Pyramidal Fixing Stud for Floating Optical Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lighting and light signaling devices for vehicles are complex and expensive to install, and they do not allow for a visual effect of an optical module in suspension, which is aesthetically sought after.

Innovation Solution

An optical module with a projection lens that features a pyramidal-shaped fixing stud and lateral branches with fixing holes, allowing for simple and quick installation, providing a visual aesthetic of suspension by offsetting the lens to create a 'floating' effect.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a complex positioning pin system with multiple holes and tabs is used to secure the projection lens, then the lens can be firmly fixed, but the installation becomes complex and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens fixation stabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is divided into discrete components: the pyramidal fixing stud with facets on the main body, and the corresponding fixing holes in the lateral arms. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly while maintaining secure fixation, eliminating the need for complex multi-hole positioning systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pyramidal fixing stud with its faceted apex automatically guides the projection lens into the correct position during assembly. The facets provide self-alignment and self-centering functionality, enabling the lens to be properly positioned and fixed without requiring complex external positioning mechanisms or multiple adjustment holes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If the projection lens is simply fixed in the optical module, then installation is simple, but the aesthetic effect of a suspended module is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidvisual aesthetic effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The lateral arms extend along branch planes that intersect the diffusion plane, creating a three-dimensional configuration that positions the projection lens in space. This spatial arrangement produces the desired suspended visual effect while maintaining simple fixation through the pyramidal studs, achieving both aesthetic goals and installation simplicity.

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

3Shape

If the projection lens is positioned further forward to create a lifting effect, then the aesthetic suspended appearance is improved, but the lens may become less stable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesuspended visual effectVSAvoidlens stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pyramidal fixing stud features an asymmetric faceted apex with specific angle ranges (front facet: 5°-15°, rear facet: 35°-45°). This asymmetric geometry provides both the forward positioning for the suspended effect and the mechanical stability needed to secure the lens, as the angled facets create effective mechanical interlocking with the fixing holes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentEP3453950B1Optical module for a lighting and/or signalling device
Publication Date: 2020.02.19 PSA AUTOMOBILES SA
  • EP3453950B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3453950B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP3453950B1 patent drawingFigure 6~8

AI summary

The invention relates to an optical module (3) for a motor vehicle lighting and/or signaling device, said optical module (3) comprising a main body (4) and a projection lens (5), said projection lens (5) comprising a front face, adapted to allow the diffusion of light emitted by a light source towards the outside of the vehicle and extending substantially along a diffusion plane, and at least one lateral arm, extending along a plane intersecting said diffusion plane and comprising a fixing orifice, said main body (4) comprising at least one fixing stud projecting from said main body (4), said fixing stud having a pyramidal shape extending from a base (41) to an apex,said vertex comprising at least two facets configured to ensure the guidance of said projection lens (5) on the main body (4) and to allow the attachment of the projection lens (5) to the main body (4).