Monolithic Light Pipe Assembly for Intersecting Optical Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle lamp assemblies with multiple light pipes are composed of separate elements, which can lead to complex installations and inefficient illumination designs, particularly in designs requiring multiple intersecting optical paths.
Innovation Solution
A light pipe assembly where at least two pipe portions are unitarily formed as a single monolithic element, with each portion defining a separate optical path that intersects with the others, allowing for efficient illumination of various areas of a vehicle lamp assembly through a unique geometric design and textured surfaces to manage light scattering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate light pipe elements are used to define intersecting optical paths, then each light pipe can be independently designed and installed, but the installation becomes complex and the structural integrity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate light pipe elements into a single monolithic light pipe structure. The light pipe is formed as one integral piece that defines multiple intersecting optical paths internally, eliminating the need for separate installation of multiple light pipes while maintaining the ability to design different optical paths with different functionalities
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate light pipe elements are used, then installation flexibility is maintained, but manufacturing and assembly processes become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light pipe portions into a single monolithic structure that can be manufactured as one integrated component. This reduces assembly complexity while the modular optical path design within the single structure maintains installation flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The light pipe is designed with internally segmented optical paths that are defined within the single monolithic structure. Each optical path can be independently designed and configured for different lighting functions, allowing flexibility in installation while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate light pipe elements are used, then each can be optimized for specific functions, but the overall structural integrity and compactness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functionally optimized light pipe portions into a single monolithic structure. The internal design allows different sections to serve different lighting functions while the unified structure provides structural integrity and compactness
4Ease of repair
If separate light pipe elements are installed separately, then replacement and maintenance are simpler, but the installation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light pipe portions into a single replaceable unit. This reduces installation time and labor since only one component needs to be installed, while the internal modular optical path design allows for targeted maintenance of specific lighting functions without replacing the entire assembly
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 simplifies the installation of vehicle lamp assemblies by integrating multiple optical paths into a single element, enhancing illumination efficiency and design flexibility while reducing light concentration within intersection areas.
Implementation Method 1
textured surfaces to manage light scattering
Data Source
AI summary
A light pipe for a vehicle lamp assembly includes a first pipe portion and a second pipe portion. The first pipe portion has a first section that extends between a first end and a second end. A portion of the first section at least partially defines an intersection area. The first pipe portion defines a first optical path extending in a lengthwise direction of the first pipe portion. The second pipe portion has a second section that extends through the intersection area. The second pipe portion defines a second optical path. The second optical path intersects with and extends through the first optical path of the first pipe portion such that the first section and the second section define an angle greater than zero degrees and less than 180 degrees therebetween. The first pipe portion and the second pipe portion a unitarily formed as a single monolithic element.