OLED Light Module Concealing Connections via Separation Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) in motor vehicle lighting and signaling systems is hindered by the need to conceal technical elements while maintaining aesthetic and functional requirements, as existing frames limit style effects and increase assembly costs.
Innovation Solution
A light module design featuring a support with a separation surface that conceals the connection part of the OLED, creating a light diffusion zone and a masked zone, allowing the OLED's light-emitting part to appear as if it floats above the surface without revealing the technical elements, along with a connection part that is mechanically and electrically integrated for secure attachment and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frames are used to completely surround the OLED by its periphery to protect the diode during assembly, then the diode is protected during manipulation, but the style effects are limited and technical elements remain visible
Solution Approach 1:
The OLED is divided into two distinct parts: a light-emitting part that is visible and a connection part that is concealed. The support structure is segmented into a light diffusion zone and a masked zone, separating the visual and technical functions spatially.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection part containing technical elements (electrical connections, attachment means) is extracted from the visible area and placed behind the separation surface, where it is concealed from external observers while remaining functional.
2Shape
If the surface of the wall of the diode is reserved mainly for the light-emitting zone, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but means of electrical connection and mechanical liaison must still be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The connection functions are moved to a different spatial dimension (behind the separation surface) rather than competing for space on the visible surface. This allows the front surface to be dedicated entirely to light emission while connections are accommodated in the depth dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary element that provides both electrical connection means and mechanical liaison functions behind the separation surface, enabling these technical requirements to be met without affecting the aesthetic appearance of the light-emitting surface.
3Shape
If covers are used to mask technical elements, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but assembly costs increase and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to combine multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, electrical connections, and concealment of technical elements all in one integrated component, eliminating the need for separate covers and reducing assembly complexity.
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 design enhances visual aesthetics by hiding technical elements, maintains component integrity, and simplifies assembly and maintenance while controlling costs, allowing for desired light effects and efficient electrical and mechanical connections.
Implementation Method 1
An organic light-emitting diode generally takes the form of a thin strip comprising a substrate generally made of glass on which are superimposed an anode and a cathode between which one or more layers of organic matter containing for example materials such as polyanilines or polyfluorenes are arranged
Data Source
Figure 1~3b
Figure 4~6
Figure 7a~8d
AI summary
A light module comprising: - a support (10) comprising at least one first so-called separating surface (101), - at least one organic light emitting diode (20) comprising a first light-emitting part (200), means for attaching the diode to the support and means for electrically connecting the diode, the means for attaching the diode and the means for electrically connecting the diode being carried by a part of said diode, referred to as the connecting part (210). Also, the separating surface (101) of the support delimits a light-diffusing area into which the first light-emitting part (200) of the diode extends, and separates this light-diffusing area from a masked area, into which the connecting part (210) of the diode extends, such that said connecting part is concealed by the separating surface (101) of the support (10).