Vehicle Pillar Lamp Assembly With Presence-Triggered Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle exterior lighting systems lack customizable and user-friendly features that enhance personal connection and visibility, particularly on pillars where traditional lighting is absent.
Innovation Solution
A light assembly mounted to a vehicle pillar, comprising a sensor to detect user presence, a controller to command a selectively illuminable light source, and a lens to direct light, allowing for customizable color, sequence, and intensity based on user preferences, as well as integration with other vehicle lamps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional exterior lighting systems are used, then the vehicle provides basic lighting and signaling functions, but the system lacks customizable features and user interaction capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The light assembly is designed to perform multiple functions including illumination, signaling, and user interaction through a single integrated unit mounted on the vehicle pillar. The system can operate in different modes (welcome mode, signaling mode, ambient mode) and responds to various user inputs, making it a universal lighting solution that replaces multiple traditional lighting components while adding智能化 capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system incorporates dynamic control through the controller that adjusts light intensity, color, and illumination patterns based on sensor inputs and user preferences. The light source can transition between different states (on/off, dim/bright, different colors) and the system adapts to user proximity and interactions, providing a dynamic rather than static lighting experience
2Ease of operation
If a light assembly with sensor and controller is mounted on the pillar, then user interaction and customization are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system operates autonomously by detecting user presence through the sensor and automatically adjusting illumination without requiring manual intervention. The controller processes sensor signals and commands the light source accordingly, enabling the system to serve itself and respond to users intuitively through proximity detection and automated lighting adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback loops where the sensor continuously monitors user presence and proximity, and the controller adjusts lighting parameters based on this feedback. The system responds to user actions (approaching, departing, interactions) by modifying light intensity and patterns, creating an interactive feedback mechanism that enhances ease of operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light source illuminates in multiple colors and sequences, then user personalization is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source operates in periodic cycles rather than continuous illumination, with different colors and sequences activated at different times based on user presence and system mode. The controller manages periodic illumination patterns that provide visual interest and customization while allowing energy-saving intervals, reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous multi-color operation
4Area of stationary object
If the light assembly extends the entire length of the A-pillar, then visibility and aesthetic impact are enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light assembly is divided into multiple segments or sections that can be manufactured separately and then assembled into the complete pillar-mounted unit. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of individual components while achieving the desired full-length coverage when installed, reducing the complexity of manufacturing a single large integrated piece
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
Provides a personalized and aesthetically pleasing lighting experience that enhances user interaction and visibility, blending seamlessly into the vehicle's design while offering various signaling and functional capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to generate signals indicative of a presence of a user of the motor vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a selectively illuminable light source; the controller is configured to command the light source to illuminate
Implementation Method 3
a lens configured to direct light from the light source in a direction away from the vehicle
Implementation Method 4
the lens includes a long persistent phosphor film configured to glow following deactivation of the light source
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a light assembly that provides a pillar lamp for a motor vehicle, and a corresponding method. In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a motor vehicle, including: a frame including a pillar; a light assembly mounted to the pillar, wherein the light assembly includes a selectively illuminable light source; a sensor configured to generate signals indicative of a presence of a user of the motor vehicle; and a controller configured to command the light source to illuminate when the signals from the sensor indicate the user is present.