Ramp De-Icing System

Abstract

A lamp de-icing system (40) comprising one or more heating layers (42) configured to heat one or more regions (30A-30D) of a lens (14) of a vehicle (2), one or more temperature sensors (102, 202, 302) for detecting an ambient temperature around the vehicle (2), one or more humidity sensors (104, 204, 304) for detecting an ambient relative humidity around the vehicle (2), and one or more proximity sensors (114, 210, 314) for detecting the presence of precipitation (16) on the lens (14) of the vehicle (2).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present teachings relate to light systems having de-icing systems that remove precipitation, such as ice, snow or condensation, and / or prevent the formation of precipitation. Summary of the Invention

[0002] background Vehicles are equipped with various kinds of lights. Some types of lights that may be equipped on a vehicle are low beam headlights, high beam headlights, tail lights, turn signal lights, fog lights, running lights, or a combination thereof. These lights function to illuminate the area around the vehicle and to warn other drivers. Although vehicles are designed to operate in warm and cold climates, cold climates may result in the accumulation of condensation, snow, or ice on the lights, which may reduce the amount of light that is projected around the vehicle. The reduced amount of light may reduce the driver's visibility, which may be further reduced by adverse weather conditions.

[0003] Thus, there is a need for a lighting system that prevents condensation, snow, ice, or other frozen precipitation that can reduce the amount of light projected outward from the vehicle. There is a need to prevent precipitation buildup so that the lighting system is not already free of precipitation when the vehicle is first used. A system is needed that senses possible conditions for precipitation buildup. What is needed is a system that prevents precipitation buildup and frozen precipitation while also monitoring battery life and not draining the battery if the vehicle is not used for an extended period of time.

[0004] overview The present teachings provide a lamp de-icing system that includes one or more heating layers configured to heat one or more regions of a lens of a vehicle, one or more temperature sensors that detect an ambient temperature around the vehicle, one or more humidity sensors that detect an ambient relative humidity around the vehicle, and one or more proximity sensors that detect whether precipitation is present on the lens of the vehicle.

[0005] The present teachings provide a method that includes monitoring one or more temperature sensors to detect an ambient temperature, monitoring one or more humidity sensors to detect an ambient relative humidity, evaluating the ambient temperature, evaluating the ambient relative humidity, detecting the likelihood that precipitation is about to form on a lens of the vehicle, and enabling a lamp de-icing system in communication with the lens of the vehicle if the steps detect that precipitation is about to form on the lens of the vehicle.

[0006] The present teachings provide a light system in which condensation, snow, ice, or other frozen precipitation may reduce the amount of light projected outward from the vehicle. The present teachings provide a system that prevents precipitation accumulation such that the light system is already free of precipitation when the vehicle is first used. The present teachings explain that the system is generally activated when the vehicle is parked or when the vehicle is in operation based on user settings. The present teachings provide a system that senses conditions in which precipitation accumulation may occur. The present teachings provide a system that prevents precipitation and frozen precipitation accumulation while monitoring battery life to avoid draining the battery when the vehicle is not used for an extended period of time. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a vehicle including a front light system and a rear light system. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a side view showing the light system with precipitation accumulation with the de-icing system off. [Figure 2B]FIG. 2B is a side view of the light system of FIG. 2A with the de-icing system turned on. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a front view of a light system including a de-icing system. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the light system of FIG. 3A taken along line IIIB-IIIB. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a flow diagram showing control of the de-icing system while the vehicle is not moving. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a flow diagram illustrating control of the de-icing system while the vehicle of FIG. 4A is traveling. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a flow diagram illustrating control of a vehicle de-icing system while the vehicle is not moving or is parked. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a flow diagram illustrating control of the de-icing system of the vehicle of FIG. 5A while the vehicle is running or driving. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a flow chart illustrating the effect of GPS and weather data during the vehicle "OFF" state. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a flow chart illustrating the effect of GPS and weather data during the vehicle "ON" state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Detailed Description The description and illustrations provided herein are intended to familiarize one skilled in the art with the invention, its principles, and its practical application. Those skilled in the art may adapt and apply the invention in its numerous forms as may best suit the requirements of a particular application. Thus, the specific embodiments of the invention described are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings. Thus, the scope of the teachings should be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all literature and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Also, other combinations are possible, as can be seen from the following claims, which are also incorporated by reference into this written description.

[0009] The present teachings relate to a light system. The light system is installed in a vehicle. Preferably, the light system is part of the vehicle, such as a car, motorcycle, bus, truck, semi-truck, SUV, XUV, four-wheeler, dirt bike, tractor, combine, heavy equipment, agricultural equipment, industrial equipment, commercial equipment, or combinations thereof. The vehicle can be gasoline-powered, diesel-powered, electric-powered, natural gas-powered, solar-powered, or combinations thereof.

[0010] The light system may project light in a forward direction, a rearward direction, a sideward direction, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the light system projects light from an exterior surface of the vehicle (e.g., the front fascia, headlamps, or lighting panels, as non-limiting examples) at a location in front of the vehicle or at an angle to the front or rear of the vehicle. The light system may direct some light at the ground. The light system may direct some light above the ground. The light system may be integrated into the front end, rear end, or both of the automobile. The light system may be an assembly. The light system may be an enclosed light system integrated into the vehicle. The light system may be a subassembly included in a larger light system. The light system may be integrated into other light systems or may function as part of a light system. The light system may project light outside the vehicle. The light system may be multiple light systems stacked on top of each other or integrated into a single light system. The light system may have multiple smaller light systems or may implement multiple light systems. Multiple light systems may be arranged in one light system. Multiple light systems may operate independently of one another such that one light system does not affect another light system or portion of a light system. The lighting on a vehicle may be two or more, three or more, or four or more light systems stacked one on top of the other.

