Auxiliary Vehicle Light Apparatus with Relay Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle backup light systems often provide inadequate illumination and insufficient current for effective working environments, especially when used in conjunction with trailer connections, and lack auxiliary light solutions activated by reverse gear engagement or operable independently of it.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary light apparatus that connects easily with existing vehicle backup light and trailer electrical systems, featuring a selectively operable switch for independent operation as work lights and pass-through connector capabilities, allowing for increased illumination and simultaneous use as an electrical connector between towing and towed vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the original backup light apparatus is used, then the vehicle can operate backup lights, but the illumination intensity is insufficient for adequate working environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting system into two separate circuits: the original backup light circuit and the auxiliary work light circuit. This segmentation allows each circuit to be independently controlled and powered, enabling the work lights to receive full battery power while the backup lights receive power only when reverse gear is engaged, thereby resolving the illumination insufficiency without overloading the power supply
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary light apparatus serves multiple functions: it provides backup lighting when reverse gear is engaged, provides work area illumination when the switch is activated, and can operate independently of the backup light system. This multi-functionality allows the same apparatus to address both the backup light illumination deficiency and the work area lighting need
2Illumination intensity
If auxiliary light apparatus is added to provide greater illumination, then the lighting performance improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the auxiliary light apparatus with the existing backup light receptacle assembly, integrating multiple functions into a single housing. The housing contains both the electrical connector for the auxiliary lights and the mounting structure for the light assembly itself, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying installation while providing enhanced illumination
3Illumination intensity
If the auxiliary lights are always on, then the work area is always illuminated, but the power consumption increases and battery drain occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the auxiliary lights through a manual switch that allows the user to activate or deactivate the lights as needed. This dynamic control enables the lights to be turned on only when work area illumination is required, rather than operating continuously, thereby reducing battery power consumption while maintaining the capability for bright illumination when needed
Data Source
AI summary
This invention comprises an auxiliary light apparatus for use in combination with a backup light apparatus of a truck or other vehicle. The auxiliary light apparatus comprises a male or female electrical plug for connection to a mating plug on the original vehicle backup light apparatus; an electrical voltage relay element in the auxiliary plug apparatus; a toggle switch in the auxiliary apparatus and auxiliary lights mounted on the vehicle. The auxiliary lights function simultaneously with the original vehicle backup lights in response to activation of the reverse gear apparatus of the vehicle transmission, with the voltage relay acting to deliver sufficient voltage to activate both the original vehicle backup lights and the auxiliary lights. In another embodiment of the invention, the toggle switch is closed to access directly the vehicle 12 volt source to power the auxiliary lights for use as work lights, even when the vehicle reverse gear is not engaged. Another embodiment of the invention comprises a pass-through auxiliary connector having a towed vehicle auxiliary connector plug end opposite the auxiliary plug end connected to the towing vehicle, which towed vehicle auxiliary connector plug includes a plurality of either pin or blade female connection apertures, or male connector pins or blades, adapted to receive a mating connector from a towed vehicle.