Automotive Lighting Module Layout for Uniform Multi-Mode Appearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive lighting modules operate in only one lighting mode, requiring two separate modules for regulatory lighting modes with and without horizontal cut-off, resulting in different illuminated appearances.
Innovation Solution
A lighting module comprising a plurality of sub-modules, each capable of producing lighting sub-beams with or without horizontal upper cut-off, arranged in an alternating juxtaposition to operate in multiple modes while maintaining a consistent illuminated appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lighting modules are placed side by side to operate in different regulatory lighting modes, then the lighting module can operate in multiple modes, but the cumulative exit face has a different illuminated appearance depending on the lighting mode activated
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting module is divided into multiple lighting sub-modules, each capable of producing different lighting patterns (with or without horizontal cut-off). These sub-modules are arranged in an alternating sequence, allowing independent control of each segment to achieve different overall lighting modes while maintaining visual consistency across the entire exit face.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the exit face (corresponding to different lighting sub-modules) are designed with locally optimized optical characteristics. Each sub-module can independently adjust its light distribution pattern, enabling local adaptation to different lighting requirements while contributing to a unified overall appearance.
2Shape
If a single lighting module is used, then the exit face has a consistent appearance, but the module can only operate in one lighting mode
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting module is designed as a universal system that can perform multiple lighting functions through a single integrated structure. By incorporating multiple lighting sub-modules with different optical characteristics within one housing and controlling them through a common controller, the system achieves multi-functionality (different lighting modes) while maintaining a unified exit face appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting module incorporates dynamic control capabilities where the illumination pattern can be changed in real-time. The controller can dynamically activate or deactivate specific lighting sub-modules to transition between different lighting modes (e.g., from all sub-modules active to alternating patterns), enabling the same physical structure to adapt its functional output without changing its external appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two lighting modules are placed side by side to achieve multiple lighting modes, then regulatory lighting requirements are met, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple lighting sub-modules that would traditionally require separate lighting modules are merged into a single integrated housing. The sub-modules share common structural elements (housing, mounting structure) and are controlled by a single controller, reducing the overall device complexity while maintaining the capability to provide multiple lighting modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting sub-modules are nested within a common housing structure, with each sub-module containing its own optical components (optical guides, reflectors, lenses) but sharing the outer housing and control electronics. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional units to be compactly integrated without requiring separate housings for each module.
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 operation in at least two regulatory lighting modes with a similar or identical illuminated appearance, facilitating integration into vehicle bodywork and allowing for a third mode like daytime running light.
Implementation Method 1
a reflection face capable of reflecting light from the entry face toward the exit face
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting module for an automotive vehicle includes a plurality of lighting sub-modules each including at least one light source, a flat optical light guide with an input surface, and an output surface and a reflection surface which is capable of reflecting light from the input surface to the output surface. The plurality of lighting sub-modules includes first lighting sub-modules configured to each produce a lighting sub-beam with an upper horizontal cut-off, and second lighting sub-modules configured to each produce a lighting sub-beam without an upper horizontal cut-off. The first and second lighting sub-modules are juxtaposed so as to form, along the juxtaposition, a plurality of alternations between the first and second lighting sub-modules.