Light-emitting device for vehicle hub

Abstract

The utility model discloses a light-emitting device for a vehicle hub. The light-emitting device comprises a middle cover; the mask and the middle cover form a closed cavity through ultrasonic welding; the backlight source module is arranged in the cavity, the backlight source module is sequentially provided with a mask, a diffusion sheet, a light guide plate and a flexible circuit board for mounting LEDs in a stacked mode, and the flexible circuit board comprises an energy storage circuit composed of a current-limiting resistor, a rectifier diode and a super capacitor; the suspension magnetic power generation assembly is fixed on the back surface of the middle cover and is electrically connected with the backlight source module; the suspension magnetic power generation assembly outputs electric energy to drive the LED to emit light and charge the super capacitor when the wheels rotate. The energy storage capacity of the super capacitor is configured to continuously supply power to the LED after the wheel stops rotating, so that the continuous light emitting time of the light emitting device is not less than 120 seconds; the defect that an existing hub lamp is immediately extinguished after parking is overcome, and the structural reliability, the assembly convenience, the visual effect and the like are remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle exterior lighting and wheel hub decoration technology, and in particular to a wheel hub lighting device that uses levitation magnetic power generation and stores energy through a supercapacitor, and can continue to emit light after the vehicle has stopped. Background Technology

[0002] Wheel hub lights, also known as illuminated wheel hub markers, are activated by the kinetic energy generated by the rotation of a vehicle or by an external power source while the vehicle is in motion. This enhances the overall aesthetics of the vehicle, increases brand recognition, and provides a certain level of visibility at night. Existing technologies commonly employ various solutions, which can be broadly categorized as follows:

[0003] Battery button cell / lithium battery power supply solution

[0004] One solution involves placing disposable or rechargeable batteries directly inside the wheel hub to power the LEDs. This approach eliminates the need for wiring but requires periodic replacement or charging. Furthermore, the batteries are prone to leakage and bulging under high centrifugal force and alternating high and low temperatures, posing safety hazards. Additionally, the limited battery capacity prevents the lights from remaining lit for extended periods.

[0005] Magnetic induction / Hall power generation scheme

[0006] The permanent magnet and coil are mounted on the rotor and stator respectively, and the relative motion of the rotating wheel generates electricity to directly drive the LED. This is a popular contactless power supply method. However, its core drawback is that when the vehicle stops or is traveling at low speed, the power generation drops sharply or even stops, and the LED turns off. This makes it impossible to maintain the continuous lighting effect of the wheel hub logo, which greatly reduces the brand recognition and warning performance of the vehicle when it is stationary, parked at night, or traveling at low speed.

[0007] In summary, existing wheel hub lighting devices generally suffer from the technical problem of "failing to continue lighting after the vehicle stops," and there is an urgent need for a new wheel hub lighting solution that can maintain illumination for a long time after the vehicle stops, has a reliable structure, and low maintenance costs. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This invention discloses a light-emitting device for vehicle wheel hubs, comprising a center cover, a face shield, a backlight module, and a levitation magnetic power generation component. The center cover and face shield are ultrasonically welded to form a sealed cavity. Inside the cavity, a diffuser sheet, a light guide plate, and a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) for mounting LEDs are stacked sequentially from the outside in, thus forming the backlight module. The FPC also integrates a current-limiting resistor, a rectifier diode, and a supercapacitor, which together form an energy storage circuit. The levitation magnetic power generation component is fixed to the back of the center cover and electrically connected to the backlight module. When the wheel rotates, the electrical energy output by the component directly drives the LEDs to emit light and simultaneously charges the supercapacitor. When the vehicle stops, the supercapacitor continues to discharge to the LEDs, maintaining a lighting time of at least 120 seconds, preferably at least 150 seconds.

[0009] To ensure the markings are always visible from the front, a counterweight is fixed to the bottom of the middle cover. This utilizes gravity to keep the marking area on the outer surface of the mask essentially parallel to the ground during hub rotation. The middle cover and mask are detachably connected to the middle frame via a first clip, and the middle frame is then locked to the bottom shell with a second clip, enabling rapid assembly and maintenance of the entire lighting device. The levitation magnetic power generation component consists of a coaxial stator and rotor. The rotor carries a permanent magnet, and the stator is wound with coils. The two maintain a small working gap through magnetic levitation, significantly reducing friction. A fixing device at the end of the rotor connects to the middle cover. The counterweight and gravity cause relative motion between the stator and rotor during hub rotation, resulting in efficient power generation.

