RU2455177C2 - Onboard optical sensor case and onboard optical sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: transport.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to onboard optical sensor assemblies. Onboard optical sensor case comprises holder 7, washer jet 9 and heater assembly. Holder is designed to retain optical sensor 3 with lens 5. Jet serves to wash sensor lens surface 5a or that of glass cover facing lens 5 by spraying washing fluid fed from 15 on lens or glass surface. Heater assembly comprises optical heater and jet heater. Optical heater and jet heater are made up of single part and integrated into one heater.Onboard optical heater comprises aforesaid case and optical sensor.

EFFECT: cleaning sensor case of sticking foreign particles.

49 cl, 94 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an onboard optical sensor shell used in conjunction with an optical sensor, such as a camera or laser mounted on a vehicle, and also relates to an onboard optical sensor device including an onboard optical sensor shell and an optical sensor.

In recent years, there has been a tendency to equip cars with an optical sensor, such as a camera or laser. It has been proposed that a compressed air generator for generating a compressed air jet is used to remove foreign substances, such as water and dirt, adhering to the lens surface of the optical sensor, and that foreign substances adhering to the lens surface are removed by a compressed air jet from the compressed air generator directed on the surface of the lens (see, for example, JP 2001-171491 A).

However, according to the technology disclosed in JP 2001-171491 A, a compressed air generator is required to create a jet of compressed air. As a result, cost and size increase.

In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide an onboard optical sensor shell and an onboard optical sensor device to properly remove foreign matter adhering to the surface of the lens or the surface of the coverslip facing the lens, while at the same time reducing cost and size due to the fact that the generator is compressed air to create a jet of compressed air becomes unnecessary.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the on-board optical sensor shell includes a holder for holding an optical sensor having a lens, and a washer nozzle for performing a washing operation for washing an optical sensor lens surface held in the holder or a glass cover glass surface facing the lens if the coverslip glass exists by spraying the wash liquid from the washer reservoir onto the surface of the lens or the surface of the glass. Since the washer nozzle performs a washing operation, the washing liquid is properly sprayed onto the surface of the lens or the surface of the glass, which allows proper removal of foreign substances adhering to the surface of the lens or surface of the glass. Thus, foreign matter adhering to the lens surface, the glass surface, is properly removed, so that the optical sensor can work properly, and at the same time, the cost and size are reduced due to the fact that the compressed air generator to create a jet of compressed air becomes unnecessary .

According to another aspect of the present invention, an onboard optical sensor device includes an onboard optical sensor shell, control means for controlling a washing operation of a washer nozzle, and an optical sensor having a lens. Thus, the washing liquid is properly sprayed onto the surface of the lens or the surface of the glass, which allows proper removal of foreign substances adhering to the surface of the lens or the surface of the glass. Thus, foreign matter adhering to the lens surface, the glass surface, is properly removed, so that the optical sensor can work properly, and at the same time, the cost and size are reduced due to the fact that the compressed air generator to create a jet of compressed air becomes unnecessary .

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in FIG. 1A;

2 is a diagram showing how the camera shell and the camera of the optical sensor unit according to the first embodiment are separated from each other;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a vehicle equipped with an optical sensor unit according to a first embodiment; FIG.

4 is a functional block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a first embodiment;

5 is a logical block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a first embodiment;

6 is a functional block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

7 is a logical block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 8A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to a modification of the first and second embodiments, and FIG. 8B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in FIG. 8A;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

11A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and FIG. 11B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in FIG. 11A;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of an optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of an optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

FIG. 20 is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification; FIG.

Fig.21 is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification;

Fig.22 is a functional block diagram of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig.21;

figa and 23B are perspective views of a car equipped with an optical sensor unit according to another modification;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to the third variant of implementation of the present invention, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

25 is a diagram illustrating how the camera shell and the camera of the optical sensor unit according to the third embodiment are separated from each other;

FIG. 26 is a functional block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a third embodiment; FIG.

Fig. 27 is a logical block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 28 is a functional block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

Fig.29 is a logical block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 30A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to a modification according to the third and fourth embodiments, and FIG. 30B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the optical sensor unit shown in FIG. 30A;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

figa is a schematic front view of the optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of the optical sensor unit shown in figa;

FIG. 34A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and FIG. 34B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in FIG. 34A;

Fig. 35A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 35B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 35A;

Fig. 36A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 36B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 36A;

figa is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and figv is a schematic side view in section of an optical sensor unit shown in figa;

Fig. 38A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 38B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 38A;

Fig. 39A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 39B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 39A;

FIG. 40A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and FIG. 40B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in FIG. 40A;

Fig. 41A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 41B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 41A;

Fig. 42A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 42B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 42A;

Fig. 43A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 43B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 43A;

Fig. 44A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 44B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 44A;

Fig. 45A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 45B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 45A;

Fig. 46A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 46B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 46A;

Fig. 47A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 47B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 47A;

Fig. 48A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 48B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 48A;

Fig. 49A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 49B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 49A;

Fig. 50 is a diagram showing how washing liquid is removed in the optical sensor unit shown in Figs. 49A and 49B;

Fig. 51A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 51B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 51A;

Fig. 52A is a schematic front view of an optical sensor unit according to another modification, and Fig. 52B is a schematic sectional side view of an optical sensor unit shown in Fig. 52A;

Fig. 53 is a logical block diagram of an optical sensor unit according to another modification according to a fourth embodiment; and

Fig. 54 is an image captured by a camera.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment related to a camera implementing an optical sensor in accordance with the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. IA-5.

1A and 1B, the optical sensor unit 1 (an on-board optical sensor device of the present invention) includes a camera shell 2 (an on-board optical sensor shell of the present invention) and a camera 3. The camera 3 is detachably connected to the camera shell 2 . In the chamber 3, the lens 5 is located on the front side (left side in FIG. 1B) of the casing 4 and the power line (not shown) and the image signal output line (not shown) are extended from the back side (right side in FIG. 1B) of the casing 4 The power line is used to supply power to the camera 3. The image signal output line is used to output the image signal. Lens 5 is a fisheye lens that has a curved lens surface 5a that can take a wide-angle image.

In the camera shell 2, the holder 7 for holding the camera 3 is located in the casing 6 and the hole 8 is on the rear side of the casing 6. According to FIG. 2, the camera 3 is connected to the camera shell 2 through the hole 8 and is disconnected from the camera shell 2 through the hole 8. In the shell 2 of the chamber, the washer nozzle 9 is located above the holder 7. The washer nozzle 9 has an L-shape. The base 9a of the washer nozzle 9 is connected to the tube 10 on the rear side of the casing 6. The tip 9b of the washer nozzle 9 has a hole oriented downward and serving as a spray hole 11. In the case when the chamber 3 is normally held in the holder 7 (in case of normal use shown on figa and 1B), the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3 is located directly under the tip 9b of the washer nozzle 9. Note that the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 is in an area outside the angle of view (indicated in FIG. 4, which is a functional block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the peripheral circuit including the optical sensor unit 1. The on-board optical sensor device of the present the invention includes an optical sensor unit 1 and a controller 14. Controller 14 (control means, gearbox position detection means, vehicle activation start detection means, the vehicle activation end detection means, image contamination detection means or image fogging detection means of the present invention) mainly includes a microcomputer.The controller 14 executes a pre-stored control program, thereby controlling the capture operation of the camera 3 and controlling the operation of the motor 16 installed in the tank 15 a washer, for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9.

