LIGHTING ARRANGEMENT WITH ONE LIGHTING USE SEGMENT AND ONE VISUAL STIMULATION SEGMENT

Abstract

Lighting arrangement (20) comprising: a core (22) extending along a centerline (C), the core (22) having a base end (36), a distal end (38), a first side (40) extending axially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38), and a second side (42) opposite the first side (40) and extending axially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38), the second side (42) having a release element (43) extending axially partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38); a light source (24) adapted to emit light rays into the core (22) at the base end (36); a functional layer (26) laterally spaced from the first side (40), extending axially partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38), and axially aligned with the release element (43); and a reflector (28) laterally spaced from the second side (42), extending axially partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38) and axially aligned with the delivery element (43), and a first technological layer (30) disposed directly between the first side (40) and the functional layer (26), extending partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38) and running coaxially with the functional layer (26); and a second technological layer (32) arranged directly between the release element (43) and the reflector (28), extending partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38) and coaxial with the reflector (28), a lighting utility segment (52) comprising a first portion (56) of the core (22), the release element (43), the functional layer (26), the reflector (28), the first technological layer (30) and the second technological layer (32); and a visual stimulus segment (54) comprising a second portion (58) of the core (22) and a visual stimulant element (60) carried by the second portion (58) and adapted to refract light.

Description

GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lighting assembly and, more particularly, to a lighting assembly having an illumination utility segment and a visual stimulus segment.

[0002] Conventional lighting assemblies, such as those disclosed in US 2011 / 0 182 084 A1 and US 2013 / 0 016 526 A1, comprise a light source and an optical structure configured to receive light rays from a light source and controllably direct the light rays from the optical structure to perform a utilitarian function (e.g., illuminate an area). Known lighting assemblies that also include decorative features that do not serve the utilitarian purpose include separate structures and / or light sources to perform the decorative function. Unfortunately, all of this contributes to complexity, higher costs, and suboptimal packaging. Improvements to lighting assemblies with visually stimulating features are desirable. SUMMARY

[0003] In an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a light assembly includes a core, a light source, and a functional layer. The core extends along a centerline and has a base end, a distal end, a first side extending axially between the base and distal ends, and a second side opposite the first side and extending axially between the base and distal ends. The second side includes a release member extending axially partially between the base and distal ends. The light source is adapted to deliver light rays into the core at the base end. The functional layer is laterally spaced from the first side, extends axially partially between the base and distal ends, and is axially aligned with the release member.A reflector is laterally spaced from the second side and extends axially partially between the base and distal ends and is axially aligned with the delivery element. A first technological layer is disposed directly between the first side and the functional layer and extends partially between the base and distal ends and is coaxial with the functional layer. A second technological layer is disposed directly between the delivery element and the reflector, extends partially between the base and distal ends and is coaxial with the reflector.

[0004] The lighting assembly comprises an illumination utility segment, a first core portion, the release element, the functional layer, the reflector, the first technological layer, and the second technological layer. A visual stimulant segment comprises a second core portion and a visual stimulant element supported by the second portion and adapted to refract light.

[0005] In another embodiment, a lighting assembly includes first and second cores, an illumination usage segment, first and second visual stimulation segments, and first and second light sources. The first core extends along a first centerline and has a base end and first and second sides each extending axially outward from the base end. The second core extends along a second centerline and has a base end and first and second sides each extending axially outward from the base end. The second core is at least partially laterally adjacent to the first core. The illumination usage segment includes a first axial portion of the first core, a release element of the second side of the first core, and a functional layer laterally spaced from the first side of the first core.The first visual stimulus segment includes a second axial portion of the first core. The second visual stimulus segment includes at least a portion of the second core. The first light source is adapted to illuminate the first core at the base end of the first core. The second light source is adapted to illuminate the second core at the base end of the second core. The base ends of the first and second cores are substantially axially aligned, and the second core projects axially outwardly further than the first core.

[0006] These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a light assembly as a non-limiting, exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 2 is a front view of the light assembly; Fig. 3 is a front view of a second embodiment of a light assembly; and Fig. 4 is a side view of a third embodiment of a light assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Turning now to the figures, wherein the invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments without limiting the same, a light assembly 20 is illustrated. The light assembly 20 is configured to perform dual functions, for example, providing a signaling function and providing an illuminated decorative feature. In one example, the light assembly 20 may be part of a vehicle and include a signaling portion adapted to provide a light signal and a second illuminated portion configured to provide a visual stimulus, such as decoration or information, such as the display of a trademark, logo, or other branding. In another embodiment, the light assembly 20 may be a subcomponent of a larger light assembly.

