Angled Optical Sheet Luminaire Reducing Radiation Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle luminaires face inefficiencies and high costs due to the need for a light source and reflector, and are prone to radiation loss and moisture ingress at the contact area between the optical waveguide and sheet.
Innovation Solution
A luminaire design featuring an optical waveguide and optical sheet arranged at an angle, with a light guiding element at their contact to directly transfer light beams onto the sheet, eliminating the need for a separate light source and reflector, and incorporating reflection elements for adjustable brightness and protection against moisture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light source and reflector are used in existing luminaires, then light can be directed onto the optical sheet, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the light source and reflector from the luminaire system. Instead of using these separate components to direct light, the invention uses the optical waveguide itself to perform the light directing function through its geometric configuration and total internal reflection properties, thereby simplifying the device structure while maintaining illumination capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical waveguide is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the light transmission medium and the light directing element. By configuring the waveguide with specific geometric features (such as angled surfaces or integrated deflectors), it can redirect light onto the optical sheet without requiring separate reflector components, thus achieving multi-functionality with a single element
2Illumination intensity
If a contact area between optical waveguide and sheet is created, then light transfer is enabled, but radiation loss and moisture ingress occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coupling layer or adhesive material at the contact area between the optical waveguide and the optical sheet. This intermediary serves multiple purposes: it ensures optical coupling for efficient light transfer while simultaneously providing a protective barrier that prevents moisture ingress and reduces radiation loss at the interface
Solution Approach 2:
The contact area utilizes composite material structures, combining the optical waveguide material with the optical sheet material and an intermediate coupling material. This composite construction optimizes both optical performance (light transfer) and protective functions (moisture barrier and radiation reduction) through the synergistic properties of the different materials
3Illumination intensity
If a contact area between optical waveguide and sheet is created, then light transfer is enabled, but moisture ingress and durability issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling layer or adhesive material acts as an intermediary that provides both optical coupling and moisture protection. This intermediate layer creates a sealed interface between the waveguide and sheet, preventing moisture penetration while maintaining the necessary optical contact for efficient light transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin film or coating structures at the contact area that provide protective functionality. These thin protective layers or coatings can be applied to the contact surface to create a moisture barrier while maintaining optical transparency and adhesion, thereby protecting the interface without compromising light transfer
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design results in a cost-effective, efficient, and moisture-protected luminaire with reduced radiation loss and improved durability, capable of producing various light patterns and brightness levels.
Implementation Method 1
The optical waveguide is configured to transfer the light beams onto the optical sheet. The light beams are guided into the optical sheet with the aid of at least one light guiding element via the contact.
Implementation Method 2
The optical sheet is arranged at an angle (γ), which is greater than 0°, with respect to the optical waveguide. The light beams are guided into the optical sheet with the aid of at least one light guiding element via the contact.
Data Source
AI summary
A luminaire for a motor vehicle bodywork includes a light source configured to generate light beams, an optical waveguide configured to forward the light beams, and an optical sheet configured to emit the light beams. The optical sheet is arranged at an angle (γ), which is greater than 0°, with respect to the optical waveguide. A contact is formed between the optical waveguide and the optical sheet. The optical waveguide is configured to transfer the light beams onto the optical sheet. The light beams are guided into the optical sheet with the aid of at least one light guiding element via the contact.