Light Guiding Device Uniform Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light guiding devices for illumination systems, such as those used in motor vehicle indicators, suffer from inhomogeneous light distribution, which becomes more pronounced as the illuminated surface area increases and the distance from the light source grows, leading to non-uniform illumination that can mislead users.
Innovation Solution
A light guiding device with a reflection side featuring a reflection layer that decreases in clearance from the light incoupling side, allowing for non-linear or curved configurations, ensures uniform light distribution by deflecting light to produce a more homogeneous illumination on the outcoupling surface, using materials like PMMA or ABS, and optionally incorporating step-like or wave-like structures to enhance light guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a light guiding device is used to illuminate larger surfaces or areas at greater distances, then the illumination area is increased, but the light distribution becomes increasingly inhomogeneous
Solution Approach 1:
The light guiding device is divided into multiple light guiding elements, each responsible for a specific region of the illuminated surface. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for uniform light distribution in its local area, while collectively covering larger surfaces without compromising overall uniformity
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the light guiding device are equipped with differently configured light guiding elements tailored to their specific illumination requirements. Elements closer to the light source may have different optical properties than those farther away, allowing each local region to achieve optimal uniform light distribution despite variations in distance and area
2Area of stationary object
If the distance between the light source and the surface to be illuminated is increased, then the illuminated area is expanded, but the light distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light guiding elements utilize three-dimensional optical path control within the light guiding device structure, employing varying thicknesses, refraction indices, and internal geometries to compensate for the increased distance effect, thereby maintaining uniform light distribution across expanded illumination areas
3Device complexity
If a simple light guide structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the light distribution uniformity becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Light guiding elements act as intermediary optical components between the light source and the illuminated surface. These elements mediate the light transmission process by controlling optical paths, refraction, and internal reflection, thereby achieving uniform light distribution without requiring complex external optical systems
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 achieves a significantly more uniform light distribution across the illuminated surface, improving visibility and reducing the likelihood of misinterpretation of indicator lights, even in larger areas or greater distances from the light source.
Implementation Method 1
a reflection side having a reflection layer for reflecting the incoupled light
Data Source
AI summary
A housing or pocket for supporting a light guide device for an illumination device, especially for a motor vehicle or an indicator device in a rearview device of a motor vehicle. The housing has a first side which is configured to support the light guiding device for exposure to the pictogram of the reflection layer. The housing also include a second side containing exposed wire connectors to connect the light guide device to a power source. One of the light guide device, the printed circuit board or both structures are fitted with an encapsulation member and secured to the housing through the use of a fixative mount.