[0009] In other embodiments or applications of the light assembly 20, the light assembly 20 may be a headlight assembly, a white daytime running light, an amber or red turn signal, a white or amber front position light, a white or amber marker light, a white front parking light, a red tail light, a red brake light, a red high mount stop light (HMSL), and / or a white, amber, or red side marker. In still other embodiments, the light assembly 20 may be a component or subsystem of an automotive lamp assembly adapted to be mounted on a vehicle.

[0010] On Fig. 1, the light assembly 20 may include a light-conducting core 22 extending along a centerline C (i.e., optical axis), a light source 24, a functional layer 26, a reflector 28, a front technological layer 30, and a back technological layer 32. The core 22 is configured to internally transmit and emit light rays 34 and may include a base end 36, a distal end 38, a first, or front, surface 40, and a second, or back, surface 42. The front and back surfaces 40, 42 extend into and may be molded into the base end and distal end 36, 38. The core 22 is made of an optically transparent material, such as a transparent polymer. Examples of a transparent polymer may include polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), cycloolefin copolymer (COP), and any other suitable transparent polymers.

[0011] The backside 42 of the core 22 may generally include debinding elements 43 configured to redirect the light rays 34 toward the frontside 40 of the core 22. The distribution and size of the debinding elements 43 are designed with respect to the shape of the desired active area of the light assembly 20. In one example, the debinding elements 43 may be created by digitally printing a portion of the backside 42, and in another embodiment, by sandblasting a portion of the backside 42.

[0012] The light source 24 of the light assembly 20 may be located at the base end 36 of the core 22 and is adapted to generate and transmit the light rays 34 through the base end 36 and into the core 22. In one example, the light source may be one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 44 supported by a frame of the light assembly (not shown).

[0013] The functional layer 26 of the light assembly 20 is constructed to force the light rays 34 emitted from the core 22 into a predetermined direction and distribution as required to provide the light distribution for the desired optical function. The predetermined direction may be normal or at an angle relative to an outer surface 45 (i.e., active area) of the functional layer 26. To achieve this, the functional layer 26 may include a plurality of optical features 46 (e.g., structures, corrugations, or textures) carried, for example, by the outer surface 45 of the functional layer 26. In one example, the functional layer 26 may be suitable for homogenizing the emitted light rays 34. The optical features 46 may be integrally formed with their parent component (i.e.,The functional layer 26 may be formed from the light beams 34 (i.e., the functional layer 26) or added using known secondary processes, such as vacuum deposition, inkjet, screen or gravure printing, or additive manufacturing. The light beams 34 are directionally controlled to some degree, rather than being completely scattered or randomly distributed. In general, the effect of the functional layer 26 is to force most of the light beams 34 into a box-like region within about twenty degrees of a predetermined direction.

[0014] The functional layer 26 may be laterally spaced from the front side 40 of the core 22, extends axially only partially between the base and distal ends 36, 38 of the core 22, and is generally aligned with the release element(s) 43. For example, the functional layer 26 is coaxial with the release element 43 and aligned along the centerline C. In one embodiment, the functional layer 26 begins at the base end 36 and extends axially toward the distal end 38 of the core 22, but terminates before reaching the distal end 38, as shown in Fig. 1 shown.

[0015] The front technological layer 30 of the light assembly 20 is suitable for refracting the light rays 34 and preferably has a low refractive index relative to the optical core 22. The front technological layer 30 may be an air layer (i.e., an air gap), may be or include an adhesive with a low refractive index, or any other structure that provides sufficient refraction of the light rays 34 emerging from the optical core 22. When the front technological layer 30 is an adhesive, the adhesive facilitates the bonding of the core 22 to the functional layer 26. In one embodiment, the light assembly 20 may include multiple alternating functional and technological layers (26, 30) (i.e., sandwiched layers).

[0016] The front technological layer 30 is located directly between the front side 40 of the core 22 and an inner surface 48 of the functional layer 26. The layer 30 extends only partially between the base and distal ends 36, 38 of the core 22 and is axially aligned with the functional layer 26.

[0017] The reflector 28 of the light assembly 20 is configured to reflect light rays 34 emitted through the back surface 42 of the core 22 and back into the core. The reflector 28 may have a highly reflective property, preferably be integrally formed, and may include a film, spray coating, adhesive, surface finish, or a combination thereof to enhance the reflective property.

[0018] The reflector 28 of the light assembly 20 may be laterally spaced from the back surface 42 of the core 22, extends axially partially between the base and distal ends 36, 38, and is generally aligned with the debinding elements 43. For example, the reflector 28 is coaxial with the debinding elements 43 and aligned along the centerline C. In one embodiment, the reflector 28 begins at the base end 36 and extends axially toward the distal end 38 of the core 22.

