Hidden Light Source Signal Lamp with Peripheral Reflector Guide
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal lamps suffer from light source visibility and inefficiency due to direct light loss and visibility of the light source against a darker background, which decreases optical system efficiency and makes the source recognizable.
Innovation Solution
A signal lamp design featuring a hidden light source with a light guide directing light onto a reflector, where the light source is positioned at the outer peripheral edge of the reflector behind a nontransparent frame, and the light guide has a collimation entry end and a scattering exit end at the reflector's focus point, minimizing light loss and enhancing visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the light source is positioned in the middle of the reflector (direct optical system), then the light emission direction aligns with the reflector axis, but the light source becomes visible against the darker background and some light is lost as direct light
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is extracted from the central position and relocated to the peripheral edge of the reflector, behind the frame. This extraction removes the harmful visibility effect while preserving the light emission function. The light source is now positioned where it cannot be seen from the front, eliminating the contrast against the dark background.
Solution Approach 2:
A light guide is introduced as an intermediary component between the light source and the reflector. The light guide captures light from the peripheral light source and directs it to the reflector's focal point, enabling the light source to be hidden while still effectively illuminating the reflector surface.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the light source is positioned at the side of the reflector (indirect optical system), then the light source is less visible, but a certain portion of light cannot be effectively reflected and is lost as direct light
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide is designed with different local properties: the entry end has collimation characteristics to capture and directionalize light from the light source, while the exit end has scattering characteristics to distribute light evenly across the reflector surface. This local differentiation optimizes light utilization and minimizes losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guide transforms light parameters between its entry and exit ends. At the entry end, light is collimated (directional parameter change), and at the exit end, light is scattered (distribution parameter change). These parameter transformations ensure efficient light transfer from the peripheral source to the reflector.
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 ensures that the light source is not visible while maximizing light reflection and distribution, improving efficiency and visibility of the reflector's light emitting surface, making the lamp more effective and distinguishable from prior art.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light guide disposed between the reflector and a cover of the signal lamp to direct the light emitted by the at least one light source onto the reflector
Implementation Method 2
at least one light guide disposed between the reflector and a cover of the signal lamp to direct the light emitted by the at least one light source onto the reflector
Implementation Method 3
a reflector for reflecting the light emitted by the at least one light source away from the vehicle; and wherein the reflector includes at least one parabolic surface
Data Source
AI summary
A signal lamp for a front and rear lighting of a vehicle includes at least one light source for emitting light, wherein the at least one light source is hidden from view; a reflector for reflecting the light emitted by the at least one light source away from the vehicle; and at least one light guide disposed between the reflector and a cover of the signal lamp, the at least one light guide having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is disposed adjacent the at least one light source and the second end is located adjacent a focus point of the reflector.