Multi-Focal Length Light Pipes for Automotive Signal Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive signal lights using semiconductor light sources, such as LEDs, face limitations in light emission efficiency and aesthetic design due to the need for a large number of LEDs to meet regulatory requirements, resulting in inefficiencies and restricted design options.
Innovation Solution
The use of multi-focal length light pipes within the signal light to collect, collimate, and direct light from semiconductor sources, allowing for a desired output pattern while enabling a wide range of aesthetic designs and functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a large number of LEDs are employed to meet regulatory light output requirements, then sufficient signal lighting is achieved, but the aesthetic design is limited and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple LEDs are combined within a single light pipe assembly, where their light is collected and transmitted together through one integrated optical structure, reducing the number of separate LED components needed
Solution Approach 2:
A light pipe is introduced as an intermediary optical element between the LEDs and the lens, serving to collect, guide, and distribute light from multiple LEDs to achieve the desired illumination pattern with fewer sources
2Loss of energy
If conventional reflector and lens structures are used with LEDs, then light transmission is achieved, but light transmission efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The conventional mechanical reflector and lens system is replaced with an integrated light pipe structure that uses total internal reflection and optical waveguiding to transmit light more efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The light pipe is constructed as a composite optical structure combining reflective surfaces and transparent light-transmitting materials in a single integrated component, optimizing both light collection and transmission
3Adaptability or versatility
If LEDs are positioned between reflector and lens, then signal patterns are produced, but aesthetic design flexibility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The signal light is segmented into modular light pipe assemblies, each capable of independent design and configuration, allowing greater aesthetic flexibility while maintaining manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The design flexibility is extended by utilizing the three-dimensional space within the light pipe structure, allowing LEDs to be positioned in various configurations (not just planar arrangements between reflector and lens) to achieve both functional and aesthetic goals
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
Enhances light emission efficiency and aesthetic flexibility by effectively utilizing light from semiconductor sources, reducing the number of LEDs required and providing various signal light functionalities.
Implementation Method 1
the light transmission structure including at least two superimposed parabolic reflecting structures each having a common focal point at the light receiving port and each having a focal length differing from the focal length of the other such that the light transmitting structure receives, collimates, directs and spreads and transmits the light received at the light receiving port
Implementation Method 2
at least two superimposed parabolic reflecting structures each having a common focal point at the light receiving port
Data Source
AI summary
An automotive signal light is taught which employs multi-focal length light pipes to collect, collimate and direct, as needed, light emitted from one or more semiconductor light sources. Each multi-focal length light pipe includes at least one light transmission structure, each of which has a light receiving port to receive light emitted from a semiconductor light source spaced from the light receiving port by an air gap. The light transmission structure includes at least two superimposed parabolic reflecting surfaces, each having a common focal point at the light receiving port but having different focal lengths, and the superimposed parabolic reflectors operate to receive, collimate, spread and transmit the light from the semiconductor light source to a light emitting surface of the light pipe which is located adjacent to a lens of the signal light. The aesthetic arrangement of the light pipes is not particularly limited and a wide range of signal light functionalities can be provided.