[0011] A light source has the function of producing light. A light source may be a device or devices that produce light where the light extends outward from the light source. A light source may produce a high beam, a low beam, a blended beam, a hazard light, a fog light, a daytime running light, a turn signal, a brake light, or a combination thereof. A light source may be for near light, far light, a blended light that blends far light and near light, or a combination thereof. Multiple light sources may have different functions. For example, one light source may provide running light and another light source may be a turn signal or a fog light. A light source may be a single light source in a set of multiple light sources or may include multiple lights. The multiple lights may be in a set or group of multiple light sources. A light source may be a single light that projects light. A light source may focus light onto a light guide, onto a light bar, onto a reflector, or a combination thereof. The light sources may include laser diodes, light emitting phosphors, filament bulbs, light emitting diodes, halogenated lights, xenon lights, or combinations thereof. A light source may produce a single light function.

[0012] The light source may be any type of lighting device, such as an incandescent light bulb, a fluorescent light bulb, a compact fluorescent light bulb, a halogen lamp, a light emitting diode (LED), a high intensity discharge lamp (HID), a halogen light, a xenon light, a laser diode, a phosphorus light bulb, or a combination thereof. The light source may be a single lamp or a light bulb. Preferably, the light source is part of a set of light sources including multiple lamps, light bulbs, diodes, or a combination thereof. The light source may be part of a set of light sources including two or more, three or more, four or more, or five or more light sources that are combined to generate light and form a light extending from the light system. The set of light sources may include 10 or less, seven or less, five or less, or three or less devices that generate light (e.g., each set may include five light sources, or all sets may include five light sources when combined together).

[0013] The number of light sources in a portion of light may depend on the size of the area or the size to be illuminated. For example, a brake light may have two or more light sources and a turn signal may have one light. Thus, a light source may be one or more lights, two or more lights, or three or more lights. The light source may be stationary. The light source may be free to move. The light source may be fixed. The light source may be static and may be manually or physically adjusted so that the light source is directed to a desired location. The light source may be fixed and the light from the light source may be moved, bent, directed, or a combination thereof by optical elements or reflectors (e.g., light guides). Each unit of the light source may be turned on and off. The light sources may work together as a set of light sources to produce light.

[0014] A set of light sources may be a single function (e.g., high beam, low beam, fused beam, running light, daytime running light, turn signal, brake light, or a combination thereof). Each set of light sources may perform a single function. Preferably, some of the light systems may include two or more light source sets, three or more light source sets, or four or more light source sets, each providing two, three or four functions. Each of the sets of light sources may perform a different function or provide a different type of light. All the lights in a set of light sources may provide the same light (e.g., color, color temperature, or wavelength). For example, one set of light sources may be yellow, orange, or red, and a second set of light sources may be white (e.g., OEM white, off-white, pure white, or crystal white (e.g., having a color temperature of 4300K ​​to 6000K)). The color, intensity, temperature, or combination thereof may vary from set to set depending on the function of the set of light sources. For example, if one set of light sources is intended for turn signals, its color may be orange, while if the set of light sources is intended for brake lights, its color may be red. The color may be determined by the color of the outer lens.

[0015] The outer lens or lenses may function to protect the light system, house all the internal components, or both. The lens (e.g., outer lens) may be the outermost part of the light system. The lens may receive all of the light from the lens so that it is directed outward from the vehicle, in the direction of the vehicle's movement, or both. The lens may be strong enough to protect the light system from stones and debris as the vehicle moves. The lens may cover all of the light sources, sensors, high beams, low beams, side barkers, turn signals, or combinations thereof of the light system (e.g., first light bar, second light bar, or third light bar). The lens may be clear, fully clear, partially clear, fully clear, or combinations thereof. The lens may be hidden. The lens may be covered behind a logo, a colored lens, or both. The lens may provide prominence. The lens may have portions that provide prominence and portions that obscure the lights, sensors, or both. The outer lens may be clear so that light can penetrate through it, and the outer lens may become more opaque when covered with precipitation.

[0016] A light system functions to provide light, sense surroundings, or both. A light system may include headlights, high beams, low beams, lidar, radar, sonar, infrared red camera, turn signals, side markers, DRLs, cameras, fog lights, daytime running lights, or combinations thereof. A light system may include one or more regions, two or more regions, three or more regions, four or more regions, or five or more regions.

[0017] Each region may include different components or provide different functions. Each region may include different light sources, different sensors, or both. The regions may operate at the same time, different times, or a combination of both. Some regions may operate together. The regions may include turn signals, high beams, low beams, side markers, lidar, sonar, radar, fog lights, daytime running lights, or a combination thereof. Each region may include certain components (e.g., sensors) that require clarity through the lens to operate. For example, the light of a headlight, the laser of a lidar, or both must extend through the lens. Any light may extend through the lens (e.g., visible light, non-visible light, or both). The lens may be a forward surface that is contacted by ice, snow, rain, dirt, debris, sleet, road spray, or a combination thereof. Deposition may occur on the lens. The lens may include or be in contact with a lamp de-icing system.