In this case, when the motor 16 is running, the flushing fluid stored in the washer reservoir 15 enters the washer nozzle 9 through the tube 10. The flushing fluid entering the washer nozzle 9 is hydraulically sprayed from the spray hole 11 onto the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3. Wash fluid can be sprayed in different ways. For example, the washing liquid may be sprayed onto the lens surface 5a in the form of a mist. In another example, a moderate amount of washing liquid may flow to the surface of the lens 5a in the form of a grain whose size is not less than the size of a mist particle. By way of another example, a predetermined amount of washing liquid can flow simultaneously to the lens surface 5a in the form of a block. Note that the washer reservoir 15 is installed in the usual engine compartment of the car body 12.

The liquid crystal display device 17 (notification means of the present invention) is located in the passenger compartment. When receiving an image signal output from the camera 3, the liquid crystal display device 17 displays an image corresponding to the image signal by decoding the image signal. The controller 14 determines whether the image contains dirt or fog by analyzing the image displayed on the device of the liquid crystal display 17 (for example, determining whether the pixel brightness is high or low).

Washer switch 18 is operated by the user. When the user engages the washer switch 18, the washer switch 18 outputs an operation detection signal to the controller 14. When receiving the operation detection signal output from the washer switch 18, the controller 14 outputs the drive command signal to the motor 16, thereby driving the motor 16. For example, the excitation command signal output from the controller 14 to the motor 16 is a level signal, and the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out only during the period of time when the level signal tstvuet "on" state (high level). The washer switch 18 may be a mechanical switch or a touch switch located on the liquid crystal display device 17.

The automotive LAN interface 19 receives a gearbox position signal indicating a vehicle gearbox position, an ACC signal indicating an on / off state of an ACC (auxiliary) switch, and an IG signal indicating an on / off state of an IG (ignition) switch from various types of ECUs through the automobile LAN 22. Then, the automobile LAN interface 19 outputs the received signals of various types to the controller 14. When receiving various types of signals output from the automobile LAN interface 19, the controller 14 analyzes the received signals. distinct signals of various types, thereby detecting the position of the gearbox, the on / off status of the ACC switch and the on / off state of the ignition switch.

The operation of the above configuration is described below with reference to FIG.

In the power-on state (in the excited state of the optical sensor unit 1), the controller 14 determines whether the washer switch 18 is engaged (step S1). When the controller 14 receives the operation detection signal output from the washer switch 18 and determines that the washer switch 18 is engaged (“YES” in step S1), the controller 14 outputs the drive command signal to the motor 16 to drive the motor 16, thereby a washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 (step S2). Thus, the washing liquid stored in the washer reservoir 15 enters the washer nozzle 9 and is sprayed from the spray hole 11 onto the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3. In this case, the controller 14 can continue the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 only for a predetermined period of time (e.g. a few seconds). Alternatively, the controller 14 can continue the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 only when the user engages (for example, by pressing) the washer switch 18. In addition, if the washing liquid amount measurement function is turned on, the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 can continue only until the amount of sprayed washing liquid reaches a predetermined amount. Note that the controller 14 repeats the above steps S1, S2.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the shell 2 of the camera, which is connected to and detachable from the camera 3, is provided with a washer nozzle 9 for spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer tank 15 onto the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 5 to wash the lens surface 5a. In this approach, the traditional unit for generating compressed air to create a jet of compressed air is unnecessary, which reduces the cost and size. Foreign matter adhering to the lens surface 5a is properly removed, which allows the camera 3 to work properly. In addition, since the shell 2 of the camera can be attached to and disconnected from the camera 3, it can be easily replaced.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following aspects. In the first embodiment, the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is initiated when the washer switch 18 is activated by the user. Thus, the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out manually. In a second embodiment, operating conditions include detecting the fact that the gearbox is shifting to the reverse position (detecting the fact that the gearbox of the car is in a predetermined position in the present invention), detecting the fact that the ignition switch is shifted from the state “Off” to the “on” state (detecting the fact that the activation of the vehicle begins in the present invention), and detecting the fact that the ignition switch is being switched from state “on” to state “off” (detection of the fact that the activation of the car ends in the present invention). The washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is initiated when any of the operating conditions is met or when the image contains dirt. Thus, the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out automatically. The controller 31 according to the second embodiment has a count function.

According to Fig. 7, in the on state (in the excited state of the optical sensor unit 1), the controller 31 determines whether any of the operating conditions is fulfilled (step S11), and determines whether the image contains dirt (step S12). Then, if the controller 31 determines that any of the operating conditions is satisfied, i.e. determines that the gearbox is in the reverse position, the ignition switch is switched from the off state to the on state, or the ignition switch is transferred from the on state to the off state (“YES” in step S11), or, if the controller 31 determines that the image contains dirt (“YES” in step S12), the controller 31 starts the motor 16, thereby performing a washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 for a predetermined period of time (step S13).

Then, the controller 31 increments (by adding “1”) the number of washes (step S14) and checks the condition that the value of the increased number of washes is less than a predetermined number (step S15). If the controller 31 determines that the value of the increased wash count counter is less than a predetermined number (“YES” in step S15), the controller 31 returns to step S12 and repeats the steps following step S12. On the contrary, if the controller 31 determines that the value of the increased counter of the number of washes is greater than or equal to a predetermined number ("NO" in step S15), the controller 31 instructs the liquid crystal display device 17 to display an error display indicating that the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 has been predefined the number of times (step S16). Then, the controller 31 resets the value of the number of washes (step S17) and ends the sequence of procedures.

If the controller 31 determines that the image is free of dirt (dirt is removed as a result of the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9) (“NO” in step S12), the controller 31 resets the value of the number of washes (step S18), then returns to step S11 and repeats steps following step S11.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3 can be automatically washed whenever it detects that the car’s gearbox is in the reverse position, the ignition switch is turned from the off state to the on state, the ignition switch is turned from the state “On” to the “off” state, or that the image contains dirt. In addition, an error display is displayed when the wash number counter is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. Alternatively, if the wash time measurement function is turned on, an error display may be displayed when the wash time reaches a predetermined time.

The above described embodiments may be modified or expanded as follows.

The optical sensor is not limited to camera 3 and may be a sensor, for example a laser, which has a lens and optically measures a physical quantity.

According to embodiments, in the case where the value of the wash number counter is greater than or equal to a predetermined number, an error display is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 17. Alternatively, in this case, an error sound signal may be output from the speaker, or vibration or static electricity may be generated. from the seat or handle using a static generator or vibration generator installed in the seat or handle. Alternatively, they can be used in conjunction with each other. Thus, notification can be done through sight, hearing and touch.

The configuration shown in FIG. 5, in which the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out manually, can be used in conjunction with the configuration shown in FIG. 7, in which the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out automatically.

8A and 8B, a waterproofing treatment can be applied to the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3, whereby the lens surface 5a can be coated with a water-repellent layer 41. Alternatively, a hydrophilization treatment, photocatalytic treatment or anti-fouling treatment can be applied to the lens surface 5a, whereby the lens surface 5a may be coated with a hydrophilic layer, a photocatalytic layer or an anti-fouling layer. In this approach, foreign substances, such as water and dirt, can be prevented from sticking to the lens surface 5a. In addition, even if foreign substances, such as water and dirt, adhere to the lens surface 5a, a washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is performed, so that the lens surface 5a can be properly washed.

According to figa and 9B, the casing 52 of the shell 51 of the camera can be equipped with a nozzle washer window 53, which is located parallel to the nozzle 9 of the washer. The washing liquid stored in the washer fluid reservoir 15 may be supplied to the window washer nozzle 53 through the tube 54, and the washing liquid entering the window washer nozzle 53 may be sprayed from the spray hole 55 onto the window. In this approach, not only the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3, but also the window can be washed, which allows for multiple functions. Alternatively, a washer reservoir for storing the flushing fluid entering the washer nozzle 53 of the window may be provided separately from the washer reservoir 15 for storing the flushing fluid entering the washer nozzle 9. Alternatively, the spraying direction of the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 may be variable for selectively performing an operation for spraying the washing liquid on the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3 and an operation for spraying the washing liquid on the window.

