Description |
Integrated Rain Sensor |
Integrated rain sensor (A) controls three systems: front wiper, auto-light, and central air conditioner.
1. |
Wiper Control System When the multifunction switch on the right receives "AUTO" switch signal, the integrated rain sensor detects the amount of rainfall. The sensor is installed inside the upper part of the front window for wiper motor control. This system automatically controls the operating duration and speed of the wipers depending on the measured amount of rainfall even if the driver does not operate the wiper switch. |
Functions and Operating Principles |
Basic Principle
1. |
Detecting the amount of rainfall The light (beam) emitted from light emitting diodes (LED) is totally reflected on the external surface of the windshield and comes back to the photo diodes. When there is water on the external surface of the windshield, the light is optically separated and reflected partially and the remaining brightness is measured by the photo diodes. Water remaining on the windshield results in the light being not totally reflected. The loss of brightness due to this indicates how much the glass surface is wet. |
Interference
Rain sensor might malfunction due to the interferences listed below.
1. |
Dust on the measuring surface and other surfaces on the light path (surface of light emitting diodes and photo diodes, fiber optics, bracket, and glass surface of windshield joint area) weakens the received light. |
2. |
Movement of windshield and bracket |
3. |
Movement of bracket due to vibration |
4. |
Damaged wiper blade |
When the integrated rain sensor does not operate or malfunctions, the driver should operate the wiper switch manually. |
Automatic Operation
1. |
Operational status of rain sensor
|
Safety Function
1. |
When there is ice or foreign matter in the detecting area, integrated rain sensor cannot recognize the condition for operation correctly. |
Detecting Special Conditions
1. |
Rain sensor
|
Kia Niro 2017 (DE HEV) Service Manual: Specification
Specifications
Item
Specification
Rated voltage
DC 13.5 V
Operating voltage
DC 9.0 - 16.0 V
Operating temperature
-86 - 167°F (-30 - 75°C)
Dark current ...
Kia Niro (DE HEV) Owners Manual: Hazardous driving conditions
When hazardous driving conditions are encountered such as water, snow, ice, mud,
sand, or similar hazards, follow these suggestions:
Drive cautiously and allow extra distance for braking.
Avoid sudden braking or steering.
When braking with non-ABS brakes pump the brake pedal with a light u ...