[0018] The lamp de-icing system removes or prevents precipitation, or some combination of both (precipitation, e.g., snow, ice, fog, condensation, rain, precipitation events, dew point changes, frost, or combinations thereof) from forming on the lens, blocking light, blocking signals, or combinations thereof. The lamp de-icing system may generate heat to cause the precipitation to melt or evaporate. The lamp de-icing system may distinguish between precipitation and dirt, debris, mud, non-melting or non-evaporating materials, or combinations thereof. The lamp de-icing system may only operate if precipitation is detected. For example, if mud, sand, or other non-precipitation is detected, the system may not operate. The lamp de-icing system may clear the lens to allow light, signals, or both to pass through the lens. The lamp de-icing system may be connected to the lens, may be built into the lens, or both. The lamp de-icing system may be transparent, may include transparent portions, or may allow light and / or signals to pass therethrough.

[0019] The lamp de-icing system may sense whether a condition exists in which precipitation may occur. The lamp de-icing system may prevent precipitation from collecting on the lens when the temperature is below a predetermined temperature, when the humidity is above a predetermined humidity, or both. The lamp de-icing system may operate when the vehicle is on, when the vehicle is off, when the vehicle is stationary, when the vehicle is moving, or combinations thereof. The lamp de-icing system may include one or more sensors, one or more regions, one or more thermistors, one or more electrodes, one or more cover layers, or combinations thereof. The lamp de-icing system may include a global positioning system device (GPS) in communication with an information database configured to correlate environmental conditions. The lamp de-icing system may perform a method of heating.

[0020] The heating layer functions to generate heat to melt the precipitation, heat to evaporate the precipitation, or both. The heating layer may extend across the area where the light, laser, sensor, or combination thereof extends from the vehicle. The heating layer may be transparent. The heating layer may be woven and the light may extend through the heating layer. For example, the heating layer may include wires or resistive material with spaces through which the light or signal passes. The heating layer may be or include a conductive heating file, coating, infrared heater, convection heater, vibration technology, de-icing fluid, or combinations thereof. The heating layer may include a resistive layer and electrodes in a single coplanar layer, or both.

[0021] The heating layer may heat to a temperature of about 5° C. or greater, or about 40° C. or greater. The heating layer may heat to a temperature of about 100° C. or less, about 75° C. or less, or about 50° C. or less. The heating layer may be one or more discrete regions, two or more discrete regions, three or more discrete regions, four or more discrete regions, or five or more discrete regions. The regions may be activated together. The regions may be activated individually. The regions may be activated based on their importance in providing safety. The regions may be activated based on sensed precipitation. The regions may be activated based on battery voltage.

[0022] The sensor functions to sense precipitation, temperature, humidity, light and / or proximity of precipitation to the sensor, voltage, speed, altitude, or combinations thereof. The sensor may be a precipitation sensor (e.g., is there precipitation). The sensor may be a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may sense ambient temperature, lens temperature, heater temperature, or combinations thereof. The sensor may sense the altitude of the optical de-icing system (e.g., system). The sensor may be a humidity sensor. The humidity sensor may sense dew point, relative humidity, air pressure, or combinations thereof. The sensor may be a proximity sensor that senses an area and the location of the precipitation relative to the area.

[0023] The sensor may sense speed or may communicate with a speed sensor of the vehicle to use the vehicle sensor speed. For example, the sensor may monitor a GPS or may be a GPS type sensor. The sensor may monitor whether the vehicle is off, on, moving, or a combination thereof. The sensor may be a thermistor. The sensor may communicate with a processor, microprocessor, computer, vehicle computer, or a combination thereof. The sensor may communicate with the cloud, a network, surrounding vehicles, or a combination thereof. The sensor may provide weather data. The sensor may communicate with a database to correlate weather or environmental conditions.

[0024] The sensors may monitor the weather along the route, navigation in the vehicle, or both. The sensors may communicate with vehicles along the route, networks, clouds, weather services, news agencies, or a combination thereof. The sensors may monitor radar. The sensors may control the system based on information from these sensors to operate the system predictively even if the sensors do not currently indicate that the conditions are met. If the sensors indicate that conditions along the road ahead are likely to meet these conditions, the system may be preheated. When the sensors sense that the predetermined conditions are met, power and / or electricity is provided to the electrodes to power the heating layer.

[0025] The electrodes function to distribute electricity, to provide electricity along a first side of the heating layer so that electricity extends from a first electrode on the first side to a second electrode on the second side, or both. The electrodes may include positive and negative electrodes. The electrodes may extend substantially around the periphery of the area. The electrodes may distribute electricity such that as electricity passes through the heating layer, the resistance of the heating layer causes the heating layer to heat up. The electrodes may be made of or include gold, silver, copper, nickel, iron, or combinations thereof. The electrodes may be disposed between the heating layer and the cover, sandwiched between the heating layer and the cover, encapsulated by the heating layer and the cover, or combinations thereof.

[0026] The cover functions to protect the sensor, the heating layer, the electrodes, or a combination thereof. The cover may be made of a dielectric material. The cover may encapsulate one or more sides of the heating layer, the electrodes, the resistive layer, or a combination thereof. The cover prevents fluid from entering the lamp-de-icing system, the heating layer, the electrodes, thermistor, or a combination thereof. The cover may be made of or include a polymer, plastic, acrylic, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PETE or PET), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), Mylar, polyester, or a combination thereof. The cover may be meltable.

[0027] The cover may be a film. The cover may be bonded to the heater layer, the resistive layer, another cover, or a combination thereof. For example, there may be a front cover and a back cover that are connected together. The cover may be connected to the lens and enclose the heater therein. The cover may extend over the resistive layer, may be thermally stable up to the temperatures discussed herein to which the heater may heat, or a combination thereof. For example, the cover may not soften or flow when the resistive layer of the heater heats up, or a combination thereof.

