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Today’s vehicles are increasingly assuming tasks that were once handled exclusively by drivers. They can detect lane markings, assist with parking and respond to obstacles. Developments like this are made possible by Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which form the foundation for a wide range of safety and convenience features that are also paving the way toward autonomous driving.
To perform reliably, these systems must continuously and accurately monitor their surroundings. That is where sensor cleaning plays a critical role and where NORMA Group delivers proven expertise.
What are ADAS?
ADAS encompasses electronic driver assistance technologies that support drivers in everyday traffic situations. Vehicles rely on a growing number of sensors, including cameras, lidar and radar systems. These sensors continuously monitor the environment and provide the data required to detect conditions and respond accordingly.
As the industry moves closer to autonomous driving, the number of sensors installed in vehicles continues to increase. At the same time, expectations in terms of reliability and performance are becoming even more demanding
Why clean sensors are key
Rain, snow, dust and road grime can negatively impact sensor visibility. Even minor amounts of dirt can reduce sensor performance. In safety-critical ADAS applications, this may impact detection accuracy and overall system effectiveness.
Specialized sensor cleaning systems help address this challenge. They remove contaminants from sensor lenses while minimizing the buildup of new deposits. As a result, sensors can reliably monitor their surroundings, a key requirement for advanced driver assistance systems and future autonomous vehicles.
Cleaning safety-critical sensors presents significant technical challenges. Typically, sensor cleaning systems require:
- Dedicated washing liquid circuits
- Up to 15 – 20 safety-critical connection points per vehicle
- Reliable performance across a broad range of temperatures and environmental conditions
As more sensors are integrated into vehicle architectures, the need for robust fluid management and connection solutions continues to grow.
Reliable solutions for sensor cleaning
NORMA Group supports OEMs and Tier suppliers with a comprehensive portfolio for sensor cleaning systems. The portfolio includes quick connectors, fluid management solutions and fastening solutions engineered for consistent cleaning performance and long-term durability.
At the heart of the portfolio are eM Safe Quick Connectors. Their compact CLPD design and low pressure drop make them perfect for automotive sensor cleaning applications. Proven solutions include the eM Safe with Single-Lock, designed in accordance with SAE standards for easy assembly and disassembly of in automotive fluid line applications, and the eM Safe with Safe-Lock, which features an integrated poka-yoke function: The secondary latch can only be locked when the spigot is correctly connected, helping ensure secure assembly.
In the fluid and connection solutions segment, the portfolio is complemented by thermoplastic tubes (smooth, corrugated, mono- or multi-layer), plastic hose connectors, and our eM Cartridge with an integrated quick-connector function. The eM Module Interface creates a compact connection between an equipment and a spigot “SAE”-style fitting.
In addition to fluid connections, NORMA Group offers a range of fastening solutions for a wide variety of automotive applications. The line of hose clamps combines reliability, ease of use and a high degree of versatility, thus meeting a broad range of requirements in modern vehicles. These include:
For secure and durable installation, retaining clips such as RSGU-LV and RSGU-L are also available
Additional system components expand the range of applications for these solutions:
- Temperature sensors
- Dry-break valves for maintenance or assembly work on prefilled lines
- RFID-based assembly verification using our VerifyLock
A growing market with a strong future
As ADAS and autonomous vehicles become more widespread, demand for advanced sensor cleaning systems continues to rise. The growing number of cameras, lidar and radar sensors requires additional cleaning lines and increases the number of safety-relevant connection points throughout the vehicle.
“As autonomous driving accelerates, with Asia leading the charge toward an estimated 30% of vehicles by 2035, the cleanliness of sensors, ADAS, and LiDAR systems is no longer a supplementary feature; it is a safety imperative. These components are as critical as any Safety Regulated product, ensuring the passengers protection. With 75 years of expertise in leak-proof fluid systems and fastening technologies, NORMA is uniquely positioned to meet and exceed these mission-critical demands”,
NORMA Group supports manufacturers with a comprehensive systems approach that combines quick connectors, fluid lines, and fastening solutions into integrated systems. These solutions can be used in a wide range of sensor cleaning applications, including camera, lidar, radar, headlamp, and windshield systems.
Designed for secure connections and dependable long-term performance under changing environmental conditions, they help ensure that sensors continue to detect their surroundings reliably, even in rain, snow, or dirty environments. This reliability is essential for the safe operation of modern driver assistance systems and future autonomous vehicles.
Learn more about our sensor cleaning solutions for ADAS
NORMA Group offers an on-demand webinar on sensor cleaning solutions for ADAS, lidar and autonomous vehicle applications. The session provides insights into market developments, technical requirements and solution approaches for ensuring reliable sensor performance under varying environmental conditions.
The webinar recording is available to registered participants and can be accessed at any time after registration. To register and gain access to the webinar, please visit: https://app.webinar.net/4LPW2PZ5wy0?mcc=MNEHub
