a pump for pumping the liquid from the container,
a movable cover which is movable between a closed position and an open position and has a supply line for discharging supplied liquid, the movable cover being coupled to the container in the closed position via the supply line so that liquid passes out of the pump through the pump Container can be pumped to the cover and dispensed therefrom, wherein the movable cover is coupled to the optical device such that the cover in the closed position forms a closed chamber around the light inlet element of the optical device, and liquid from the container through the cover is deliverable to the light inlet element.

The idea underlying the invention is to cover the light inlet element to be cleaned for a cleaning process by a cover of the cleaning device, so that a closed chamber can be formed around the light inlet element. As a result, the liquid can not escape unintentionally from the chamber to the outside and be sprayed, for example, on the vehicle body and in particular the paint. Furthermore, the liquid can not be blown away accidentally by applying wind and thus hinder cleaning or make it completely impossible. Furthermore, the liquid in the closed chamber can soak and loosen a dirt present on the outside or surface of the light inlet element. Furthermore, the cover can be kept in the closed position following e.g. to a cleaning process when the vehicle is parked, so that the light inlet element can be additionally protected against damage and contamination here.

Furthermore, a system comprising such a cleaning device and an optical device of a vehicle is provided, wherein the optical device in particular comprises an image capture device, e.g. a camera, is.

In addition, vehicle is provided with the system of such a cleaning device and an optical device, wherein the at least one drain line for draining liquid is arranged in the receptacle, that liquid can be removed from the top of the light inlet element and the receptacle preferably in the direction of the vehicle floor.

• – Bewegen der Abdeckung in die geschlossene Position, in welcher die Abdeckung die geschlossene Kammer um das Lichteinlasselement bildet, wobei die Zuführungsleitung der Abdeckung dabei mit dem Behälter gekoppelt wird,
• – Pumpen von Flüssigkeit aus dem Behälter in die Zuführungsleitung der Abdeckung, und
• – Abgeben der Flüssigkeit aus der Abdeckung auf die Außenseite oder Oberfläche des Lichteinlasselements zum Entfernen von Schmutz auf dem Lichteinlasselement und Abführen der verschmutzen Flüssigkeit aus der geschlossenen Kammer.

Furthermore, a method is provided for cleaning an optical device by means of the cleaning device, the method comprising the steps:

• Moving the cover to the closed position, in which the cover forms the closed chamber around the light inlet element, wherein the supply line of the cover is thereby coupled to the container,
• - Pumping liquid from the container into the supply line of the cover, and
• - Dispensing the liquid from the cover to the outside or surface of the light inlet element for removing dirt on the light inlet element and discharging the dirty liquid from the closed chamber.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments will become apparent from the other dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

In one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a housing and a piston, which is arranged displaceably on or in the housing and connected to the cover for moving the cover between the open and the closed position, wherein the piston is in particular hollow and preferably additionally through a spring element is biased in the open position of the cover.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the piston and the housing each have a supply line, which are coupled to the supply line of the cover for forming an inlet of liquid from the container to the cover, when the cover is moved by the piston in the closed position and wherein the supply of liquid to the cover is interrupted so that no liquid flows into the cover from the container when the cover is moved by the piston from the closed to the open position.

In another embodiment of the invention, a receptacle is provided with an opening, wherein the receptacle is part of the cleaning device and in the opening of the receptacle, the light inlet element of the optical device or the optical device with the light inlet element is receivable, wherein the cover with the receptacle in the closed Position the closed chamber forms around the light inlet element or the receptacle with the opening is part of the optical device and in the opening, the light inlet element of the optical device is received, wherein the cleaning device is coupled to the receptacle of the optical device such that the cover with the receptacle the optical device in the closed position forms the closed chamber around the light inlet element.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the receptacle has at least one drain line for draining liquid from the closed chamber.

In one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a locking device which is designed to lock the cover in the closed position and to unlock the cover to move the cover in the open position.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking device comprises a locking magnet device, preferably a lifting magnet with a pin, the pin being movable by the lifting magnet between a locking position in which it locks the cover and an unlocking position in which the cover unlocks.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a recycling device for collecting and recycling the liquid from the at least one discharge line and preferably for collecting and recycling at least one further liquid, in particular rainwater.

