Illuminated Vehicle Switch with Luminescent State Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle switches lack an aesthetically pleasing and effective method to indicate their state and function through illumination, which can enhance user experience and vehicle aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
The use of a vehicle switch with a housing containing a light source and luminescent structures that emit light in response to specific wavelengths, allowing for the indication of different states through distinct luminescence patterns, utilizing phosphorescent and/or luminescent materials that convert excitation light into visible light, and employing capacitive sensors for state control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple light sources and luminescent structures are used to indicate different switch states, then the visual indication capability and aesthetic appearance are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: multiple light sources (first light source, second light source) and multiple luminescent structures (first luminescent structure, second luminescent structure), each responsible for indicating specific switch states. This segmentation allows independent control of each indication element, enabling clear differentiation between various operational states while maintaining modular design for easier manufacturing and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
Different luminescent structures are configured to emit different colors or wavelengths of light when excited by corresponding light sources. The first luminescent structure luminesces in response to excitation light of a first wavelength when the feature is in a first state, while the second luminescent structure luminesces in response to excitation light of a second wavelength when the feature is in a second state. This color differentiation provides intuitive visual feedback for various switch states, enhancing user understanding without requiring complex display mechanisms.
2Illumination intensity
If luminescent structures are positioned rearwardly of the output window, then the aesthetic appearance and light diffusion are improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The luminescent structures are nested within the housing assembly, positioned rearwardly of the output window but integrated into the overall switch structure. This nesting arrangement allows the luminescent structures to be housed within the existing housing geometry without requiring separate mounting structures, thereby improving light diffusion quality while minimizing additional structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminescent structures are positioned in the depth dimension (rearwardly of the output window) rather than only in the planar dimensions. This dimensional arrangement allows light to diffuse through multiple layers and paths before exiting the output window, creating softer, more aesthetically pleasing illumination. The rearward positioning also separates the light-generating elements from the output interface, enabling better optical control and reduced directivity.
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 provides a visually appealing and functional way to indicate the state of vehicle features, enhancing user interaction and aesthetics by using luminescent structures to signify different states with distinct colors and patterns, while ensuring reliable operation through capacitive sensing.
Implementation Method 1
A first luminescent structure is disposed rearwardly of the output window and luminesces in response to excitation light of a first wavelength when the feature is in a first state. A second luminescent structure is disposed rearwardly of the output window and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation light of a second wavelength when the feature is in a second state.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle switch is provided herein. The vehicle switch includes a housing including an output window. A first light source and a second light source are disposed within the housing. The first light source emits excitation light of a first wavelength. The second light source emits excitation light of a second wavelength. A proximity switch assembly is positioned within the housing and is configured to control a vehicle feature. A first luminescent structure is disposed rearwardly of the output window and luminesces in response to excitation light of the first wavelength when the feature is in a first state. A second luminescent structure is disposed rearwardly of the output window and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation light of the second wavelength when the feature is in a second state.