Patent Grant
10596604
This disclosure relates generally to ultrasonics and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus using multistage ultrasonic lens cleaning for improved water removal.
It's an unfortunate occurrence, but the number of motor vehicle deaths appears to be increasing every year. There are variety of reasons for this trend, including an increase in the driving population. Still, more engineering effort is needed to reduce risk of death or serious injury in automobiles. In addition to avoiding risks to drivers and passengers, more robust obstacle and collision avoidance systems are required to reduce the high cost of damage to automobiles and other property due to collisions.
Fortunately, new technologies are becoming available that manufacturers can incorporate into new automobiles at a reasonable cost. Some promising technologies that may help to improve obstacle and collision avoidance systems are digital camera based surround view and camera monitoring systems. In some cases, cameras can increase safety by being mounted in locations that can give drivers access to alternative perspectives, which is otherwise diminished or unavailable to the driver's usual view through windows or mirrors. While mounting one or more cameras for alternative views can provide many advantages, some challenges may remain.
Mounting cameras for alternative views may expose optical surfaces associated with cameras to hazards such as fluid droplets (e.g., water droplets) that can interfere with visibility of such alternative views. In the described examples, methods and apparatus for using multistage (e.g., two stage or more) ultrasonic lens cleaning for water removal are disclosed. In certain described examples, an apparatus can expel fluid from a droplet on an optical surface using an ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the optical surface and having a plurality of resonant frequency bands (e.g., first and second resonant frequency bands, or more). A signal generator can generate a first signal including a first frequency to be coupled with the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface, and can generate a second signal including a second frequency to be coupled with the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface. In some examples, the first frequency of the first signal can be a first sweep of frequencies (e.g., a first frequency sweep) within the first resonant frequency band of the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the optical surface. In some examples, the second frequency of the second signal can be a second sweep of frequencies (e.g., a second frequency sweep) within the second resonant frequency band of the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the optical surface. Switching circuitry can activate the ultrasonic transducer at the first frequency to reduce the droplet from a first size to a second size, and to activate the ultrasonic transducer at the second frequency to reduce the droplet from the second size to a third size.
In other described examples, a method to operate upon a fluid droplet received on a surface is disclosed. For example, generating a first signal including a first frequency to be coupled with an ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface can facilitate activating the ultrasonic transducer at the first frequency by coupling the first signal with the ultrasonic transducer, and reducing the fluid droplet using the first frequency of the first signal. Further, generating a second signal including a second frequency to be coupled with the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface can facilitate activating the ultrasonic transducer at the second frequency by coupling the second signal with the ultrasonic transducer, and reducing the fluid droplet using the second frequency of the second signal.
The example of
In the example of
In the example of
For example, first switch controller 128 can control both first low and high side switches 130a, 130b to be in a closed or conducting state, so as to activate the first filter 112a (e.g. first filter network 112a) in response to the first control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. For example, first switch controller 128 can control both first low and high side switches 130a, 130b to be in the open or non-conducting state, so as to deactivate the first filter 112a (e.g. first filter network 112a) in response to a first control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124.
In the example of
For example, second switch controller 138 can control both second low and high side switches 140a, 140b to be in a closed or conducting state, so as to activate the second filter 114a (e.g. second filter network 114a) in response to the second control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. For example, second switch controller 138 can control both second low and high side switches 140a, 140b to be in the open or non-conducting state, so as to deactivate the second filter 114a (e.g. second filter network 114a) in response to a second control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124.
Also included in the example of
Also included in the example of
The first filter 112a (e.g., first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter 112b (e.g., first additional filter network 112b) can be included in a first balanced filter 112a, 112b. The pair of ultrasonic transducer couplers 142a, 142b can be coupled between the first filter 112a (e.g., first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter 112b (e.g., first additional filter network 112b) in the first balanced filter 112a, 112b including the first filter 112a (e.g., first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter 112b (e.g., first additional filter network 112b.)
The first balanced filter 112a, 112b may be desired for its quality factor relative to quality factor of the first filter (e.g. first filter network 112a) alone. For example, the first filter network 112a can have a first filter network quality factor. The first balanced filter 112a, 112b including the first filter network 112a and the first additional filter network 112b can have a first balanced filter quality factor. The first balanced filter quality factor of the first balanced filter 112a, 112b can be greater than the first filter network quality factor of the first filter network 112a.
The first filter 112a can be matched pair tuned with the first additional filter 112b within the first resonant frequency band to facilitate matching the first output impedance 110a of the first amplifier 108a with impedance of the ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the optical surface 104 and to reduce by atomization the fluid droplet 102 from the first droplet size 102a to the second droplet size 102b.
Similarly, in addition to the second filter 114a (e.g. second filter network 114a), the example of
The second filter 114a (e.g., second filter network 114a) and the second additional filter 114b (e.g., second additional filter network 114b) can be included in a second balanced filter 114a, 114b. The pair of ultrasonic transducer couplers 142a, 142b can be coupled between the second filter 114a (e.g., second filter network 114a) and the second additional filter 114b (e.g., second additional filter network 114b) in the second balanced filter 114a, 114b including the second filter 114a, (e.g., second filter network 114a) and the second additional filter 114b (e.g., second additional filter network 114b.)