In another embodiment of the invention, the reconditioning device comprises a distiller having a heat source and / or coupled to a heat source of the vehicle for vaporizing the liquid to be reprocessed, wherein the vaporized liquid condenses in the reclaimer and the liquid container and / or at least a further device in the vehicle, in particular a windshield wiper device or a headlight cleaning device is supplied.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the light inlet element is a lens, in particular a fisheye lens, a glass window or a plastic window. In addition, the light inlet element may have a protective cover.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the receptacle has a projection, e.g. a rib for forming the sealed chamber with the cover around the light inlet member, the cover having an open side closable by the projection in the closed position.

The above embodiments and developments can, if appropriate, combine with each other as desired. Further possible refinements, developments and implementations of the invention also include combinations, not explicitly mentioned, of features of the invention described above or below with regard to the exemplary embodiments. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention.

CONTENT OF THE DRAWING

The present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments indicated in the schematic figures of the drawings. It shows:

1 a front perspective view of a cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the invention for cleaning an optical device connected to the cleaning device, wherein the cleaning device is in an open position or operating position in which the optical device is not covered by the cleaning device;

2 a sectional view of a part of the optical device and the cleaning device according to 1 ;

3 a sectional view of the cleaning device and the optical device according to 1 ;

4 a front perspective view of the cleaning device and connected to the cleaning device optical device according to 1 wherein the cleaning device is shown in a closed position or cleaning position in which the optical device is cleaned;

5 a sectional view of the cleaning device and the optical device according to 4 ;

6 a front perspective view of a cleaning device according to a second embodiment of the invention for cleaning an optical device connected to the cleaning device, wherein a lens of the optical device is covered to the outside;

7 a sectional view of a portion of the optical device and the cleaning device according to 6 ;

8th a further sectional view of the cleaning device and the optical device according to 6 ; and

9 a sectional view through a reprocessing device for reprocessing a cleaning liquid previously exemplified with reference to the 1 - 8th described cleaning device.

The accompanying drawings are intended to provide further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the stated advantages will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale to each other.

In the figures of the drawing are the same, functionally identical and same-acting elements, features and components - unless otherwise stated - each provided with the same reference numerals.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The 1 . 2 and 3 show a cleaning device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention and one with the cleaning device 1 connected optical device 2 , which is cleaned by this.

1 shows a front perspective view of the cleaning device 1 and the optical device connected to it 2 of a vehicle. The cleaning device is shown in an open position or operating position, in which the optical device 2 left open and not covered. In the case of, for example, an image capture device, such as a camera, as an optical device 2 can be taken in the operating position images. In 2 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the optical device 2 and the cleaning device 1 according to 1 shown. Furthermore, in 3 a longitudinal sectional view of cleaning device 1 and the optical device 2 according to 1 shown. It is greatly simplified and purely schematic only for better understanding of the vehicle 3 , which with the optical device 2 and the cleaning device 1 is indicated, indicated by a dotted line.

Like from the 1 . 2 and 3 can be removed, the optical device 2 a light inlet element 4 on, for example in the form of a lens 5 such as a fisheye lens, etc. However, the invention is not limited to a light-introducing element 4 in the form of a lens 5 limited. Likewise, the light inlet element 4 be designed as a glass and / or plastic window behind the one or more optical elements, such as a lens, a mirror, etc. are arranged. In the 1 - 3 and the following ones 4 - 8th is the light inlet element as the lens 5 provided, which is part of a camera, as an embodiment of an optical device 2 ,

The in the 1 - 8th provided lens 5 is in a housing of the optical device 2 received, and shows from an opening of the housing of the optical device 2 , The representation of lens 5 and housing as a quasi part of it is in the 1 - 3 and the following ones 5 . 7 and 8th very simplistic and purely schematic. As described above, the outer lens may be formed, for example, as a so-called fish-eye lens and have a curved lens surface for receiving a wide-angle image. However, the invention is not limited to this embodiment of a lens. Any other form of lens may be provided, depending on the function and purpose. Furthermore, the lens on its outer or front side optionally additionally a protective cover 24 have, for example, a transparent cover glass, as in 3 indicated by a dashed line to protect the lens 5 eg from damage etc. The protective cover 24 is in particular made of a transparent material or transparent material combination, such as a transparent glass and / or a transparent plastic, etc.

