WO2004106127A1 - System for cleaning a window panel - Google Patents

System for cleaning a window panel Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2004106127A1
WO2004106127A1 PCT/EP2004/005959 EP2004005959W WO2004106127A1 WO 2004106127 A1 WO2004106127 A1 WO 2004106127A1 EP 2004005959 W EP2004005959 W EP 2004005959W WO 2004106127 A1 WO2004106127 A1 WO 2004106127A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
glass panel
arrangement according
cleaning liquid
panel
external face
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2004/005959
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jean-Pierre Eustache
Original Assignee
Valeo Systemes D'essuyage
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Valeo Systemes D'essuyage filed Critical Valeo Systemes D'essuyage
Publication of WO2004106127A1 publication Critical patent/WO2004106127A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
    • B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
    • B60S1/46—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices using liquid; Windscreen washers
    • B60S1/48—Liquid supply therefor
    • B60S1/52—Arrangement of nozzles; Liquid spreading means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
    • B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
    • B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
    • B60S1/56—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens
    • B60S1/58—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens for rear windows
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
    • B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
    • B60S1/56—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens
    • B60S1/58—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens for rear windows
    • B60S1/583—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens for rear windows including wiping devices

Definitions

  • the invention provides an arrangement for cleaning the external face of a glazed panel of a vehicle.
  • the invention more particularly provides an arrangement for cleaning the external face of a glazed panel of a motor vehicle which generally extends in a vertical plane, comprising a hydrophilic coating and an active coating, of the photocatalytic type, which are applied to the external vertical face of the glass panel.
  • the use of wiper blades for cleaning the external faces of the glazed panels of a motor vehicle, in particular for cleaning the front windshield or the rear window, is relatively widespread for current motor vehicles.
  • wipers are effective in removing water splashes and light soiling from the surface of the glass panel, but their effectiveness is very limited when a large quantity of pollutants is present, as is the case during projection. of mud.
  • the wiper blade then only spreads the pollutants on the glass panel, without removing them.
  • the wiping mechanism which is associated with the rear window of the vehicle generally projects from the glass panel. During off-road use of the vehicle, branches can then hang on to the wiping device and damage it considerably. It is then no longer possible to clean the glass panel, which is very damaging when the vehicle is traveling in particular on uneven roads where projections of mud are frequent.
  • a conventional wiping mechanism remains an unsightly element compared to the general aesthetics of the vehicle.
  • it has been proposed to cover the external face with a hydrophobic coating which allows water projections to trickle onto the glass panel, taking with it any pollutants which may have deposited on the glass panel.
  • Document US-A-6,340,192 describes such a rear glazed panel whose external face is covered with a hydrophobic coating.
  • the vehicle also includes a device for spraying cleaning liquid onto the glass panel which improves the removal of pollutants.
  • Such cleaning means are relatively effective in removing water and light pollutants such as dust deposits.
  • water cannot stay in one place for a long time, it is not possible to clean the glass panel of pollutants which are strongly adherent such as for example dry mud or sprayed tar.
  • An object of the invention is to provide means for cleaning the glass panel which allow the water to be maintained long enough on the surface of the glass panel to allow effective removal of highly adherent pollutants, without hampering the driver's vision.
  • the invention provides an arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a device for spraying cleaning liquid in the direction of at least part of the external face of the glass panel which comprises at least a series of several nozzles aligned along an upper end edge or a side edge of the glass panel.
  • the invention also aims to allow the cleaning of an additional detection system.
  • the invention provides an arrangement for cleaning the external face of a glazed panel of a motor vehicle which extends generally in a vertical plane, characterized in that it comprises a device for projecting liquid cleaning in the direction of at least a part of the external face of the glazed panel which comprises at least one series of several nozzles aligned along an upper end edge or a lateral edge of the glazed panel and in that the projection device is supplied with cleaning liquid via a pipe which also supplies a projection of cleaning liquid on a window of an obstacle detection device.
  • the projection device comprises two series of sprinklers, each associated with an aerodynamically shaped element so as to re-direct part of the air flow generated during the movement of the vehicle towards a predefined area of the glass panel;
  • the projection device comprises at least one nozzle mounted movable relative to the glass panel so as to spray cleaning liquid during its movement relative to the glass panel;
  • the movable nozzle is carried by an arm mounted movable in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel around a generally longitudinal axis arranged near an edge of the glazed panel;
  • the arrangement comprises a device for emitting radiation, in particular ultraviolet radiation, which is capable of activating the photocatalytic coating;
  • the radiation emission device is carried by an arm mounted in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel around a generally longitudinal axis arranged near an edge of the glazed panel; - The arm is able to retract into a housing of the vehicle body structure element when it is in the rest position;
  • the arrangement includes a device for measuring the degree of soiling of the external face of the glass panel, which is connected to an electronic device for controlling the projection device, for automatically causing the projection of cleaning liquid from a value predefined degree of soiling;
  • the electronic control device is capable of controlling the spraying of cleaning liquid via a number of nozzles which varies according to the degree of soiling of the external face of the glass panel;
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective representation of the rear of a motor vehicle which comprises a glass panel covered with coatings according to the invention, and in which the glass panel is associated with a device for spraying cleaning liquid ;
  • FIG. 2 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in which the cleaning liquid protection device is associated with aerodynamically shaped elements;
  • FIG. 3 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in which there is shown the cleaning liquid dispensing device associated with the glass panel;
  • FIG. 4 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in which the glass panel is associated with a cleaning liquid spraying device mounted on a pivoting arm.
  • FIG. 1 shows the rear part of a motor vehicle 10 which comprises a tailgate 12 for closing the rear trunk of the vehicle 10.
  • the tailgate 12 is made up, in its upper part, of a glazed panel 14 which in particular allows the driver of the vehicle 10 to see rearward, and which extends generally in a transverse vertical plane.
  • the glass panel 14 has an active coating 16 which is applied to the entire external face 14e of the glass panel 14, which makes it possible to remove all of the dirt which is present on said external face 14e of the glass panel 14, without it it is necessary to use a conventional wiping mechanism which includes a wiper blade.
  • this active coating 16 comprises a hydrophilic coating and a coating of the photocatalytic type.
  • hydrophilic coating makes it possible to obtain a "wetting" effect on the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14, that is to say that it makes it possible to distribute, or spread, over the entire surface of the external face. 14th the water which is deposited on this face, for example in the event of rain.
  • the hydrophilic coating makes it possible to homogenize the spreading of the water so that it impairs visibility for the driver as little as possible.
  • the hydrophilic coating also has the effect of keeping water present on the external face 14e for as long as possible.
  • the polluting elements which are present are at the same time humidified, which facilitates their removal.
  • the photocatalytic coating makes it possible to remove the polluting elements present on the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 by a chemical reaction which is activated by light, and more particularly by ultraviolet radiation.
  • the photocatalytic coating acts alone for the removal of the polluting elements.
  • the external face is wet, due to the action of the hydrophilic coating, the polluting elements are wet, and the efficiency of their removal by the photocatalytic reaction is increased, the two coatings thus act simultaneously.
  • the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 is covered with an insufficient quantity of water to promote the photocatalytic reaction long enough. This is for example the case during the projection of sludge following a downpour, and at the end of a downpour, when it is no longer raining.
  • the arrangement for cleaning the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 comprises a device 18 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 which is arranged at the horizontal edge d 'upper end 14s of the glass panel 14. It will be understood that the invention is not limited to this embodiment, and that the projection device 18 can be arranged at a lateral edge of the glazed panel 14.