Similar to what was discussed with respect to the first balanced filter 112a, 112b, the second balanced filter 114a, 114b may be desired for its quality factor relative to quality factor of the second filter (e.g. second filter network 114a) alone. For example, the second filter network 114a can have a second filter network quality factor. The second balanced filter 114a, 114b including the second filter network 114a and the second additional filter network 114b can have a second balanced filter quality factor. The second balanced filter quality factor of the second balanced filter 114a, 114b can be greater than the second filter network quality factor of the second filter network 114a.
The second filter 114a can be matched pair tuned with the second additional filter 114b within the second resonant frequency band to facilitate matching the first output impedance 110a of the first amplifier 108a with impedance of the ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the surface 104 and to reduce by atomization the fluid droplet from the second droplet size 102b to the third droplet size 102c.
In the example of
For example, first switch controller 128 can control both the first additional low side switch 150a and the first additional high side switch 150b to be in a closed or conducting state, so as to activate the first additional filter 112b (e.g. first additional filter network 112b) in response to the first control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. At the same time, the first switch controller 128 can also control both first low and high side switches 130a, 130b to be in the closed or conducting state, so as to activate the first filter 112a (e.g. first filter network 112a) in response to the first control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. Accordingly, in response to the first control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124, the first switch controller 128 can activate both the first filter 112a (e.g. first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter 112b (e.g. first additional filter network 112b.) Moreover, since the first balanced filter 112a, 112b can include both the first filter 112a (e.g., first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter network 112b (e.g. first additional filter network 112b), in response to the first control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124, the first switch controller 128 can activate the first balanced filter 112a, 112b.
For example, first switch controller 128 can control both the first additional low side switch 150a and the first additional high side switch 150b to be in an open or non-conducting state, so as to deactivate the first additional filter 112b (e.g. first additional filter network 112b) in response to the first control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. At the same time, the first switch controller 128 can also control both first low and high side switches 130a, 130b to be in the open or non-conducting state, so as to deactivate the first filter 112a (e.g. first filter network 112a) in response to the first control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. Accordingly, in response to the first control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124, the first switch controller 128 can deactivate both the first filter 112a (e.g. first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter 112b (e.g. first additional filter network 112b.) Moreover, since the first balanced filter 112a, 112b can include both the first filter 112a (e.g., first filter network 112a) and the first additional filter network 112b (e.g. first additional filter network 112b), in response to the first control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124, the first switch controller 128 can deactivate the first balanced filter 112a, 112b.
In the example of
As shown in the example of
For example, second switch controller 138 can control both the second additional low side switch 160a and the second additional high side switch 160b to be in an open or non-conducting state, so as to deactivate the second additional filter 114b (e.g. second additional filter network 114b) in response to the second control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. At the same time, the second switch controller 138 can also control both second low and high side switches 140a, 140b to be in the open or non-conducting state, so as to deactivate the second filter 114a (e.g. second filter network 114b) in response to the second control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. Accordingly, in response to the second control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124, the second switch controller 138 can deactivate both the second filter 114a (e.g. second filter network 114a) and the second additional filter 114b (e.g. second additional filter network 114b.) Moreover, since the second balanced filter 114a, 114b can include both the second filter 114a (e.g., second filter network 114a) and the second additional filter network 114b (e.g. second additional filter network 114b), in response to the second control deactivation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124, the second switch controller 138 can deactivate the second balanced filter 114a, 114b.
As shown in the example of
As mentioned previously, in the example of
As shown in the example of
The circuitry controller 116 can begin ramping up the amplitude of the first signal at the ultrasonic transducer 106 from a predetermined initial amplitude level of the first signal to a predetermined full amplitude level of the first signal. At the same time, in a similarly way, circuitry controller 116 can also begin ramping up the amplitude of the first additional signal at the ultrasonic transducer 106 from a predetermined initial amplitude level of the first additional signal to a predetermined full amplitude level of the first additional signal.
For example, respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal can be ramped up (e.g., increased) by the circuitry controller 116 from their respective predetermined initial amplitude levels to their respective predetermined full amplitude levels at a predetermined ramp up rate. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can begin ramping up (e.g., increasing) respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp up rate. The circuitry controller 116 can continue ramping up respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp up rate, by increasing respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal, while respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal have not yet been reached. Because the circuitry controller 116 can control and/or increase and/or set the respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that ramping up of the first signal and the first additional signal is finished. For example, as the circuitry controller 116 is finishing ramping up, the circuitry controller 116 can control and/or increase and/or set the respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal to their respective predetermined full amplitude levels. For example, after the circuitry controller 116 controls and/or increases and/or sets the respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal to their respective predetermined full amplitude levels, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that ramping up (e.g. increasing amplitude of the first signal and first additional signal) is finished.