[0028] The resistive layer functions to generate heat when electricity is applied to the resistive layer. The resistive layer may be or may include a positive temperature coefficient material (PTC), a negative temperature coefficient material (NTC), a resistive wire, carbon, a wire mesh, indium tin oxide, or a combination thereof. The resistive layer may be a film, a coating applied to a film, or both. The resistive layer may increase in temperature, have a maximum temperature, or both. The resistive layer may heat one of the regions of the light system. The resistive layer may be located between two electrodes. The resistive layer may electrically connect the two electrodes. For example, an electrode on a first side may be electrically connected with an electrode on a second side by the resistive layer. The resistive layer may be heated via a process.

[0029] The method may include one or more steps that may be performed in the order described herein or in a different order than described herein. The method may include determining whether the vehicle is on or off (e.g., engine is running). The determination of whether the vehicle is on or off may be performed only if the vehicle is other than an electric vehicle (e.g., powered by gas, natural gas, diesel, propane). If the vehicle is not an electric vehicle and the lamp de-icing system operates while the engine is off, the de-icing system may monitor the battery health (e.g., how much voltage is available). Based on the available voltage, the lamp de-icing system may operate at 100%, may operate with reduced heat, may operate in three or fewer zones, two or fewer zones, one zone, may be shut off, or a combination thereof. The lamp de-icing system may continuously monitor the environmental conditions surrounding the vehicle, such as temperature, humidity, or both.

[0030] The lamp de-icing system may be activated when ambient conditions indicate that the weather may produce precipitation. For example, if the temperature is 1° C. and the relative humidity is 90%, the system may be activated since there is a possibility that ice may form. In another measurement, the temperature may be −1° C. with 20% relative humidity and the system may not be turned on due to the low relative humidity. The temperature and relative humidity may be compared to a lookup table, known conditions that produce precipitation, conditions where precipitation is likely, or a combination thereof.

[0031] The lamp de-icing system may be turned on when the temperature is at or below a threshold temperature and the humidity is at or above a threshold humidity. The threshold temperature may be about 6° C. or below, 5° C. or below, 4° C. or below, or about 3° C. or below. The threshold temperature may be about 0° C. or above, about 1° C. or above, or about 2° C. or above. The threshold humidity may be about 50% or above, about 60% or above, 65% or above, or about 70% or above. The threshold humidity may be about 100% or below, about 90% or below, about 80% or below, or about 75% or below.

[0032] Once the temperature and humidity are measured, the ramp de-icing system evaluates the temperature and humidity to determine if precipitation is likely to occur. The processor may be a processor of the vehicle, a stand-alone processor in the ramp de-icing system, or both. The evaluation may compare both the measured temperature and the measured humidity to a threshold temperature and a threshold humidity. The threshold humidity and the threshold temperature may vary depending on one another. For example, the lower the temperature, the lower the humidity may be before the ramp de-icing system is activated by the processor, the microcomputer, or both. The evaluation may determine whether to turn the ramp de-icing system on or turn the ramp de-icing system off. If a decision is made to keep the ramp de-icing system off or to turn the ramp de-icing system off, the ramp de-icing system continues to monitor ambient conditions. If a decision is made to turn the ramp de-icing system on, the ramp de-icing system may determine whether the vehicle is on or off.

[0033] When the lamp de-icing system is turned on and the vehicle is off, the battery voltage may be detected. If the battery voltage is determined to be high, the lamp de-icing system may operate in all ranges, or may operate at low, mid-low, mid-high, or high. Preferably, when operating with a fully charged battery, the lamp de-icing system operates at mid-low (e.g., 25%-50%) or mid-high (e.g., 50%-75%). If the battery is determined to have a high charge (e.g., the battery is 50-75 percent charged or the voltage is measured at 12 volts) but is less than fully charged, the lamp de-icing system may provide power to fewer areas (e.g., one area less than full power) than would be powered if full power was detected, resulting in less heat, operate at a low level, operate at a mid-low level, or a combination thereof.

[0034] For example, if the lamp de-icing system detects that the battery is starting to get low, the lamp de-icing system may stop heating one or two zones to allow the remaining zones to continue to be heated. If the battery is determined to have an intermediate charge (e.g., between 25 percent and 50 percent or the voltage is between 11.5 volts and 12 volts), the system may deactivate one or more zones, two or more zones, or three or more zones. For example, if there are four zones, the system may activate only one zone.

[0035] A lamp de-icing system (e.g., system) may reduce the amount of power provided to an area. For example, the system may provide about 50% or less or 25% or more power to add some heat to the lens to keep some condensation removed. If the battery is determined to have low charge, the system may be turned off completely, all areas may be turned off, the time the system is on may be reduced by 75%, the amount of areas powered may be reduced to a single area, the power provided may be about 25% of the full power, or some combination thereof. If the vehicle is moving, the system may not monitor the battery voltage. If the vehicle is an electric vehicle, the battery voltage may be monitored. If the system determines that the temperature, humidity, voltage, vehicle conditions, or a combination thereof are all appropriate, the system may measure the proximity of precipitation to an area.

[0036] The proximity sensor functions to determine whether precipitation is present, whether precipitation is located within an area (e.g., an area that the light or sensor monitors through a lens), whether the area is covered by precipitation or other contaminants (e.g., bugs, mud, etc.), or a combination thereof. The proximity sensor may sense each area individually (e.g., each area may include a sensor). The proximity sensor may sense each of the areas simultaneously. The system may include one or more proximity sensors, two or more proximity sensors, three or more proximity sensors, or four or more proximity sensors. The system may include an equal number of proximity sensors and areas. The system may include one proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may determine whether precipitation is present, absent, precipitation, opaque, transparent, or a combination thereof. The proximity sensor may determine whether precipitation is present or not.

