Automotive Light Module Current Control for Color Homogeneity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital automotive lighting devices face challenges in maintaining color homogeneity across multiple light modules due to temperature sensitivity and overheating issues, leading to non-homogeneous color patterns.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating automotive lighting devices with multiple solid-state light modules, where a homogeneity criterion is defined to ensure acceptable color similarity between modules. The method involves adjusting current values for each module to maintain color homogeneity, with temperature measurements and data from datasheets or experimental data used to calculate optimal current values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If derating is used to control temperature by decreasing current value, then operation temperature decreases, but light source performance must be heavily oversized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the current value fed to each light module based on its temperature and the colors already emitted. The control element modifies operational parameters (current) in response to temperature changes and color homogeneity requirements, allowing the system to maintain both acceptable temperature and performance without heavy oversizing
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static derating to dynamic current adjustment. The control element continuously monitors temperature and color output, adjusting current values in real-time to maintain color homogeneity while managing temperature. This dynamic approach allows optimal performance at varying operating conditions without requiring oversized light sources
2Temperature
If derating is used to control temperature, then operation temperature decreases, but color homogeneity across light modules deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter adjustment strategy from uniform derating to individualized current modification. Each light module's current is adjusted based on its specific temperature and the color homogeneity criterion, allowing temperature control while maintaining color consistency across all modules
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality by treating each light module individually rather than uniformly. The control element determines specific current values for each module based on its temperature and color output, allowing localized optimization that maintains overall color homogeneity while managing temperature distribution
Solution Approach 3:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the colors emitted by each light module and using this information to adjust current values. The control element receives color information, compares it against the homogeneity criterion, and modifies current accordingly to maintain color consistency across all modules
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 method effectively maintains color homogeneity across light modules, preventing non-homogeneous color patterns and ensuring that the output color remains within defined criteria, even under varying temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
solid-state light modules, each one comprising a matrix arrangement of solid-state light sources
Implementation Method 2
feeding the first light module with a first current value which produces a first output color in the first light module; feeding the second light module with a second current value which produces a second output color in the second light module, wherein the pair first output color-second output color fulfils the homogeneity criterion
Data Source
AI summary
An automotive lighting device with a control element and a method for operating an automotive lighting device including at least two solid-state light modules. The method includes defining a homogeneity criterion for each pair of colors, feeding the first light module with a first current value which produces a first output color in the first light module and feeding the second light module with a second current value which produces a second output color in the second light module, with the first output color and second output color fulfilling the homogeneity criterion.