Vehicle Mirror Turn-Indicator Light Module With Integrated Infrared Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicle mirror assemblies require integration of multiple optical functions, including infrared illumination for sensors, while maintaining the functionality of conventional turn-indicator lights, which is challenging due to space constraints and the need for efficient IR light emission without interfering with visible light operations.
Innovation Solution
A compact turn-indicator light module is designed with light guiding elements that incorporate both visible and infrared light sources, allowing for homogeneous or inhomogeneous IR light emission along its longitudinal extension, integrated into the vehicle mirror assembly to provide passive IR illumination without compromising the normal function of visible light illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical functions are integrated in a vehicle mirror assembly, then the functionality and safety are improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (turn-indicator light emission and infrared illumination) into a single integrated light module. The light guiding element serves dual purposes: guiding visible light for turn indicators and transmitting infrared light for sensor illumination, thereby reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall mirror assembly structure
Solution Approach 2:
The light guiding element is designed as a universal component that can transmit both visible and infrared wavelengths. This multi-functional element replaces what would traditionally require separate light guides or optical paths, allowing a single component to perform multiple optical functions simultaneously
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate IR light sources and visible light sources are provided, then the sensor functionality and turn-indicator functionality are improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the infrared light source and visible light source into a single integrated light module. Both light sources are coupled to the same light guiding element, which transmits both wavelengths to their respective destinations, thereby reducing the overall volume required compared to separate light source assemblies
Solution Approach 2:
The light guiding element functions as a universal transmission medium for both infrared and visible light. This multi-wavelength capability allows a single optical path to serve dual purposes, eliminating the need for separate optical paths and reducing the spatial footprint of the light module
3Shape
If the light guiding element follows the outer contour, then the aesthetic appearance and light distribution are improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the wavelength-dependent transmission properties of the light guiding element material. By selecting a material that is transparent to both visible and infrared wavelengths, the system achieves flexible light distribution along complex contours without requiring precise manufacturing tolerances, as the optical properties compensate for geometric variations
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
This solution enables a space-saving, reliable integration of IR illumination in vehicle mirror assemblies, enhancing night-time vision and sensor functionality while maintaining the standard turn-indicator light functionality, offering improved passive IR illumination and adaptability for various sensor applications.
Implementation Method 1
one or more light guiding elements and one or more visible-light emitting light sources coupled to at least one of the one or more light guiding elements, wherein the one or more light guiding elements are adapted to emit light at least along the major portion of their longitudinal extension
Implementation Method 2
at least one infrared light emitting light source is coupled to at least one of the one or more light guiding elements
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a turn-indicator light module having an outer contour and comprising one or more light guiding elements and one or more visible-light emitting light sources coupled to at least one of the one or more light guiding elements, wherein at least one infrared light emitting light source is coupled to at least one of the one or more light guiding elements. At least a major portion of a longitudinal extension between a first end and a second end opposite of the first end of the one or more light guiding elements follows the outer contour and wherein the one or more light guiding elements are adapted to emit light at least along the major portion of their longitudinal extension.