  • the device 18 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 makes it possible to supply a sufficient quantity of water to the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 to promote the photocatalytic reaction.
  • the sprayed cleaning liquid 20 is made up of washing products, for example detergents, which also make it possible to participate in the removal of the polluting elements.
  • the projection device 18 consists of a series of nozzles 22 by which the cleaning liquid 20 is sprayed in the form of several jets in the direction of at least part of the external face 14e of the glass panel 14, which is of preferably the part offering better visibility to the driver towards the rear, and which here is the entire external face 14e of the glazed panel 14.
  • FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the projection device 18 according to which the projection device 18 comprises two series 24 of nozzles 22, each of which is arranged at a transverse end of the upper edge 14s of the glass panel 14 .
  • Each series 24 of nozzles 22 is associated with an element 26 aerodynamically shaped so as to redirect a part of the air flow which is generated during the movement of the vehicle 10, and which flows along the roof 28 of the vehicle 10 , which is represented by the arrow F, in the direction of a defined zone of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14.
  • This redirected air flow represented by the arrow F 'makes it possible to accelerate the removal of the polluting elements by a "blowing" effect, independently of the speed of the photocatalytic reaction.
  • the air flow has the other effect of accelerating the removal of the water present on this defined zone of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14, and thus improving the speed of restoration of visibility at this level. zoned.
  • the redirected air flow F ' circulates along the central part of the glazed panel 14, which is the area through which the driver of the vehicle 10 looks most frequently.
  • FIG. 3 shows the device 30 for supplying cleaning liquid 20 to the projection device 18.
  • This supply device 30 comprises a supply pump 32 which is connected to a reservoir (not shown), a heating device 34 for the cleaning liquid 20, to prevent it from freezing in very cold weather, and a pipe. 36 for supplying the projection device 18.
  • the vehicle 10 includes an obstacle detection device 40 which is part of a parking assistance device and which is arranged on the tailgate 12. This detection device 40 generally comprises a rear window 44 which can also be covered with polluting elements.
  • the obstacle detection device 40 can be a camera, oriented towards the generally longitudinal rear direction of the vehicle 10.
  • the obstacle detection device 40 can be a radar system, oriented towards the rear longitudinal direction and / or towards the direction transverse of the vehicle 10.
  • the supply device 30 comprises a pipe 36 which supplies another device 38 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 to remove the polluting elements which are deposited on the rear window 44 of the detection device 40.
  • the rear window 44 can also be covered with a coating composed of a hydrophilic coating and a photocatalytic coating.
  • the projection device 18 is an element which is relatively sensitive to external mechanical attack. It may therefore prove to be particularly advantageous to conceal this projection device 18 behind a protective cover 46 mounted movably relative to the tailgate 12, when it is not used, as shown in FIG. 4.
  • the pipe 36 also supplies a device 38 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 onto a window 44 of an obstacle detection device 40, can be applied to any type of glazed panel comprising or not with no photocatalytic coating and / or hydrophilic coating on its external face.
  • FIG. 4 also shows an alternative embodiment of the projection device 18 according to which it is mounted movable relative to the glass panel 14, so that it projects cleaning liquid 20 onto a defined area of the glass panel 14 at during its movement.
  • the projection device 18 is carried by an arm 48 which is mounted movable relative to the tailgate 12 about a longitudinal axis A arranged near the lower edge 14i of the glass panel 14.
  • the projection device 18 allows sprayed cleaning liquid 20 on a predefined angular sector of the glass panel 14, which is preferably arranged in the rear vision area of the driver.
  • the arm 48 makes it possible to move the projection device 18 in a large number of positions, and more particularly a rest position shown in FIG. 4 in which the projection device 18 and the arm 48 are received in a housing 50 tailgate 12, which is closed by the protective cover 46.
  • the projection device 18 comprises several series of nozzles 22, including a series of nozzles 22 is arranged at the upper edge 14s of the glass panel 14, and of which another series of nozzles 22 is carried by the movable arm 48.
  • the effectiveness of the treatment by the combination of photocatalytic and hydrophilic coatings depends on the presence of water on the external face 14e of the glass panel 14, but it also depends on the presence of light, and more particularly of ultraviolet radiation to activate photocatalysis.
  • the device for emitting ultraviolet radiation is fixed to the vehicle 10, so as to emit ultraviolet radiation towards the region of the glazed panel 14 to be cleaned.
  • the device for emitting ultraviolet radiation is carried by an arm 48 mounted to move relative to the tailgate 12, which is preferably the arm 48 which carries the projection device 18.
  • the control of the projection device 18 is generally carried out by the driver himself, who actuates a specific switch.
  • the operation of the projection device 18 depends on the driver's assessment of the degree of soiling of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14.
  • this degree of soiling may be too great to allow sufficiently rapid cleaning of the external face 14e.
  • FIGS. 1 to 3 show an alternative embodiment of the projection device 18 according to which a device 52 for measuring the degree of soiling of the external face 14e of the glass panel 14 is fixed on the internal face of the glass panel 14, and is connected to an electronic control device (not shown) of the projection device 18.
  • This measurement device 52 makes it possible to actuate the projection device 18 from a predefined value of the degree of soiling of the external face 14e, without any intervention by the driver being necessary.
  • This predefined value of the degree of soiling is preferably determined so that the cleaning of the external face 14e is fast enough not to hinder the visibility of the driver, while preventing the automatic cleaning phases from being repeated too frequently.
  • the degree of soiling of the glass panel can sometimes be considerably greater than the preset value of the degree of soiling for which the spraying of liquid is triggered. Cleaning the glass panel 14 can then take a long time before correct visibility is restored.
  • the electronic device for controlling the projection device 18 is capable of controlling the projection of cleaning liquid 20 by a greater number of nozzles. 22 of the projection device 18 with respect to the number of nozzles used for cleaning the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 when the value of the degree of soiling is close to the predefined value. That is to say that the electronic control device is capable of controlling the spraying of cleaning liquid 20 by means of a number of nozzles 22 which varies according to the degree of soiling of the external face 14e of the glass panel 14.
  • an internal or external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 is covered with a heating element.
  • This heating element consists of a heating wire distributed over the entire surface of the face of the glass panel, or else of a transparent film which covers the entire face of the glass panel.
  • the heating element is arranged on the internal face of the glazed panel 14, so that it is protected from external aggressions, since it is generally a relatively fragile element.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Rear-View Mirror Devices That Are Mounted On The Exterior Of The Vehicle (AREA)
  • Catalysts (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for cleaning the outer face (14e) of an essentially-vertical window panel of a motor vehicle (10), comprising a hydrophilic coating and a photocatalytic-type active coating which are applied to the outer vertical face (14e) of said window panel. The inventive system comprises a device (18) which is used to spray a cleaning liquid (20) towards at least part of the outer face (14e) of the window panel (14) and which comprises at least one set of several nozzles (22). According to the invention, cleaning liquid can be supplied to the aforementioned spray device (18) by means of a pipe (36) which also supplies a device (38) which is used to spray cleaning liquid (20) on a window (44) of an obstacle-detection device (40).