[0037] If the system determines that precipitation is not present, the system may apply power to the heater to prevent precipitation from forming on the lens. The system may apply power for maintenance as a preventative measure. The system may apply power to the heater so that the heater is at low or mid-low. The system may apply a steady amount of power. The system may apply power at about 0 percent to about 75 percent, about 25 percent to 60 percent, about 40 percent to 50 percent of full power. The system may continue to provide power to the heater while all of the above conditions remain met. If temperature increases, humidity decreases, voltage availability decreases, or a combination thereof, the system may stop providing power. The system may modify the amount of power provided if one or more of the measured conditions change. For example, if temperature increases, the system may reduce power. If a proximity sensor detects precipitation, the system may increase power.

[0038] If precipitation is detected, the amount of power may be increased to reduce or eliminate the precipitation. If precipitation is sensed, the power may be increased from low power to mid-low power, mid-low power to mid-high power, mid-high power to high power, low power to mid-high power, mid-low power to high power, or combinations thereof. If precipitation is detected, the amount of power applied may be increased by 25% of full load. If precipitation is detected, the power may be increased to 75% of full load. If precipitation is detected, areas containing safety or regulatory functions may have increased power. For example, areas having headlights, daytime running lights, sensors, radar, lidar, or combinations thereof. Detection of precipitation by a proximity sensor may power the system at 50% or more, 75% or more, or full power. If precipitation is detected, the system may determine if the vehicle is moving or stationary.

[0039] If the vehicle is stationary, the system may power the heater at medium-high or high. If the vehicle is stationary, the system may apply steady power. If the vehicle is stationary, the system may apply power at 75% or more, 80% or more, 90% or more, or 100% of full power. When precipitation is detected and no motion is detected, the heater is turned on. The heater may remain on until one of the measured conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, proximity, speed, or a combination thereof) changes.

[0040] If a speed change is detected, the system may change the amount of power applied. If the speed is greater than 0 Km / h, the heater may be powered at medium-high or high. If the vehicle is moving, the heater may be powered at full power. If the vehicle is moving, the heater may be overpowered. Depending on the speed of the vehicle, an amount of power applied to the heater (e.g., heating layer) is determined. The amount of power applied may be a fixed amount of power (e.g., full power). The heater may be powered above full power if the vehicle is moving at a high speed (e.g., greater than 50 Km / h, or greater than 100 Km / h). The speed sensor may be a GPS sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, or both. By applying a continuous amount of power, the heater may become overpowered. Thus, as the resistance of the heater increases, an amount of power applied may be applied to the heater. Power may be applied to heat the heater up to its rated power limit so that the heater melts precipitation or prevents precipitation from accumulating on the lens. When an amount of power applied is detected, the system may be turned on. For example, the circuitry of the system is turned on.

[0041] Once the system's circuitry is turned on, the system may still continually monitor the sensors for changes in ambient conditions, vehicle conditions, or both. The circuitry may provide power to the system, the heater, the heating layer, the sensors, or a combination thereof. The circuitry may be part of the vehicle, may be the vehicle's circuitry, or may be a combination thereof.

[0042] The circuitry may have an override. The override may allow the user to turn the system on, off, or both. The override may be an internal switch. The override may be a button inside the vehicle. The override may be turned on or may automatically turn off when the vehicle is turned off, after a predetermined time, or both. The override may allow the user to activate the system if a sensed condition does not appear to be met. The system may have one or more feedback loops that intermittently or continuously monitor sensors when an override is not used.

[0043] The feedback loop functions to monitor the sensor to determine if the system needs to be turned on or off. The feedback loop may measure temperature, humidity, voltage, proximity, or a combination thereof. The feedback loop may monitor the sensor continuously. The feedback loop may monitor the sensor about 5 or more times, 10 or more times, 20 or more times, 30 or more times, 60 or more times, or 100 or more times per minute. The feedback loop may detect if a condition for turning the system on or off is met.

[0044] 1 shows a side view of a vehicle 2 including a light system 10. The light systems 10 are located at a front end 4 and a rear end 6. The light systems 10 at the front end 4 and rear end 6 each include a turn signal 8. The light system 10 at the front end 4 includes a headlight 12.

[0045] 2A shows a side view of light system 10. Light system 10 includes headlight 12 and lens 14. Because lamp de-icer 40 is turned off, lens 14 is covered with precipitation 16, such as snow or ice. Precipitation 16 results in reflected light 18 that reduces the amount of light that passes through lens 14.

[0046] 2B illustrates a side view of the lighting device 10 with the lamp de-icing system 40 turned on. As shown, the lamp de-icing system 40 heats the lens 14 such that the precipitation 16 is removed (e.g., melts or evaporates). With the precipitation 16 removed, light 20 passes through the lens 14 to illuminate the area with the headlight 12. The lamp de-icing system 40 removes all of the precipitation 16 in the area where the light 20 passes through the lens 14, although some precipitation 16 may remain.

[0047] 3A illustrates an example of a light system 10. The light system 10 includes four light regions 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D. The four light regions are turn signal 8, side marker 22, high beam 24, and low beam 26. Each of the four light regions includes a lamp de-icing system 40. Each of the four light regions provides light for a different purpose.

