Vehicle Door Handle Electronic Module with Integrated Lighting and Light Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door handle electronic modules lack integrated lighting solutions and are not adequately protected from external environmental influences, leading to separate structural components and reduced functionality.
Innovation Solution
An electronic module with a conductor element hosting electrical components and a directly integrated lighting means, protected by a light cap that allows light emission while shielding from external influences, forming a compact and cost-effective unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the electronic module is completely encapsulated with potting compound to protect from environmental influences, then protection against moisture and dust is improved, but lighting functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic module is divided into two zones: a first region that is completely encapsulated with potting compound for protection against environmental influences, and a second region that remains accessible for integrating lighting elements. This segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of both protection and lighting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the electronic module are assigned different levels of protection and functionality. The first region receives full encapsulation for environmental protection, while the second region is left accessible to accommodate lighting elements, creating local quality variations that satisfy conflicting requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lighting element is connected externally via electrical supply lines and plugs, then lighting functionality is achieved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting element is integrated directly into the electronic module structure, merging previously separate components (electronic module, electrical connections, lighting element) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for external electrical supply lines and plugs, reducing structural complexity while maintaining lighting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic module is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides electronic control functions and simultaneously houses the lighting element with integrated electrical connections. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate external lighting components and their associated wiring.
3Device complexity
If the lighting element is integrated directly into the electronic module, then structural complexity is reduced, but protection from environmental influences is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic module is segmented into a protected first region (encapsulated with potting compound) and an accessible second region (housing the lighting element). This segmentation allows the lighting element to be integrated into the module structure while still providing environmental protection through the encapsulation of critical electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the integrated electronic module receive different levels of environmental protection. The first region with sensitive electronic components is fully encapsulated, while the second region containing the lighting element is left accessible, creating local quality variations that balance protection and integration.
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
Enhances the functionality of door handles with integrated lighting, improves protection against mechanical shocks, moisture, and dust, and simplifies production by integrating lighting directly into the electronic unit.
Implementation Method 1
a light source (16) that emits light
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates, inter alia, to an electronic module (20) in particular for a door handle (10) of a vehicle (100), having at least one conductor element (13) on which at least one electrical component (14) can be electrically arranged, wherein the conductor element (13) and the connected electrical components (14) form an electronic unit (15), and the electronic unit (15) can be connected by data technology to at least one vehicle-side system (102), in particular a safety system (102), and at least one lighting means (16), by means of which light (16.1) can be emitted, wherein the lighting means (16) can be arranged electrically on the conductor element (13). In this context, the invention provides that at least one light cap (18) is present which protects at least one lighting means (16) against external influences, and the light cap (18) passes on the light (16.1) emitted by the lighting means (16).