10A and 10B, the casing 62 of the camera shell 61 may be provided with a pan 63 and a tube 64. When the flushing liquid is sprayed from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3, flushing liquid may drip from the surface in the pan 63. 5a of the lens, and the washing liquid accumulated in the pan 63 can drain through the tube 64. In this approach, it is possible to prevent window contamination from the washing liquid dripping from the lens surface 5a. Alternatively, the pan may have an opening, and flushing fluid dripping from the lens surface 5a may enter the window through the opening, thereby allowing the window to be washed.

11A and 11B, the housing 72 of the camera shell 71 may be provided with a visor 73. The visor 73 has a protrusion covering the lens surface 5a from above. In this approach, foreign substances such as water and dirt (in particular, raindrops) coming from above can be prevented from sticking to the lens surface 5a.

12A and 12B, the casing 82 of the camera shell 81 may be provided with a protrusion 83 that is in position (immediately below the lens 5) near the lower edge of the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3. In this approach, even if water accumulates on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a , water accumulating on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a comes into contact with the protrusion 83, is directed under the lens surface 5a, and is thus removed.

The position where water accumulates on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a varies depending on the curvature and diameter of the lens 5. For this reason, according to FIGS. 13A and 13B, the casing 92 of the camera shell 91 may be provided with a protrusion 93. The protrusion 93 may be in a position near the lower the edges of the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3 and move up and down the slot 94. For example, when the diameter of the lens 5 is large, the protrusion 93 is forced to move down, and when the diameter of the lens 5 is small, the protrusion 93 is forced to move up. Thus, by moving the protrusion 93 up and down, the protrusion 93 can properly come into contact with water regardless of the curvature and diameter of the lens 5. For example, the protrusion 93 may be provided with a portion of the external thread, and the slot 94 may be provided with a portion of the internal thread. The external thread section and the internal thread section interlock with each other, so that the protrusion 93 can move up and down along the slot 94.

According figa and 14B, the casing 102 of the shell 101 of the chamber can be equipped with a transparent coverslip 103. The cover glass 103 can be on the front side of the casing 102 facing the lens 5 of the chamber 3. The flushing fluid coming from the washer reservoir 15 to the washer nozzle 9 through the tube 10 can be sprayed from the spray hole 11 onto the glass surface 103a of the coverslip glass 103. In this case, since the entire chamber 3 is held in the casing 102, the size of the casing 102 in the front-back direction (from the front side to the back side) of the casing 102 is larger than Zhuk 6 according to the first and second embodiments. In this approach, the cover glass 103 protects the lens 5 of the chamber 3, and the washing liquid is properly sprayed onto the glass surface 103a, which allows proper removal of foreign substances adhering to the glass surface 103a. Thus, the camera 3 can properly work to capture the proper image of the subject.

15A and 15B, a waterproofing treatment can be applied to the glass surface 103a of the cover glass 103, whereby the glass surface 103a can be coated with a water-repellent layer 111. Alternatively, a hydrophilization treatment, photocatalytic treatment or anti-fouling treatment can be applied to the glass surface 103a, whereby the glass surface 103a may be coated with a hydrophilic layer, a photocatalytic layer or an anti-fouling layer. In this approach, foreign substances, such as water and dirt, can be prevented from sticking to the glass surface 103a. Furthermore, even if foreign substances, such as water and dirt, adhere to the glass surface 103a, a washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is performed, so that the glass surface 103a can be properly washed.

According figa and 16B, the casing 122 of the shell 121 of the camera may be equipped with a wiping mechanism 125 (wiping means in the present invention). The wiping mechanism 125 includes a wiper 123 for wiping the surface of the coverslip 103 and a motor 124 for driving the wiper 123. The wiping mechanism 125 may wipe the surface 103a of the coverslip 103 during or after spraying the wash liquid onto the surface 103a of the coverslip 103 from the spray hole 11 of the nozzle 9 of the washer. In this approach, it is possible to prevent the wash liquid from adhering to the surface 103a of the cover glass 103. Alternatively, if the cover glass 103 is not turned on, a wiping mechanism may be provided to wipe the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3.

17A and 17B, the casing 132 of the camera shell 131 may be provided with a rotation mechanism 135 (rotation means in the present invention). The rotation mechanism 135 includes a sealed bearing 133 and a motor 134 to rotate the cover glass 103. The rotation mechanism 135 may cause the cover glass 103 to rotate during or after spraying the flushing fluid from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface of the cover glass 103a. In this approach, while the cover glass 103 rotates, it is possible to blow off the washing liquid adhering to the surface 103a of the cover glass 103. Thus, it is possible to prevent the washing the liquid remained adhered to the surface 103a of the coverslip 103. In this case, for example, if a person touches the coverslip 103, this interferes with the rotation, which does not allow the full use of the washing liquid removal. To avoid this, the rotation mechanism 135 may cause the coverslip 103 to rotate provided that the vehicle’s speed is greater than or equal to a predetermined speed, for example 1. That is, normally a person outside the vehicle may approach the vehicle when the vehicle is parked or stopped. Thus, when the car is parked or stopped, it is possible that a person accidentally touches the coverslip 103. However, the person will not approach the car when the car is moving. Thus, when the car is moving, there is no possibility that a person accidentally touches the cover glass 103. For the above reasons, the rotation mechanism 135 may be adapted to rotate the cover glass 103 provided that the speed of the vehicle is greater than or equal to a predetermined speed. With this approach, it is possible to prevent a reduction in the possibility of removing flushing fluid due to the touch of a person outside the car.

If the coverslip 103 is located where a person in the car can touch it, for example on a side mirror, it is preferable to take measures to prevent it from touching. For this reason, the rotation mechanism 135 may be adapted to rotate the coverslip 103, provided that the window is closed. In this approach, the problem of touching a person in a car with a rotating cover glass 103 can be avoided. In this case, it is not always necessary that the window be closed. It does not matter if the window is slightly ajar, provided that the window is closed to a position in which the user cannot touch the coverslip 103, leaning out of the window. In this case, air may enter through the window. The position to which the window should be closed can be determined based on the relationship between the position of the coverslip 103 in the car and how far the user can lean out of the window.

18A and 18B, the casing 142 of the camera shell 141 may be provided with a vibration mechanism 145 (ultrasonic vibration means or infrasonic vibration means in the present invention). The vibration mechanism 145 includes a piezoelectric device 143 and an electrode 144 for generating an ultrasonic wave or an infrasound wave that causes the cover glass 103 to vibrate. The vibration mechanism 145 may cause the cover glass 103 to vibrate during or after spraying the washing liquid from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface of the cover glass 103. In this approach, the washing liquid may be prevented from sticking to the surface of the cover glass 103.

According figa and 19B, the casing 152 of the shell 151 of the chamber can be equipped with a mechanism 156 create a jet of air (means for creating a jet of air in the present invention). The air jet generating mechanism 156 includes an air nozzle 153, a tube 154 and an air pump 155 for generating an air jet directed to the cover glass surface 103a 103. The air jet generating mechanism 156 can create an air stream directed to the cover glass surface 103a, during or after spraying the washing liquid from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface 103a of the cover glass 103. In this approach, it is possible to prevent the washing liquid from sticking minutes to the surface 103a of the cover glass 103.