[0019] The rear technological layer 32 of the light assembly 20 is adapted to refract the light rays 34 and preferably has a low refractive index relative to the optical core 22. The rear technological layer 30 may be an air layer (i.e., an air gap), may be or include an adhesive with a low refractive index, or any other structure that provides sufficient refraction of the light rays emerging from the optical core 22. If the rear technological layer 32 is an adhesive, the adhesive facilitates the bonding of the core 22 to the reflector 28.

[0020] The rear technological layer 32 is located directly between the rear surface 42 of the core 22 and an inner surface 50 of the reflector 28. The rear technological layer 32 extends only partially between the base and distal ends 36, 38 of the core 22 and is axially aligned with the functional layer 26 and the reflector 28.

[0021] Continue on Fig. 1, the light assembly 20 includes an illumination utility segment 52 and a visual stimulus segment 54. In one embodiment, the utility segment 52 is configured to provide a light signal that performs a technical function of the light assembly 20. For example, the utility segment 52 may perform the function of a vehicle brake light. In other applications, the utility segment 52 may be a daytime running light, a turn signal, a front position light, a front parking light, a tail light, a top mounted brake light (HMSL), and / or a side marker.

[0022] The visual stimulus segment 54 of the light assembly 20 may promote a decorative visual effect that may be visually appealing but does not necessarily perform a utilitarian function. That is, the visual stimulus segment 54 is part of the light assembly but does not specifically perform the function of the utilitarian segment 52 (i.e., a stop lamp, a daytime running light, a turn signal, a front position light, a front parking light, a tail light, a top-mounted brake light (HMSL), or a side marker).

[0023] The utility segment 52 may include a first portion 56 of the core 22, the release element 43, the functional layer 26, the reflector 28, the front technological layer 30, and the rear technological layer 32. All of these components extend axially together with respect to the centerline C. The visual stimulant segment 54 does not include the release element 43, the functional layer 26, the reflector 28, the front technological layer 30, and the rear technological layer 32 of the utility segment 52 and does not extend axially together therewith. However, the visual stimulant segment 54 includes a second portion 58 of the core 22 and may further include a visual stimulant element 60, and optionally an optical structure 62 (see Fig. 2, e.g., reflector). The second portion 58 extends axially from and is molded into the first portion 56 of the core 22. In general, the front and back surfaces 40, 42 may be substantially smooth and transparent and generally do not transmit light rays 34 from the core 22 except at the visual stimulant element 60.

[0024] The visual stimulant element 60 is preferably configured to refract light from the core 22 while glowing or glowing for visual effect. The element 60 may, for example, be a displayed trademark or any other form of decoration. In one example, the visual stimulant element 60 may be an engraving engraved into the front or back 40, 42 of the core 22 at the second portion 58. In other non-limiting examples, the element 60 may be printed on one of the sides 40, 42, spaced apart between the sides 40, 42, located within the second portion 58, or a three-dimensional structure (i.e., sculpture) formed or defined by the sides 40, 42 and the distal end 38.

[0025] In detail on the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 and in one embodiment, the utility segment 52 of the light assembly 20 may comprise the base end 36 of the core 22, is directly adjacent to the light source 24, and extends axially between the light source 24 and the visual stimulus segment 54. In this embodiment, the optical structure 62 may be adjacent (e.g., adhered to or integrally formed with) the distal end 38 of the core 22 and is adapted to project some light rays 34 outwardly in a predetermined pattern for visual effect.

[0026] In detail on Fig. 3 and in another embodiment, elements similar to the first embodiment of the light assembly have similar reference numerals except for the addition of a prime symbol as a suffix. Fig. 3 illustrates a light assembly 20' wherein a visual stimulant segment 54' of the light assembly 20' includes a base end 36' of a core 22', is directly adjacent to a light source 24', and extends axially between the light source 24' and a utility segment 52' of the light assembly 20'. In this embodiment, the visual stimulant segment 54' may not include a visual stimulant element. Instead, the visual stimulation of the visual stimulant segment 54' is the appearance of the utility segment 52' floating in the center of space without a visually recognizable support structure. That is, the visual stimulant segment 54' does not refract light rays from the core 22'. Alternatively, a light assembly 20 structure as explained above and in Fig. 3 represents an isolated stimulant element similar to element 60 (see Fig. 2) within the segment 54' ( Fig. 3). Such a structure would still provide a floating appearance of the utility segment, while also providing a desirable visual effect.

[0027] In detail on Fig. 4, a third embodiment of a light assembly is illustrated, wherein elements similar to the first embodiment have like reference numerals except for the addition of a double-prime suffix. The light assembly 20" includes a utility segment 52", a plurality of visual stimulus segments 54" laterally aligned (i.e., coextensive axially with respect to a centerline C), a plurality of light sources 24", and a common PCB 44".