Next is a shot 6 with an opening 7 intended. The recording 6 can be provided as part of the cleaning device, as in the 1 - 8th is indicated. This can be the recording 6 be designed as a separate component or formed integrally with the rest of the housing of the cleaning device. In the opening 7 The recording is the lens 5 or the housing of the optical device 2 with the lens disposed therein 5 , as in 1 . 2 and 3 shown in a simplified form, recorded. The recording 6 may also be part of the optical device instead 2 be and form the housing with the opening, for example 7 in which the lens as an example of a light inlet element 4 is included. In this case, the cleaning device 1 with the recording 6 as a housing of the optical device 2 coupled such that the cleaning device 1 with a cover described below 9 , together with the recording 6 a closed chamber around the lens 5 as an example of a light inlet element to be cleaned 4 can form.

The cleaning device 1 has the aforementioned housing 8th with the movable or sliding cover 9 on which of the in the 1 . 2 and 3 shown opened position or operating position in the subsequent in 4 and 5 shown closed position or cleaning position can be moved, in which the cover 9 together with the recording 6 a closed chamber 10 around the lens 5 the optical device 2 forms, for cleaning the outside or front of the lens 5 , The cover 9 can additionally in the case 8th be guided in a mobile way, as in 1 and later 4 is shown. There is the cover 9 in a guided tour 23 , For example, a groove-shaped depression of the housing 8th taken and guided to the cover 9 to move along the guide or depression between the open and closed positions.

As in embodiment in the 1 and 3 shown is the recording 6 on the outside in the in 1 shown embodiment, a rib 11 exhibit that with the cover 9 together in the closed position the closed chamber 10 forms as in the following 5 is shown. This is advantageous, for example, when the lens 5 as a light inlet element 4 out of the opening 7 the recording 6 stands out and the cover 9 over the protruding lens 5 must be moved to the closed position, to form the closed chamber 10 , In this case, the cover needs 9 at least yourself to be open at the front, about the lens 5 to be pushed. Therefore, the cover 9 with the rib 11 the recording 6 closed to form the closed chamber 10 , However, in the case of a flat light inlet member (not shown) not projecting from the receptacle, instead of the rib, the cover may be formed circumferentially closed to form the closed chamber together with the receptacle around the light inlet member.

To move the cover 9 has the cleaning device 1 a piston 12 on that with the cover 9 is connected, for example, integrally formed with this or attached as a separate component to this. The piston 12 is here in the case 8th the cleaning device 1 slidably guided. The piston 12 and the cover associated with it 9 are in the 1 . 2 and 3 optionally additionally preloaded in the open position or operating position. This is a spring element 13 , For example, a compression spring, as in 3 shown between the case 8th and the piston 12 arranged to the piston 12 and the cover 9 to pretend that the cover 9 in the open position or operating position, in which the optical device 2 , eg a camera, is ready for use.

As in 3 is shown is the piston 12 hollow inside. To move the piston 12 and the cover associated with it 9 has the cleaning device 1 a hose or pipe system with at least one pipe or hose 14 , a container 15 with a cleaning fluid, eg water, and a pump 16 on. The container 15 is in 3 indicated by a dotted line and the pump means with a dotted line.

The hose 14 is with the piston 12 over the housing 8th connected, as in 3 is shown. This is the hose 14 eg on the housing 8th attached and provided such that it is the interior of the piston 12 by means of the pump 16 Water from the container 15 can supply.

As in the following with reference to the 4 and 5 will be explained in more detail, the pressure of the water, which moves into the hollow piston 12 is initiated, the piston 12 and those with the piston 12 connected cover 9 from the open position into the 1 - 3 in the closed position or cleaning position in the 4 - 5 , In this case, the spring element 13 between the case 8th and the piston 12 pressed together.