[0010] The outer surface of the face shield is divided into a light-transmitting marking area and a light-blocking background area. The light-transmitting area corresponds to the light-emitting surface of the backlight module, while the background area uses an opaque material to further enhance the visual contrast of the markings. In the energy storage circuit, rectifier diodes form a rectifier bridge, and its output is connected to a supercapacitor. An LED and a current-limiting resistor are connected in parallel across the supercapacitor to form a light-emitting circuit, and the input of the rectifier bridge is directly connected to the output of the levitation magnetic power generation component. Through the above structural and circuit design, this invention not only overcomes the defect of existing hub lights that immediately turn off after parking, but also achieves significant improvements in structural reliability, assembly convenience, and visual effect. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the overall light-emitting device of the present invention;

[0012] Figure 2 This is a first-view exploded view diagram of the present invention;

[0013] Figure 3 This is a second-view explosion diagram of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the back of the middle cover and the counterweight structure;

[0015] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the backlight module assembly.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a levitation magnetic power generation component;

[0017] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the middle frame and double snap-locking ring structure.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit structure of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and substitutions to its structural form, dimensional parameters, or manufacturing processes, and all such equivalent modifications or substitutions should fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0020] like Figure 1 The present invention discloses a light-emitting device 1000 for vehicle wheel hubs, which provides continuous illumination at the center of the wheel hub's markings to enhance brand recognition, nighttime visibility, and aesthetic appeal. The device remains illuminated for an extended period even after the vehicle has stopped. The wheel hub light-emitting device utilizes a levitation magnetic power generation component to convert the wheel hub's rotational kinetic energy into electrical energy, thereby powering the backlight module and ensuring continuous illumination via a supercapacitor even when the vehicle is stationary.

[0021] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, according to the stacking order of the hubcap components, from the outside to the inside, the components include: a light-transmitting mask 100, a diffuser 200, a light guide plate 300, an FPC circuit board 400, a middle cover 500, a magnetic levitation motor 600, a middle frame 700, and a bottom shell 800. The outer surface of the mask 100 is provided with a light-transmitting marking area 101 and a light-shielding background area 102. The light-transmitting marking area 101 corresponds to the light-emitting surface of the backlight module, and the remaining background area uses opaque material to improve the visual contrast of the markings.

[0022] Preferably, the mask 100 is injection molded from optical-grade PMMA with a light transmittance of ≥92%. Its outer surface is laser-etched or chemically etched to form a light-transmitting marking area 101, which faces the light-emitting surface of the backlight module to ensure efficient transmission of the LED 401 beam. The remaining surface is coated with a light-shielding coating to form a light-shielding background area 102, significantly improving the visual contrast of the marking. The inner surface of the mask 100 can be designed with microprisms or a matte texture as needed to further homogenize the light and reduce glare.

[0023] Preferably, when the wheel is rotating or stationary, only the circular pattern area of ​​the hub light emits light, with uniform brightness (50cd / m²±5% at the center) and no light shines through the background area; it supports quick replacement of circular patterns of different brands (such as Audi and Mercedes logos), and the deviation of the light emission parameters after replacement is ≤3%, meeting the needs of personalized customization.

[0024] The face mask 100 and the middle cover 500 are ultrasonically welded to form a sealed cavity. A backlight module is installed in the sealed cavity. The backlight module is composed of the face mask 100, diffuser 200, light guide plate 300 and flexible circuit board 400 with LEDs 401 mounted on it. The flexible circuit board 400 includes an energy storage circuit composed of current limiting resistor 402, rectifier diode 403 and supercapacitor 404.

[0025] Preferably, the diffuser sheet 200 is typically made of PET, PC, or PMMA substrate, with micron-sized scattering particles TiO2, BaSO4, or silicone microspheres coated on its surface. When the high-brightness, narrow-angle light emitted by the LED401 point light source passes through the diffuser layer, the light waves are scattered multiple times between the particles, effectively creating heat dissipation points and forming a uniform surface light source, avoiding "bright spots" and "dark bands".

[0026] Preferably, the light guide plate 300 converts the point / line light source from the LED 401 into a surface light source through a built-in micro-wedge dot matrix or silkscreen scattering points, eliminating bright spots and dark bands, and making the brightness distribution of the light-transmitting marking area 101 uniform.