[0048] FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional view of the lens 14 and the lamp de-icer 40. The lamp de-icer 40 is connected to the lens 14. The lamp de-icer system 40 includes a heating layer 42. On the heating layer 42 are a thermistor 44, an electrode 46, and a resistive layer 48. A cover 50 extends over the heating layer 42, thermistor 44, and electrode 46. FIG. 4A shows a flow diagram illustrating the control of the lamp de-icer system 40 when the gasoline-powered vehicle is off. A processor or controller (not shown) begins 100 by obtaining a temperature via a temperature sensor 102 and a humidity via a humidity sensor 104. The temperature and humidity are then evaluated at 106 to detect whether precipitation (e.g., fog, snow, ice) conditions exist (e.g., above a predetermined humidity and / or below a predetermined temperature). As shown, the evaluation 106 determines whether the temperature is above 4° C. and the humidity is above 70%. If evaluation 106 detects that no precipitation conditions are present, the de-ice circuitry remains off at 108. If evaluation 106 detects that one or both of the precipitation conditions are present, the processor measures the voltage of the battery 110. The voltage is then evaluated at 112 to detect whether there is sufficient voltage in the battery to power the lamp de-ice system. If evaluation 112 determines that there is not enough voltage, the de-ice circuitry remains off at 108. If evaluation 112 determines that there is sufficient voltage, the processor or controller detects the proximity of any precipitation to a proximity sensor (e.g., a light or an area surrounding a sensor) at 114.

[0049] The proximity 114 of the precipitation to the area through which the light or sensor passes is then evaluated at 116. If precipitation is close to the area (e.g., a portion of the lens is obscured), the lamp de-icing system 40 is turned to medium low at 118 and then the de-icing circuit is turned on at 120. If precipitation is evaluated at 116 and not close to the area, the power supply is turned on low 122 and the de-icing circuit is turned on 120. The sensors in blocks 102, 104 and 114 can function as primary sensors and can be supplemented by GPS with weather data in blocks 302, 304 and 314, respectively, in case the conditions in the primary sensors become ineffective or contradictory or need to be configured to override the primary sensor blocks to obtain relevant data via a GPS source or weather data source. FIG. 4B illustrates the control of the lamp de-icing system 40 when the gasoline powered motor is operating. A processor or controller (not shown) begins 100 by obtaining temperature at temperature sensor 102 and humidity at humidity sensor 104. The temperature and humidity are then evaluated at 106 to detect whether precipitation (e.g., fog, snow, ice) conditions exist (e.g., above a predetermined humidity and / or below a predetermined temperature). As shown, evaluation 106 determines whether the temperature is over 4° C. and humidity is over 70%. If evaluation 106 determines that a precipitation condition does not exist, the de-icing circuitry remains off at 108. If evaluation 106 determines that a precipitation condition exists, a processor with a proximity sensor 114 determines at 116 whether precipitation is in or proximate to a predetermined area. If no precipitation is detected at 116 to be in or proximate to a predetermined area, the de-icing system 40 is powered to an intermediate low power 118 and the de-icing circuitry is turned on at 120. If the evaluation 116 determines that precipitation is present in or adjacent to the predetermined area, speed is monitored by a speed sensor 124 .

[0050] The speed is then evaluated at 126 to determine if the speed is above a predetermined speed. If the evaluation 126 determines that the speed is above a predetermined speed, the de-ice system is powered to mid-high at 128 and the de-ice circuit is turned on at 120. If the evaluation 126 determines that the speed is above a predetermined speed, the de-ice system is powered to high at 130 and turned on at 120. The sensors in blocks 102, 104 and 114 may function as primary sensors and may be supplemented by weather data or GPS in blocks 302, 304 and 314, respectively, if the conditions in the primary sensors become ineffective or contradictory or need to be configured to override the primary sensor blocks to obtain relevant data via a GPS source or weather data source.

[0051] FIG. 5A shows a flow diagram illustrating the control of the lamp de-icing system 40 when the battery powered vehicle is off. A processor or controller (not shown) begins 200 by obtaining temperature at temperature sensor 202 and humidity at humidity sensor 204. The temperature and humidity are then evaluated at 206 to detect whether precipitation (e.g., fog, snow, ice) conditions are present (e.g., above a predetermined humidity and / or below a predetermined temperature). As shown, evaluation 206 determines whether the temperature is over 4° C. and humidity is over 70%. If evaluation 206 determines that no precipitation conditions exist, the de-icing circuitry remains off at 208. If evaluation 206 determines that one or both of the precipitation conditions exist, the processor or controller determines the proximity 210 of any precipitation to a proximity sensor (e.g., a light or an area surrounding the sensor).

[0052] The proximity 210 of the precipitation to the area through which the light or sensor passes is then evaluated at 212. If precipitation is close to the area (e.g., if a portion of the lens is blocked), the lamp de-icing system 40 is turned to mid-high at 214 and then the de-icing circuitry is turned on at 208. If precipitation is assessed not to be close to the area at 206, the power is turned low at 218 and the de-icing circuitry is turned on at 208. The sensors in blocks 202, 204 and 214 can function as primary sensors and can be supplemented by GPS with weather data at blocks 302, 304 and 514, respectively, if the conditions in the primary sensors become ineffective or contradictory or need to be configured to override the primary sensor blocks and obtain relevant data via a GPS source.

