Vehicle Projector Light Module Eccentric Aiming Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle optical devices lack a simple and efficient mechanism for adjusting the radiating direction of emitted light, which is crucial for enhancing lighting flexibility and functionality.

Innovation Solution

An optical device for vehicles incorporates adjustable light modules with eccentrics that allow for rotational and translational displacement of light modules relative to their housing, utilizing eccentrics to adjust the radiating direction with minimal force and a compact design, enabling flexible adjustment of light emission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional adjustment mechanism is used for the light module, then the radiating direction can be adjusted, but the device complexity increases and more adjusting force is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment of radiating directionVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the geometric parameter of the mounting structure by introducing an offset between the bearing axis and the connecting area. This parameter change enables the light module to be adjusted simply by rotating it about the bearing axis, without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms. The offset distance is a key parameter that transforms the adjustment mechanism from complex to simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a conventional adjustment mechanism is used for the light module, then the radiating direction can be adjusted, but the adjusting force required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment of radiating directionVSAvoidadjusting force
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension by offsetting the connecting area from the bearing axis in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis. This dimensional change creates a lever arm that reduces the adjusting force required. The force is applied at the offset position, creating a torque that efficiently rotates the light module about the bearing axis.

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

3Device complexity

If the light module is directly mounted on the housing, then the structure is simple, but the radiating direction cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting structureVSAvoidadjustability of radiating direction
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static direct mounting structure into a dynamic adjustable structure by introducing a bearing axis and offset connecting area. The light module can now rotate dynamically about the bearing axis, enabling adjustment of the radiating direction while maintaining structural simplicity. The bearing axis serves as the rotation center for this dynamic adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Volume of moving object

If the eccentric is placed close to the bearing axis, then the adjustment mechanism is compact, but the lever for adjusting becomes mechanically constrained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment mechanism volumeVSAvoidadjustment mechanism operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the parameter of the offset distance between the eccentric and the bearing axis. By carefully selecting this distance, the design achieves a balance between compactness and operational ease. The offset distance is large enough to provide adequate lever arm for adjustment but small enough to maintain a compact overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 easy and precise control over the light emission direction, requiring low adjusting forces and allowing for a compact, flexible design that enhances the lighting capabilities of vehicle optical systems.

Implementation Method 1

at least one eccentric is interposed between the light module and the projector housing. Said eccentric may be designed so that, when the eccentric is adjusted or rotated, specifically about its axis of rotation, the light module is rotatable and/or pivotable relative to the bearing and/or relative to the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEccentric mechanism: Eccentric

Implementation Method 2

at least one bearing or one bearing point is provided via which the light module is supported to be rotatable and/or pivotable on the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction reduction through bearing: Ball Bearing

Data Source

PatentUS12534015B2Optical device and vehicle
Publication Date: 2026.01.27 PLASTIC OMNIUM LIGHTING SYST GMBH
  • US12534015B2 patent drawing
  • US12534015B2 patent drawing
  • US12534015B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention discloses a projector unit comprising a housing on which a light module is supported to be pivotable in two spatial directions. Via eccentrics which are supported on the housing, the light module can be rotated in two axes of rotation each having a specific angle of rotation. Preferably, via one eccentric, the light module is pivoted along with the axis of rotation and, via the further eccentric, the light module is rotated about the axis of rotation.