Vehicle Headlight Light Module for Delay-Free Main Beam Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light modules for headlights require mechanical adjustments, which are inefficient and result in a noticeable delay when switching between light functions, particularly for the headlight flasher function, as the secondary light unit needs to move quickly to cover and uncover the main light unit, affecting light intensity and attention-getting effect.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an additional light source fixed to the main light unit and a light guide with a coupling surface that allows the first light distribution to be coupled into the light guide, enabling the main light distribution to be emitted before the secondary light unit moves, thus reducing visible switch-on delay and maintaining light intensity without color differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the secondary light unit is moved quickly from the first position to the second position to reduce switch-on delay, then the visible switch-on delay is reduced, but the mechanical stress and wear on the drive mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary light unit is positioned in advance at the first position that overlaps with the main light unit before the main light function is activated. This preliminary positioning allows the secondary light unit to immediately emit the first main light distribution when activation occurs, eliminating switch-on delay without requiring rapid mechanical movement during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for rapid mechanical movement with an optical solution. The secondary light unit emits light that optically supplements the main light unit's output during the transition period, substituting mechanical speed requirements with optical emission timing control.
2Speed
If the secondary light unit partially obscures the main light unit, then the drive mechanism can move more slowly, but the light intensity and uniformity may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light output of the secondary light unit with the main light unit by positioning them to overlap in the light path. The secondary light unit emits the first main light distribution that combines with the second main light distribution from the main light unit, creating a unified light output that maintains intensity uniformity while allowing slower mechanical movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary light unit is specifically designed to emit light in the first main light distribution pattern that complements the main light unit's second main light distribution. This local optimization of light emission characteristics ensures that the combined output maintains uniformity despite the partial obscuration during transition.
3Loss of time
If additional light sources are added to emit the first main light distribution, then the switch-on delay is reduced, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary light unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it emits the secondary light distribution for auxiliary lighting functions and also emits the first main light distribution to supplement the main light unit during activation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate additional light sources, reducing device complexity while maintaining the benefit of reduced switch-on delay.
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 minimizes the visible switch-on delay and maintains a consistent light intensity and color, allowing for a smoother transition between light functions, including the headlight flasher and main beam, without requiring additional light sources.
Implementation Method 1
a light guide which comprises an input surface for coupling the first light distribution and the emitting surface
Implementation Method 2
the input surface in the first position of the secondary light source couples at least a part of the second main light distribution emitted by the emission surface of the main light source into the optical fiber
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4~5a
AI summary
A light module (100) of a motor vehicle headlight (102) is provided, wherein the light module (100) comprises: a secondary light unit (104) configured to emit a secondary light distribution (N) from a radiating surface (106) of the secondary light unit (104), and to emit a first main light distribution (H1) from the radiating surface (106) of the secondary light unit (104).