Description

Agencement pour le nettoyage d'un panneau vitré Arrangement for cleaning a glass panel
L'invention propose un agencement pour le nettoyage de la face externe d'un panneau vitré d'un véhicule. L'invention propose plus particulièrement un agencement pour le nettoyage de la face externe d'un panneau vitré d'un véhicule automobile qui s'étend globalement dans un plan vertical, comportant un revêtement hydrophile et un revêtement actif, du type photocatalytique, qui sont appliqués sur la face verticale externe du panneau vitré. L'utilisation de balais d'essuyage pour le nettoyage des faces externes des panneaux vitrés d'un véhicule automobile, notamment pour le nettoyage du pare-brise avant ou de la lunette arrière, est relativement répandue pour les véhicules automobiles actuels.The invention provides an arrangement for cleaning the external face of a glazed panel of a vehicle. The invention more particularly provides an arrangement for cleaning the external face of a glazed panel of a motor vehicle which generally extends in a vertical plane, comprising a hydrophilic coating and an active coating, of the photocatalytic type, which are applied to the external vertical face of the glass panel. The use of wiper blades for cleaning the external faces of the glazed panels of a motor vehicle, in particular for cleaning the front windshield or the rear window, is relatively widespread for current motor vehicles.
Ces balais d'essuyage sont efficaces pour enlever les projections d'eau et les salissures légères de la surface du panneau vitré, mais leur efficacité est très limitée lorsqu'une grande quantité de polluants est présente, comme c'est le cas lors de projection de boues. Le balai d'essuyage ne fait alors qu'étaler les polluants sur le panneau vitré, sans les enlever. Le mécanisme d'essuyage qui est associé à la lunette arrière du véhicule fait généralement saillie par rapport au panneau vitré. Lors d'une utilisation tous terrains du véhicule, des branchages peuvent alors s'accrocher au dispositif d'essuyage et l'endommager fortement. Il n'est alors plus possible de nettoyer le panneau vitré, ce qui est fort dommageable lorsque le véhicule circule notamment sur des chemins accidentés où des projections de boues sont fréquentes.These wipers are effective in removing water splashes and light soiling from the surface of the glass panel, but their effectiveness is very limited when a large quantity of pollutants is present, as is the case during projection. of mud. The wiper blade then only spreads the pollutants on the glass panel, without removing them. The wiping mechanism which is associated with the rear window of the vehicle generally projects from the glass panel. During off-road use of the vehicle, branches can then hang on to the wiping device and damage it considerably. It is then no longer possible to clean the glass panel, which is very damaging when the vehicle is traveling in particular on uneven roads where projections of mud are frequent.
Par ailleurs, malgré les avancées technologiques et esthétiques dans ce domaine, un mécanisme d'essuyage conventionnel reste un élément disgracieux par rapport à l'esthétique générale du véhicule. Comme alternative à ces moyens de nettoyage du panneau vitré, il a été proposé de recouvrir la face externe d'un revêtement hydrophobe qui permet aux projections d'eau de ruisseler sur le panneau vitré en emportant avec elle les éventuels polluants qui se seraient déposés sur le panneau vitré. Le document US-A-6.340.192 décrit un tel panneau vitré arrière dont la face externe est recouverte d'un revêtement hydrophobe. Le véhicule comporte aussi un dispositif de projection de liquide de nettoyage sur le panneau vitré qui permet d'améliorer la suppression de polluants. De tels moyens de nettoyage sont relativement efficaces pour la suppression de l'eau et des polluants légers tels que des dépôts de poussière. Cependant, puisque l'eau ne peut pas rester longtemps au même endroit, il n'est pas possible de nettoyer le panneau vitré des polluants qui sont fortement adhérents comme par exemple les boues sèches ou les projection de goudron.Furthermore, despite technological and aesthetic advances in this area, a conventional wiping mechanism remains an unsightly element compared to the general aesthetics of the vehicle. As an alternative to these means of cleaning the glass panel, it has been proposed to cover the external face with a hydrophobic coating which allows water projections to trickle onto the glass panel, taking with it any pollutants which may have deposited on the glass panel. Document US-A-6,340,192 describes such a rear glazed panel whose external face is covered with a hydrophobic coating. The vehicle also includes a device for spraying cleaning liquid onto the glass panel which improves the removal of pollutants. Such cleaning means are relatively effective in removing water and light pollutants such as dust deposits. However, since water cannot stay in one place for a long time, it is not possible to clean the glass panel of pollutants which are strongly adherent such as for example dry mud or sprayed tar.
Il est noté que le document WO-A1 -02/42517 décrit un élément composite, ayant un revêtement comportant un mélange d'oxyde de boron et un oxyde de titane photocatalytique. Ce revêtement augmente les caractéristiques photocatalytiques et la hydrophilicité de l'élément composite. Un but de l'invention est de proposer des moyens de nettoyage du panneau vitré qui permettent à l'eau de se maintenir suffisamment longtemps sur la surface du panneau vitré pour permettre une suppression efficace des polluants fortement adhérents, sans gêner la vision du conducteur.It is noted that the document WO-A1 -02/42517 describes a composite element, having a coating comprising a mixture of boron oxide and a photocatalytic titanium oxide. This coating increases the photocatalytic characteristics and the hydrophilicity of the composite element. An object of the invention is to provide means for cleaning the glass panel which allow the water to be maintained long enough on the surface of the glass panel to allow effective removal of highly adherent pollutants, without hampering the driver's vision.
Dans ce but, l'invention propose un agencement selon le préambule de la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif de projection de liquide de nettoyage en direction d'au moins une partie de la face externe du panneau vitré qui comporte au moins une série de plusieurs gicleurs alignés le long d'un bord d'extrémité supérieure ou d'un bord latéral du panneau vitré. L'invention a aussi pour but de permettre le nettoyage d'un système additionnel de détection. Dans ce but, l'invention propose un agencement pour le nettoyage de la face externe d'un panneau vitré d'un véhicule automobile qui s'étend globalement dans un plan verticale, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif de projection de liquide de nettoyage en direction d'au moins une partie de la face externe du panneau vitré qui comporte au moins une série de plusieurs gicleurs alignés le long d'un bord d'extrémité supérieure ou d'un bord latéral du panneau vitré et en ce que le dispositif de projection est alimenté en liquide de nettoyage par l'intermédiaire d'une canalisation qui alimente également un dispositif de projection de liquide de nettoyage sur une fenêtre d'un dispositif de détection d'obstacles.To this end, the invention provides an arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a device for spraying cleaning liquid in the direction of at least part of the external face of the glass panel which comprises at least a series of several nozzles aligned along an upper end edge or a side edge of the glass panel. The invention also aims to allow the cleaning of an additional detection system. To this end, the invention provides an arrangement for cleaning the external face of a glazed panel of a motor vehicle which extends generally in a vertical plane, characterized in that it comprises a device for projecting liquid cleaning in the direction of at least a part of the external face of the glazed panel which comprises at least one series of several nozzles aligned along an upper end edge or a lateral edge of the glazed panel and in that the projection device is supplied with cleaning liquid via a pipe which also supplies a projection of cleaning liquid on a window of an obstacle detection device.