In another example of ramping up, an amplitude sensor 162 can include an analog differential amplifier that can differentially sense voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer 106. The voltage differentially sensed by the analog differential amplifier across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is indicative of respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal in antiphase with one another. The first signal and the first additional signal can be ramped up by the circuitry controller 116 from their respective predetermined initial amplitude levels to their respective predetermined full amplitude levels at a predetermined ramp up rate. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can begin ramping up the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp up rate. The circuitry controller 116 can continue ramping up the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp up rate, by increasing respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal, while respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal have not yet been reached. For example, as the circuitry controller 116 is finishing ramping up, the circuitry controller 116 can use the analog differential amplifier in differentially sensing the voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer. This measurement can be the first sensed amplitude 164a and can be indicative of respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal in antiphase with one another. In this example, the amplitude comparator 166 can compare the first sensed amplitude 164a to the ascending target amplitude 168a, for example, to determine whether the first sensed amplitude 164a satisfies the ascending target amplitude 168a for the first signal and the first additional signal. For example, when the amplitude comparator 166 determines that the first sensed amplitude 164a is below the ascending target amplitude 168a, the amplitude comparator 166 can determine that the first sensed amplitude 164a does not satisfy the ascending target amplitude 168a for the first signal and the first additional signal. The circuitry controller 116 can adjust to increase respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal based on the first sensed amplitude 164a. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can adjust to increase amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal based on the amplitude comparator 166 determining that the first sensed amplitude 164a does not satisfy the ascending target amplitude 168a. The ascending target amplitude 168a can be based on the respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal, so that the circuitry controller 116 can adjust to increase respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal to the predetermined full amplitude levels.
The circuitry controller 116 can then use the analog differential amplifier in differentially sensing the voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer, so as to determine a second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal. The amplitude comparator 166 can compare the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal to the ascending target amplitude 168a, for example, to determine whether the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal satisfies the ascending target amplitude 168a. For example, when the amplitude comparator 166 determines that the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal meets, or for example exceeds the ascending target amplitude 168a, the amplitude comparator 166 can determine that the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal satisfies the ascending target amplitude 168a. For example, when the amplitude comparator 166 determines that the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal satisfies the ascending target amplitude 168a, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that increasing the amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal is finished. For example, since the ascending target amplitude 168a can be based on the respective predetermined full amplitude levels of first signal and the first additional signal, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal have been increased to reach the predetermined full amplitude levels of first signal and the first additional signal. This comparison can determine that ramping up, and increasing the amplitude of the first signal and first additional signal, is finished. Similarly, in case of overshooting the ascending target amplitude 168a, the circuitry controller 116 can then use the analog differential amplifier in differentially sensing the voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer, so as to determine decreasing the amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal to match the ascending target amplitude 168a.
Ramping up the respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal, as just discussed in various prior examples, can facilitate activating the ultrasonic transducer 106 at the first frequency within the first resonant frequency band of the ultrasonic transducer. For example, by coupling the first signal and the first additional signal, the fluid droplet 102 can be reduced by atomization from the first droplet size 102a to the second droplet size 102b. Thereafter, the circuitry controller 116 can begin limiting the first signal and the first additional signal by ramping down the respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal at ultrasonic transducer from the respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal to the respective predetermined reduced levels of the first signal and the first additional signal.
For example, respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal can be ramped down (e.g., decreased) by the circuitry controller 116 from their respective predetermined full amplitude levels to their respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels at a predetermined ramp down rate. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can begin ramping down (e.g., decreasing) respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp down rate. The circuitry controller 116 can continue ramping down respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp down rate, by decreasing respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal, while respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal have not yet been reached. Because the circuitry controller 116 can control and/or decrease and/or set the respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that ramping down of the first signal and the first additional is finished. For example, as the circuitry controller 116 is finishing ramping down, the circuitry controller 116 can control and/or decrease and/or set the respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal to their respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels. For example, after the circuitry controller 116 controls and/or decreases and/or sets the respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal to their respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that ramping down (e.g. decreasing amplitude of the first signal and first additional signal) is finished.
In another example of ramping down, the amplitude sensor 162 can include an analog differential amplifier that can differentially sense voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer 106. The voltage differentially sensed by the analog differential amplifier across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is indicative of the respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal in antiphase with one another. The first signal and the first additional signal can be ramped down by the circuitry controller 116 from their respective predetermined full amplitude levels to their respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels at a predetermined ramp down rate. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can begin ramping down the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp down rate. The circuitry controller 116 can continue ramping down the first signal and the first additional signal at the predetermined ramp down rate, by decreasing respective amplitudes of the first signal and first additional signal, while respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal have not yet been reached. For example, as the circuitry controller 116 is finishing ramping down, the circuitry controller 116 can use the analog differential amplifier in differentially sensing the voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer. This measurement can be the first sensed amplitude 164a and can be indicative of respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal in antiphase with one another. In this example, the amplitude comparator 166 can compare the first sensed amplitude 164a to the descending target amplitude 168a, for example, to determine whether the first sensed amplitude 164a satisfies the descending target amplitude 168a for the first signal and the first additional signal. For example, when the amplitude comparator 166 determines that the first sensed amplitude 164a is above the descending target amplitude 168a, the amplitude comparator 166 can determine that the first sensed amplitude 164a does not satisfy the descending target amplitude 168a for the first signal and the first additional signal. The circuitry controller 116 can adjust to decrease respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal based on the first sensed amplitude 164a. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can adjust to decrease amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal based on the amplitude comparator 166 determining that the first sensed amplitude 164a does not satisfy the descending target amplitude 168a. The descending target amplitude 168a can be based on the respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal, so that the circuitry controller 116 can adjust to decrease respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal to the predetermined reduced amplitude levels.
