Directional Light Sensor in Flexible Vehicle Window Glazing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle cameras and light sensors are bulky and unsuitable for integration into vehicle windshields due to size and connectivity issues, and existing light sensors lack directionality and integration capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle window with a direction-dependent light sensor comprising a first and second glass layer, with light-sensitive elements arranged between them, and an aperture for light to shine through, allowing direction detection using a camera chip and flexible film arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-resolution cameras are equipped in vehicles, then image quality and recording parameters control are improved, but device size becomes bulky and cannot be integrated into vehicle windscreen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light detection function into multiple discrete light-sensitive elements arranged in an array on a flexible film, rather than using a single bulky camera module. This segmentation allows the system to achieve directional light detection while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for windshield integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential light-sensitive elements from a complete camera system, removing unnecessary components such as large lenses and mirrors. This extraction enables the retention of light detection functionality while dramatically reducing the device size for integration into the windshield structure
2Measurement precision
If typical intensity-based light sensors are used, then light detection is achieved, but direction determination capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light detection function across multiple spatially distributed light-sensitive elements. By detecting which specific elements receive light and comparing their signals, the system can determine both the intensity and direction of incident light, thereby preserving direction information that would be lost in a single-point intensity sensor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional intensity measurement to two-dimensional spatial detection by arranging light-sensitive elements in an array. This dimensional expansion enables the system to detect not only light intensity but also the angular position and direction of light sources
3Measurement precision
If monolithic solar sensor arrangements are used, then light detection is achieved, but integration into vehicle windshield is prevented due to size and connectivity problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible film as the substrate for mounting light-sensitive elements, replacing rigid monolithic sensor structures. This flexible film can be conformally integrated into the curved surfaces of vehicle windshields, solving both size and integration connectivity problems while maintaining light detection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal sensor platform using standard light-sensitive elements on a flexible substrate that can be adapted to various windshield geometries and integration scenarios. This universal approach eliminates the need for custom monolithic sensors for each application, greatly easing manufacturing and integration
4Measurement precision
If standalone sensors with lens arrangements are used, then light detection is achieved, but direction determination beyond elevation angle is not possible and integration into vehicle windshield is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function across multiple light-sensitive elements arranged in a two-dimensional array, enabling detection of both elevation and azimuth angles. This segmentation provides complete directional information (full solid angle) rather than just elevation, greatly enhancing adaptability for various lighting scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends detection from one angular dimension (elevation only) to two angular dimensions (elevation and azimuth) by arranging light-sensitive elements in a two-dimensional array. This dimensional expansion provides comprehensive directional detection capability suitable for distinguishing sunlight from vehicle headlights from any direction
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
Enables direction-dependent light detection, distinguishing between sunlight and vehicle lights, suitable for curved windows, and integrates easily into composite glazing systems with low development and manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
light-sensitive elements are provided on a semiconductor substrate
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a vehicle window with an anisotropic light sensor, having a first glass layer (1) and a second glass layer (9), wherein: an arrangement of light-sensitive elements (5) is arranged, substantially parallel to the first glass layer (1), between the first glass layer (1) and the second glass layer (9); the window furthermore has an aperture (7) in order that light can irradiate through the second glass layer (9) and the aperture (7) onto at least one of the light-sensitive elements (5); the sensor provides a signal, depending on the direction of incident light, which is indicative of the direction; the arrangement of light-sensitive elements (5) has a camera chip; and the arrangement of light-sensitive elements (5) is arranged on a flexible film (4).