Wipe mechanism 125, illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B, rotation mechanism 135, explained in FIGS. 17A and 17B, vibration mechanism 145, explained in FIGS. 18A and 18B, and air jet generating mechanism 156, explained in FIGS. 19A and 19B , can be adapted to work in accordance with the operating condition of the car wiper. The wiping mechanism 125, the rotation mechanism 135, the vibration mechanism 145, and the air jet generating mechanism 156 can operate for a period of time when the car wiper is operating. With this approach, raindrops can be prevented from sticking to the lens surface 5a or glass surface 103a. Furthermore, even if raindrops adhere to the lens surface 5a or glass surface 103a, raindrops can be removed.

According to FIG. 20, the washer nozzle 163 may be located in the casing 162 of the camera shell 161 on the side of the chamber 3. The washing liquid stored in the washer reservoir 15 may be supplied to the washer nozzle 163 through the tube 10, and the washing liquid supplied to the washer nozzle 163 may sprayed from the spray hole 164 onto the side 5a of the lens 5. In this case, the washer nozzle 163 extends along the entire casing 162, similar to the way the washer nozzle 9 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B extends along the entire casing 6. In this approach, since the washer nozzle 163 is on the side of the camera 3, the on-board optical device The sensor can be reduced in size in the direction of height. Note that the on-board optical sensor device can be mounted on the car in the same manner as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B or in FIG. 20, according to the types of vehicles with respect to the mounting position, limited by the design and appearance of the vehicle, which are determined by the vehicle manufacturers. According to this embodiment, the on-board optical sensor device can be mounted vertically or horizontally on a vehicle according to vehicle types.

21 and 22, a camera 172 may be provided in which an infrared lamp 171 (lighting means in the present invention) is integrated. The flushing fluid stored in the washer reservoir 15 can be supplied to the washer nozzle 9 and sprayed from the spray hole 11 not only onto the surface of the lens 173 of the chamber 172, but also to an infrared lamp 171. For example, an infrared lamp 171 can be used in low light conditions when Camera 3 captures the image at night. According to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, foreign substances adhering to the lens of the infrared lamp 171 are properly removed so that infrared light can be properly emitted. Alternatively, according to FIGS. 21 and 22, the infrared lamp 171 can be replaced with a visible light lamp (lighting means in the present invention). Even a visible light lamp can produce the same effect as an infrared lamp 171.

According figa and 23B, the optical sensor unit 1 can be located not only above the rear window 13 of the car body 12, but also under the side mirror attached to the side of the car. In this approach, the camera 3 can capture an image of the area behind and on the side of the car. Thus, several cameras can be installed.

Any two or more of the above embodiments may be combined with each other. For example, a pallet 63, illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, a visor 73, explained in FIGS. 11A and 11B, and a wiping mechanism 125, explained in FIGS. 16A and 16B, may be provided simultaneously.

In the above embodiments, the on-board optical sensor device includes a controller and an optical sensor unit. Alternatively, the camera shell may include a controller.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 24A-27. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following aspects. 24A and 24B, heater 201 (optical heating means and nozzle heating means that are integrally formed from the same part in the present invention) and a wire (not shown) for supplying electric current to the heater 201 are located in the casing 6. B in the case where the chamber 3 is normally held in the holder 7, the heater 201 covers the entire lateral periphery of the lens 5 of the chamber 3 and contacts the portion (near the curved portion in the present embodiment) of the washer nozzle 9 on the side of the tip 9b. For example, the heater 201 may be made in the form of a grid of hot wires. The heat generated by the heater 201 is transferred to the lens 5 of the chamber 3 and the portion of the washer nozzle 9 on the tip side 9b.

FIG. 26 is a functional block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a peripheral circuit including an optical sensor unit 1. The controller 14 mainly includes a microcomputer. The controller 14 executes a pre-stored control program, thereby controlling the capture operation of the chamber 3, controlling the heating operation of the heater 201 and controlling the operation of the motor 16 installed in the washer reservoir 15 to control the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9. Heater switch 202 is operated by the user. When the user engages the heater switch 202, the heater switch 202 outputs the operation detection signal to the controller 14. When receiving the operation detection signal output from the heater switch 202, the controller 14 outputs the drive command signal to the heater 201, thereby activating the heater 201. The drive command signal, output from the controller 14 to the motor 16, and a drive command signal output from the controller 14 to the heater 201 are level signals. The washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 and the heating operation of the heater 201 are carried out only during the period of time when the level signals correspond to the on state (high level). The washer switch 18 and the heater switch 202 may be mechanical switches or touch switches located on the liquid crystal display device 17.

The operation of the above configuration is described below with reference to FIG.

In the power-on state (in the excited state of the optical sensor unit 1), the controller 14 determines whether the washer switch 18 is engaged (step S101), and determines whether the heater switch 202 is engaged (step S102). When the controller 14 receives the operation detection signal output from the washer switch 18 and determines that the washer switch 18 is engaged (“YES” in step S101), the controller 14 outputs the drive command signal to the motor 16 to drive the motor 16, thereby a washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 (step S103). Thus, the flushing fluid stored in the washer reservoir 15 enters the washer nozzle 9 and is sprayed from the spray hole 11 onto the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3 (step S103). In this case, the controller 14 can continue the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 only for a predetermined period of time (for example, a few seconds). Alternatively, the controller 14 can continue the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 only when the user engages (for example, by pressing) the washer switch 18. In addition, if the washing liquid amount measurement function is turned on, the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 can continue only until the amount of sprayed washing liquid reaches a predetermined amount.

In addition, when the controller 14 receives the operation detection signal output from the heater switch 202, and determines that the heater switch 202 is engaged (“YES” in step S102), the controller 14 outputs the drive command signal to the heater 201 to activate the heater 201, thereby initiating a heating operation of the heater 201 (step S104). Thus, the heat generated by the heater 201 is transferred to the entire lateral periphery of the lens 5 of the chamber 3, and also transferred to the side of the tip 9b of the washer nozzle 9. In this case, the controller 14 can continue the heating operation of the heater 201 only for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the controller 14 may continue the heating operation of the heater 201 only when the user engages (for example, by pressing) the heater switch 202. The controller 14 repeats the above steps S101-S104.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, the heater 201 can heat not only the lens 5 of the chamber 3, but also the washer nozzle 9. Even when the ambient temperature decreases, the lens 5 of the camera 3 can be heated to prevent fogging of the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3 and to prevent freezing of water on the surface 5a of the lens. In addition, the washer nozzle 9 can be heated to prevent freezing of the wash fluid. Thus, the washing liquid can be properly sprayed onto the lens surface 5a, which allows proper removal of foreign matter adhering to the lens surface 5a. Thus, the camera 3 can work properly.

Fourth Embodiment

A fourth embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29. The fourth embodiment differs from the third embodiment in the following aspects.

According to a fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 28, an external thermometer 203 (ambient temperature measuring means in the present invention) for measuring the ambient temperature and a camera thermometer 204 (sensor temperature measuring means in the present invention) for measuring the temperature of the camera 3 are provided. receiving the temperature measurement signal output from the external thermometer 203, the controller 205 sets the ambient temperature by analyzing the received temperature measurement signal. Upon receiving a temperature measurement signal output from the camera thermometer 204, the controller 205 sets the temperature of the camera 3 by analyzing the received temperature measurement signal. Note that the controller 205 has a count function.

According to Fig. 29, in the on state (in the excited state of the optical sensor unit 1), the controller 205 determines whether any of the operating conditions is fulfilled (step S111), and determines whether the image contains dirt (step S112). Then, if the controller 205 determines that any of the operating conditions is satisfied, i.e. determines that the gearbox moves to the reverse position, the ignition switch is switched from the off state to the on state, or the ignition switch is turned from the on state to the off state (“YES” at step S111), or, if the controller 205 determines that the image contains dirt (“YES” in step S112), the controller 205 checks the condition that the ambient temperature or the temperature of the chamber 3 is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature (step S113).

