Photoluminescent Vehicle Trim Assembly Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle lighting systems lack innovative solutions for creating unique and attractive illumination using photoluminescent structures that can efficiently convert excitation light into visible light for enhanced aesthetic and functional applications.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle trim assembly and headliner system incorporating a light transmissive foam panel, a photoluminescent structure, and a light source that emits excitation light, where the photoluminescent material converts the light into visible light, providing a unique and uniform illumination experience, and includes a bumper and retainer for protection and positioning of the light source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If photoluminescent structures are implemented in vehicle lighting systems, then illumination intensity and aesthetic appeal are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the photoluminescent structure with the trim assembly itself, integrating the lighting function into the existing vehicle interior component. The photoluminescent material is applied directly to the trim assembly surface, merging the decorative trim function with the illumination function into a single integrated component, thereby improving illumination intensity without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a photoluminescent material as an intermediary substance that converts excitation light into visible illumination. This intermediary layer absorbs ultraviolet or blue light from LEDs and re-emits it as visible light, enabling the trim assembly to provide both structural aesthetics and active illumination without requiring separate lighting components
2Illumination intensity
If photoluminescent structures are used for illumination, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies photoluminescent material to the trim assembly surface through coating or lamination processes, changing the surface properties of the existing component. This approach allows the trim assembly to gain illumination capabilities without requiring complete redesign or complex assembly of multiple separate parts, thereby improving aesthetic appeal while managing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The trim assembly is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, aesthetic decoration, and active illumination. By making the trim assembly multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated lighting components in many applications, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while achieving the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes
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 system achieves a unique and attractive viewing experience by converting excitation light into visible light, offering efficient and cost-effective illumination that enhances the aesthetic appeal of vehicle interiors and provides consistent passive illumination.
Implementation Method 1
A photoluminescent structure is disposed on an inner periphery of the void and the first side of the foam panel and configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source
Data Source
AI summary
A trim assembly for a vehicle is provided herein. The trim assembly includes a backing panel defining a void therethrough. A foam panel is attached to the backing panel on a first side and is attached to a cover on a second opposing side. The foam panel and the cover are light transmissive. A light source is disposed within the void and is configured to emit excitation light. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on an inner periphery of the void and the first side of the foam panel and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source. A bumper extends into the void to a position past a bottom surface of the light source.