[0053] 5B illustrates the control of the lamp de-icing system 40 when the electric vehicle is moving. A processor or controller (not shown) begins at 200 by obtaining temperature via temperature sensor 202 and humidity via humidity sensor 204. The temperature and humidity are then evaluated at 206 to detect whether precipitation (e.g., fog, snow, ice) conditions exist (e.g., above a predetermined humidity and / or below a predetermined temperature). As shown, evaluation 206 determines whether the temperature is above 4° C. and humidity is above 70%. If evaluation 206 determines that a precipitation condition does not exist, the de-icing circuitry remains off at 208. If evaluation 206 determines that a precipitation condition exists, a processor with a proximity sensor 210 determines at 212 whether precipitation is in or proximate to a predetermined area. If no precipitation is detected at 212 in or proximate to the predetermined area, the de-icing system 40 is powered to mid-low at 220 and the de-icing circuitry is turned on at 216. If the evaluation 212 determines that precipitation is present in or proximate to the predetermined area, speed is monitored by speed sensor 222.

[0054] The speed is then evaluated at 224 to determine if the speed is above a predetermined speed. If the evaluation 224 determines that the speed is above a predetermined speed, the de-icing system is powered to mid-high 218 and the de-icing circuitry is turned on at 216. If the evaluation 224 determines that the speed is above a predetermined speed, the de-icing system is powered to high at 226 and turned on at 216. The sensors in blocks 202, 204 and 214 may function as primary sensors and may be supplemented by GPS or weather data in blocks 302, 304 and 514, respectively, if the conditions in the primary sensors become ineffective or contradictory or need to be configured to override the primary sensor blocks to obtain relevant data via a GPS source.

[0055] Between embodiments, a GPS sensor or weather data can be used as the primary sensor 302 304 314 514 for operating in the de-icing circuit. The primary weather parameters can be considered among temperature, humidity, and precipitation information data. Alternatively, as described in FIG. 4B and FIG. 5B, the circuit can be updated with speed sensor data or can have speed data configured to be received from the GPS sensor along with weather data toward meeting the intended design target results. In alternative embodiments, the GPS or weather data can be utilized from an independent device in the vehicle and can also be obtained from a cellular, WiFi, or other connected remote or wireless network device. In another embodiment, the GPS sensor data corresponding to the de-icing information can be uploaded and shared with various entities for the purpose of knowledge sharing, future advanced development, or troubleshooting.

[0056] FIG. 6A shows a flow chart of an embodiment in which a GPS sensor with weather data capability serves as a primary sensor at 302 304 314 514. FIG. 6A also describes operation during a stowed or parked state or "off" state of a vehicle that can be configured to incorporate a GPS sensor and weather data capability at 302 304 314 514 and be enabled or adapted by the embodiments of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B. The GPS sensor with weather data capability can function as a backup or in redundancy against any failure or malfunction of the system functionality in the primary sensor system at 102, 104, 114, 202, 204, 214. FIG. 6A shows a circuit or method of the vehicle in the "OFF" state in which the invention can function when the vehicle is connected to a network via cellular or WiFi integration.

[0057] FIG 6B illustrates a flow chart of an embodiment in which a GPS sensor with weather data serves as a primary sensor at 302 304 314 514. FIG 6B also illustrates operation during operation, during an operational state or in an "on" state of a vehicle that may be configured to incorporate a GPS sensor with weather data at 302 304 314 514 and be enabled or adapted in the embodiments of FIG 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B. The GPS sensor with weather data at 302 304 314 514 may function as a backup or in redundancy against a system function failure or fault anomaly in the primary sensor system at 102, 104, 114, 202, 204, 214. FIG 6B illustrates the circuit or method when the vehicle is in the "on" state.

[0058] In an alternative embodiment, a GPS sensor with weather data at 302 304 314 514 can be integrated into the control system for redundancy. Ideally, the GPS sensor can provide specific information if any of the primary sensors at 102, 104, 114, 202, 204, 214 encounter any fault or inconsistency, to keep the de-icing circuit functioning properly as designed. For example, if the temperature sensor or the proximity sensor or the humidity sensor has an anomaly, the GPS sensor by itself or in combination with the weather data at 302 304 314 514 or other operational sensors can switch on the de-icing / heating circuit. Thus, the heating intensity can vary based on the input received from among the various sensors as in FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, FIG. 5A or FIG. 5B.

[0059] As an addendum to the power rating information, the ranges are clarified to avoid ambiguity. Full load can refer to the power rating for the de-icing circuit, which is based on how much power is needed to de-ice the lamp in the required time. The power vs. time graph generally represents an inverse graph, which can vary depending on the customer and regulatory requirements for safe operation of the vehicle. Full load does not necessarily mean reaching the actual power handling rating of the heating device. As a presumption, full load can be below the actual power limit for the device. Continuous ramp power is an established rating used when the vehicle is continuously exposed to ice or snow while in motion, which induces a windchill effect. It is intended that the lamp power may be above or exceed the typical full load power, but it does not have to exceed the actual power limit of the device for safe and trouble-free operation.

[0060] The described de-icing circuitry can be used in vehicle lamps or lights (placed all around the vehicle); in vehicle ADAS sensors (placed all around the vehicle); or in connection with non-ADAS vehicle camera applications.

[0061] Any numerical value mentioned herein includes all values ​​from the lower value to the higher value in increments of one unit, provided that there is at least two units between any lower value and any higher value. By way of example, if the amount of a component or the value of a process variable, such as temperature, pressure, time, is described as being, for example, 1 to 90, preferably 20 to 80, more preferably 30 to 70, it is intended herein to expressly recite values ​​such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32, etc. For numerical values ​​less than 1, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the lowest and highest values ​​recited are considered to be expressly recited in the present application in a similar manner.

[0062] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include the endpoints and all numerical values ​​between the endpoints. The use of "about" or "approximately" in connection with a range applies to both ends of that range. Thus, "about 20 to 30" is intended to cover "about 20 to about 30," inclusive of at least the specified endpoints.