The circuitry controller 116 can then use the analog differential amplifier in differentially sensing the voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer, so as to determine a second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal. The amplitude comparator 166 can compare the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal to the descending target amplitude 168a, for example, to determine whether the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal satisfies the descending target amplitude 168a. For example, when the amplitude comparator 166 determines that the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal meets, or, for example, is below the descending target amplitude 168a, the amplitude comparator 166 can determine that the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal satisfies the descending target amplitude 168a. For example, when the amplitude comparator 166 determines that the second sensed amplitude 170a of the first signal and the first additional signal satisfies the descending target amplitude 168a, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that decreasing the amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal is finished. For example, since the descending target amplitude 168a can be based on the respective predetermined reduced amplitude levels of first signal and the first additional signal, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal have been decreased to reach the predetermined reduced amplitude levels of first signal and the first additional signal. This comparison can determine that ramping down, and decreasing the amplitude of the first signal and first additional signal, is finished. Similarly, in case of overshooting the descending target amplitude 168b, the circuitry controller 116 can then use the analog differential amplifier in differentially sensing the voltage across the input 122a and the additional input 122b of the ultrasonic transducer, so as to determine increasing the amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal to match the descending target amplitude 168b.
As just discussed in the various prior examples, the circuitry controller 116 can limit the first signal and the first additional signal by ramping down the respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal at ultrasonic transducer from the respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the first signal and the first additional signal to the respective predetermined reduced levels of the first signal and the first additional signal. Thereafter, the circuitry controller 116 can begin determining when to deactivate the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and the ultrasonic transducer 106 based on sensing a first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. As shown for example in
The ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 can sense current, for example, to determine a first current sensing 174 of a first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can include a current transient comparator 176 to compare the first current sensing 174 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 to a current transient threshold 178, for example, to determine whether the first current sensing 174 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178. For example, when the current transient comparator 176 determines that the first current sensing 174 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is above the current transient threshold 178, the current transient comparator 176 can determine that the first current sensing 174 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 does not satisfy the current transient threshold 178. The circuitry controller 116 can delay deactivating the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delay deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106 based on the ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 sensing the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can delay deactivating the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delay deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106 based on the current transient comparator 176 determining that the first current sensing 174 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 does not satisfy the current transient threshold 178. The current transient threshold 178 can be based on a predetermined reduced current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106, so that the circuitry controller 116 can delay until the current of the ultrasonic transducer 106 reaches the predetermined reduced current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. The predetermined reduced current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 can be a zero current transient, or a near zero current transient.
The circuitry controller 116 can also determine whether delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished. The ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 that can sense current of the ultrasonic transducer 106, for example, can determine a second current sensing 180 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. The current transient comparator 176 can compare the second current sensing 180 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 to the current transient threshold 178, for example, to determine whether the second current sensing 180 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178. For example, when the current transient comparator 176 determines that the second current sensing 180 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 meets, or for example is lower than the current transient threshold 178, the current transient comparator 176 can determine that the second current sensing 180 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178. For example, when the current transient comparator 176 determines that second current sensing 180 of the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished. For example, since the current transient threshold 178 can be based on the predetermined reduced current transient, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that the first current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 has been reduced to reach the predetermined reduced current transient, and so can determine that delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished.
In the examples just discussed, ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 can be employed in determining whether delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished. However, in simpler examples, ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 may not be needed. In a simpler example, circuitry controller 116 can determine that delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished by using timer 182. For example, timer 182 can determine when a predetermined prior time period has elapsed, prior to deactivating the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106. The predetermined prior time period can be selected to provide sufficient time for the current transient to die down to a sufficiently reduced current transient level.
For example, after finishing ramping down the respective amplitudes of the first signal and the first additional signal, the circuitry controller 116 can start timer 182 to measure elapsed time. After the timer 182 determines that the predetermined prior time period has elapsed, the circuitry controller 116 can determine to deactivate the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and deactivate the ultrasonic transducer 106. After the timer 182 determines that the predetermined prior time period has elapsed, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished.
After the circuitry controller 116 determines that delaying the deactivation of the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished, the circuitry controller 116 can control the filter switching circuitry 124 to deactivate the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and deactivate the ultrasonic transducer 106. Further, the circuitry controller 116 can use, for example, timer 182 to delay a predetermined period of time after deactivating the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106. Additionally, after delaying the predetermined period of time after deactivating the first filter 112a (and the first additional filter 112b) and deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106, the circuitry controller can then activate the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and activate the ultrasonic transducer 106.
For example, the filter switching circuitry 124 can be coupled between the circuitry controller 116 and the second filter 114a (e.g., second filter network 114a) to activate the second filter 114a (e.g. second filter network 114a) in response to the second control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124. Similarly, at the same time, the filter switching circuitry 124 can be coupled between the circuitry controller 116 and the second additional filter 114b (e.g., second additional filter network 114b) to activate the second additional filter 114b (e.g. second additional filter network 114b) in response to the second control activation signal received from the circuitry controller 116 at the input 126 of the filter switching circuitry 124.
