Dual-function vehicle light module with shared reflective surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting modules are limited in functionality and appearance, failing to provide multiple functions while maintaining a consistent external appearance.
Innovation Solution
A light module comprising a first elliptical reflective surface, a second parabolic reflective surface, and a third elliptical reflective surface, with an optical system that directs light rays from two light sources to form dual light beams, allowing for a unified appearance across functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a single reflective surface is used to hide the light source, then the light source is not visible from outside, but the module cannot perform multiple functions
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective system is divided into multiple independent reflective surfaces (first, second, and third reflective surfaces), each serving different optical functions. This segmentation allows the module to perform multiple lighting functions while maintaining a unified external appearance, as each surface can be optimized for specific beam patterns without exposing the light sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The module is designed with multiple reflective surfaces that enable it to perform multiple lighting functions (low beam, high beam, fog lights, etc.) through a single unified structure. The third reflective surface specifically adds high beam capability while the first and second surfaces provide low beam functionality, all visible through one common illuminated surface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reflective surfaces are added to provide multiple functions, then functional versatility is improved, but the external appearance consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple reflective surfaces are merged into a single integrated module with a unified external housing. The first, second, and third reflective surfaces are positioned and configured to work together, with their combined output visible through one common illuminated surface area, maintaining appearance consistency while providing multiple lighting functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Each reflective surface is positioned and configured with specific local optical properties tailored to its function. The third reflective surface has specific geometric characteristics optimized for high beam generation, while the first and second surfaces are optimized for low beam patterns. This local optimization allows functional versatility without compromising overall appearance uniformity.
3Manufacturing precision
If an optical system is added to direct light rays, then beam formation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical optical systems (lenses, mirrors, adjustable mechanisms) with precisely engineered reflective surfaces having specific geometric configurations. The elliptical and parabolic geometries of the reflective surfaces inherently direct light rays into precise beam patterns through passive reflection, eliminating the need for active optical adjustment mechanisms while maintaining beam formation precision.
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 a dual-function luminous module with a consistent external appearance, suitable for both low beam and road lighting, as well as other functions like daytime signaling and direction indicators, by aligning the light beams to maintain a uniform illuminated surface visible from outside.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflective surface, of the elliptical type with a first focus and a second focus; light rays emitted by a first light source located at the first focal point of the first reflective surface being reflected by the first and second reflective surfaces
Implementation Method 2
a second reflective surface, of the parabolic type with a focus corresponding to the second focus of the first reflective surface. The light rays emitted by a first light source located at the first focal point of the first reflective surface being reflected by the first and second reflective surfaces
Implementation Method 3
a third reflective surface adjacent to the second focal point of the first reflective surface and configured to reflect, towards the second reflective surface, light rays emitted by a second light source, in order to form a second light beam
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a light module (2), particularly for motor vehicles, comprising a first reflective surface (12), of elliptical type with a first focus (f1) and a second focus (f2); a second reflective surface (18), of parabolic type with a focus corresponding to the second focus (f2) of the first reflective surface (12); light rays emitted by a first light source (24) located at the first focus (f1) of the first reflective surface (12) being reflected by the first and second reflective surfaces (12, 18) to form a first light beam; and a third reflective surface (20) adjacent to the second focus (f2) of the first reflective surface (12) and configured to reflect, towards the second reflective surface (18), light rays emitted by a second light source (28), in order to form a second light beam.