Importance

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Abstract

Laser sensor lenses and methods for maintaining clean laser sensors lenses are disclosed. One method may include applying a coating having first and second components to an exterior surface of a lens of a laser sensor, the first component including a thermogenic light-absorbing (TLA) material; and irradiating the TLA material from a light source within the laser sensor to generate heat from the TLA material to cause the second component to form an active coating. The light source may be a laser of a LiDAR sensor. The heat from the TLA material may cause the second component to cure, solidify, or undergo a phase change. The active coating may be at least one of hydrophobic, oleophobic, and hydrophilic. In another embodiment, a removable cover having a TLA material may be positioned proximate the lens window and irradiated to heat the lens window (e.g., to melt ice thereon).

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First Claim