As shown in the example of
The circuitry controller 116 can begin ramping up the amplitude of the second signal at the ultrasonic transducer 106 from a predetermined initial amplitude level of the second signal to a predetermined full amplitude level of the second signal. At the same time, in a similarly way, circuitry controller 116 can also begin ramping up the amplitude of the second additional signal at the ultrasonic transducer 106 from a predetermined initial amplitude level of the second additional signal to a predetermined full amplitude level of the second additional signal.
While various examples of ramping up the amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal have already been discussed in detail previously herein, amplitude of the second signal and the second additional signal can be ramped up by the circuitry controller 116 in similar ways. Accordingly, application of these previously discussed ramping up examples to ramping up the amplitude of the second signal and the second additional signal is not discussed in detail here. Instead, the reader is directed to the previously discussed ramping up examples, and directed to apply the previously discussed ramping up examples to ramping up the amplitude of the second signal and the second additional signal.
Ramping up the respective amplitudes of the second signal and the second additional signal, as just discussed, can facilitate activating the ultrasonic transducer at the second frequency within the second resonant frequency band of the ultrasonic transducer, for example, by coupling the second signal and the second additional signal to reduce the fluid droplet 102 by atomization from the second droplet size 102b to the third droplet size 102c. Thereafter, the circuitry controller 116 can begin limiting the second signal and the second additional signal by ramping down the respective amplitudes of the second signal and the second additional signal at ultrasonic transducer from the respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the second signal and the second additional signal to the respective predetermined reduced levels of the second signal and the second additional signal.
While various examples of ramping down amplitude of the first signal and the first additional signal have already been discussed in detail previously herein, amplitude of the second signal and the second additional signal can be ramped down by the circuitry controller 116 in similar ways. Accordingly, application of these previously discussed ramping down examples to ramping down amplitude of the second signal and the second additional signal is not discussed in detail here. Instead, the reader is directed to the previously discussed ramping down examples, and directed to apply the previously discussed ramping down examples to ramping down amplitude of the second signal and the second additional signal.
As just discussed, the circuitry controller 116 can limit the second signal and the second additional signal by ramping down the respective amplitudes of the second signal and the second additional signal at ultrasonic transducer from the respective predetermined full amplitude levels of the second signal and the second additional signal to the respective predetermined reduced levels of the second signal and the second additional signal. Thereafter, the circuitry controller 116 can begin determining when to deactivate the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and the ultrasonic transducer 106 based on sensing a second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. As shown for example in
The ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 can sense current, for example, to determine a first current sensing 174 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can include a current transient comparator 176 to compare the first current sensing 174 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 to the current transient threshold 178, for example, to determine whether the first current sensing 174 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178. For example, when the current transient comparator 176 determines that the first current sensing 174 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is above the current transient threshold 178, the current transient comparator 176 can determine that the first current sensing 174 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 does not satisfy the current transient threshold 178. The circuitry controller 116 can delay deactivating the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delay deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106 based on the ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 sensing the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. For example, the circuitry controller 116 can delay deactivating the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delay deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106 based on the current transient comparator 176 determining that the first current sensing 174 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 does not satisfy the current transient threshold 178. The current transient threshold 178 can be based on the predetermined reduced current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106, so that the circuitry controller 116 can delay until the current of the ultrasonic transducer 106 reaches the predetermined reduced current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. As already mentioned, the predetermined reduced current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 can be the zero current transient, or the near zero current transient.
The circuitry controller 116 can also determine whether delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished. The ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 that can sense current of the ultrasonic transducer 106, for example, can determine a second current sensing 180 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106. The current transient comparator 176 can compare the second current sensing 180 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 to the current transient threshold 178, for example, to determine whether the second current sensing 180 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178. For example, when the current transient comparator 176 determines that the second current sensing 180 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 meets, or, for example, is lower than the current transient threshold 178, the current transient comparator 176 can determine that the second current sensing 180 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178. For example, when the current transient comparator 176 determines that the second current sensing 180 of the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 satisfies the current transient threshold 178, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished. For example, since the current transient threshold 178 can be based on the predetermined reduced current transient, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that the second current transient of the ultrasonic transducer 106 has been reduced to reach the predetermined reduced current transient, and so can determine that delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished.
In the examples just discussed, ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 can be employed in determining whether delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished. However, in simpler examples, ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172 may not be needed. In a simpler example, circuitry controller 116 can determine that delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished by using timer 182. For example, timer 182 can determine when a predetermined prior time period has elapsed, prior to deactivating the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106. The predetermined prior time period can be selected to provide sufficient time for the current transient to die down to a sufficiently reduced current transient level.
For example, after finishing ramping down the respective amplitudes of the second signal and the second additional signal, the circuitry controller 116 can start timer 182 to measure elapsed time. After the timer 182 determines that the predetermined prior time period has elapsed, the circuitry controller 116 can determine to deactivate the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and deactivate the ultrasonic transducer 106. After the timer 182 determines that the predetermined prior time period has elapsed, the circuitry controller 116 can determine that delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished.