[0028] The utility segment 52" may extend generally axially outwardly from a first light source 24", and a first stimulus segment 54" may extend axially outwardly from the utility segment 52". The remainder of the plurality of visual stimulus segments 52" may be aligned laterally rearward of the first stimulus segment 54", with each successive stimulus segment 54" extending axially farther outwardly than the adjacent forward stimulus segment 54". Each of the plurality of light sources 24" may be electrically connected to a common PCB 44". As a decorative feature, each light source 24" may have a different color and / or characteristic.

[0029] It is further contemplated and understood that any combination and number of utility segments 52 and stimulus segments 54 may be axially aligned and oriented with respect to one another. For example, a single light assembly may have a utility segment extending axially between two adjacent stimulus segments.

[0030] Advantages and benefits of the present disclosure include improving the appearance of automotive lighting with unlimited, integrated options that do not require independent light sources. Other advantages include improved illumination that requires less packaging space, reduced complexity, and reduced costs.

[0031] While the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention may be modified to include any number of variations, changes, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are within the spirit and scope of the invention. While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be considered limited by the foregoing description.

Claims

[1] Lighting arrangement (20) comprising: a core (22) extending along a centerline (C), the core (22) having a base end (36), a distal end (38), a first side (40) extending axially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38), and a second side (42) opposite the first side (40) and extending axially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38), the second side (42) having a release element (43) extending axially partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38); a light source (24) adapted to emit light rays into the core (22) at the base end (36); a functional layer (26) laterally spaced from the first side (40), extending axially partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38), and axially aligned with the release element (43); and a reflector (28) laterally spaced from the second side (42), extending axially partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38) and axially aligned with the delivery element (43), and a first technological layer (30) disposed directly between the first side (40) and the functional layer (26), extending partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38) and running coaxially with the functional layer (26); and a second technological layer (32) arranged directly between the release element (43) and the reflector (28), extending partially between the base end (36) and the distal end (38) and coaxial with the reflector (28), a lighting utility segment (52) comprising a first portion (56) of the core (22), the release element (43), the functional layer (26), the reflector (28), the first technological layer (30) and the second technological layer (32); and a visual stimulus segment (54) comprising a second portion (58) of the core (22) and a visual stimulant element (60) carried by the second portion (58) and adapted to refract light. [2] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the release element (43), the functional layer (26) and the reflector (28) are directly adjacent to the base end (36). [3] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the release element (43), the functional layer (26) and the reflector (28) are directly adjacent to the distal end (38). [4] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the release element (43), the functional layer (26) and the reflector (28) are arranged at a distance between the base end (36) and the distal end (38). [5] Light arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the functional layer (26) has optical features (46). [6] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the reflector (28) comprises a reflective layer. [7] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the second portion (58) extends axially from the first portion (56). [8] The light assembly of claim 7, wherein the first side (40) and the second side (42) at the second portion (58) are substantially smooth and transparent. [9] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the visual stimulant element (54) is defined by one of the first side (40) and second side (42). [10] The light assembly of claim 1, wherein the visual stimulant element (54) is spaced apart between the first side (40) and second side (42) and is located within the second portion (58). [11] The lighting assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a second core laterally spaced from the core and having a second visual stimulus segment at least partially axially aligned with the visual stimulus segment. [12] Lighting arrangement comprising: a first core (22) extending along a first centerline (C), the first core (22) having a base end (36) and a first side (40) and second side (42) each extending axially outwardly from the base end (36); a second core extending along a second centerline, the second core having a base end and first and second sides each extending axially outwardly from the base end, the second core being at least partially laterally adjacent to the first core; a lighting utility segment (52) comprising a first axial portion (56) of the first core (22), a release element (43) of the second side (42) of the first core (22), and a functional layer (26) laterally spaced from the first side (40) of the first core (22); a first visual stimulus segment (54) comprising a second axial portion (58) of the first core (22); a second visual stimulus segment comprising at least a portion of the second nucleus; a first light source (24) adapted to illuminate the first core (22) at the base end (36) of the first core (22); a second light source adapted to illuminate the second core at the base end of the second core; and wherein the base ends (36) of the first core (22) and second core are substantially axially aligned and the second core projects axially outwardly further than the first core (22). [13] The lighting arrangement of claim 12, wherein the first light source (24) and the second light source have different colors. [14] The lighting assembly of claim 12, further comprising: a circuit board (44) comprising the first light source (24) and the second light source. [15] The light assembly of claim 12, wherein the illumination utility segment (52) is adjacent the base end (36) of the first core (22).

Images