Google’s self-driving cars include a number of sensors such as cameras, radar sensors, laser-based sensors. These sensors are encased in a dome placed on the top of the car. Since the sensor dome is placed outside the car, it can get dirty which may compromise the capability of sensors.
Google’s patent technology includes multiple wipers that are capable of rotating 360 degrees around the dome. Further, a wiper fluid may be activated along with the wipers, so that whatever is dirtying up the dome can be quickly cleaned.
Patent Information
Publication number: US 20160121855
Patent Title: PASSIVE WIPER SYSTEM
Publication date: 5 May 2016
Filing date: 31 Oct 2014
Inventors: Graham Doorley; Paul Thomas Hansen Karplus; Peter Avram;
Applicant: Google Inc.