This is done in the container 15 located or coupled with this pump 16 turned on, the liquid, here the water, from the container 15 through the hose 14 to the piston 12 promotes. The piston 12 is due to the back pressure of the water against the spring element 13 up to a stop 17 , For example, a stop on the recording 6 for the optical device 2 as in the following 5 is shown, pressed. The with the piston 12 a unitary cover 9 moves with it and forms the closed chamber 10 together with the recording 6 around the lens 5 , When the piston 12 the stop 17 has reached, is the cover 9 in the closed position or cleaning position, in which the cover 9 with the recording 6 the closed chamber 10 forms.

The cleaning operation in the closed position or cleaning position will now be described with reference to FIGS 4 and 5 described.

In 4 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device 1 and with the cleaning device 1 connected optical device 2 according to 1 shown, wherein the cleaning device 1 is shown in the closed position or cleaning position, in which the optical device 2 or their lens 5 can be cleaned. 5 again shows a sectional view of the cleaning device 1 and the optical device 2 according to 4 ,

To clean the optical device 2 in the closed chamber 10 are in the cover 9 , the housing 8th and the piston 12 supply lines 18 , For example, supply bores provided, which are interconnected when the piston 12 the stop 17 has reached and the cover 9 in the closed position, in which she is recording 6 the closed chamber 10 around the lens 5 the optical device 2 forms. The cover 9 is there like in 5 and previously in 1 is shown, for example with a nozzle 19 formed with the supply line 18 the cover 9 connected is. The nozzle 19 is eg centrally above the lens 5 arranged to remove the water from the container 15 (sh 3 ) on the lens 5 spray and the outside or front of the lens 5 to clean.

When the piston 12 the stop 17 at the reception 6 in 5 reached, the supply line 18 , eg a feed bore, in a wall of the piston 12 with the supply line 18 of the housing 8th connected. The supply line 18 of the housing 8th will in turn with the supply line 18 the cover 9 connected to the nozzle 19 in the cover 9 connected is. This will be the cavity 20 of the piston 12 , which with water from the container 15 is filled, via the supply lines 18 in the wall of the piston 12 in which case 8th and in the cover 9 with the nozzle 19 in the cover 9 connected. In this way, the water can escape from the cavity 20 of the piston 12 through the housing 8th and the cover 9 to the nozzle 19 in the cover 9 flow and the nozzle 19 sprayed the lens under pressure 5 the optical device 2 , This water can over the previously in 3 shown pump 16 from the container 15 over the supply lines 18 to the nozzle 19 be pumped.

The through the cover 9 and the recording 6 formed closed chamber 10 fills with water that is the outside or front of the lens 5 eg completely cover. The water gives way to one on the outside or Front of the lens 5 as an example of a light entry 4 existing dirt on.

For removing the water and cleaning the lens 5 and the dirt present therefrom in the water are in the housing 8th one or more drain lines 21 , eg drainage holes which optionally with at least one channel 33 provided with each other. The drain lines 21 as they were previously in 1 are shown, are doing so on the recording 6 provided that the water from the closed chamber 10 preferably run under the vehicle. This has the advantage of being through the cleaning of the lens 5 polluted water does not run to the outside of the vehicle and thus, for example, the painted surface of the vehicle is impaired or leads to unsightly streaks on the paint surface.

The drain lines 21 can, as described above, for example, be designed as drainage holes, which can optionally be additionally connected to each other, for example by means of the channel 33 , For example in the form of a depression, in particular groove-shaped depression, as in 1 is indicated by a dashed line.

The remaining residual water in the dead space of the closed chamber 10 , will when opening the cover 9 through the channel 33 in the recording 6 collected and the respective drain line 21 fed. As a result, in addition to an unwanted running down of residual water along the recording 6 when opening the cover 9 , are counteracted and effective pollution of the vehicle body and the paint surface are prevented.

