Transparent Roof Panel Light Coupling With Integrated In-Coupling Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transparent roof panel assemblies for vehicles face challenges in efficiently coupling light from interior sources into the panel, while also ensuring effective light transmission and assembly precision.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an in-coupling element with specific design features, such as a partly covered configuration to function as a light strip, an adhering material chamber for precise attachment, and an integral extension for pre-assembled light modules, enhances light coupling and assembly efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an in-coupling element is used to redirect light from the light source into the panel, then light coupling efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The in-coupling element merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it redirects light from the light source into the panel, serves as a structural attachment element, and provides positioning features for the light source. This integration reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining effective light coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The in-coupling element is designed as a multi-functional component that performs light redirection, structural attachment (via the chamber for adhering material), and positioning (via integrated positioning members). This multi-functionality improves light coupling efficiency while avoiding the need for multiple separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the in-coupling element is partly covered to function as a light strip, then the versatility of the component is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The in-coupling element combines two distinct functions into one component: the light redirection function and the light strip function (via the selected uncovered area). This merging allows the same component to serve both optical purposes, enhancing versatility while streamlining manufacturing compared to using separate elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The in-coupling element is designed as a universal component that can simultaneously function as a light redirector and as a decorative/light-emitting strip visible from the vehicle interior. This multi-functionality is achieved through the strategic partial coverage design, allowing one component to fulfill multiple aesthetic and optical roles.
3Manufacturing precision
If the in-coupling element is formed directly to the panel, then assembly precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The in-coupling element is formed as an integral part of the panel through direct extrusion or molding, merging the panel and coupling element into a single manufactured unit. This integration eliminates separate assembly steps, ensuring precise alignment and positioning while simplifying the overall manufacturing process through single-step production.
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
This solution improves light transmission and assembly precision, allowing for efficient light distribution within the vehicle while simplifying the assembly process by reducing the need for additional components and steps.
Implementation Method 1
an in-coupling element to in-couple light into the panel from the interior side of the panel and redirecting light from the light source into the panel
Implementation Method 2
an out-coupling pattern arranged on the surface of the transparent area of the panel, the out-coupling pattern is adapted to out-couple light propagating in the panel
Implementation Method 3
the in-coupling element is attached to the interior side of the panel by means of an adhering material accommodated in a chamber
Implementation Method 4
the height of the recess being such that the adhering fluid will fill the complete recess due to capillary forces on the fluid within the recess
Data Source
AI summary
A transparent roof panel assembly for an opening in a vehicle roof comprises a panel having a transparent area that allows visible light to pass through between an exterior and an interior of the vehicle. A light source is arranged to provide light in the panel. An in-coupling element couples light into the panel from the interior side of the panel, the in-coupling element being attached to the interior side of the panel and redirecting light from the light source into the panel. The in-coupling element may be partly covered towards the interior of the vehicle, with the exception of a selected area, such that light is able to pass from the in-coupling element towards the interior through the selected area. The in-coupling element is attached to the interior side of the panel by an adhering material accommodated in a chamber formed between the in-coupling element and the panel.