Double-Sided Optical Sheet Lighting Assembly for Vehicle Lamps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting assemblies using optical sheets often suffer from non-homogeneous light distribution, leading to hotspots that can be distracting and blinding to other drivers.
Innovation Solution
A double-sided optical sheet lighting assembly is employed, featuring a first parallel array of convex lenses on one side and a second parallel array of convex lenses on the opposite side, oriented at an offset angle to distribute light homogenously, along with an opaque mask printed on one side to customize the lighting appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-sided optical sheet with light-modifying elements is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the light distribution homogeneity deteriorates causing hotspots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-sided optical sheet to a double-sided optical sheet configuration. By adding light-modifying elements on both sides of the optical sheet with specific orientations, the system achieves homogeneous light distribution without requiring additional complex components. The second side provides complementary light modification that eliminates hotspots created by the first side alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sheet combines multiple functional layers including the base optical material and light-modifying elements on both surfaces. This composite structure integrates light guiding, light diffusing, and light shaping functions within a single component, achieving homogeneous illumination while maintaining structural efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If opaque masks are added to customize lighting appearance, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The opaque mask is integrated directly with the optical sheet by printing or adhering it to the rear surface. This merging of the mask function with the existing optical sheet structure eliminates the need for separate mask components and their associated mounting mechanisms, thereby customizing lighting appearance without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rear surface of the optical sheet serves dual functions: it supports the light-modifying elements for optical performance and simultaneously serves as a substrate for the opaque mask for appearance customization. This multi-functionality allows the same component to achieve both optical homogeneity and aesthetic customization.
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
The solution effectively homogenizes light output, reducing hotspots and providing a uniform, customizable lighting effect that enhances visibility and safety in vehicle lighting applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first pattern of light-modifying elements disposed on a first side of the optical sheet, wherein the first pattern of light-modifying elements includes a first parallel array of convex lenses aligned lengthwise in a first direction
Implementation Method 2
a second pattern of light-modifying elements disposed on a second side of the optical sheet opposite the first side, wherein the second pattern of light-modifying elements includes a second parallel array of convex lenses aligned lengthwise in a second direction
Implementation Method 3
an opaque mask printed directly on one side of the optical sheet for blocking light through a portion of the optical sheet
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are vehicle lamp assemblies comprising a double-sided optical sheet with a mask printed directly onto the optical sheet. The optical sheet comprises a light-homogenizing sheet disposed over a plurality of light-emitting diodes. Instead of placing the mask over the optical sheet on a structure, the light-homogenizing sheet itself serves as a substrate during a printing process such that the mask is printed directly onto the optical sheet. The optical sheet supports the weight of the mask. The mask itself may be opaque with cutouts such that light escapes through the cutouts; the cutouts may be designed to create any number of custom patterns as desired. Other types of masks, such as translucent masks, may also be printed on the other side of the optical sheet to protect portions of the lighting assembly or to otherwise further adjust the lighting character of the vehicle lamp.