Lighting Module Dual Optical Elements for Vehicle Beam Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting modules struggle to optimize installation space while generating two distinct lighting effects, such as low beam and high beam functions, without compromising light distribution or intensity.
Innovation Solution
A lighting module comprising two primary optical elements, one with a diffusion surface for a low beam function and another for focusing light for a high beam function, along with reflectors to direct light efficiently onto a projection lens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a lighting module uses a single optical element with diffusion surface for low beam function, then light distribution is homogenized, but the ability to generate focused high beam light is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into two separate primary optical elements: a first primary optical element with a diffusion surface for homogenizing light in low beam mode, and a second primary optical element without diffusion surface for focused high beam mode. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while enabling the lighting module to switch between different lighting effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting module dynamically switches between the first and second primary optical elements based on the required lighting function. The control unit activates or deactivates specific light sources corresponding to each optical element, allowing the system to adapt its optical properties (diffusion vs. focus) according to the driving conditions and required lighting effect.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate lighting modules are used for low beam and high beam functions, then lighting effects are optimized, but installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple lighting functions (low beam and high beam) into a single lighting module by integrating two primary optical elements with different optical properties. The module shares common components including the projection lens, light guide, and control unit, while only the primary optical elements differ. This merging reduces the overall installation space compared to using separate dedicated modules for each lighting function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting module is designed as a universal system that can perform multiple lighting functions (low beam, high beam, and intermediate lighting effects) through a single integrated structure. The control unit can selectively activate different light sources and optical elements to achieve various lighting effects, making the module multi-functional and space-efficient.
3Device complexity
If light sources are directly directed through projection lens without reflectors, then optical path is simplified, but light efficiency and distribution control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Reflectors are introduced as intermediary components between the light sources and the projection lens. The reflectors (first reflector and second reflector) efficiently redirect light that would otherwise be lost, directing it toward the projection lens. This intermediary element significantly improves light efficiency and enables better control over light distribution patterns without substantially complicating the overall optical path.
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
Enables quick and efficient switching between diffused, dim low beam and focused, bright high beam lighting effects, optimizing installation space and ensuring effective illumination for various driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first primary optical element has a diffusion surface configured to diffuse light beams from the at least one light source, to homogenously light the projection lens for a first lighting effect
Implementation Method 2
The first primary optical element also has a first reflector and a second reflector, the first of which is configured to reflect light beams from the at least one light source in a boundary area between the diffusion surface and another section of the lighting module onto the second reflector
Implementation Method 3
The second primary optical element is configured to direct, i.e. focus, the light beams from the at least one light source onto the projection lens for a second lighting effect
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting module is provided for generating two different lighting effects, and includes at least one light source, a first primary optical element, a second primary optical element, and a projection lens. The first primary optical element contains a diffusion surface diffusing the light beams from the light source to homogenously light the projections lens for a first lighting effect. The first primary optical element has a first reflector and second reflector. The first reflector reflects light beams from the light source in a boundary area between the diffusion surface and another section of the lighting module onto the second reflector to direct these light beams through the diffusion surface onto the projection lens. The second primary optical element directs light beams from the light source onto the projection lens to light the projection lens for a second lighting effect.