Selon d'autres caractéristiques de l'invention :According to other characteristics of the invention:
- le dispositif de projection comporte deux séries de gicleurs, chacune associée à un élément conformé aerodynamiquement de manière à re-diriger une partie du flux d'air généré lors du déplacement du véhicule en direction d'une zone prédéfinie du panneau vitré ;- The projection device comprises two series of sprinklers, each associated with an aerodynamically shaped element so as to re-direct part of the air flow generated during the movement of the vehicle towards a predefined area of the glass panel;
- le dispositif de projection comporte au moins un gicleur monté mobile par rapport au panneau vitré de manière à projeter du liquide de nettoyage lors de son mouvement par rapport au panneau vitré ;- The projection device comprises at least one nozzle mounted movable relative to the glass panel so as to spray cleaning liquid during its movement relative to the glass panel;
- le gicleur mobile est porté par un bras monté mobile en rotation alternée par rapport au panneau vitré autour d'un axe globalement longitudinal agencé à proximité d'un bord du panneau vitré ;- The movable nozzle is carried by an arm mounted movable in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel around a generally longitudinal axis arranged near an edge of the glazed panel;
- l'agencement comporte un dispositif pour émettre un rayonnement, notamment un rayonnement ultraviolet, qui est apte à activer le revêtement photocatalytique ;- The arrangement comprises a device for emitting radiation, in particular ultraviolet radiation, which is capable of activating the photocatalytic coating;
- le dispositif d'émission du rayonnement est porté par un bras monté en rotation alternée par rapport au panneau vitré autour d'un axe globalement longitudinal agencé à proximité d'un bord du panneau vitré ; - le bras est apte à s'escamoter dans un logement de l'élément de structure de caisse du véhicule lorsqu'il est en position de repos ;- The radiation emission device is carried by an arm mounted in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel around a generally longitudinal axis arranged near an edge of the glazed panel; - The arm is able to retract into a housing of the vehicle body structure element when it is in the rest position;
- l'agencement comporte un dispositif de mesure du degré de salissure de la face externe du panneau vitré, qui est relié à un dispositif électronique de commande du dispositif de projection, pour provoquer automatiquement la projection de liquide de nettoyage à partir d'une valeur prédéfinie du degré de salissure ;- the arrangement includes a device for measuring the degree of soiling of the external face of the glass panel, which is connected to an electronic device for controlling the projection device, for automatically causing the projection of cleaning liquid from a value predefined degree of soiling;
- le dispositif électronique de commande est apte à commander la projection de liquide de nettoyage par un l'intermédiaire d'un nombre de gicleurs qui varie en fonction du degré de salissure de la face externe du panneau vitré ;- The electronic control device is capable of controlling the spraying of cleaning liquid via a number of nozzles which varies according to the degree of soiling of the external face of the glass panel;
- une face interne ou externe du panneau vitré est recouverte d'un élément de chauffage. D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit pour la compréhension de laquelle on se reportera aux figures annexées parmi lesquelles :- an internal or external face of the glass panel is covered with a heating element. Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows for the understanding of which reference will be made to the appended figures among which:
- la figure 1 est une représentation schématique en perspective de l'arrière d'un véhicule automobile qui comporte un panneau vitré recouvert des revêtements conformes à l'invention, et dans laquelle le panneau vitré est associé à un dispositif de projection de liquide de nettoyage ;- Figure 1 is a schematic perspective representation of the rear of a motor vehicle which comprises a glass panel covered with coatings according to the invention, and in which the glass panel is associated with a device for spraying cleaning liquid ;
- la figure 2 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 1 , dans laquelle le dispositif de protection de liquide de nettoyage est associé à des éléments conformés aerodynamiquement ;- Figure 2 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in which the cleaning liquid protection device is associated with aerodynamically shaped elements;
- la figure 3 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 1 , dans laquelle on a représenté le dispositif de distribution de liquide de nettoyage associé au panneau vitré ;- Figure 3 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in which there is shown the cleaning liquid dispensing device associated with the glass panel;
- la figure 4 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 1 , dans laquelle le panneau vitré est associé à un dispositif de projection de liquide de nettoyage monté sur un bras pivotant.- Figure 4 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in which the glass panel is associated with a cleaning liquid spraying device mounted on a pivoting arm.
Pour la description de l'invention, on adoptera à titre non limitatif les orientations verticale, longitudinale et transversale selon le repère V, L, T indiqué aux figures. On adoptera aussi l'orientation d'arrière en avant comme étant la direction longitudinale et de droite à gauche en se reportant à la figure 1.For the description of the invention, the vertical, longitudinal and transverse orientations will be adopted, without limitation, according to the reference V, L, T indicated in the figures. We will also adopt the orientation from back to front as being the longitudinal direction and from right to left, referring to Figure 1.
Dans la description qui va suivre, des éléments identiques, similaires ou analogues seront désignés par les mêmes chiffres de référence.In the description which follows, identical, similar or analogous elements will be designated by the same reference numbers.
On a représenté à la figure 1 la partie arrière d'un véhicule automobile 10 qui comporte un hayon 12 de fermeture de la malle arrière du véhicule 10. Le hayon 12 est constitué, dans sa partie haute d'un panneau vitré 14 qui permet notamment au conducteur du véhicule 10 de voir vers l'arrière, et qui s'étend globalement dans un plan vertical transversal.FIG. 1 shows the rear part of a motor vehicle 10 which comprises a tailgate 12 for closing the rear trunk of the vehicle 10. The tailgate 12 is made up, in its upper part, of a glazed panel 14 which in particular allows the driver of the vehicle 10 to see rearward, and which extends generally in a transverse vertical plane.
Le panneau vitré 14 comporte un revêtement actif 16 qui est appliqué sur toute la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14, qui permet de supprimer l'ensemble des salissures qui sont présentes sur la dite face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14, sans qu'il soit nécessaire d'utiliser un mécanisme d'essuyage conventionnel qui comporte un balai d'essuyage. Conformément à l'invention, ce revêtement actif 16 comporte un revêtement hydrophile et un revêtement du type photocatalytique.The glass panel 14 has an active coating 16 which is applied to the entire external face 14e of the glass panel 14, which makes it possible to remove all of the dirt which is present on said external face 14e of the glass panel 14, without it it is necessary to use a conventional wiping mechanism which includes a wiper blade. According to the invention, this active coating 16 comprises a hydrophilic coating and a coating of the photocatalytic type.
L'utilisation du revêtement hydrophile permet d'obtenir un effet "mouillant" de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14, c'est-à-dire qu'il permet de répartir, ou étaler, sur toute la surface de la face externe 14e l'eau qui s'est déposée sur cette face, par exemple en cas de pluie. De plus, le revêtement hydrophile permet d'homogénéiser l'étalement de l'eau de manière qu'elle gêne le moins possible la visibilité pour le conducteur.The use of the hydrophilic coating makes it possible to obtain a "wetting" effect on the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14, that is to say that it makes it possible to distribute, or spread, over the entire surface of the external face. 14th the water which is deposited on this face, for example in the event of rain. In addition, the hydrophilic coating makes it possible to homogenize the spreading of the water so that it impairs visibility for the driver as little as possible.
Le revêtement hydrophile a aussi pour effet de maintenir de l'eau présente sur la face externe 14e le plus longtemps possible. Ainsi, les éléments polluants qui sont présents sont en même temps humidifiés, ce qui facilite leur suppression.The hydrophilic coating also has the effect of keeping water present on the external face 14e for as long as possible. Thus, the polluting elements which are present are at the same time humidified, which facilitates their removal.
Le revêtement photocatalytique permet de supprimer les éléments polluant présents sur la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14 par une réaction chimique qui est activée par la lumière, et plus particulièrement par le rayonnement ultraviolets.The photocatalytic coating makes it possible to remove the polluting elements present on the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 by a chemical reaction which is activated by light, and more particularly by ultraviolet radiation.
