Automobile Ornament Panel Light Path Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The quality of illuminated pictograms on motor vehicle trim panels is degraded due to defects such as air bubbles or dust in the support layer, causing light diffusion and blurring of the display.
Innovation Solution
A trim panel design featuring a light-transmitting material, such as transparent polyurethane or silicone gel, placed between the light source and the translucent skin, with a smooth, transparent plastic support element to prevent defects from entering the light path, ensuring clear and sharp backlit displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a support layer is used to provide structural support for the trim panel, then mechanical strength is improved, but defects such as air bubbles or dust in the support layer cause light diffusion and degrade the quality of the illuminated pictogram
Solution Approach 1:
The support layer is segmented into two distinct parts: a first support layer containing the light source, and a second support layer containing the pictogram. This segmentation allows the light path to be separated from the structural support function, eliminating defects in the light path while maintaining mechanical strength through the dual-layer structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The light-transmitting material is extracted as a separate, dedicated component between the light source and the pictogram. This extracted element specifically addresses the light transmission function without the defects present in the main support layer, thereby improving display quality while the support layer maintains its structural role.
2Strength
If the support layer is made thicker to improve structural support, then mechanical strength is improved, but the presence of defects in the thicker support layer increases light diffusion and worsens display quality
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple layers with distinct functions. The first support layer provides structural support and houses the light source, while the second support layer contains the pictogram. The light-transmitting material bridges these layers, creating a dedicated light path that is independent of the thickness and defects of the structural support layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The light-transmitting material acts as an intermediary element between the light source and the pictogram. It specifically addresses the light transmission function with its high transparency and lack of defects, while the support layers independently provide structural support without interfering with the light path.
3Device complexity
If a simple support layer structure is used to reduce manufacturing complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but defects in the support layer cause blurring and degrade pictogram display quality
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into functional zones: a first support layer for structural support and light source, a light-transmitting material for optimal light transmission, and a second support layer for the pictogram. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function without significantly increasing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the panel have different properties optimized for their specific functions. The light-transmitting material in the light path has high transparency and smooth surfaces to prevent light diffusion, while the support layers have the mechanical properties needed for structural support. This local optimization improves pictogram sharpness without requiring complete redesign of the entire structure.
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 prevents light diffusion and maintains a clear, sharp display of pictograms by eliminating air bubbles and dust, resulting in improved display quality and clarity.
Implementation Method 1
a light-transmitting material is placed in at least part of said opening, said material being placed in a translucent support element placed in the opening between said material and said light source
Implementation Method 2
the trim panel comprising a translucent skin forming the external surface of the trim panel
Implementation Method 3
The presence of the support element under the light transmission material makes it possible to avoid the deposition of dust or the formation of bubbles between the light source and the zone forming the pictogram
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a panel that includes at least one icon area (8), said area (8) being illuminated by a light source (10) placed under the ornament panel, the ornament panel (1) including a translucent skin (2) forming the outer surface (6) of the ornament panel and a substrate layer (4) placed against the skin (2), said substrate layer (4) including an opening (14) placed at least between the light source (10) and the icon area (8). A light-transmitting material (18) is placed in at least part of said opening (14), said material (18) being placed in a translucent substrate element (20) placed in the opening (14) between said material (18) and said light source (10).