Then, if the controller 205 determines that the ambient temperature or the temperature of the chamber 3 is less than a predetermined temperature (“NO” in step S113), the controller 205 activates the heater 201 to perform the heating operation of the heater 201 only for a predetermined period of time (step S114) . Then, the controller 205 increments (by adding "1") the counter of the number of heating (step S115) and determines whether the value of the increased counter of the number of heating of a predetermined number is less (step S116). If the controller 205 determines that the value of the increased heat number counter is less than a predetermined number (“YES” in step S116), the controller 205 returns to step S113 and repeats the steps following step S113. On the contrary, if the controller 205 determines that the value of the increased counter of the number of heating is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (“NO” in step S116), the controller 205 causes the liquid crystal display device 17 to display an error display indicating that the heating operation of the heater 201 has been repeated a predetermined the number of times (step S117). Then, the controller 205 resets the value of the heat number counter (step S118) and ends the sequence of procedures.

If the controller 205 determines that the ambient temperature or the temperature of the chamber 3 is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature (“YES” in step S113), the controller 205 drives the motor 16 to perform a washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 for a predetermined period of time (step S119). Then, the controller 205 increments (adding "1") the number of washes (step S120) and checks the condition that the value of the increased number of washes is less than a predetermined number (step S21). If the controller 205 determines that the value of the increased washer counter is less than a predetermined number (“YES” in step S121), the controller 205 returns to step S112 and repeats the steps following step S112. On the contrary, if the controller 205 determines that the value of the increased counter of the number of washes is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (“NO” in step S121), the controller 205 instructs the liquid crystal display device 17 to display an error display indicating that a predetermined washer nozzle 9 was washed the number of times (step S122). Then, the controller 205 resets the value of the number of washes (step S123) and ends the sequence of procedures.

If the controller 205 determines that the image does not contain dirt (dirt is removed as a result of the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9) ("NO" in step S112), the controller 205 resets not only the value of the heating number counter, but also the value of the washing number counter (step S124) , and returns to step S11 and repeats the steps following step S111.

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3 can be automatically washed whenever it detects that the car’s gearbox is in the reverse position, the ignition switch is turned from the off state to the on state, the ignition switch is turned from the state “On” to the “off” state, or that the image contains dirt. In addition, an error display is displayed when the value of the heating number counter or the washing number counter is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. Alternatively, if a function for measuring a heating time or a washing time is provided, an error display may be displayed when the heating time or the washing time reaches a predetermined time.

The above embodiment can be modified and expanded as follows. A heater for heating the lens 5 of the chamber 3 may be provided separately from the heater for heating the washer nozzle 9.

According to an embodiment, the heater 201 is adapted to heat both the lens 5 of the chamber 3 and the washer nozzle 9. Alternatively, the heater 201 may be adapted to heat either the lens 5 of the chamber 3 or the washer nozzle 9.

Assuming that the heater 201 is adapted to heat the lens 5 of the camera 3, the lens 5 of the camera 3 is heated by the heater 201 while lowering the ambient temperature to prevent fogging of the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3. Thus, the camera 3 can work properly to capture the proper image of the subject.

Assuming that the heater 201 is adapted to heat the washer nozzle 9, the washer nozzle 9 is heated by the heater 201 when the ambient temperature is lowered to prevent freezing of the washing liquid. Thus, the washing liquid can be properly sprayed onto the lens surface 5a, which allows proper removal of foreign matter adhering to the lens surface 5a. Thus, the camera 3 can properly work to capture the proper image of the subject.

According to an embodiment, an error display is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 17 when the value of the heating number counter or the washing number counter is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. Alternatively, in this case, an error sound signal may be output from the loudspeaker, or vibration or static electricity may be generated from the seat or handle by means of a static generator or a vibration generator installed in the seat or handle. Alternatively, they can be used in conjunction with each other. Thus, notification can be done through sight, hearing and touch.

The configuration shown in FIG. 27, in which the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out manually, can be used in conjunction with the configuration shown in FIG. 29, in which the washing operation of the washer nozzle 9 is carried out automatically.

30A and 30B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, even when a heater 201 is provided, a waterproofing treatment can be applied to the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3, so that the surface 5a of the lens can be coated with a water-repellent layer 41. Alternatively, hydrophilic treatment, photocatalytic treatment or anti-fouling treatment can be applied to the lens surface 5a, whereby the lens surface 5a can be coated with a hydrophilic layer, a photocatalytic layer or a layer preventing m fouling.

Referring to FIGS. 31A and 31B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, even when a heater 201 is provided, the casing 52 of the camera shell 51 may be provided with a window washer nozzle 53, which is parallel to the washer nozzle 9. The washing liquid stored in the washer fluid reservoir 15 may be supplied to the window washer nozzle 53 through the tube 54, and the washing liquid entering the window washer nozzle 53 may be sprayed from the spray hole 55 onto the window.

32A and 32B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, even when a heater 201 is provided, the casing 62 of the camera shell 61 may be provided with a pan 63 and a tube 64. When the flushing fluid is sprayed from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3, flushing liquid dripping from the lens surface 5a may collect in the pan 63, and the flushing fluid accumulated in the pan 63 may drain through the tube 64.

Referring to FIGS. 33A and 33B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, even when a heater 201 is provided, the casing 72 of the camera shell 71 may be provided with a visor 73.

34A and 34B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, even when a heater 201 is provided, the casing 102 of the camera shell 101 may be provided with a transparent coverslip 103. The cover glass 103 may be on the front of the casing 102 facing the lens 5 chambers 3. Flushing fluid coming from the washer reservoir 15 to the washer nozzle 9 through the tube 10 can be sprayed from the spray hole 11 onto the surface 103a of the cover glass 103.

In this case, the heater 301 covers the entire lateral periphery of the coverslip 103 and contacts the portion of the washer nozzle 9 on the side of the tip 9b. The heat generated by the heater 301 may be transferred to the coverslip 103 and the washer nozzle portion 9 on the tip side 9b. In addition, since the entire chamber 3 is held in the casing 102, the size of the casing 102 in the front-back direction (from the front side to the rear side) of the casing 102 is larger than the size of the casing 6 of the third embodiment. In this approach, while the coverslip 103 protects the lens 5 of the chamber 3, fogging of the surface 103a of the coverslip 103 can be prevented. Freezing of the wash liquid can also be prevented. Thus, the washing liquid can be properly sprayed onto the glass surface 103a, which allows proper removal of foreign substances adhering to the glass surface 103a. Thus, the camera 3 can properly work to capture the proper image of the subject.

35A and 35B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, even when a heater 301 is provided, the waterproofing treatment can be applied to the surface 103a of the coverslip 103, whereby the glass surface 103a can be coated with a water-repellent layer 111. Alternatively, the hydrophilization treatment , a photocatalytic treatment or anti-fouling treatment can be applied to the glass surface 103a, whereby the glass surface 103a can be coated with a hydrophilic layer, a photocatalytic layer or a layer, epyatstvuyuschim fouling.

36A and 36B, in the casing 102 of the camera shell 101, the surface 103a of the coverslip 103 may be coated with indium tin oxide 112, and the electrode 113 may be provided on the upper side portion and the lower side portion of the coverslip 103. A predetermined voltage may be applied to an electrode 113 so that an electric current can flow through the indium tin oxide 112. As a result, the indium tin oxide 112 generates heat allowing the cover glass 103 to be heated. Alternatively, the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3 can be coated with indium tin oxide, and the electron d provided in the chamber 3, can cause the indium tin oxide to produce heat, allowing to heat the lens 5.