That by the in 1 exemplified drain lines 21 water discharged under the vehicle can drip onto the ground under the vehicle or be collected in an optional collection container (not shown) and evaporate there, for example. The collecting container may be part of the cleaning device or an existing collection container in the vehicle, which with the cleaning device 1 can be coupled.

After switching off the pump 16 becomes the piston 12 by the spring force of the spring element 13 moved back to a starting position, in which the cleaning device 1 and their cover 9 in the open position or operating position, in which the by the cleaning device 1 to be cleaned optical device 2 is ready for use, and as a camera through the now open chamber 10 Can take pictures.

Furthermore, the through the supply lines 18 formed supply of water from the piston 12 to the nozzle 19 in the cover 9 interrupted, so no water of the nozzle 19 is supplied. As before in 3 is shown, is the connection between the supply lines 18 of the piston 12 , of the housing 8th and the cover 9 interrupted. In particular, the supply line 18 of the piston 12 when moved back to its home position, moved along and covered by a housing wall, as in FIG 3 is shown. In this way, water is prevented from spilling out of the cavity of the piston 12 can escape. The supply lines 18 of the piston 12 , of the housing 8th and the cover 9 On the other hand, they are preferably only connected to one another for the purpose of passing water through the nozzle 19 the cover 9 when the piston 12 and those with the piston 12 connected cover 9 in the closed position or cleaning position of the cleaning device 1 are, as in 4 and 5 is shown.

After cleaning the optical device 2 in the closed chamber 10 can contain residual water in the chamber at the intake 6 drain and to the drain lines 21 the recording 6 be derived on the underside of the vehicle or alternatively collected in the aforementioned optional collection and evaporate there.

In another embodiment of the invention, as in the following 6 . 7 and 8th is shown, the cleaning device 1 in addition a locking device 22 which is thus formed, the opening of the cover 9 and the recording 6 formed closed chamber 10 to prevent or block when the vehicle eg parks, etc.

In 6 is a front perspective view of a cleaning device 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention for cleaning a with the cleaning device 1 connected optical device 2 shown, being a lens 5 as an example of a light inlet element 4 the optical device 2 to the outside through the cleaning device 1 is covered. 7 shows a sectional view of a part of the optical device 2 and the cleaning device 1 according to 6 , 8th shows a further sectional view of the cleaning device 1 and the optical device 2 according to 6 ,

The second embodiment of the cleaning device according to the invention 1 as they are in the 6 - 8th has the same structure and operation as those previously described with reference to FIGS 1 - 5 shown and described first embodiment of the cleaning device according to the invention. Accordingly, therefore, the description in the 1 - 5 referenced to avoid unnecessary repetition. The cleaning device 1 According to the second embodiment, in contrast to that of the first embodiment, the additional locking device 22 on to lock the cover 9 in the closed position or cleaning position when needed.

If the cover 9 through the piston connected to it 12 moved to the closed position or cleaning position, can move the cover 9 and the piston 12 back to the open position or operating position can be prevented by holding the cover 9 and the piston 12 in the closed position by means of the locking device 22 ,

The in the 6 . 7 and 8th shown locking device 22 has a lifting magnet 25 with a movable pen 26 on. The lifting magnet 25 and the pen 26 are doing so on the housing 8th arranged that the pin 26 through the lifting magnet 25 between a locking position and an unlocking position is movable. For example, the pen 26 , as in 6 and 8th each indicated by an arrow, are moved back and forth in the case of a reverse solenoid.

In the locked position is the pin 26 such by the solenoid 25 positioned that pin 26 moving back the cover 9 prevented in the open position, as in 6 . 7 and 8th is shown. This is the pen 26 for example, in the leadership 23 of the housing 8th in which the cover 9 is slidably disposed between the open position and the closed position, inserted such that the cover 9 in the lead 23 is fixed or held in the closed position. In the unlocked position the pin allows 26 on the other hand, moving the cover back 9 from the closed to the open position. This is the pen 26 , as in 8th indicated by an arrow, back from the guide 23 in the case 8th moved, so the lead 23 is released and the cover 9 along the guide 23 by means of the piston connected to it 12 can be moved to the open position.