Lorsque la face externe 14e est sèche, le revêtement photocatalytique agit seul pour la suppression des éléments polluants. Cependant, lorsque la face externe est humide, du fait de l'action du revêtement hydrophile, les éléments polluants sont humides, et l'efficacité de leur suppression par la réaction photocatalytique est accrue, les deux revêtements agissent ainsi simultanément.When the external face 14e is dry, the photocatalytic coating acts alone for the removal of the polluting elements. However, when the external face is wet, due to the action of the hydrophilic coating, the polluting elements are wet, and the efficiency of their removal by the photocatalytic reaction is increased, the two coatings thus act simultaneously.
Il se peut que sous certaines conditions, la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14 soit recouverte d'une quantité d'eau insuffisante pour favoriser suffisamment longtemps la réaction photocatalytique. Ceci est par exemple le cas lors de projection de boues à la suite d'une averse, et à la fin d'une averse, lorsqu'il ne pleut plus.It may be that under certain conditions, the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 is covered with an insufficient quantity of water to promote the photocatalytic reaction long enough. This is for example the case during the projection of sludge following a downpour, and at the end of a downpour, when it is no longer raining.
Selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention, représentée à la figure 1 l'agencement pour le nettoyage de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14 comporte un dispositif de projection 18 de liquide de nettoyage 20 qui est agencé au niveau du bord horizontal d'extrémité supérieure 14s du panneau vitré 14. Il sera compris que l'invention n'est pas limitée à cette réalisation, et que le dispositif de projection 18 peut être agencé au niveau d'un bord latéral du panneau vitré 14.According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 1, the arrangement for cleaning the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 comprises a device 18 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 which is arranged at the horizontal edge d 'upper end 14s of the glass panel 14. It will be understood that the invention is not limited to this embodiment, and that the projection device 18 can be arranged at a lateral edge of the glazed panel 14.
Selon un premier aspect de cette variante, le dispositif de projection 18 de liquide de nettoyage 20 permet de fournir d'une quantité suffisante d'eau sur la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14 pour favoriser la réaction photocatalytique.According to a first aspect of this variant, the device 18 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 makes it possible to supply a sufficient quantity of water to the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 to promote the photocatalytic reaction.
Le plus, selon un deuxième aspect de cette variante, le liquide de nettoyage 20 projeté est constitué de produits de lavage, comme par exemple des produits détergents, qui permettent eux aussi de participer à la suppression des éléments polluants.In addition, according to a second aspect of this variant, the sprayed cleaning liquid 20 is made up of washing products, for example detergents, which also make it possible to participate in the removal of the polluting elements.
Le dispositif de projection 18 est constitué d'une série de gicleurs 22 par lesquels le liquide de nettoyage 20 est projeté sous la forme de plusieurs jets en direction d'au moins une partie de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14, qui est de préférence la partie offrant une meilleure visibilité au conducteur vers l'arrière, et qui est ici la totalité de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14.The projection device 18 consists of a series of nozzles 22 by which the cleaning liquid 20 is sprayed in the form of several jets in the direction of at least part of the external face 14e of the glass panel 14, which is of preferably the part offering better visibility to the driver towards the rear, and which here is the entire external face 14e of the glazed panel 14.
On a représenté à la figure 2 un mode de réalisation du dispositif de projection 18 selon lequel le dispositif de projection 18 comporte deux séries 24 de gicleurs 22, dont chacune est agencée au niveau d'une extrémité transversale du bord supérieur 14s du panneau vitré 14.FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the projection device 18 according to which the projection device 18 comprises two series 24 of nozzles 22, each of which is arranged at a transverse end of the upper edge 14s of the glass panel 14 .
Chaque série 24 de gicleurs 22 est associée à un élément 26 conformé aerodynamiquement de manière à re-diriger une partie du flux d'air qui est généré lors du déplacement du véhicule 10, et qui s'écoule le long du toit 28 du véhicule 10, que l'on a représenté par la flèche F, en direction d'une zone définie de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14.Each series 24 of nozzles 22 is associated with an element 26 aerodynamically shaped so as to redirect a part of the air flow which is generated during the movement of the vehicle 10, and which flows along the roof 28 of the vehicle 10 , which is represented by the arrow F, in the direction of a defined zone of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14.
Ce flux d'air redirigé, représenté par la flèche F' permet d'accélérer la suppression des éléments polluants par un effet de "soufflage", indépendamment de la vitesse de la réaction photocatalytique. De plus, le flux d'air a pour autre effet d'accélérer la suppression de l'eau présente sur cette zone définie de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14, et ainsi améliorer la vitesse de rétablissement de la visibilité au niveau de cette zone. Ici, le flux d'air redirigé F' circule le long de la partie centrale du panneau vitré 14, qui est la zone au travers de laquelle le conducteur du véhicule 10 regarde le plus fréquemment.This redirected air flow, represented by the arrow F 'makes it possible to accelerate the removal of the polluting elements by a "blowing" effect, independently of the speed of the photocatalytic reaction. In addition, the air flow has the other effect of accelerating the removal of the water present on this defined zone of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14, and thus improving the speed of restoration of visibility at this level. zoned. Here, the redirected air flow F 'circulates along the central part of the glazed panel 14, which is the area through which the driver of the vehicle 10 looks most frequently.
On a représenté à la figure 3 le dispositif d'alimentation 30 en liquide de nettoyage 20 du dispositif de projection 18.FIG. 3 shows the device 30 for supplying cleaning liquid 20 to the projection device 18.
Ce dispositif d'alimentation 30 comporte une pompe 32 d'alimentation qui est reliée à un réservoir (non représenté), un dispositif de chauffage 34 du liquide de nettoyage 20, pour éviter qu'il ne gèle par temps très froid, et une canalisation 36 d'alimentation du dispositif de projection 18. Le véhicule 10 comporte un dispositif de détection d'obstacles 40 qui fait partie d'un dispositif d'assistance au parcage et qui est agencé sur le hayon 12. Ce dispositif de détection 40 comporte généralement une vitre arrière 44 qui peut elle aussi être recouverte d'éléments polluants.This supply device 30 comprises a supply pump 32 which is connected to a reservoir (not shown), a heating device 34 for the cleaning liquid 20, to prevent it from freezing in very cold weather, and a pipe. 36 for supplying the projection device 18. The vehicle 10 includes an obstacle detection device 40 which is part of a parking assistance device and which is arranged on the tailgate 12. This detection device 40 generally comprises a rear window 44 which can also be covered with polluting elements.
Le dispositif de détection d'obstacles 40 peut être une caméra, orientée vers la direction globalement longitudinale arrière du véhicule 10. Le dispositif de détection d'obstacles 40 peut être un système radar, orienté vers la direction longitudinale arrière et/ou vers la direction transversale du véhicule 10.The obstacle detection device 40 can be a camera, oriented towards the generally longitudinal rear direction of the vehicle 10. The obstacle detection device 40 can be a radar system, oriented towards the rear longitudinal direction and / or towards the direction transverse of the vehicle 10.
Conformément à l'invention, le dispositif d'alimentation 30 comporte une canalisation 36 qui alimente un autre dispositif de projection 38 de liquide de nettoyage 20 pour supprimer les éléments polluants qui se déposent sur la vitre arrière 44 du dispositif de détection 40.According to the invention, the supply device 30 comprises a pipe 36 which supplies another device 38 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 to remove the polluting elements which are deposited on the rear window 44 of the detection device 40.
Par ailleurs, la vitre arrière 44 peut aussi être recouverte d'un revêtement composé d'un revêtement hydrophile et d'un revêtement photocatalytique.Furthermore, the rear window 44 can also be covered with a coating composed of a hydrophilic coating and a photocatalytic coating.
