Movable Heater Plate for Vehicle Light De-icing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for de-icing and condensation removal on vehicle light assemblies are not efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle light assembly with a movable heater plate that can be energized to melt snow and ice, featuring a heating element and a drive system to move between stowed and deployed positions, positioned close to the outer lens to effectively clear condensation and ice while being visually imperceptible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a heater plate is positioned close to the outer lens for effective de-icing, then de-icing efficiency is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible heating components
Solution Approach 1:
The heater plate is designed to be movable between a stowed position (for aesthetic appearance) and a deployed position (for de-icing operation). The drive system enables the heater plate to dynamically change its position based on operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between visibility and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating function is separated from the aesthetic housing structure. The heater plate is a distinct, movable component that can be deployed only when needed, rather than being permanently integrated into the visible housing. This segmentation allows the housing to maintain aesthetic appearance while the heater plate provides effective heating when deployed.
2Shape
If the heater plate is made visually imperceptible by positioning it close to the lens, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but access for maintenance and replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable design of the heater plate, enabled by the drive system, allows it to be deployed to an accessible position for maintenance while maintaining a concealed position during normal operation. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between aesthetic concealment and maintenance accessibility.
3Reliability
If existing heating solutions are used, then de-icing function is provided, but de-icing speed and efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A thermal coupling medium or direct thermal contact mechanism is introduced between the heater plate and the outer lens. The heater plate is positioned to be in direct contact or close proximity to the inner surface of the outer lens, creating an efficient thermal pathway that accelerates heat transfer and improves de-icing speed while maintaining aesthetic appearance.
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 fast and efficient de-icing and condensation removal without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle light assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element
Implementation Method 2
The heated plate is in direct contact or close proximity to the inner surface of the outer lens, creating an efficient thermal pathway that accelerates heat transfer
Implementation Method 3
The heated air travels upward across the inner surface of the outer lens, thereby facilitating de-icing or removing condensation from the outer lens
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle light assembly, a heater plate, and a method for vehicle light heating. The vehicle light assembly includes an outer lens and a heater plate. The heater plate is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the heater plate being situated in operative relationship with the outer lens and the heater plate being energized when in the deployed position.