[0027] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the flexible circuit board FPC400 integrates an integrated energy storage circuit on the same substrate while arranging several LEDs 401. The coil 604 of the levitation magnetic power generation component 600 in the energy storage circuit outputs AC power. The AC terminal is connected to a rectifier bridge 403 composed of four Schottky diodes to convert the AC power into pulsating DC power. The output terminal of the rectifier bridge 403 is connected to a supercapacitor 404. The supercapacitor has a specification of 0.47F to 1F and a rated voltage of 5.5V. The supercapacitor continuously supplies power to the LEDs 401 after the vehicle stops to achieve long-term lighting.

[0028] Each LED401 or LED401 series is connected in series with a surface-mount current-limiting resistor 402 of approximately 120Ω to stabilize the operating current and prevent overcurrent burnout; at the same time, a light-emitting circuit consisting of a current-limiting resistor 402 connected in series with the LED401 array is connected in parallel across the supercapacitor 404, where the current-limiting resistor 402 limits the operating current of the LED401 and stabilizes the brightness, while the LED401 converts DC energy into light energy.

[0029] When the circuit is working, the power generation component 600 supplies power. The current is rectified by the rectifier bridge 403 and enters the capacitor 404 to charge and discharge in parallel with the LED 401. When the power generation stops, the supercapacitor 404 continues to supply power to the LED 401 through the current limiting resistor 402, thereby realizing the function of the wheel hub light continuing to light up after the vehicle is stationary.

[0030] With the above configuration, the levitation magnetic power generation component 600 outputs electrical energy to drive the LED 401 to emit light and charge the supercapacitor 404 when the wheel rotates; the energy storage capacity of the supercapacitor 404 is configured to continue to supply power to the LED 401 after the wheel stops rotating, so that the light-emitting device can emit light continuously for no less than 120 seconds, and after testing, it can reach more than 150 seconds.

[0031] Utilizing 404 supercapacitors for energy storage instead of chemical batteries, it boasts a cycle life exceeding 500,000 cycles, making it environmentally friendly and replacement-free. A short power supply can meet lighting needs for up to 120 seconds, eliminating the need for additional wiring or complex drive circuits. Car owners often stop to admire or take photos after parking; the 120-second delay keeps the logo and ambient lighting highly visible, enhancing brand exposure and creating a sense of occasion for users. In modification culture or car exhibition settings, it can attract more attention.

[0032] Preferably, a TVS or Zener diode can be connected in parallel across the supercapacitor 404 to suppress voltage spikes and further protect the circuit.

[0033] Preferably, the FPC400 has a main power input pad on its edge that connects to the stator lead of the levitation magnetic power generation component 600, and a reserved I²C / single-wire test pad for easy dimming or functional expansion.

[0034] The circuit structure of this application can simultaneously perform rectification, current limiting, energy storage and light emission functions on a single-layer FPC400, which shortens the energy transmission path, reduces impedance, and reduces the number of solder joints in high-speed rotation environments, significantly improving the reliability and integration of the light emission module.

[0035] Reference Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the middle cover 500 serves as a load-bearing component. Its outer edge is ultrasonically welded to the face mask 100 to form an annular weld, thereby constituting a sealed wall for the backlight module and preventing internal optical and circuit components from being corroded by water and dust. Two symmetrical stepped slots 501 are designed on the inner side of the axial center to securely engage the cylindrical supercapacitor 404, achieving dual positioning of clamping and lateral limiting, and facilitating short-distance welding of the capacitor solder feet to the FPC400 terminals to reduce vibration stress. An arc-shaped slot 502 is reserved at the bottom to install a counterweight 503. By fixing the counterweight, the center of gravity of the device is lowered, and the face mask marking area 101 is kept parallel to the ground by gravity when the hub rotates.

[0036] like Figure 6As shown, the levitation magnetic power generation component 600 includes a stator 601 and a rotor 602 coaxially arranged with the hub. The rotor 602 is provided with a permanent magnet, and the stator 601 is wound with a coil. The two are connected by magnetic levitation to form a working gap. The rotor 602 is provided with a fixing device to fix the middle cover 500, so that the stator 601 and the rotor 602 rotate relative to each other during the rotation of the hub by using gravity.

[0037] The levitation magnetic power generation component 600 is fixed to the back of the middle cover 500 and is electrically connected to the backlight module. The outermost part of the levitation magnetic power generation component 600 is a flat disc-shaped end cap 605. Four ear plate protrusions 606 are provided along the circumference of the outer edge of the end cap 605. Each ear plate has a pre-drilled hole to facilitate screws or positioning pins to lock the component to the middle cover 500. The middle cover 500 is provided with corresponding openings for fixing the screws or positioning pins.