The lifting magnet 25 and his pen 26 can, as in 6 and 8th shown, sideways to the guide 23 in the case 8th be arranged or, for example, below the guide in the housing (not shown). However, the invention is neither on a solenoid 25 and a pen 26 as a locking device 22 limited, still on the arrangement of the solenoid 25 and his pen 26 at the cleaning device 1 , Any form of locking device or combination of locking devices suitable for the cover may be provided 9 to hold in the closed position and release it when needed. Furthermore, the locking device 22 at any suitable position on the cleaning device 1 be arranged to hold the cover 9 in the closed position when needed.

This allows the optical device 2 , eg following a cleaning process, through the closed chamber 10 be protected against damage and contamination during the parking of the vehicle. The locking device 22 can then be solved, for example, after starting the vehicle, or allow a movement of the cover in the open position or operating position. The lifting magnet 25 with his pen 26 as an example of a locking device 22 has the advantage that it is a particularly inexpensive solution for holding the cover 9 in the closed position.

In winter, the solenoid can also be used as an additional heating against the freezing of the cleaning device. However, the invention is not limited to a solenoid for a magnetic locking device or locking magnet.

In 9 is a sectional view through an embodiment of a reprocessing device 27 shown for recycling a liquid previously exemplified with reference to 1 - 8th described cleaning devices.

As in 9 shows the recycling device 27 a filter unit 28 and a distiller 29 on. In the filter unit 28 is the filtered from the closed chamber of the cleaning device via at least one drain line contaminated liquid, eg polluted water, filtered. The filter unit 28 has at least one filter 30 , For example, a filter fabric, etc., to clean the dirty liquid, here the polluted water on. The filter unit 28 is not on a filter fabric as a filter 30 limited. Any filter or combination of filters suitable for filtering a liquid may be provided.

In a further embodiment, in addition to the dirty water from the cleaning of the optical device also rainwater from the vehicle via the drain line of the housing and / or at least one additional drain line to the vehicle of the filter device 28 are fed to be filtered by the filter device.

After filtering the dirty water and optionally additional rainwater, the filtered water becomes the distiller 29 fed. In the distiller 29 The filtered water is first collected and then evaporated. This is indicated by the distiller 29 a heat source and / or is with a heat source 31 coupled, for example, the engine, the heating of the engine cooling water, etc. By means of the heat source 31 Heat is supplied to the collected filtered water so that it vaporizes. The evaporated water is in the distiller 29 condenses and the condensed water 32 collected and collected. The collected condensed water can then pass through the distiller 29 For example, the container for the water of the cleaning device, etc. are supplied. As a result, in winter, warm water obtained from the distiller can be additionally used against freezing of the cleaning device

The reprocessing of the liquid, here water, the cleaning device has the advantage that a lower maintenance requirement of the cleaning device is required. Furthermore, a refilling of the container of the cleaning device is not necessary, which is particularly advantageous in car-sharing vehicles. Depending on the size of the reprocessing device, it can also be supplied with liquid, in particular water, to the windshield wiper device and / or the headlight washer, and this can be reprocessed and optionally additionally made available for use again to these devices.

The above-described embodiments of the cleaning device have the advantage that during cleaning, no liquid for cleaning the light inlet element is sprayed onto the body of the vehicle and dirty it unintentionally. As the liquid for cleaning the light-introducing element, in the cleaning device of the invention, besides water, any other cleaning liquid or other aqueous liquid may be used, as well as e.g. a mixture of water and a detergent as an example of an aqueous liquid, etc.

An advantage of the cleaning device according to the invention is that due to the closed chamber, the exposure time of the liquid, such as water, can be controlled to a present on the light inlet element dirt. thereby a soaking function for the dirt can be provided, in which the cover is kept in the closed position correspondingly long depending on how long the dirt is to be soaked. In this case, in one embodiment, the locking device can be used and / or correspondingly long liquid can be pumped via the pump into the closed chamber. Another advantage is that no additional drive for the flap is required. This can save costs. By operating the cover by means of the piston and the container with its pump, a particularly cost-effective opening and closing of the cleaning chamber is provided, which is produced by means of the cover.