37A and 37B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, even when a heater 301 is provided, the housing 122 of the camera shell 121 may be provided with a wiping mechanism 125 including a wiper 123 for wiping the cover glass surface 103a 103 and the motor 124 for actuating the wiper 123. The wiping mechanism 125 may wipe the cover glass surface 103a 103 during or after spraying the washing liquid from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the cover glass surface 103a 103.

FIGS. 38A and 38B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, even when a heater 301 is provided, the housing 132 of the camera shell 131 may be provided with a rotation mechanism 135 including a sealed bearing 133 and a motor 134 to rotate the coverslip 103 The rotation mechanism 135 may cause the cover glass 103 to rotate during or after spraying the washing liquid from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface 103a of the cover glass 103.

According to FIGS. 39A and 39B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, even when a heater 301 is provided, the casing 142 of the camera shell 141 may be equipped with a vibration mechanism 145 including a piezoelectric device 143 and an electrode 144 for generating an ultrasonic wave or an infrasonic the wave that causes the coverslip 103 to vibrate. Vibration mechanism 145 may cause the cover glass 103 to vibrate during or after spraying the washing liquid from the spray hole 11 of the washer nozzle 9 onto the surface 103a of the cover glass 103.

40A and 40B, similarly to the configuration shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, even when a heater 301 is provided, the housing 152 of the camera shell 151 may be provided with an air jet generating mechanism 156 including an air nozzle 153, a tube 154, and an air pump 155 to create a jet of air directed to the surface 103a of the coverslip 103. The mechanism 156 to create a jet of air directed to the surface 103a of the coverslip 103, during or after spraying the washing liquid from the spray hole Stia 9 washer nozzle 11 onto the surface 103a of the cover glass 103.

The wiping mechanism 125, illustrated in FIGS. 37A and 37B, the rotation mechanism 135, explained in FIGS. 38A and 38B, the vibration mechanism 145, explained in FIGS. 39A and 39B, and the air jet generating mechanism 156, explained in FIGS. 40A and 40B , can be adapted to work in accordance with the operating condition of the car wiper. The wiping mechanism 125, the rotation mechanism 135, the vibration mechanism 145, and the air jet generating mechanism 156 can operate for a period of time when the car wiper is operating.

Any two or more of the above embodiments may be combined with each other. For example, pallet 63, illustrated in FIGS. 32A and 32B, a visor 73, explained in FIGS. 33A and 33B, and a wiping mechanism 125, explained in FIGS. 37A and 37B, may be provided simultaneously.

41A and 41B, when a pan 63 is provided, a heater 302 (pan heating means in the present invention) may be provided to heat the pan 63. In this approach, it is possible to prevent the flushing liquid dripping from the lens surface 5a and collecting in the pan 63. Thus, the flushing fluid collected in the pan 63 can be ejected unhindered. For example, the heater 302 may be in the form of a grid of hot wires.

42A and 42B, when a tray 63 is provided, the waterproofing treatment can be applied to the contact surface in contact with the flushing fluid, whereby the contact surface can be coated with a water-repellent layer 303. Alternatively, the hydrophilic treatment can be applied to the contact surface, whereby the contact surface may be coated with a hydrophilic layer. In this approach, flushing fluid dripping from the lens surface 5a and collecting in the pan 63 can be ejected unhindered.

Referring now to FIGS. 43A and 43B, when a pan 63 is provided, a channel 305 may be provided to direct the flushing fluid collected in the pan 63 to the window. In this approach, the flushing fluid collected in the drip tray 63 is reused to wash the window and is thus effectively used without wasting.

44A and 44B, a channel heater 306 (channel heating means in the present invention) may be provided for heating the channel 305. In this approach, it is possible to prevent freezing of the flushing fluid directed to the duct 305. Thus, the flushing fluid routed to the duct 305, can be thrown unhindered. For example, the channel heater 306 may be in the form of a grid of hot wires.

45A and 45B, when a channel 305 is provided, the waterproofing treatment can be applied to the contact surface in contact with the washing liquid, whereby the contact surface can be coated with a water-repellent layer 307. Alternatively, the hydrophilization treatment can be applied to the contact surface, so that the contact surface may be coated with a hydrophilic layer. In this approach, the flushing fluid directed to the channel 305 can be ejected unhindered.

46A and 46B, when a visor 73 is provided that protrudes from the housing 72 and covers the lens surface 5a from above, a visor heater 308 (visor heating means in the present invention) can be provided to heat the visor 73. In this approach, the probability of snow accumulation and ice on the visor 73. In addition, even when snow and ice accumulate on the visor 73, accumulated snow and ice can be melted and removed so that snow and ice do not interfere with the viewing of the optical sensor. For example, the visor heater 308 may be in the form of a grid of hot wires. The visor heater 308 can be provided on the upper side and the lower side of the visor 73. Alternatively, the visor heater 308 can only be provided on the upper side of the visor 73.

According to FIGS. 47A and 47B, when an air jet generating mechanism 156 is provided, an air heater 309 (air heating means in the present invention) may be provided for heating the air blown from the tip portion of the air nozzle 153. Alternatively, FIGS. 48A and 48B, when an air jet generating mechanism 156 is provided, an air nozzle heater 310 (means for heating the air jet generating means in the present invention) for heating the air nozzle 153 may be provided. In this approach, even if the flushing any liquid freezes to the lens surface 5a, washing liquid frozen to the lens surface 5a can be removed. Note that the air heater 309 and the air nozzle heater 310 can be used together.

49A and 49B, when the casing 82 of the camera shell 81 is provided with a protrusion 311 that is in a position (immediately below the lens 5) near the lower edge of the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the camera 3, the protrusion 311 may have a cleaning portion 312 extending upward and way down. In this approach, as shown in FIG. 50, a capillary action occurs in the cleaning portion 312, whereby water accumulating on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a can confidently be directed under the lens surface 5a through the cleaning portion 312, and thus be removed. Thus, even when water accumulates on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a, part of the water flows out due to capillary action, so that the amount of water accumulating on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a can decrease (in the case of FIG. 50, the amount decreases from “P1” to “ P2 ").

Referring to FIGS. 51A and 51B, the protrusion 311 may be provided with a protrusion heater 313 (means for heating the protrusion in the present invention). In this approach, it is possible to prevent freezing of the water remaining on the protrusion 311.

According to FIGS. 52A and 52B, the casing 82 of the camera shell 81 may be provided with a slit portion 314, which is located at a position (immediately below the lens 5) near the lower edge of the surface 5a of the lens 5 of the chamber 3. In this approach, a capillary action occurs on the slit portion 314, due to whereby water accumulating on the lower edge of the lens surface 5a can confidently be directed under the lens surface 5a through the slit portion 314 and thus be removed.

According to FIG. 53, if it is determined that the image contains dirt (“YES” in step S201), the washer nozzle may perform a washing operation for a predetermined period of time (step S203) under any of the following operating conditions (“YES” in step S202): the car’s gearbox goes into reverse, the ignition switch is switched from the off state to the on state, and the ignition switch is switched from the on state to the off state. Thus, the washing operation is not carried out immediately after the detection of dirt. Since the washing operation is carried out at a time when the user is likely to see the image, the washing liquid can be effectively used.

The area of the image captured by the optical sensor that is received by the user, i.e. displayed on the display device in the passenger compartment, can be analyzed to determine if the image contains dirt without analyzing another area of the image that is not being received by the user. Thus, in the case of Fig. 54, the image A1 of the image A captured by the optical sensor corresponds to the lower side of the fisheye lens 5 and is the area that is received by the user, and the image A2 of the image A captured by the optical sensor corresponds to the upper side of the lens type "fisheye" 5 and is an area that does not reach the user. In this case, a determination is made whether the image A1 contains dirt corresponding to the bottom side of the fisheye lens 5. In this approach, the desired image A1 can be analyzed without further analysis of the unnecessary image A2.

