Molded Lighting Element for Exterior Mirror Signal Visibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional exterior mirrors with signal lights are complex and costly, and the signal light modules are not easily recognizable to road users beside or behind the vehicle, posing a safety concern.
Innovation Solution
A minimal signal light configuration using a single LED encased through injection molding, integrated into the mirror housing with a plastic dome serving as a light window, allowing for wide angular radiation without complex modules, reducing material and component count, and enhancing flexibility and standardization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional signal light modules with multiple LEDs, reflectors, and light wave conductors are used, then the signal light can be made visible to road users, but the configuration becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components (LED, reflector, light wave conductor, lens) into a single integrated molded lighting element. The LED is positioned within a molded body that incorporates the reflector geometry and light distribution features directly into the plastic structure, eliminating the need for separate assemblies and reducing overall complexity while maintaining visibility requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The molded lighting element serves multiple functions simultaneously: the LED provides illumination, the molded body acts as a reflector, the integrated geometry controls light distribution, and the overall structure serves as both the light source housing and optical element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed
2Reliability
If additional LEDs are integrated at the outermost edge of the exterior mirror, then the signal light becomes recognizable to road users beside or behind the vehicle, but the configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the LED light source with the exterior mirror housing into a single integrated unit. The LED is positioned at the outermost edge of the mirror and is molded directly into the housing structure, eliminating the need for separate signal light modules and their associated mounting, wiring, and adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The molded lighting element is designed to be self-contained, with the LED, reflector, and light distribution features all integrated into a single piece. This self-service design eliminates the need for complex assembly, adjustment, and maintenance of separate components
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
Ensures high traffic safety by making the driver's intentions clearly visible to road users, while simplifying the configuration and reducing costs through reduced component complexity and standardized design.
Implementation Method 1
The illumination is also achieved by a single LED
Implementation Method 2
The beam forming is achieved through the reflector
Implementation Method 3
The LED which is disposed at the outermost edge of the exterior mirror has a radiation direction which complies with legal regulations. The LED which is disposed at the outermost edge of the exterior mirror has a radiation direction which complies with legal regulations. The beam forming is achieved through the reflector. The entire signal light module is clipped into the housing of the exterior mirror and electrically contacted through a plug connection.
Data Source
AI summary
An exterior mirror is proposed, which is configured with an LED as a signal light in the simplest manner. A contact body at the LED facilitates simple assembly and simple contacting of the LED.