Integrated PCB Transmission Indicator Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing transmission indicators for vehicles require multiple light sources and a separate PCB for illumination, leading to increased manufacturing costs and a complex structure due to the thickness and size limitations of lighting guide plates, which complicates light alignment and shielding.
Innovation Solution
An integrated PCB-type surface illumination system using a V-cut Flexible Lighting Sheet (VFLS) as an optical waveguide, where the light source is integrated into the PCB, allowing for uniform and high-brightness illumination of the transmission character part with a simplified structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a separate PCB and light source assembly is used for illumination of the lighting guide plate, then the illumination function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the light source directly into the PCB assembly, eliminating the need for a separate light source assembly and reducing the number of components. The lighting guide plate is also integrated with the PCB, creating a unified illumination system that simplifies the overall structure while maintaining effective illumination of the transmission character part.
Solution Approach 2:
The PCB serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connections for the transmission lever and simultaneously acts as the illumination circuit board with integrated light sources. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate illumination PCB and reduces device complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If a separate PCB and light source assembly is used for illumination, then the illumination function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the light source assembly with the PCB into a single integrated unit, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration reduces manufacturing steps, assembly operations, and associated costs while achieving the required illumination function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the illumination function from a separate assembly and integrates it directly into the existing PCB structure. This eliminates the need for separate illumination components and their associated manufacturing and assembly processes, thereby reducing manufacturing cost.
3Illumination intensity
If the light emitting part is aligned with the center of the lighting guide plate, then uniform light delivery is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex due to alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The light emitting part is directly integrated with the PCB structure, and the lighting guide plate is also integrated with the PCB. This merging of components creates inherent alignment relationships that eliminate the need for separate alignment mechanisms or complex positioning structures, while still achieving uniform light delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the light emitting part at a specific location on the PCB that corresponds to the center of the lighting guide plate. This localized positioning ensures uniform light distribution without requiring complex alignment structures, as the alignment is built into the local configuration of the integrated components.
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 reduces manufacturing costs, enhances light uniformity and brightness, and allows for curved shapes that were previously unattainable, extending the application scope while simplifying the structure by eliminating the need for additional light sources and PCB assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
An integrated PCB-type surface illumination system using a V-cut Flexible Lighting Sheet (VFLS) as an optical waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission indicator apparatus for a vehicle, may include a light source disposed on an upper surface of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) and electrically configured in a circuit; a housing for housing the light source and the PCB therein; and a light guide sheet disposed at the front of the light source to deliver light of the light source to a character part therethrough, wherein the light source is integrated into the PCB.