Vehicle Gauge Pointer Illumination via Transverse Light Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle instrument cluster pointers experience non-uniform illumination due to light sources not oriented along the axis of rotation, leading to varying light exposure at different positions, which affects the clarity and readability of gauge indications.
Innovation Solution
A pointer arm with offset light reflecting surfaces is used to propagate light around a pin securing the cap, ensuring uniform illumination along the pointer arm by reflecting light transverse to the axis of rotation, utilizing a translucent material for the pointer arm and a non-reflective shroud to maintain even light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If light sources are not orientated along the axis of rotation, then the pointer assembly can be illuminated, but different amounts of light are provided for each rotational position causing non-uniform illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension by adding a light guide component that redirects light from a radially oriented light source to travel axially along the pointer shaft. This dimensional transformation of light propagation allows the light source to be positioned radially for ease of installation while achieving axial light distribution for uniform illumination across all rotational positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guide acts as an intermediary component between the radially oriented light source and the pointer arm. It receives light from the light source and redistributes it uniformly along the axial direction, mediating the contradiction between radial light source orientation and axial illumination uniformity.
2Strength
If a pin is used to secure the cap in place, then the cap is firmly attached, but the pin creates an obstruction that blocks light propagation through the pointer arm
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide serves as an intermediary that routes light around the pin obstruction. By channeling light through the light guide structure, the system maintains both the mechanical function of the pin for cap attachment and the optical function of light propagation without direct interference from the pin.
Solution Approach 2:
The light propagation path is segmented into multiple routes around the pin obstruction. The light guide divides the light flow to circumvent the blocked area, allowing light to reach the pointer arm through alternative paths rather than being completely blocked by the pin.
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 provides a substantially uniform illumination of the pointer arm, enhancing readability and consistency of gauge indications across all rotational positions, improving the visibility of vehicle operating parameters.
Implementation Method 1
The pointer arm includes at least two reflecting surfaces configured to propagate light around the opening and through the pointer arm
Data Source
AI summary
A pointer arm for a gauge of a motor vehicle is provided. The pointer arm includes first and second light reflecting surfaces and an an arm portion extending from the first and second light reflecting surfaces. The pointer arm may be supported for rotation about an axis of rotation relative to a scale, and a shroud may be used to support the pointer arm. A cap may be supported on the pointer arm. The cap may include a pin extending into an opening within the pointer arm. The light reflecting surfaces are configured to propagate light around the opening and through the pointer arm.