Multi-Directional Light Guide Reflectors for Vehicle Lamp Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lamps face challenges in achieving both vertical and horizontal light spread, particularly in headlamps and daytime running lamps, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for higher input flux and complex light source requirements.
Innovation Solution
A light guide with multi-directional optics is employed, featuring reflective elements with angled segments that increase horizontal light spread and efficiency by controlling the light output pattern, reducing the need for higher input flux and simplifying design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a conventional light guide with single-direction reflective elements is used, then the light spread in one direction is sufficient, but the light spread in perpendicular direction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective track is divided into multiple discrete reflective elements spaced along its length. Each reflective element has multiple facets (first facet, second facet, third facet) oriented at different angles to reflect light in different directions, enabling multi-directional light distribution from a single light source
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the light guide have different reflective properties. The reflective elements are strategically positioned and angled to create specific light patterns in different regions, with edge segments providing enhanced light output at the edges of the light guide
2Illumination intensity
If higher input flux is used to achieve adequate light spread, then the light coverage is improved, but the energy consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide incorporates multiple reflective elements that efficiently redirect light throughout the device. By segmenting the reflective track into discrete elements with specific orientations, the system maximizes light utilization and distribution, achieving adequate light coverage without requiring excessive input flux from the light source
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective elements utilize three-dimensional facet configurations (first facet at first angle, second facet at second angle, third facet at third angle) to distribute light in multiple directions simultaneously. This multi-dimensional light redirection improves light coverage efficiency without increasing energy consumption
3Ease of operation
If complex light source requirements are imposed to achieve desired light patterns, then the light output control is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex light sources to control light patterns, the invention inverts the approach by using a simpler light source combined with structured reflective elements. The reflective elements with their multi-facet geometry actively shape and direct the light output, eliminating the need for complex light source requirements while maintaining precise light pattern control
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 multi-directional optics enhance light spread and efficiency, allowing for more controlled light patterns and reduced costs by minimizing input requirements, thereby improving vehicle lamp performance.
Implementation Method 1
The light guide receives the light emitted from the light source and guides the light through the light guide via total internal reflection and then directs the light to be emitted toward the front of the vehicle through an exit surface
Implementation Method 2
a number of reflective elements are formed in a surface to reflect the light toward the exit surface
Data Source
AI summary
A light guide is provided having an elongate body extending in a longitudinal direction having a light transmission portion with a forward light exit surface and a reflective track extending opposite the light exit surface. A plurality of reflective elements are formed along the reflective track and spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. Each reflective element has a center segment and a pair of edge segments each oriented at a spread angle from the center segment toward the light transmission portion, thereby increasing a spread of light output in a horizontal direction from the light transmission portion.