Patterned Optical Member for Directional Vehicle Lamp Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting devices using LEDs lack the ability to provide different images based on the light being turned on or off, and do not efficiently distribute light in specific directions to meet regulatory requirements, particularly for vehicle lamps.

Innovation Solution

A lighting device comprising a substrate, a light source, a resin layer, and an optical member with a base layer, pattern layer, and reflective layer, where the pattern layer includes surfaces with varying angles and reflective properties to control light distribution and provide different images based on viewing direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional LED lighting devices are used, then power consumption is reduced and design freedom is increased, but the ability to provide different images based on light being on or off is lost and light distribution cannot meet regulatory requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to provide different imagesVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical member is divided into multiple patterns, with each pattern containing multiple reflective surfaces and multiple transmission surfaces. This segmentation allows different regions to perform different optical functions (reflection vs. transmission), enabling the device to provide different visual images when light is on or off while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different patterns within the optical member have different local optical properties - some patterns have reflective surfaces that reflect light, while others have transmission surfaces that allow light to pass through. This local differentiation enables the optical member to create distinct images based on lighting conditions without requiring complete structural redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If simple optical structures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but light distribution cannot be controlled to meet regulatory standards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight distribution controlVSAvoidoptical member structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical member creates dynamic visual effects by changing its light interaction properties based on lighting conditions. When light is on, transmission surfaces allow light through creating one image; when light is off, reflective surfaces reflect ambient light creating a different image. This dynamic behavior enables reliable light distribution control without requiring complex mechanical or electronic control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds an optical dimension to the structure by incorporating surfaces with different inclinations (first inclined surface, second inclined surface, third inclined surface) that interact with light from different angles. This dimensional approach to light control allows regulatory-compliant light distribution while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 allows for adjustable light distribution that meets regulatory standards, provides distinct images when the light is on or off, and enhances optical reliability, suitable for use in light units, display devices, and vehicle lamps.

Implementation Method 1

a reflective layer disposed on the pattern layer... the reflective layer is disposed on the first surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12553587B2Optical member, lighting device and vehicle lamp having same
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • US12553587B2 patent drawing
  • US12553587B2 patent drawing
  • US12553587B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The lighting device disclosed at an embodiment of the invention comprises a substrate; a light source disposed on the substrate; a resin layer disposed on the substrate; and an optical member disposed on the resin layer, wherein the optical member includes a base layer, a pattern layer disposed on the base layer, and a reflective layer disposed on the pattern layer, and a pattern of the pattern layer includes a first surface and a second surface having a predetermined angle with respect to the first surface, the reflective layer is disposed on the first surface, and a difference between a intensity of light emitted to an outside through the first surface and the second surface may be 5 times or more.