The rain sensor is an electro-optical device that is installed on the windshield. It can react to glass dampening. Rain sensors are now standard on many vehicles.
What is a rain sensor for?
A rain sensor is a system that automatically switches on and off the windshield wipers depending on weather conditions. Such sensors are designed for any glass, except for tinted and infrared glass. The rain sensor is powered from the on-board network. The developers of this technology focused on ensuring that the driver was less distracted from the road while driving. If bad weather (snowfall or heavy rain) catches on the way, you will have to turn on and adjust the degree of operation of the wipers. Naturally, this is not very convenient. It would be much better if electronics took over the job.
In winter, it is recommended to turn on the sensor before starting the car to check its functionality. Until recently, only expensive cars were equipped with rain sensors. But now developers are increasingly offering motorists different types of such sensors, including those for self-installation.
How the rain sensor works
The rain sensor is located on the windshield in the rearview mirror holder. It consists of a photodetector and a small infrared emitter. The parameters of refraction of infrared rays on the outer surface of the glasses are stored in the memory from the electronic blocks. It does not matter if the car windows are dry or wet. Raindrops and dirt get on the windshield during bad weather. As a result, they change the path of refraction of the rays. It turns out that the system reacts precisely to these changes. This system sets the wiper in motion and determines the preferred mode of operation of the wipers, depending on the intensity of precipitation. In addition, the operating time of the brushes is regulated. They will be disabled at the right time.
The rain sensor is super sensitive. You should not be afraid that one day it will not work in a timely manner. The light detectors take into account the smallest proportions of water on the windshield and work very quickly. By the way, some cars are equipped with sensors that can turn on the washer when the glass is heavily soiled. Usually, a potential consumer decides on his own whether he should buy a car with this "bells and whistles" or not. Most often, a rain sensor is offered as an additional option for a fee.