After the circuitry controller 116 determines that delaying the deactivation of the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and delaying the deactivation of the ultrasonic transducer 106 is finished, the circuitry controller 116 can control the filter switching circuitry to deactivate the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and deactivate the ultrasonic transducer 106. Further, the circuitry controller 116 can use, for example, timer 182 to delay the predetermined period of time after deactivating the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106. Additionally, after delaying the predetermined period of time after deactivating the second filter 114a (and the second additional filter 114b) and deactivating the ultrasonic transducer 106, a cycle controller 184 of the circuitry controller 116 can determine whether to repeat a cycle by once again initiating activation of first filter 112a (and first additional filter 112b) and activation of the ultrasonic transducer 106, or instead end the cycle, based for example on a user control input to the cycle controller to end the cycle.
While the foregoing discussions have described ramping up and ramping down of the first and first additional signals and the second and second additional signals,
Similarly, as shown in greater detail in the example of
The first filter network 112a can include a series coupled inductor 208a coupled in series with the output of the first amplifier 108a at the series coupling node 206a between first and second ones of the first pair of series coupled transistors 202a, 204a. The first filter network 112a can also include a capacitor 210a coupled in series with the inductor 208a.
Similarly, second filter network 114a can include a series coupled inductor 212a coupled in series with the output of the first amplifier 108a at the series coupling node 206a between first and second ones of the first pair of series coupled transistors 202a, 204a. The second filter network 114a can also include a capacitor 214a coupled in series with the inductor 212a.
The first additional filter network 112b can include a series coupled inductor 208b coupled in series with the output of the second amplifier 108b at the series coupling node 206b between first and second ones of the second pair of series coupled transistors 202b, 204b. The first additional filter network 112b can also include a capacitor 210b coupled in series with the inductor 208b.
Similarly, second additional filter network 114b can include a series coupled inductor 212b coupled in series with the output of the second amplifier 108b at the series coupling node 206b between first and second ones of the second pair of series coupled transistors 202b, 204b. The second additional filter network 114b can also include a capacitor 214b coupled in series with the inductor 212b.
The first additional filter network 112b can be tuned (e.g., by its corresponding filter component values) in a similar way using the same or similar component values as the first filter network 112a can be tuned (e.g., by its corresponding filter component values). For example, the series coupled inductor 208a of the first filter network 112a can have an inductance L1 that is the same or similar as the inductance L1 of the series coupled inductor 208b of the first additional filter network 112b. Further, the series coupled capacitor 210a of the first filter network 112a can have a capacitance C1 that is the same or similar as the capacitance C1 of the series coupled capacitor 210b of the first additional filter network 112b.
Similarly, the second additional filter network 114b can be tuned (e.g., by its corresponding filter component values) in a similar way using the same or similar component values as the second filter network 114a can be tuned (e.g., by its corresponding filter component values). For example, the series coupled inductor 212a of the second filter network 114a can have an inductance L2 that is the same or similar as the inductance L2 of the series coupled inductor 212b of the second additional filter network 114b. Further, the series coupled capacitor 214a of the second filter network 114a can have a capacitance C2 that is the same or similar as the capacitance C2 of the series coupled capacitor 214b of the second additional filter network 114b.
As shown in the example of
In the example of
Although
The examples of
Just discussed was switching circuitry to switch the first and first additional filter networks, with the second and second additional filter networks and with the third and third additional filter networks. In yet another example, this architecture can be extended even further to include the filter switching circuitry to switch a fourth and fourth additional filter network (not shown in
The forgoing examples can be extended even further, to further examples including the switching circuitry to switch activation of fifth, sixth, and so on, filter networks, up to an arbitrary number Nth filter network, and up to an arbitrary number Nth resonant frequency band.
The foregoing examples are directed to a plurality of filters tuned within respective resonant frequency bands of the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface. More broadly, the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface can have a plurality of resonant frequency bands, and a filter can cover the plurality of resonant frequency bands. For example, the filter can be the plurality of filters tuned within respective resonant frequency bands of the ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the surface. As another example, the filter can be a single filter covering the plurality of resonant frequency bands.
In the foregoing examples, a plurality of signals can be generated having respective frequencies within respective resonant frequency bands of the ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the surface 104. The ultrasonic transducer 106 can be activated at the respective frequencies within the respective resonant frequency bands using the plurality of signals. Multistage reducing of the fluid droplet 102 by atomization can be carried out in response to activating the ultrasonic transducer 106 using the plurality of signals at the respective frequencies within the respective resonant frequency bands. The plurality of signals can have respective frequency sweeps within respective resonant frequency bands of the ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the surface 104. Generating the plurality of signals can include generating the first signal having the first frequency within the first resonant frequency band of the ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the surface 104. Generating the plurality of signals can also include generating the second signal having the second frequency within the second resonant frequency band of the ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the surface 104. Activating the ultrasonic transducer 106 can include activating the ultrasonic transducer at the first frequency within the first resonant frequency band using the first signal. Activating the ultrasonic transducer 106 can also include activating the ultrasonic transducer at the second frequency within the second resonant frequency band using the second signal. The multistage reducing of the fluid droplet 102 can include a first stage, reducing the fluid droplet 102 from the first droplet size 102a to the second droplet size 102b in response to activating the ultrasonic sonic transducer 106 using the first signal at the first frequency within the first resonant frequency band. The multistage reducing of the fluid droplet 102 can also include a second stage, reducing the fluid droplet from the second size 102b to the third size 102c in response to activating the ultrasonic transducer 106 using the second signal at the second frequency within the second resonant frequency band.
