Rear Signal Lighting Control Logic for Motor Vehicle Trunk

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current rear signaling control systems for motor vehicles are complex and costly, requiring modifications to the centralized management system and lacking compatibility with trailer signaling when the tailgate is open, necessitating a second set of signaling lights for compliance with regulations.

Innovation Solution

A system for controlling rear signaling lighting that includes two sets of signaling devices, with the second set being visible or hidden depending on the trunk door position, using a single or dual sensor to switch between sets, and integrating control logic and power supply diodes within existing modules to maintain compatibility and reduce electronic component costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a second set of signaling devices is added to operate when the trunk door is open, then compliance with regulations is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregulation complianceVSAvoidsignaling system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the control logic for both sets of signaling devices into a single integrated control unit. The control unit receives activation signals and automatically selects which set to activate based on trunk door position sensor feedback, merging what would otherwise be two separate control systems into one unified device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the first set of signaling devices (visible when trunk is closed) and the second set of signaling devices (visible when trunk is open), making it a universal controller that adapts its behavior based on the detected trunk position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If control logic is integrated into existing signaling modules, then electronic component costs are reduced, but adaptability to different configurations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidsystem configuration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control logic is divided into separate functional modules: a sensor input module that detects trunk position, a control logic module that processes the detection signal, and output modules that control each set of signaling devices. This segmentation allows the system to be manufactured with standardized components while maintaining flexibility in configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control logic is designed to dynamically adapt its behavior based on real-time sensor input. The system can switch between controlling the first set of signaling devices and the second set based on the detected trunk position, providing operational flexibility without requiring multiple hardwired control circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 optimizes rear signaling control without modifying the centralized management, reduces electronic component costs, and ensures compatibility with trailer signaling, providing efficient and reliable operation with minimal additional complexity in wiring and components.

Implementation Method 1

each of the first set and the second set may include a diode 'OR' to enable power supply of the control logic from at least one activation terminal among a set of activation terminals capable of activating the devices signaling

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode OR: Diode

Implementation Method 2

at least one light source is a light-emitting diode, or an OLED

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight-emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 3

at least one light source is a light-emitting diode, or an OLED

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOLED: Organic Light-emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentEP3142895B1System for controlling rear signal lighting for a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2021.06.16 RENAULT SA
  • EP3142895B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3142895B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A system for controlling rear signal lighting for a motor vehicle, comprising a first set (1) of signaling devices arranged on the outside of a trunk, capable of operating when said trunk is closed, and a second set (2) of signaling devices capable of operating when said trunk is open, replacing the signaling devices of the first set. According to the invention, each signaling device comprises a light source (10a-15a, 20a-25a) connected in series with a switch (16a-16f, 26a-26f), and the system comprises a control logic (17, 27 ) integrated at least partially in said first and second sets (1, 2). The control logic (17, 27) is capable of simultaneously controlling either : the opening of all the switches (16a-16f) connected in series with the light sources (10a-15a) of the first set (1) and the closing of all the switches (26a-26f) connected in series with the light sources (20a-25a) of the second set (2) if the trunk is in the open position; or the closing of all the switches (16a-16f) connected in series with the light sources (10a-15) of the first set (1) and the opening of all the switches (26a-26f) connected in series with the light sources (20a-25a) of the second set (2) if the trunk is in the closed position.