It should be noted that the shell of the on-board optical sensor according to embodiments of the invention can be mounted on top of a car window, for example, as shown in FIG. With this approach, the washer nozzle (9) can perform a washing operation not only on the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or on the surface of the coverslip (103) by spraying the washing liquid on the surface (5a ) lenses or the surface (103a) of the glass, but also washing the window by reusing washer fluid draining from the surface (5a) of the lens or from the surface (103a) of the glass.

Such changes and modifications should be considered as appropriate to the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

Claims (49)

1. The shell of the onboard optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell optionally contains heating means (201, 301), including at least one of the optical heating means and nozzle heating means, the optical heating means for performing a heating operation for heating the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor ( 3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103), the nozzle heating means is used to perform a heating operation to heat the washer nozzle (9), at least one of the optical heating means and means heating orsunki performs heating operation, wherein when the provided optical heating means and the nozzle heating means, optical means and heating means for heating the nozzle are formed of the same parts and combined into one heating means. 2. The shell according to claim 1, in which the optical heating means includes indium tin oxide (112), which covers the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103). 3. The shell according to claim 1, in which the holder (7) holds the lighting means (171), and the washer nozzle (9) performs a washing operation not only to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) by spraying the washing liquid on the surface (5a) of the lens or the surface (103a) of the glass, but also to wash the lighting means (171) by spraying the washing liquid on the lighting means (171 ) 4. The shell according to claim 3, in which the lighting means (171) includes an infrared lamp or a visible light lamp. 5. A shell according to claim 1, further comprising a pan (63) for collecting washing liquid dripping from the surface (5a) of the lens (5) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) when the washer nozzle (9) performs a washing operation. 6. The shell according to claim 3, in which the pan (63) has a contact surface in contact with the flushing fluid, and a waterproofing treatment or hydrophilic treatment is applied to the contact surface to cover the contact surface with a water-repellent layer or a hydrophilic layer. 7. The shell according to claim 1, further comprising a visor (73) having a protrusion for coating from above the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103). 8. The shell according to claim 1, in which the washer nozzle (9) is on the side of the holder (7) and performs a flushing operation to flush the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the glass surface (103a) from the lens side (5) of the optical sensor (3) or coverslip (103). 9. The shell according to claim 1, in which the waterproofing treatment, hydrophilization treatment, photocatalytic treatment or anti-fouling treatment is applied to the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) to cover the surface (5a) a lens or surface (103a) of a glass with a water-repellent layer, a hydrophilic layer, a photocatalytic layer or an anti-fouling layer. 10. The shell according to claim 1, additionally containing a protrusion (83, 93, 311) located in a position near the lower edge of the surface (5a) of the lens (5). 11. The shell according to claim 1, additionally containing wiping means (125) for performing a wiping operation for wiping the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103), and the wiping means (125) ) performs a wiping operation to wipe the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) during or after the washing operation by the washer nozzle (9). 12. The shell according to claim 1, additionally containing rotation means (135) for performing a rotation operation for rotating the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the cover glass (103), wherein the rotation means (135) performs the rotation operation for rotating the lens ( 5) an optical sensor (3) or a cover glass (103), during or after the washing operation by the washer nozzle (9). 13. The shell according to item 12, in which the rotation means (135) performs a rotation operation for rotating the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the cover glass (103), provided that the vehicle speed is greater than or equal to a predetermined speed. 14. The shell according to claim 1, additionally containing ultrasonic vibration means (145) for performing an ultrasonic vibration operation for ultrasonic vibration of a lens (5) of an optical sensor (3) or a cover glass (103), wherein the ultrasonic vibration means (145) performs an ultrasonic operation vibration for ultrasonic vibration of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or coverslip (103), during or after the washing operation by the washer nozzle (9). 15. The shell according to claim 1, additionally containing means (156) for creating an air stream for performing the operation of creating an air stream for directing the air stream to the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103 ), and the means (156) for creating an air stream carries out the operation of creating an air stream for directing the air stream to the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103), during or after nozzle washing operations (9) of Tell. 16. A shell according to claim 15, further comprising means (309) for heating the air to heat the air blown from the means (156) for creating an air stream. 17. The shell of claim 15, further comprising means (310) for heating the air jet generating means for heating the air jet creating means (156). 18. The shell according to claim 1, in which the washer nozzle (9) is in an area outside the angle of view of the optical sensor (3). 19. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the washer nozzle (9) carries out the washing operation, not only for washing the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) by spraying washing liquid onto the surface (5a) of the lens or glass surface (103a), but and for washing the window by spraying washing liquid onto the window, wherein the on-board optical sensor is mounted above the rear window of the car outside the car. 20. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell configured to be mounted on top of the window, while the washer nozzle (9) performs the washing operation not only to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface of the coverslip (103) by spraying the washing liquid on the surface (5a) of the lens or the surface (103a) of the glass, but also for washing the window by reusing the washing liquid draining from the surface (5a) of the lens or from the surface (103a) of the glass, with the on-board optical sensor mounted above their car outside the car window. 21. The shell of the on-board optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises a window washer nozzle (53) for performing a washing operation for washing the window by spraying washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the window, wherein the window washer nozzle (53) carries out a washing operation, with the on-board optical sensor mounted above the rear car window outside the car. 22. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell contains a tray (63) for collecting washing liquid dripping from the surface (5a) of the lens (5) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) when the washer nozzle (9) performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises means (302) heating the pan to heat the pan (63), moreover, the means (302) of heating the pan performs a heating operation. 23. The shell of the onboard optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell contains a tray (63) for collecting washing liquid dripping from the surface (5a) of the lens (5) or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) when the washer nozzle (9) performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises a channel (305) to direct the flushing fluid collected in the drip tray (63) to the window. 24. The shell of claim 23, further comprising means (306) for heating the channel to heat the channel (305), wherein means (306) for heating the channel performs a heating operation. 25. A shell according to claim 23, in which the channel (305) has a contact surface in contact with the washing liquid, and a waterproofing treatment or hydrophilic treatment is applied to the contact surface to cover the contact surface with a water-repellent layer or a hydrophilic layer. 26. A shell of an onboard optical sensor, comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, moreover, the washer nozzle (9) carries out a washing operation, the shell d optionally contains a visor (73) having a protrusion for coating from above the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103), and the shell further comprises means (308) for heating the visor for heating the visor ( 73), moreover, the means (308) for heating the visor carries out a heating operation. 27. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises a protrusion (83, 93, 311) located in a position near the lower edge of the surface (5a) of the lens (5), while the protrusion (83, 93, 311) is able to move up and down. 28. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises a protrusion (83, 93, 311) located in a position near the lower edge of the surface (5a) of the lens (5), the shell further comprising means for heating the protrusion (313) to heat the protrusion (83, 93, 311). 29. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises a protrusion (83, 93, 311) located in a position near the lower edge of the surface (5a) of the lens (5), while the protrusion (83, 93, 311) has a cleaning section (312) extending in the up and down directions. 30. A shell of an onboard optical sensor, comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, moreover, the washer nozzle (9) carries out a washing operation, the shell d additionally comprises a slotted portion (314) located at a position near the lower edge of the surface (5a) of the lens (5). 31. A shell according to claim 30, wherein at least one of the wiping means (125), rotation means (135), ultrasonic vibration means (145), infrasonic vibration means (145) and air stream creating means (156) carries out the operation during the period of time when the car wiper is operating. 32. The shell of the onboard optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, moreover, the washer nozzle (9) performs a washing operation, moreover, containing rotation means (135) for performing a rotation operation for rotating the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or a cover glass (103), the rotation means (135) performing a rotation operation for rotating the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the cover glass (103), during or after the washing operation by the washer nozzle (9), while the rotation means (135) performs a rotation operation to rotate the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or the cover glass (103), provided that the window near which is installed about olochka, closed to a position in which the user can not touch the shell, leaning out the window. 33. An onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) ) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the cover glass (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the lens surface (5a) or the surface (103a) ) glass, and the nozzle (9) of the washer performs a washing operation, while the shell further comprises an infrasound vibration means (145) for performing an infrasound vibration operation for infrasound vibration of the lens (5) of the optical sensor (3) or a cover glass (103), wherein the infrasound vibration means (145) performs an infrasound vibration operation for the infrasound lens vibration (5) optical sensor (3) or coverslip (103), during or after the washing operation by the washer nozzle (9). 