Vehicle Headlight Air Extractor with Dynamic Shutter Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle projectors face challenges in using spatial light modulator components due to temperature limitations and the need for a waterproof environment, which are not met by current cooling systems and manufacturing complexities.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an air extractor system within the projector, which includes a control device for a mobile shutter and an air guide, allows for the evacuation of hot air and replacement with fresh air, maintaining component temperatures within operational limits while ensuring waterproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a projector is sealed to protect sensitive components from external particles, then reliability is improved, but temperature control deteriorates due to heat accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a movable shutter that can dynamically switch between open and closed positions. When opened, it allows air circulation for cooling; when closed, it seals the projector for particle protection. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by making the sealing state changeable based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of sealing from static to variable by introducing a controllable shutter mechanism. The sealing state becomes a variable parameter that can be adjusted between sealed and unsealed conditions, allowing optimization between particle protection and heat dissipation.
2Temperature
If additional cooling components are added to cool sensitive components, then temperature control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the projector housing multi-functional by enabling it to serve both as a structural enclosure and as a cooling chamber. The air extractor system extracts hot air from the projector interior, while the housing itself facilitates air circulation, eliminating the need for separate complex cooling apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The projector system cools itself by utilizing the natural convection of air. The air extractor creates a flow that draws cool air in and expels hot air out, allowing the system to self-regulate temperature without requiring additional active cooling components.
3Reliability
If the projector is sealed against external particles, then reliability is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the projector into modular components, with the air extractor and shutter system forming a separate accessible module. This segmentation allows the sealing mechanism to be independently maintained or replaced without affecting the entire projector, improving repairability while maintaining overall sealing.
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
This solution effectively reduces the average air temperature inside the projector, prolongs the lifespan of sensitive components, and simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of additional components and manufacturing stages, while also lowering costs and maintaining performance.
Implementation Method 1
a fan configured to create a movement of air from the air inlet towards the air outlet
Implementation Method 2
the closure means in the closed position making it possible to prevent at least the passage of external particles between the air outlet and the air inlet
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
The invention relates to an air extractor for a vehicle headlight comprising: an air inlet and an air outlet; a ventilation chamber disposed between said air inlet and said air outlet of the air extractor; said ventilation chamber comprising a fan arranged to produce an airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; and a system for sealing against external particles.