Further,
Further, the example of
While example manners of implementing the example systems 100, 200 that can expel fluid from a droplet 102 on an optical surface 104 using an ultrasonic transducer 106 mechanically coupled to the optical surface 104 of
Further, the example systems 100, 200, example ultrasonic transducer 106, example first amplifier 108a, example second amplifier 108b, example first amplifier impedance 110a, example second amplifier impedance 110b, example first filter network 112a, example first additional filter network 112b, example second filter network 114a, example second filter network 114b, example circuitry controller 116, example first amplifier inputs 118a, 120a, example second amplifier inputs 118b, 120b, example input of ultrasonic transducer 122a, example additional input of ultrasonic transducer 122b, example filter switching circuitry 124, example input 126 of the filter switching circuitry, example first filter switch control 128, example first low side switch control output 128a, example first high side switch control output 128b, example first additional low side switch control output 128c, example first additional high side switch control output 128d, example first low side switch 130a, example first high side switch 130b, example second filter switch control 138, example second low side switch control output 138a, example second high side switch control output 138b, example second additional low side switch control output 138c, example second additional high side switch control output 138d, example second low side switch 140a, example second high side switch 140b, example ultrasonic transducer couplers 142a, 142b, example first additional low side switch 150a, example first additional high side switch 150b, example second additional low side switch 160a, example second additional high side switch 160b, example amplitude sensor 162, example first sensed amplitude 164a, example first additional sensed amplitude 164b, example amplitude comparator 166, example ascending target amplitude 168a, example descending target amplitude 168b, example second sensed amplitude 170a, example second additional sensed amplitude 170b, example ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172, example first current sensing 174, example current transit comparator 176, example current transient threshold 178, example second current sensing 180, example timer 182, example cycle controller 184, example clamp diodes 186a, 186b, 186c, 186d, example transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d, example first transistor pair 202a, 204a, example second transistor pair 202b, 204b, example outputs of series coupling nodes 206a, 206b, example series coupled inductors 208a, 208b, 212a, 212b, and example series coupled capacitors 210a, 210b, 214a, 214b, as shown in the examples of
Further still, the example systems 100, 200, example fluid droplet 102, example first droplet size 102a, example second droplet size 102b, example third droplet size 102c, example optical surface 104, example ultrasonic transducer 106, example first amplifier 108a, example second amplifier 108b, example first amplifier impedance 110a, example second amplifier impedance 110b, example first filter network 112a, example first additional filter network 112b, example second filter network 114a, example second filter network 114b, example circuitry controller 116, example first amplifier inputs 118a, 120a, example second amplifier inputs 118b, 120b, example input of ultrasonic transducer 122a, example additional input of ultrasonic transducer 122b, example filter switching circuitry 124, example input 126 of the filter switching circuitry, example first filter switch control 128, example first low side switch control output 128a, example first high side switch control output 128b, example first additional low side switch control output 128c, example first additional high side switch control output 128d, example first low side switch 130a, example first high side switch 130b, example second filter switch control 138, example second low side switch control output 138a, example second high side switch control output 138b, example second additional low side switch control output 138c, example second additional high side switch control output 138d, example second low side switch 140a, example second high side switch 140b, example ultrasonic transducer couplers 142a, 142b, example first additional low side switch 150a, example first additional high side switch 150b, example second additional low side switch 160a, example second additional high side switch 160b, example amplitude sensor 162, example first sensed amplitude 164a, example first additional sensed amplitude 164b, example amplitude comparator 166, example ascending target amplitude 168a, example descending target amplitude 168b, example second sensed amplitude 170a, example second additional sensed amplitude 170b, example ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172, example first current sensing 174, example current transit comparator 176, example current transient threshold 178, example second current sensing 180, example timer 182, example cycle controller 184, example clamp diodes 186a, 186b, 186c, 186d, example transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d, example first transistor pair 202a, 204a, example second transistor pair 202b, 204b, example outputs of series coupling nodes 206a, 206b, example series coupled inductors 208a, 208b, 212a, 212b, and example series coupled capacitors 210a, 210b, 214a, 214b, as shown in the examples of
When reading any of the apparatus or system claims of this patent to cover a purely software and/or firmware implementation, at least one of the example systems 100, 200, example ultrasonic transducer 106, example first amplifier 108a, example second amplifier 108b, example first amplifier impedance 110a, example second amplifier impedance 110b, example first filter network 112a, example first additional filter network 112b, example second filter network 114a, example second filter network 114b, example circuitry controller 116, example first amplifier input 118a, 120a, example second amplifier input 118b, 120b, example input of ultrasonic transducer 122a, example additional input of ultrasonic transducer 122b, example filter switching circuitry 124, example input 126 of the filter switching circuitry, example first filter switch control 128, example first low side switch control output 128a, example first high side switch control output 128b, example first additional low side switch control output 128c, example first additional high side switch control output 128d, example first low side switch 130a, example first high side switch 130b, example second filter switch control 138, example second low side switch control output 138a, example second high side switch control output 138b, example second additional low side switch control output 138c, example second additional high side switch control output 138d, example second low side switch 140a, example second high side switch 140b, example ultrasonic transducer couplers 142a, 142b, example first additional low side switch 150a, example first additional high side switch 150b, example second additional low side switch 160a, example second additional high side switch 160b, example amplitude sensor 162, example first sensed amplitude 164a, example first additional sensed amplitude 164b, example amplitude comparator 166, example ascending target amplitude 168a, example descending target amplitude 168b, example second sensed amplitude 170a, example second additional sensed amplitude 170b, example ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172, example first current sensing 174, example current transit comparator 176, example current transient threshold 178, example second current sensing 180, example timer 182, example cycle controller 184, example clamp diodes 186a, 186b, 186c, 186d, example transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes 188a, 188b, 188c, 188d, example first transistor pair 202a, 204a, example second transistor pair 202b, 204b, example outputs of series coupling nodes 206a, 206b, example series coupled inductors 208a, 208b, 212a, 212b, and example series coupled capacitors 210a, 210b, 214a, 214b, as shown in the examples of
As mentioned above, the example processes of
A process flow 400 of
Next, as shown in example of
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Next, as shown in the example of
Next, as shown in the example of
Next, as shown in the example of
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As shown in
Next, after deactivating the first filter (and the first additional filter) and the ultrasonic transducer, as shown in the example of
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Next, after deactivating the second filter (and the second additional filter) and the ultrasonic transducer, as shown in the example of
Next, as shown in the example of
The processor platform 500 can be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a mobile device (e.g., a cell phone, a smart phone, a tablet such as an iPad™), a personal digital assistant (PDA), an Internet appliance, a DVD player, a CD player, a digital video recorder, a Blu-ray player, a gaming console, a personal video recorder, a set top box, or any other type of computing device.