[0038] The middle cover 500 and the face mask 100 are detachably connected to the middle frame 700 by the first buckle, and the middle frame 700 is then locked to the bottom shell 800 by the second buckle, so that the entire light-emitting device can be installed on the vehicle wheel hub.

[0039] The middle frame 700 has an integral ring structure and is made of injection-molded PA-GF high-strength material. Multiple sets of stepped buckle units 701 are arranged equidistantly along the outer edge to cooperate with the locking grooves on the bottom shell 800, so as to quickly lock the middle frame 700 and the bottom shell 800.

[0040] The arc segments between the teeth are equipped with arc-shaped elastic ribs 702, which can improve the bending stiffness of the ring without significantly increasing the weight, ensuring controllable deformation during high-speed rotation and tire impact. The inner wall of the middle frame 700 forms a smooth positioning surface, which not only provides circumferential support for the backlight module, but also acts as a guide during assembly to ensure that the face mask 100 and the middle cover 500 assembly are centered.

[0041] This invention achieves contactless power supply, wiring-free and battery-free operation of the wheel hub lighting device by combining a levitation magnetic power generation component 600 with a supercapacitor 404 for energy storage, completely solving the wear and maintenance problems of traditional structures. It can continuously emit light for more than 120 seconds after the vehicle is stationary, significantly improving nighttime warning and brand display effects. It adopts a modular snap-fit ​​structure of center cover 500-middle frame 700-bottom shell 800 for quick assembly and disassembly, and a counterweight design ensures the logo is always visible from the front. The optical part consists of a diffuser 200, a light guide plate 300, and a light-transmitting mask 100 working together to ensure uniform logo brightness and high contrast, blending seamlessly with the wheel rim appearance when the lights are off. It also features IP67 protection, magnetic levitation for wear-free operation, high and low temperature and vibration reliability, overall lightweight design with good heat dissipation, low production cost, and compliance with regulations, making it suitable for mass-produced vehicles and the aftermarket, possessing both safety and durability.

Claims

1. A light-emitting device for a vehicle wheel hub, characterized in that, include: Middle cover; The face mask is ultrasonically welded to the middle cover to form a sealed cavity; The backlight module is disposed in the cavity. The backlight module is stacked with a mask, a diffuser, a light guide plate and a flexible circuit board for mounting LEDs in sequence. The flexible circuit board includes an energy storage circuit composed of a current limiting resistor, a rectifier diode and a supercapacitor. The levitation magnetic power generation component is fixed to the back of the middle cover and electrically connected to the backlight module; The levitation magnetic power generation component outputs electrical energy to drive the LED to emit light and charge the supercapacitor when the wheel rotates; the energy storage capacity of the supercapacitor is configured to continue supplying power to the LED after the wheel stops rotating, so that the light-emitting device can emit light continuously for no less than 120 seconds.

2. The light-emitting device for a vehicle wheel hub according to claim 1, characterized in that, A counterweight is fixed to the bottom of the middle cover to use gravity to keep the marking area of ​​the mask basically parallel to the ground during the rotation of the hub.

3. The light-emitting device for a vehicle wheel hub according to claim 2, characterized in that, The middle frame has an overall ring structure, and multiple sets of stepped buckle units are arranged equidistantly along the outer edge to cooperate with the locking grooves on the bottom shell.

4. The light-emitting device for a vehicle wheel hub according to claim 3, characterized in that, The levitation magnetic power generation component includes a stator and a rotor coaxially arranged with the hub. The rotor is equipped with a permanent magnet, and the stator is wound with coils. The two are connected by magnetic levitation to form a working gap. The rotor is equipped with a fixing device to fix the middle cover, so that the stator and the rotor can rotate relative to each other by gravity during the rotation of the hub.

5. The light-emitting device for a vehicle wheel hub according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the mask is provided with a light-transmitting marking area and a light-blocking background area. The light-transmitting marking area corresponds to the light-emitting surface of the backlight module, while the remaining background area uses opaque material to improve the visual contrast of the marking.

6. The light-emitting device for a vehicle wheel hub according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy storage circuit includes a rectifier bridge composed of diodes, the output end of which is connected to a supercapacitor, and the two ends of the supercapacitor are connected in parallel to a light-emitting circuit composed of LEDs and current-limiting resistors; the input end of the rectifier bridge is connected to the output end of the levitation magnetic power generation component.

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