Le dispositif de projection 18 est un élément qui est relativement sensible aux agressions mécaniques externes. Il peut donc s'avérer particulièrement avantageux de dissimuler ce dispositif de projection 18 derrière un capot de protection 46 monté mobile par rapport au hayon 12, lorsqu'il n'est pas utilisé, comme on l'a représenté à la figure 4.The projection device 18 is an element which is relatively sensitive to external mechanical attack. It may therefore prove to be particularly advantageous to conceal this projection device 18 behind a protective cover 46 mounted movably relative to the tailgate 12, when it is not used, as shown in FIG. 4.
Selon un autre mode de réalisation dans laquelle la canalisation 36 alimente également un dispositif de projection 38 de liquide de nettoyage 20 sur une fenêtre 44 d'un dispositif de détection d'obstacles 40, peut être appliquée à tout type de panneau vitré comportant ou ne comportant pas de revêtement photocatalytique et/ou de revêtement hydrophile sur sa face externe.According to another embodiment in which the pipe 36 also supplies a device 38 for spraying cleaning liquid 20 onto a window 44 of an obstacle detection device 40, can be applied to any type of glazed panel comprising or not with no photocatalytic coating and / or hydrophilic coating on its external face.
On a aussi représenté à la figure 4 une variante de réalisation du dispositif de projection 18 selon laquelle il est monté mobile par rapport au panneau vitré 14, de manière qu'il projette du liquide de nettoyage 20 sur une zone définie du panneau vitré 14 au cours de son mouvement.FIG. 4 also shows an alternative embodiment of the projection device 18 according to which it is mounted movable relative to the glass panel 14, so that it projects cleaning liquid 20 onto a defined area of the glass panel 14 at during its movement.
Ici, le dispositif de projection 18 est porté par un bras 48 qui est monté mobile par rapport au hayon 12 autour d'un axe longitudinal A agencé à proximité du bord inférieur 14i du panneau vitré 14. Ainsi, le dispositif de projection 18 permet de projeté du liquide de nettoyage 20 sur un secteur angulaire prédéfini du panneau vitré 14, qui est de préférence agencé dans la zone de vision arrière du conducteur.Here, the projection device 18 is carried by an arm 48 which is mounted movable relative to the tailgate 12 about a longitudinal axis A arranged near the lower edge 14i of the glass panel 14. Thus, the projection device 18 allows sprayed cleaning liquid 20 on a predefined angular sector of the glass panel 14, which is preferably arranged in the rear vision area of the driver.
De plus, le bras 48 permet de déplacer le dispositif de projection 18 dans un grand nombre de positions, et plus particulièrement une position de repos représenté à la figure 4 dans laquelle le dispositif de projection 18 et le bras 48 sont reçus dans un logement 50 du hayon 12, qui est fermé par le capot de protection 46.In addition, the arm 48 makes it possible to move the projection device 18 in a large number of positions, and more particularly a rest position shown in FIG. 4 in which the projection device 18 and the arm 48 are received in a housing 50 tailgate 12, which is closed by the protective cover 46.
Selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention, le dispositif de projection 18 comporte plusieurs séries de gicleurs 22, dont une série de gicleurs 22 est agencée au niveau du bord supérieur 14s du panneau vitré 14, et dont une autre série de gicleurs 22 est portée par le bras mobile 48.According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the projection device 18 comprises several series of nozzles 22, including a series of nozzles 22 is arranged at the upper edge 14s of the glass panel 14, and of which another series of nozzles 22 is carried by the movable arm 48.
L'efficacité du traitement par la combinaison des revêtements photocatalytique et hydrophile dépend de la présence d'eau sur la face externe 14e du panneau vitre 14, mais elle dépend aussi de la présence de lumière, et plus particulièrement d'un rayonnement ultraviolet pour activer la photocatalyse.The effectiveness of the treatment by the combination of photocatalytic and hydrophilic coatings depends on the presence of water on the external face 14e of the glass panel 14, but it also depends on the presence of light, and more particularly of ultraviolet radiation to activate photocatalysis.
Les rayonnements ultraviolets sont naturellement présents la journée, car ils sont émis par le soleil. Cependant, en fonction des conditions climatiques extérieures, notamment en présence de nuages épais, ainsi que la nuit, les rayonnements ultraviolets sont insuffisants voire inexistants pour activer suffisamment la photocatalyse. Il est alors nécessaire de pourvoir un dispositif d'émission d'un rayonnement apte à activer la photocatalyse, notamment un rayonnement ultraviolet, conformément à une variante de réalisation de l'invention (non représentée). Selon un premier aspect de cette variante de l'invention, le dispositif d'émission de rayonnement ultraviolet est fixé au véhicule 10, de manière à émettre un rayonnement ultraviolet en direction de la zone du panneau vitré 14 à nettoyer. Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, le dispositif d'émission du rayonnement ultraviolet est porté par un bras 48 monté mobile par rapport au hayon 12, qui est préférentiellement le bras 48 qui porte le dispositif de projection 18.Ultraviolet radiation is naturally present during the day because it is emitted by the sun. However, depending on outdoor climatic conditions, especially in the presence of thick clouds, as well as at night, ultraviolet radiation is insufficient or even non-existent to activate photocatalysis sufficiently. It is then necessary to provide a device for emitting radiation capable of activating photocatalysis, in particular ultraviolet radiation, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention (not shown). According to a first aspect of this variant of the invention, the device for emitting ultraviolet radiation is fixed to the vehicle 10, so as to emit ultraviolet radiation towards the region of the glazed panel 14 to be cleaned. According to another aspect of the invention, the device for emitting ultraviolet radiation is carried by an arm 48 mounted to move relative to the tailgate 12, which is preferably the arm 48 which carries the projection device 18.
La commande du dispositif de projection 18 est généralement effectuée par le conducteur lui-même, qui actionne un commutateur spécifique. Ainsi, la mise en fonctionnement du dispositif de projection 18 dépend de l'appréciation du conducteur du degré de salissure de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14. Cependant, lorsque le conducteur estime que le degré de salissure de la face externe 14e nécessite la projection de liquide de nettoyage 20, il se peut que ce degré de salissure soit trop important pour permettre un nettoyage suffisamment rapide de la face externe 14e.The control of the projection device 18 is generally carried out by the driver himself, who actuates a specific switch. Thus, the operation of the projection device 18 depends on the driver's assessment of the degree of soiling of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14. However, when the driver considers that the degree of soiling of the external face 14e requires the projection of cleaning liquid 20, this degree of soiling may be too great to allow sufficiently rapid cleaning of the external face 14e.
On a représenté aux figures 1 à 3 une variante de réalisation dispositif de projection 18 selon lequel un dispositif de mesure 52 du degré de salissure de la face externe 14e du panneau vitre 14 est fixé sur la face interne du panneau vitré 14, et est relié à un dispositif électronique de commande (non représenté) du dispositif de projection 18.FIGS. 1 to 3 show an alternative embodiment of the projection device 18 according to which a device 52 for measuring the degree of soiling of the external face 14e of the glass panel 14 is fixed on the internal face of the glass panel 14, and is connected to an electronic control device (not shown) of the projection device 18.