The processor platform 500 of the illustrated example includes a processor 512. The processor 512 of the illustrated example is hardware. For example, the processor 512 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors or controllers from any desired family or manufacturer. The hardware of processor 512 can be virtualized using virtualization such as Virtual Machines and/or containers. The processor 512 can implement example circuitry controller 116, including example amplitude sensor 162, example first sensed amplitude 164a, example first additional sensed amplitude 164b, example amplitude comparator 166, example ascending target amplitude 168a, example descending target amplitude 168b, example second sensed amplitude 170a, example second additional sensed amplitude 170b, example ultrasonic transducer current sensor 172, example first current sensing 174, example current transient comparator 176, example current transient threshold 178, example second current sensing 180, example timer 182 and example cycle controller 184. The processor 512 can also implement example filter switching circuitry 124 including example first filter switch controller 128 and second filter switch controller 138. The processor 512, in implementing circuitry controller 116, can generate the first signal (and first additional signal) having the first frequency and can generate the second signal (and second additional signal) having the second frequency using methods such as pulse-width modulation (PWM) or direct digital synthesis (DDS).
The processor 512 of the illustrated example includes a local memory 513 (e.g., a cache). The processor 512 of the illustrated example is in communication with a main memory including a volatile memory 514 and a non-volatile memory 516 via a bus 518. The volatile memory 514 may be implemented by Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), RAMBUS Dynamic Random Access Memory (RDRAM) and/or any other type of random access memory device. The non-volatile memory 516 may be implemented by FLASH memory and/or any other desired type of memory device. Access to the main memory 514, 516 is controlled by a memory controller.
The processor platform 500 of the illustrated example also includes an interface circuit 520. The interface circuit 520 may be implemented by any type of interface standard, such as an Ethernet interface, a universal serial bus (USB), and/or a PCI express interface.
In the illustrated example, one or more input devices 522 are connected to the interface circuit 520. The input device(s) 522 permit(s) a user to enter data and commands into the processor 512. The input device(s) can be implemented by, for example, an audio sensor, a microphone, a camera (still or video), a keyboard, a button, a mouse, a touchscreen, a track-pad, a trackball, isopoint and/or a voice recognition system.
One or more output devices 524 are also connected to the interface circuit 520 of the illustrated example. The output devices 524 can be implemented, for example, by display devices (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube display (CRT), a touchscreen, a tactile output device, a printer and/or speakers). The interface circuit 520 of the illustrated example, thus, typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip or a graphics driver processor.
The interface circuit 520 of the illustrated example also includes a communication device such as a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, a modem and/or network interface card to facilitate exchange of data with external machines (e.g., computing devices of any kind) via a network 526 (e.g., an Ethernet connection, a digital subscriber line (DSL), a telephone line, coaxial cable, a cellular telephone system, etc.).
The processor platform 500 of the illustrated example also includes one or more mass storage devices 528 for storing software and/or data. Examples of such mass storage devices 528 include floppy disk drives, hard drive disks, compact disk drives, Blu-ray disk drives, RAID systems, and digital versatile disk (DVD) drives.
The coded instructions 532 of
Although certain example methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the claims of this patent.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/400,171 filed Sep. 27, 2016, entitled “Configurable Filter Banks for An Ultrasonic Lens Cleaner” by Stephen John Fedigan and David Patrick Magee and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/407,762, filed Oct. 13, 2016, entitled “Two Stage Ultrasonic Lens Cleaning for Improved Water Removal” by Stephen John Fedigan and David Patrick Magee, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. This application is related to copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/492,315, entitled “Methods and Apparatus for Ultrasonic Lens Cleaner Using Configurable Filter Banks”, filed on Apr. 20, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
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