Modular Vehicle Light With Serial Power Boards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Auxiliary vehicle lights installed near running boards face challenges in protecting against corrosive and invasive road materials, particularly moisture, and require modular designs to accommodate various vehicle makes and models with easy installation and connection to the vehicle power supply.
Innovation Solution
A modular vehicle light assembly featuring longitudinally spaced LEDs, an integrated optical assembly with a beam-forming optic, and a power board connected via a serial communication scheme, allowing for flexible mounting and illumination patterns, including wide-angle, vertically collimated beams, and easy installation with a modular design that can be adapted to different vehicle formats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design is used to accommodate various vehicle makes and models, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle light assembly is divided into multiple identical modules that can be connected in series. Each module contains a housing, power board, and LED array, allowing the system to be configured in different lengths and arrangements to fit various vehicle makes and models while maintaining a standardized design for each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal mounting brackets and standardized electrical connectors that can be used across all modules and different vehicle applications. The power board design accepts multiple input configurations, enabling the same module design to serve multiple vehicle types and lighting requirements.
2Reliability
If protection from environmental factors is enhanced, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket integrates multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the module, creates a sealed mounting interface to the vehicle body, and serves as an electrical connection point. This consolidation reduces the number of separate protective components needed while maintaining environmental protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The power board incorporates a sealed connector interface that acts as an intermediary between the electrical components and the external environment. This sealed interface protects internal electronics from moisture and corrosive materials while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
3Ease of operation
If the number of connectors and parts is reduced, then ease of installation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket combines mechanical mounting and electrical connection functions into a single component. The bracket includes integrated electrical contacts that connect to the power board, eliminating the need for separate electrical connectors and simplifying the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized module design with universal mounting brackets and power connectors allows the same components to be used across different installation locations and vehicle types. This universality reduces the variety of parts needed and simplifies installation procedures while maintaining flexibility.
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 modular design provides effective protection against environmental factors, accommodates various vehicle configurations, and simplifies installation by using a serial communication scheme to reduce the number of connectors and parts, ensuring reliable and efficient illumination with customizable patterns and colors.
Implementation Method 1
A linear array of LEDs is disposed on a display board and communicates with the power board
Implementation Method 2
The beam forming optic is of the internal reflecting type and includes an elongated concave internal reflecting surface (reflector)
Implementation Method 3
elongated centrally disposed refracting surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A modular vehicle light comprises multiple elongated modules which are disposed in end-to-end relationship. The modules are mechanically joined and electrically connected in series. The modules are preferably substantially identical. Each module contains a power board with a microprocessor and a buffer. The microprocessor transmits signals to a matrix of LEDs. The LEDs emit light which transverses an optical assembly to form a narrow band of illumination. In one embodiment, a linear matrix of 36 LEDs comprising 3 color groups of LEDs is employed. Fasteners captured in a bracket at the rear of the module fasten the vehicle light to the vehicle.