Ce dispositif de mesure 52 permet de d'actionner le dispositif de projection 18 à partir d'une valeur prédéfinie du degré de salissure de la face externe 14e, sans qu'une intervention du conducteur ne soit nécessaire. Cette valeur prédéfinie du degré de salissure est préférentiellement déterminée de manière que le nettoyage de la face externe 14e soit suffisamment rapide pour ne pas gêner la visibilité du conducteur, tout en évitant que les phases de nettoyage automatique se répètent trop fréquemment.This measurement device 52 makes it possible to actuate the projection device 18 from a predefined value of the degree of soiling of the external face 14e, without any intervention by the driver being necessary. This predefined value of the degree of soiling is preferably determined so that the cleaning of the external face 14e is fast enough not to hinder the visibility of the driver, while preventing the automatic cleaning phases from being repeated too frequently.
Le degré de salissure du panneau vitré peut parfois être fortement supérieur à la valeur prédéfinie du degré de salissure pour laquelle la projection de liquide est déclenchée. Le nettoyage du panneau vitré 14 peut alors prendre un temps important avant qu'une visibilité correcte ne soit rétablie.The degree of soiling of the glass panel can sometimes be considerably greater than the preset value of the degree of soiling for which the spraying of liquid is triggered. Cleaning the glass panel 14 can then take a long time before correct visibility is restored.
Pour augmenter la vitesse du rétablissement de la visibilité, et selon une autre variante de réalisation de l'invention, le dispositif électronique de commande du dispositif de projection 18 est apte à commander la projection de liquide de nettoyage 20 par un nombre plus important de gicleurs 22 du dispositif de projection 18 par rapport au nombre de gicleurs utilisés pour le nettoyage de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14 lorsque la valeur du degré de salissure est voisine de la valeur prédéfinie. C'est-à-dire que le dispositif électronique de commande est apte à commander la projection de liquide de nettoyage 20 par un l'intermédiaire d'un nombre de gicleurs 22 qui varie en fonction du degré de salissure de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14.To increase the speed of reestablishing visibility, and according to another alternative embodiment of the invention, the electronic device for controlling the projection device 18 is capable of controlling the projection of cleaning liquid 20 by a greater number of nozzles. 22 of the projection device 18 with respect to the number of nozzles used for cleaning the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 when the value of the degree of soiling is close to the predefined value. That is to say that the electronic control device is capable of controlling the spraying of cleaning liquid 20 by means of a number of nozzles 22 which varies according to the degree of soiling of the external face 14e of the glass panel 14.
Ainsi, une plus grande quantité de liquide de nettoyage 20 est projetée, ce qui permet d'accélérer le nettoyage de la face externe 14e du panneau vitré 14.Thus, a greater quantity of cleaning liquid 20 is sprayed, which makes it possible to accelerate the cleaning of the external face 14e of the glazed panel 14.
Selon les conditions climatiques extérieures, il se peut que de la glace, ou du givre se forme sur la face extérieure 14e du panneau vitré 14, il est alors nécessaire de la faire fondre. Pour cela, et conformément à encore une autre variante de réalisation de l'invention (non représentée), une face interne, ou externe 14e du panneau vitré 14 est recouverte d'un élément de chauffage.Depending on the external climatic conditions, it may be that ice or frost forms on the external face 14e of the glass panel 14, it is then necessary to melt it. For this, and in accordance with yet another alternative embodiment of the invention (not shown), an internal or external face 14e of the glazed panel 14 is covered with a heating element.
Cet élément de chauffage consiste en un fil chauffant réparti sur toute la surface de la face du panneau vitré, ou bien en un film transparent qui recouvre la totalité de la face du panneau vitré.This heating element consists of a heating wire distributed over the entire surface of the face of the glass panel, or else of a transparent film which covers the entire face of the glass panel.
Selon un mode de réalisation de cette variante, l'élément chauffant est agencé sur la face interne du panneau vitré 14, de manière qu'il soit protégé des agressions extérieures, car c'est généralement un élément relativement fragile. According to one embodiment of this variant, the heating element is arranged on the internal face of the glazed panel 14, so that it is protected from external aggressions, since it is generally a relatively fragile element.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Agencement pour le nettoyage de la face externe (14e) d'un panneau vitré d'un véhicule automobile (10) qui s'étend globalement dans un plan vertical, comportant un revêtement hydrophile et un revêtement actif, du type photocatalytique, qui sont appliqués sur la face verticale externe (14 e) du panneau vitré, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif de projection (18) de liquide de nettoyage (20) en direction d'au moins une partie de la face externe (14 e) du panneau vitré (14) qui comporte au moins une série de plusieurs gicleurs (22) alignés le long d'un bord d'extrémité supérieure ou d'un bord latéral du panneau vitré (14).1. Arrangement for cleaning the external face (14e) of a glazed panel of a motor vehicle (10) which extends generally in a vertical plane, comprising a hydrophilic coating and an active coating, of the photocatalytic type, which are applied to the external vertical face (14 e) of the glazed panel, characterized in that it comprises a device (18) for spraying cleaning liquid (20) towards at least part of the external face (14 e) of the glass panel (14) which comprises at least one series of several nozzles (22) aligned along an upper end edge or a side edge of the glass panel (14).
2. Agencement selon la revendication précédente, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de projection (18) est alimenté en liquide de nettoyage (20) par l'intermédiaire d'une canalisation (36) qui alimente également un dispositif de projection (38) de liquide de nettoyage (20) sur une fenêtre (44) d'un dispositif de détection d'obstacles (40).2. Arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the projection device (18) is supplied with cleaning liquid (20) via a pipe (36) which also supplies a projection device (38) of cleaning liquid (20) on a window (44) of an obstacle detection device (40).
3. Agencement selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de projection (18) comporte deux séries (24) de gicleurs (22), chacune associée à un élément (26) conformé aerodynamiquement de manière à re-diriger une partie du flux d'air généré lors du déplacement du véhicule (10) en direction d'une zone prédéfinie du panneau vitré (14).3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the projection device (18) comprises two series (24) of nozzles (22), each associated with an element (26) aerodynamically shaped so as to re-direct a part of the air flow generated during movement of the vehicle (10) towards a predefined area of the glass panel (14).
4. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de projection (18) comporte au moins un gicleur (22) monté mobile par rapport au panneau vitré (14) de manière à projeter du liquide de nettoyage (20) lors de son mouvement par rapport au panneau vitré (14).4. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projection device (18) comprises at least one nozzle (22) mounted movable relative to the glass panel (14) so as to spray cleaning liquid ( 20) during its movement relative to the glass panel (14).
5. Agencement selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que le gicleur (22) mobile est porté par un bras (48) monté mobile en rotation alternée par rapport au panneau vitré (14) autour d'un axe (A) globalement longitudinal agencé à proximité d'un bord (14i) du panneau vitré (14). 5. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that the movable nozzle (22) is carried by an arm (48) mounted movable in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel (14) around an axis (A) generally longitudinal arranged near an edge (14i) of the glass panel (14).
6. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif pour émettre un rayonnement, notamment un rayonnement ultraviolet, qui est apte à activer le revêtement photocatalytique.6. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a device for emitting radiation, in particular ultraviolet radiation, which is capable of activating the photocatalytic coating.
7. Agencement selon la revendication précédente, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif d'émission du rayonnement est porté par un bras (48) monté en rotation alternée par rapport au panneau vitré (14) autour d'un axe (A) globalement longitudinal agencé à proximité d'un bord (14i) du panneau vitré (14).7. Arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the radiation emission device is carried by an arm (48) mounted in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel (14) around an axis (A) generally longitudinal arranged near an edge (14i) of the glass panel (14).