In an alternative embodiment, the cover may also be moved magnetically and moved between the open position and the closed position. Furthermore, in addition to a forward and backward movement of the cover and a pivotal movement of the cover from the open position to the closed position is possible. In this way, instead of a linear movement of the cover, a rotational movement of the cover can also be provided in order to move it between the open position and the closed position.

The solenoid as a locking device is also particularly inexpensive. In addition, the additional recycling device can also be used in the winter as a heater against freezing of the mechanism of the cleaning device.

Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but is modifiable in a variety of ways. The various embodiments can be combined with one another, in particular individual features thereof.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

cleaning device

2

optical device

3

vehicle

4

Light inlet element

5

lens

6

admission

7

opening

8th

casing

9

cover

10

closed chamber

11

rib

12

piston

13

spring element

14

tube

15

container

16

pump

17

attack

18

feed pipe

19

jet

20

cavity

21

drain line

22

locking device

23

guide

24

protective cover

25

solenoid

26

pen

27

Recycler

28

filter unit

29

distiller

30

filter

31

heat source

32

condensed water

33

connecting channel

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102005049566 A1 [0003]

Claims (15)

Cleaning device ( 1 ) for cleaning a light inlet element ( 4 ) an optical device ( 2 ) of a vehicle ( 3 ), wherein the cleaning device ( 1 ) comprises: a container ( 15 ) with a liquid for cleaning the light inlet element ( 4 ), a pump ( 16 ) for pumping the liquid from the container ( 15 ), a movable cover ( 9 ) which is movable between a closed position and an open position and a supply line ( 18 ) for dispensing supplied liquid, wherein the movable cover ( 9 ) with the container ( 15 ) in the closed position via the supply line ( 18 ) is coupled so that fluid through the pump ( 16 ) from the container ( 15 ) to the cover ( 9 ) can be pumped and discharged by this, with the movable cover ( 9 ) in such a way with the optical device ( 2 ) can be coupled, that the cover ( 2 ) in the closed position a closed chamber ( 10 ) around the light inlet element ( 4 ) of the optical device ( 2 ), and liquid from the container ( 15 ) through the cover ( 9 ) on the light inlet element ( 4 ) is deliverable. Cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the cleaning device ( 1 ) a housing ( 8th ) and a piston ( 12 ), which on or in the housing ( 8th ) and with the cover ( 9 ) is connected to move the cover ( 9 ) between the open and the closed position, wherein the piston ( 12 ) is at least partially hollow and preferably additionally by a spring element ( 13 ) in the open position of the cover ( 9 ) is biased. Cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that the piston ( 12 ) and the housing ( 8th ) each have a supply line ( 18 ; 18 ) connected to the supply line ( 18 ) of the cover ( 9 ) are coupled to form an inlet of liquid from the container ( 15 ) to the cover ( 9 ), when the cover ( 9 ) through the piston ( 12 ) is moved to the closed position and wherein the supply of liquid to the cover ( 9 ) is interrupted, so that no liquid in the cover ( 9 ) from the container ( 15 ) flows when the cover ( 9 ) through the piston ( 12 ) is moved from the closed to the open position. Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a receptacle ( 6 ) with an opening ( 7 ), the recording ( 6 ) Part of the cleaning device ( 1 ) and in the opening ( 7 ) of the recording ( 6 ) the light inlet element ( 4 ) of the optical device ( 2 ) or the optical device ( 2 ) with its light inlet element ( 4 ) is receivable, wherein the cover ( 9 ) with the recording ( 6 ) in the closed position the closed chamber ( 10 ) around the light inlet element ( 10 ) or recording ( 6 ) with the opening ( 7 ) Part of the optical device ( 2 ) and in the opening ( 7 ) the light inlet element ( 4 ) of the optical device ( 2 ), wherein the cleaning device ( 1 ) with the recording ( 6 ) of the optical device ( 2 ) can be coupled, that the cover ( 9 ) with the recording ( 6 ) of the optical device ( 2 ) in the closed position the