34. The on-board optical sensor device containing the shell of the on-board optical sensor according to claim 1, control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9) and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5). 35. The device according to clause 34, further comprising means for detecting image contamination for analyzing the image captured by the optical sensor (3), to determine whether the image contains dirt, and when the means for detecting image contamination detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3 ), contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to carry out the washing operation. 36. The device according to clause 34, in which the means for detecting image contamination analyzes the first region of the image captured by the optical sensor (3), to determine whether the dirt contains the first region of the image, and does not analyze the second region of the image, the first region arriving at the user, and the second area does not reach the user. 37. The device according to clause 34, in which when the means for detecting image contamination detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to continue the washing operation, until the dirt is removed. 38. The device according to clause 34, in which, when the means for detecting image contamination detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to continue the washing operation, until the dirt is removed or until the washing operation reaches a predetermined state, and when the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9) reaches a predetermined state, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the notification tool to carry out the operation omleniya. 39. The device on-board optical sensor containing the shell of the on-board optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir-tree carries out a washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a gearbox position detection means for detecting the position of the vehicle’s gearbox, moreover, when the means for detecting the position of the gearbox detects that the position of the gearbox of the vehicle is in a predetermined position, the control means (14, 31, 205) causes the washer nozzle (9) to carry out a washing operation. 40. An onboard optical sensor device comprising an onboard optical sensor shell, comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the lens surface (5a) ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), a vehicle activation start detection means for detecting a car activation start, moreover, when the vehicle activation start detection means detects the start of vehicle activation, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to perform a washing operation. 41. An onboard optical sensor device comprising an onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the lens surface (5a) ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), means for detecting the end of activation of the car for detecting the end of activation of the car, and when means for detecting the end of the activation of the car detects the end of the activation of the car, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the nozzle (9) of the washer to carry out a washing operation. 42. An onboard optical sensor device comprising an onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the lens surface (5a) ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), image contamination detection means for analyzing an image captured by the optical sensor (3 ) to determine if the image contains dirt, and when the image contamination detection means detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to operate washing, the device further comprises at least one of means for detecting the position of the gearbox for detecting the position of the gearbox of the car, means for detecting the start of activation of the car for detecting the start of activation of the car and means for detecting the end of activation of the car for detecting the end of activation of the car when the image contamination detection means detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to perform a washing operation provided that the gearbox position detection means detects that the position of the car’s gearbox is in a predetermined position, the vehicle’s activation start detection means detects the start of the car’s activation or the detection means the end of car activation detects the end of car activation. 43. The device on-board optical sensor containing the shell of the on-board optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), image contamination detection means for analyzing an image captured by the optical sensor (3 ) to determine if the image contains dirt, and when the image contamination detection means detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to operate a washing function, and when the image contamination detection means detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to continue the washing operation until the dirt is removed, wherein the device further comprises at least one of means for detecting the position of the gearbox for detecting the position of the gearbox of the car, means for detecting the start of activation of the car for detecting the beginning of activation of the car means for detecting the end of activation of the car for detecting the end of activation of the car, and when the means for detecting image contamination detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to continue the operation washing until the dirt has been removed, provided that the means for detecting the position of the gearbox detects that the position of the gearbox of the vehicle is in a predetermined position, the means for detecting When the activation of the car starts, it detects the start of the car’s activation or the means of detecting the end of the car’s activation detects the end of the car’s activation, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to carry out the washing operation. 44. The device on-board optical sensor containing the shell of the on-board optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5 a) of the lens (5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7), or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5), by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface ( 5a) a lens or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), image contamination detection means for analyzing an image captured by the optical sensor (3 ) to determine if the image contains dirt, and when the image pollution detection means detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to operate a washing function, and when the image contamination detection means detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the washer nozzle (9) to continue the washing operation until the dirt is removed or until the washing operation reaches a predetermined state, and when the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9) reaches a predetermined state, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the notification means to carry out the notification operation, wherein the device further comprises at least one of means for detecting the position of the gearbox for detecting the position of the gearbox of the car, means for detecting the start of activation of the car for detecting the start of activation of the car and means for detecting the end of activation of the car for detecting the end of activation of the car, and when detecting image contamination detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains dirt, a control tool (14, 31, 205) before writes to the washer nozzle (9) to continue the washing operation until the dirt is removed or until the washing operation reaches a predetermined state, provided that the gearbox position detection means detects that the car's gearbox position is in a predetermined position, the start detection means the car’s activation detects the start of the car’s activation or the vehicle activation end detection means detects the end of the car’s activation, and when the washing operation the nozzle (9) the washer reaches a predetermined state, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the notification means to perform the notification operation. 45. An onboard optical sensor device comprising an onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the lens surface (5a) ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), ambient temperature measuring means (203) for measuring the ambient temperature, moreover, when the temperature measured by the ambient temperature measuring means (203) is less than a predetermined temperature, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the optical heating means to continue the heating operation while the temperature measured by the means (203) is measured I ambient temperature is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature. 46. The device on-board optical sensor containing the shell of the on-board optical sensor containing a holder (7) for holding the optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the surface (5a) of the lens ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir-tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), means (204) for measuring the temperature of the sensor for measuring the temperature of the optical sensor (3) wherein, when the temperature measured by the sensor temperature measuring means (204) is less than a predetermined temperature, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the optical heating means to continue the heating operation while the temperature measured by the temperature measuring means (204) the sensor is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature. 47. An onboard optical sensor device comprising an onboard optical sensor shell comprising a holder (7) for holding an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5) and a washer nozzle (9) for performing a washing operation to wash the lens surface (5a) ( 5) an optical sensor (3) held in the holder (7) or the surface (103a) of the coverslip (103) facing the lens (5) by spraying the washing liquid coming from the washer reservoir (15) onto the surface (5a ) lenses or glass surface (103a), wherein the nozzle (9) is washed the fir tree carries out the washing operation, a control means (14, 31, 205) for controlling the washing operation of the washer nozzle (9), and an optical sensor (3) having a lens (5), image fogging detection means for analyzing an image captured by the optical sensor (3 ) to determine if the image contains fog, and when the image fogging detection device detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains fog, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the optical heating means to Perform a heating operation. 48. The device according to clause 47, in which, when the means for detecting blurred images detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains fog, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the optical heating means to continue the heating operation until the fog will not be deleted. 49. The device according to clause 47, in which, when the means for detecting blurred images detects that the image captured by the optical sensor (3) contains fog, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the optical heating means to continue the heating operation until the fog will not be deleted or until the heating operation reaches a predetermined state, and when the heating operation of the optical heating means reaches a predetermined state, the control means (14, 31, 205) instructs the notification means to notification operation.

Images