Non-Spherical Lens Assembly for Vehicle Transformation Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transformation optic arrangements for vehicles fail to achieve high-quality conversion of planar light distribution into angular light distribution with precise channel separation, particularly for large light source matrix fields, and are constrained by structural length limitations.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating two lenses with non-spherically shaped coupling and decoupling areas, arranged coaxially along the z-axis, to achieve precise channel separation of 1° for light sources up to 60 mm in size, with a structural length of up to 120 mm, using specific geometric parameters and tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single lens transformation optic is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot achieve high-quality conversion with precise channel separation (1°) for large light source matrix fields (60 mm)
Solution Approach 1:
The transformation optic is divided into multiple lenses (first lens and at least one additional lens), where each lens handles a specific portion of the light distribution task. This segmentation allows each lens to be optimized for precise channel separation while managing the overall complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces non-spherical surface geometry (adding a dimensional complexity factor) to the lens surfaces. By using non-spherical draw with specific polynomial coefficients (α21, α22, α23, α24) instead of simple spherical surfaces, the system achieves the required 1° channel separation precision that cannot be obtained with conventional spherical lenses.
2Area of stationary object
If the light source matrix field size is increased to 60 mm, then the coverage area is improved, but the transformation quality deteriorates due to lack of known solutions
Solution Approach 1:
Each lens in the multi-lens system is designed with specific non-spherical surface characteristics tailored to its position and function. The first lens and additional lenses have different non-spherical draw parameters (different polynomial coefficients α21, α22, α23, α24) optimized for their local light distribution requirements, enabling high-quality conversion across the entire 60 mm matrix field.
3Length of stationary object
If structural length is restricted to 120 mm, then the compactness is improved, but the transformation quality for large matrix fields deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning from spherical to non-spherical lens surfaces, the system achieves higher transformation precision within a compact 120 mm length. The non-spherical geometry enables more efficient light path control and angular distribution within the constrained axial space, overcoming the limitation of short structural length.
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 solution enables precise conversion of planar light distribution into angular light distribution with sharp contours and reduced blinding, supporting dynamic light functions suitable for various traffic situations by achieving the required channel separation and structural length.
Implementation Method 1
the first lens and at least one additional lens each show non-spherically shaped coupling areas and decoupling areas as flat sides
Data Source
AI summary
A transformation optic arrangement for vehicles to convert a planar light distribution into an angular light distribution with a plurality of light sources arranged in one level like a matrix to generate the planar light distribution and with an optic unit arranged in front of the light sources in a primary direction of emission to deflect the light, with the optic unit comprising at least one first lens, with at least one additional lens being provided between the first lens and the light sources, arranged coaxially in reference to the z-axis extending in the primary direction of emission and distanced from the first lens, and that the first lens and at least one additional lens each show non-spherically shaped coupling surfaces and decoupling surfaces as flat sides.