closed chamber ( 10 ) around the light inlet element ( 4 ). Cleaning device according to claim 4, characterized in that the receptacle ( 6 ) at least one drain line ( 21 ) for draining liquid from the closed chamber ( 10 ). Cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the cleaning device ( 1 ) a locking device ( 22 ), which is designed such the cover ( 9 ) in the closed position and the cover ( 9 ) to unlock the cover ( 9 ) to move to the open position. Cleaning device according to claim 6, characterized in that the locking device ( 22 ) a locking magnet device, preferably a lifting magnet ( 25 ) with a pen ( 26 ), wherein the pen ( 26 ) by the lifting magnet ( 25 ) between a locking position, in which he the cover ( 9 ) and an unlocking position in which the cover ( 9 ) unlocked, is movable. Cleaning device according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the cleaning device ( 1 ) a reprocessing device ( 27 ) for collecting and reprocessing the liquid from the at least one drain line ( 21 ) and preferably for collecting and recycling at least one further liquid, in particular rainwater. Cleaning device according to claim 8, characterized in that the reprocessing device ( 27 ) a distiller ( 29 ) having a heat source ( 31 ) and / or with a heat source ( 31 ) of the vehicle ( 3 ) is coupled to evaporate the liquid to be reprocessed, wherein the evaporated liquid in the reprocessing device ( 27 ) condenses and the container ( 15 ) for the liquid and / or at least one further device in the vehicle ( 3 ), in particular one Windscreen wiper device or a headlight cleaning device is supplied. System from the cleaning device ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims and an optical device ( 2 ) of a vehicle ( 3 ), the optical device ( 2 ) is in particular an image capture device, preferably a camera. System according to claim 10, characterized in that the cleaning device ( 1 ) the recording ( 6 ) with the opening ( 7 ) and in the opening ( 7 ) of the recording ( 6 ) the light inlet element ( 4 ) of the optical device ( 2 ) or the optical device ( 2 ) with its light inlet element ( 4 ) is receivable, wherein the cover ( 9 ) with the recording ( 6 ) in the closed position the closed chamber ( 10 ) around the light inlet element ( 4 ), or the optical device ( 2 ) the recording ( 6 ) with the opening ( 7 ) and in the opening ( 7 ) the light inlet element ( 4 ) of the optical device ( 2 ), wherein the cleaning device ( 1 ) with the recording ( 6 ) of the optical device ( 2 ) can be coupled, that the cover ( 9 ) with the recording ( 6 ) of the optical device ( 2 ) in the closed position the closed chamber ( 10 ) around the light inlet element ( 4 ). System according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the light inlet element ( 4 ) a lens ( 5 ), in particular a fisheye lens, a glass window or a plastic window and the light inlet element ( 4 ) preferably additionally a protective cover ( 24 ) having. System according to claim 10, 11 or 12, characterized in that the receptacle ( 6 ) a projection, in particular a rib ( 11 ), for forming the sealed chamber ( 10 ) with the cover ( 9 ) around the light inlet element ( 4 ), the cover ( 9 ) has an open side which is closable by the projection in the closed position. Vehicle having a system according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the at least one drain line ( 21 ) for draining liquid in the receptacle ( 6 ) is arranged such that liquid from the top or outside of the light inlet element ( 4 ) and the recording ( 6 ) is dissipated in the direction of the vehicle floor. Method for cleaning an optical device ( 2 ) by means of the cleaning device ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the method comprises the steps: - moving the cover ( 9 ) in the closed position, in which the cover ( 9 ) the closed chamber ( 10 ) around the light inlet element ( 4 ), wherein the supply line ( 18 ) of the cover ( 9 ) with the container ( 15 ), - pumping liquid from the container ( 15 ) in the supply line ( 18 ) of the cover ( 9 ), and - dispensing the liquid from the cover ( 9 ) on the outside or surface of the light inlet element ( 4 ) for removing dirt on the light inlet element ( 4 ) and removing the polluted liquid from the closed chamber ( 10 ).

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