8. Agencement selon l'une des revendications 5 ou 7, caractérisé en ce que le bras (48) est apte à s'escamoter dans un logement (50) d'un élément de structure de caisse (50) du véhicule (10) lorsqu'il est en position de repos.8. Arrangement according to one of claims 5 or 7, characterized in that the arm (48) is able to retract into a housing (50) of a body structure element (50) of the vehicle (10) when in the rest position.
9. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif (52) de mesure du degré de salissure de la face externe (14e) du panneau vitré (14), qui est relié à un dispositif électronique de commande du dispositif de projection (18), pour provoquer automatiquement la projection de liquide de nettoyage (20) à partir d'une valeur prédéfinie du degré de salissure.9. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a device (52) for measuring the degree of soiling of the external face (14e) of the glass panel (14), which is connected to a device projection device control electronics (18), for automatically causing the spraying of cleaning liquid (20) from a predefined value of the degree of soiling.
10. Agencement selon la revendication précédente, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif électronique de commande est apte à commander la projection de liquide de nettoyage (20) par l'intermédiaire d'un nombre de gicleurs (22) qui varie en fonction du degré de salissure de la face externe (14e) du panneau vitré (14).10. Arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the electronic control device is capable of controlling the spraying of cleaning liquid (20) by means of a number of nozzles (22) which varies according to the degree of soiling of the external face (14e) of the glass panel (14).
11. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'une face interne ou externe (14e) du panneau vitré (14) est recouverte d'un élément de chauffage. 11. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an internal or external face (14e) of the glass panel (14) is covered with a heating element.
12. Agencement pour le nettoyage de la face externe (14e) d'un panneau vitré d'un véhicule automobile (10) qui s'étend globalement dans un plan verticale, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif de projection (18) de liquide de nettoyage (20) en direction d'au moins une partie de la face externe (14 e) du panneau vitré (14) qui comporte au moins une série de plusieurs gicleurs (22) alignés le long d'un bord d'extrémité supérieure ou d'un bord latéral du panneau vitré (14) et en ce que le dispositif de projection (18) est alimenté en liquide de nettoyage (20) par l'intermédiaire d'une canalisation (36) qui alimente également un dispositif de projection (38) de liquide de nettoyage (20) sur une fenêtre (44) d'un dispositif de détection d'obstacles (40).12. Arrangement for cleaning the external face (14e) of a glazed panel of a motor vehicle (10) which extends generally in a vertical plane, characterized in that it comprises a projection device (18) of cleaning liquid (20) towards at least part of the external face (14 e) of the glazed panel (14) which comprises at least a series of several nozzles (22) aligned along an edge of upper end or a side edge of the glass panel (14) and in that the projection device (18) is supplied with cleaning liquid (20) via a pipe (36) which also supplies a device spraying (38) of cleaning liquid (20) on a window (44) of an obstacle detection device (40).
13. Agencement selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de projection (18) comporte deux séries (24) de gicleurs (22), chacune associée à un élément (26) conformé aerodynamiquement de manière à re-diriger une partie du flux d'air généré lors du déplacement du véhicule (10) en direction d'une zone prédéfinie du panneau vitré (14).13. Arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that the projection device (18) comprises two series (24) of nozzles (22), each associated with an element (26) aerodynamically shaped so as to re-direct part of the air flow generated during movement of the vehicle (10) towards a predefined area of the glass panel (14).
14. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 12 à 13, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de projection (18) comporte au moins un gicleur (22) monté mobile par rapport au panneau vitré (14) de manière à projeter du liquide de nettoyage (20) lors de son mouvement par rapport au panneau vitré (14).14. Arrangement according to any one of claims 12 to 13, characterized in that the projection device (18) comprises at least one nozzle (22) mounted movable relative to the glass panel (14) so as to project liquid of cleaning (20) during its movement relative to the glass panel (14).
15. Agencement selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que le gicleur (22) mobile est porté par un bras (48) monté mobile en rotation alternée par rapport au panneau vitré (14) autour d'un axe (A) globalement longitudinal agencé à proximité d'un bord (14i) du panneau vitré (14).15. Arrangement according to claim 14, characterized in that the movable nozzle (22) is carried by an arm (48) mounted movable in alternating rotation relative to the glazed panel (14) around an axis (A) generally longitudinal arranged near an edge (14i) of the glass panel (14).
16. Agencement selon la revendication 15, caractérisé en ce que le bras (48) est apte à s'escamoter dans un logement (50) d'un élément de structure de caisse (50) du véhicule (10) lorsqu'il est en position de repos. 16. Arrangement according to claim 15, characterized in that the arm (48) is able to retract into a housing (50) of a body structure element (50) of the vehicle (10) when it is in rest position.
17. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 12 à 16, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un dispositif (52) de mesure du degré de salissure de la face externe (14e) du panneau vitré (14), qui est relié à un dispositif électronique de commande du dispositif de projection (18), pour provoquer automatiquement la projection de liquide de nettoyage (20) à partir d'une valeur prédéfinie du degré de salissure.17. Arrangement according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that it comprises a device (52) for measuring the degree of soiling of the external face (14e) of the glass panel (14), which is connected to an electronic device for controlling the projection device (18), for automatically causing the projection of cleaning liquid (20) from a predefined value of the degree of soiling.
18. Agencement selon la revendication précédente, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif électronique de commande est apte à commander la projection de liquide de nettoyage (20) par l'intermédiaire d'un nombre de gicleurs (22) qui varie en fonction du degré de salissure de la face externe (14e) du panneau vitré (14).18. Arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the electronic control device is capable of controlling the spraying of cleaning liquid (20) by means of a number of nozzles (22) which varies according to the degree of soiling of the external face (14e) of the glass panel (14).
19. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 13 à 19, caractérisé en ce qu'une face interne ou externe (14e) du panneau vitré (14) est recouverte d'un élément de chauffage.19. Arrangement according to any one of claims 13 to 19, characterized in that an internal or external face (14e) of the glazed panel (14) is covered with a heating element.
20. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 12 à 19, caractérisé en ce qu'un revêtement hydrophile et un revêtement actif, du type photocatalytique, sont appliqués sur la face verticale externe (14 e) du panneau vitré (14).20. Arrangement according to any one of claims 12 to 19, characterized in that a hydrophilic coating and an active coating, of the photocatalytic type, are applied to the external vertical face (14 e) of the glass panel (14).
22. Agencement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le panneau vitré (14) s'étend globalement dans un plan transversal. 22. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the glazed panel (14) extends generally in a transverse plane.
PCT/EP2004/005959 2003-06-02 2004-06-02 System for cleaning a window panel WO2004106127A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0306702A FR2855479A1 (en) 2003-06-02 2003-06-02 ARRANGEMENT FOR CLEANING A GLASS PANEL BY COMBINING PHOTOCATALYTIC AND HYDROPHILIC COATINGS
FR0306702 2003-06-02

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WO2004106127A1 true WO2004106127A1 (en) 2004-12-09

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JP2014008868A (en) * 2012-06-29 2014-01-20 Koito Mfg Co Ltd Rear window cleaner of vehicle
JP2015110369A (en) * 2013-12-06 2015-06-18 アスモ株式会社 Washing device for vehicle
FR3020984A1 (en) * 2014-05-14 2015-11-20 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa AUTOMOTIVE SELF-CLEANING AUTOMOTIVE GLAZING UNDER UV EXCITATION

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FR3020984A1 (en) * 2014-05-14 2015-11-20 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa AUTOMOTIVE SELF-CLEANING AUTOMOTIVE GLAZING UNDER UV EXCITATION

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