US 12,233,823 B2
Reducing obstruction
Timothy M. Lyons, Batavia, IL (US)
Assigned to International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC, Lisle, IL (US)
Filed by International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC, Lisle, IL (US)
Filed on Jul. 6, 2022, as Appl. No. 17/858,853.
Prior Publication US 2024/0010170 A1, Jan. 11, 2024
Int. Cl. B60S 1/56 (2006.01); B60S 1/54 (2006.01); B60S 1/66 (2006.01)
CPC B60S 1/56 (2013.01) [B60S 1/66 (2013.01); B60S 1/54 (2013.01)] 4 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A method for reducing obstruction compromising operation of at least one sensor on a vehicle having a skin and at least one computer, the at least one sensor having a portion disposed through the skin, the portion having a surface offset from the skin, an apparatus for reducing obstruction on the at least one sensor including a member disposed offset from the surface, the member including a first side having an inner surface and an outer surface that opposes the surface of the portion, and a second side having a second side inner surface and a second side outer surface, the second side outer surface facing exterior of the vehicle, a space disposed between the second side inner surface and the inner surface, a first port and a second port pneumatically connected with the space, at least one of the first port and the second port pneumatically connected with a source of compressed air on the vehicle, and a vent pneumatically connected with at least one of the first port and the second port, the method comprising the steps of:
activating at least one of the first port and the second port to allow compressed air to flow from the source of compressed air into the space between the inner surface of the second side and the inner surface of the first side of the member;
deforming the outer surface of the second side of the member with compressed air in the space thereby separating obstruction from the outer surface; and
directing air adjacent the outer surface to encourage removal of obstruction from the outer surface of the second side of the member associated with the at least one sensor.