[0063] The disclosures of all literature and reference materials, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. The term "consisting essentially of" to describe a combination is intended to include the specified element, component, ingredient or step, as well as such other elements, components, ingredients or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the combination. The use of the terms "comprising" or "including" herein to describe a combination of elements, components, ingredients or steps also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of or even consist of the element, component, ingredient or step.

[0064] Multiple elements, components, ingredients, or steps may be provided by a single integrated element, component, ingredient, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, ingredient, or step may be separated into multiple separate elements, components, ingredients, or steps. The disclosure of "a" or "one" to describe an element, component, ingredient, or step is not intended to exclude additional elements, components, ingredients, or steps.

[0065] It is understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many embodiments and many applications other than the examples provided will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the invention should not be determined with reference to the above description, but instead with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all literature and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. The omission in the following claims of any aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein should not be construed as a disclaimer of such subject matter, nor as an indication that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

[0066] Element List 2 Vehicles 4 Front end 6 Rear end 8 Turn Signals 10 Light System 12 Headlight 14 Lenses 16 Precipitation 18 Reflected light 20 Light 22 Side marker 24 High Beam 26 Low beam 30A area 1 30B area 2 30C area 3 30D area 4 40 Ramp De-Icing System 42 Heating layer 44 Thermistor 46 electrode 48 Resistance layer 50 Cover 100 Start 102 Sensing temperature 104 Sensing humidity 106 Temperature and Humidity Rating 108 off 110 Detect Battery Voltage 112 Evaluate the battery condition 114 Detecting Proximity 116 Evaluating Nearby Precipitation 118 Heater power to medium low 120 Turn on the circuit 122 Power down 124 Detecting vehicle speed 126 Rate the speed 128 Turn on sensor at medium high 130 Set sensor high 200 Start 202 Sensing temperature 204 Sensing humidity 206 Evaluate temperature and humidity 208 Off 210 Detecting Proximity 212 Evaluating Proximity 214 Set power to medium high 216 Turn on the circuit 218 Power down 220 Power to medium low 222 Detecting speed 224 Rate the speed 226 Power up 302 Sense temperature via GPS + weather data 304 Sense humidity via GPS + weather data 314 Detecting proximity via GPS + weather data 514 Power medium-high via GPS + weather data

Claims

1. 1. A ramp de-icing system comprising: a plurality of heating layers configured to heat one or more regions of a lens of the vehicle; a plurality of temperature sensors for sensing an ambient temperature around the vehicle; a plurality of humidity sensors for sensing ambient relative humidity around the vehicle; a plurality of proximity sensors that detect the presence of precipitation on the lens of the vehicle; 1. A ramp de-icing system comprising:

2. The ramp de-icing system of claim 1 , wherein the ramp de-icing system determines if the vehicle is on.

3. The ramp deicing system of claim 1 further comprising a speed sensor for sensing a speed of the vehicle.

4. The lamp deicing system of claim 1 further comprising a voltage detector for detecting a voltage of the vehicle.

5. 10. The lamp de-icing system of claim 1, further comprising a processor that monitors the one or more heating layers, the one or more temperature sensors, the one or more humidity sensors, the one or more proximity sensors, or a combination thereof to control the lamp de-icing system.

6. 2. The lamp deicing system of claim 1, wherein the lamp deicing system prevents precipitation from forming on the lens by heating the lens when the one or more humidity sensors detect the ambient relative humidity above a predetermined threshold and the one or more temperature sensors detect the ambient temperature below a predetermined temperature threshold.

7. The ramp de-icing system of claim 6 , wherein the ramp de-icing system prevents precipitation from forming while the vehicle is off.

8. The lamp deicing system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more proximity sensors detect precipitation about an area of ​​the lens.

9. 9. The lamp de-icing system of claim 8, wherein the area of ​​the lens is an area through which light extends, an area through which a sensor senses, or both.

10. 10. The lamp de-icing system of claim 1, wherein the lamp de-icing system comprises four discrete heating layers, each of which heats a different area of ​​the lens of the vehicle.

11. a. monitoring one or more temperature sensors to detect ambient temperature; b. monitoring one or more humidity sensors to detect ambient relative humidity; c. assessing the ambient temperature; d. assessing the ambient relative humidity; e. determining the likelihood of precipitation forming on the lens of the vehicle; and f. activating a lamp de-icing system in communication with the lens of the vehicle if the determining step determines that precipitation is likely to form on the lens of the vehicle; The method includes:

12. The method of claim 11 further comprising monitoring a state of the vehicle to determine if the vehicle is on.

13. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising monitoring a battery voltage of the vehicle battery so that the lens de-icing system does not completely deplete the battery while the vehicle is off.

14. The method of claim 11 , further comprising a proximity sensor for detecting precipitation proximate to one or more areas of the lens of the vehicle.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein if precipitation is not detected, the lamp de-icing system is powered at a low amount of power or an intermediate low amount of power.

16. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein if precipitation is detected, the lamp de-icing system is powered at an intermediate high amount of power or a high amount of power.

17. The method of claim 11 further comprising: sensing a speed of the vehicle if the vehicle is on.

18. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein when the vehicle is on but not moving, the lamp de-icing system is powered at an intermediate low amount of power or an intermediate high amount of power.

19. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the lamp de-icing system is powered at a medium-high amount of power or a high amount of power when the vehicle is on and moving.

20. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the lamp de-icing system remains off if the ambient temperature is above a predetermined threshold temperature, if the ambient relative humidity is below a predetermined threshold relative humidity, or both.

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