Vehicle Lamp Light Guide with Collimated Parallel Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lamp assemblies face challenges in efficiently directing and distributing light from multiple light sources to achieve uniform and controlled illumination patterns, particularly in vehicle lamps such as daytime running lamps and headlamps.
Innovation Solution
A light guide assembly comprising a first light guide with a collimator and optical elements, and a second light guide with dispersal optics, configured to collimate and redirect light to produce parallel rays and controlled illumination patterns, using a monolithic structure of transparent plastic with integrated optical modifiers and dispersal features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a transparent lens is used to direct light from multiple light sources, then light distribution is achieved, but uniformity and control of illumination patterns are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide is divided into multiple functional zones: a first light guide portion for receiving and guiding light from multiple light sources, and a second light guide portion for directing light to the output. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall illumination uniformity while maintaining manageable system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical modifier as an intermediary element between the light sources and the light output. This optical modifier includes a redirecting surface that controls light propagation, enabling precise regulation of illumination patterns and uniformity without requiring complex optical systems.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used to provide sufficient illumination, then light intensity is improved, but internal components become more visible and optical leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources within a single integrated light guide structure. The light guide portions and optical modifiers work together as a unified system to distribute light from multiple sources uniformly, preventing optical leakage while maintaining high light intensity. The inclined region and redirecting surface ensure that light from multiple sources is merged and directed uniformly without exposing internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical modifier is positioned at a specific location (the inclined region) within the light guide to perform light redirection. This localized optical modification allows precise control of light propagation in the critical area where light exits the light guide, preventing leakage while maintaining intensity throughout the illumination area.
3Area of stationary object
If light is directed along non-parallel paths to cover a wider area, then illumination coverage is improved, but control over light distribution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an inclined region with a specific angle (30-60 degrees) to redirect light paths in a controlled manner. This geometric dimensioning allows light to be distributed across a wider area while maintaining parallel propagation paths through the optical modifier, achieving both coverage and control.
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 enables efficient and controlled light distribution, reducing optical leakage and enhancing illumination uniformity and intensity, while minimizing the visibility of internal components, thus improving the functionality and aesthetics of vehicle lamps.
Implementation Method 1
a collimator for directing light emitted from a light source into the first light input portion of the first light guide; The collimator is configured for directing light emitted from the light source into the first light input portion of the first light guide. The collimator is operative to collimate the light emitted by the light source to produce a beam of parallel rays of light.
Implementation Method 2
the first optical elements being configured to direct a portion of the light exiting the first light output portion along a respective output light path, wherein the output light paths are substantially parallel. The first optical elements may be configured to refract the light exiting the first light guide such that the light travels along the respective output light paths.
Implementation Method 3
The optical modifier comprises at least one redirecting surface. In some non-claimed alternatives the optical modifier may comprise a parabolic lens. The redirecting surface is configured to provide total internal reflection of the light within the first light guide.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to a light guide assembly (1) for a vehicle lamp assembly (3). The light guide assembly (1) has a first light guide (15) having a first light input portion (17) and a first light output portion (19). A collimator (21) is provided for directing light emitted from a light source (7) into the first light input portion (17) of the first light guide (15). The first light output portion (19) includes a plurality of first optical elements (31-n) configured to direct a portion of the light exiting the first light output portion (19) along a respective output light path (OP-1). The output light paths (OP-1) are substantially parallel. Aspects of the present invention also relate to a vehicle lamp assembly (3); and a vehicle (5).