Optical Block With Folding Diopter For Compact Vehicle Light Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle light modules require multiple optical components and mechanical devices to switch between low beam and high beam functions, resulting in bulkiness and different light signatures, whereas the goal is to achieve both functions with the same light signature using a simplified mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A light module with a single optical block comprising collimators and diopters that allows light beams to converge and diverge in a way that enables the production of both cut-off and non-cut-off beams using the same light sources, eliminating the need for actuators and mechanical devices by switching the light sources on or off to change beam functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different optical modules are used for low beam and high beam, then different lighting functions are achieved, but the space required increases and light signatures differ
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lighting functions (low beam with cutoff and high beam without cutoff) into a single optical module. The optical block integrates a collimator, folding machine with cutoff edge, and projection system that can generate both beam types using the same light source, thereby reducing the space required while maintaining functional versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical module is designed to perform multiple functions: it can produce low beam with cutoff, high beam without cutoff, and intermediate beams with variable cutoff positions. The folding machine and projection system are configured to enable the same optical block to generate different beam patterns by selectively activating different portions of the light source or adjusting the projection system
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical devices and actuators are used to switch between beams, then beam switching is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switching mechanisms (actuators and movable parts) with an optical control system. The beam switching is achieved by controlling which portions of the light source are activated and how the projection system is configured, eliminating the need for mechanical devices while maintaining the ability to switch between different beam functions
Solution Approach 2:
The optical module uses the light source itself and its inherent properties to achieve beam switching. By selectively activating different regions of the light source or adjusting the projection system's optical path, the system switches between beam functions without requiring external mechanical actuators, making the system self-sufficient and simpler in design
3Adaptability or versatility
If a tilting cover mechanism is used to switch between low beam and high beam, then beam function switching is achieved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the tilting cover mechanical mechanism by using an integrated optical block with a folding machine and projection system. The beam function switching is achieved through optical control of the light source and projection system configuration rather than mechanical tilting, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to switch between low beam and high beam functions
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 solution simplifies the optical module design, reduces bulk, and maintains the same light signature for both functions, achieving compactness and efficient switching between low and high beams without additional mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The bending machine operates in total internal reflection
Implementation Method 2
the first collimator and the intermediate diopter being arranged so as to converge the first beam outside the block towards and on this cut-off edge
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to an optical part (1) comprising a transparent or translucent block including: - a first and a second collimator (11, 12) intended to receive the beams (F1, F2) from a first and a second light source (21, 22), so that they enter the block, the collimators being arranged so that these sources can be positioned in a plane; - an intermediate exit diopter towards which the first collimator guides the first beam so that this first beam exits the block through this intermediate diopter, - a cutting diopter forming a bender for the first beam and for the second beam, the first collimator with the intermediate diopter and the second collimator being arranged so that each beam converges on the cutting edge of the bender.