Rotary Reflector Segmentation for Vehicle Lamp Light Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical units for vehicle lamps cannot form irradiated and non-irradiated regions divided in a direction intersecting with the scanning direction, limiting the flexibility in light distribution patterns.
Innovation Solution
A rotary reflector with multiple reflecting surfaces, including first and second reflecting surfaces, is used to form distinct partial regions of the light distribution pattern, allowing for the creation of irradiated and non-irradiated regions in directions orthogonal to the scanning direction by varying the reflection and scanning patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a rotary reflector with multiple blades is used to scan light, then the scanning coverage is improved, but the ability to form irradiated and non-irradiated regions in directions intersecting with the scanning direction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary reflector is divided into multiple independent reflecting surfaces (first reflecting surfaces and second reflecting surfaces) that can be positioned at different angular locations. Each reflecting surface independently forms a partial region of the light distribution pattern, allowing different scanning regions for different parts of the light pattern. This segmentation enables the formation of irradiated and non-irradiated regions in directions intersecting with the scanning direction while maintaining comprehensive scanning coverage.
2Productivity
If the number of reflecting surfaces is increased to improve scanning frequency, then the scanning frequency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple reflecting surfaces on the rotary reflector perform dual functions: they increase scanning frequency by multiple times per revolution while also enabling different angular positions to form different partial regions of the light distribution pattern. This multi-functionality allows the same structural element to achieve both high scanning frequency and flexible light distribution control without requiring additional separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the center of gravity is moved away from the rotation axis to adjust light distribution, then the light distribution flexibility is improved, but the rotational stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reflecting surfaces are positioned asymmetrically at different angular locations around the rotation axis, with each surface having different angular positions and orientations. This asymmetric arrangement allows the center of gravity to remain on the rotation axis for rotational stability, while the asymmetric positioning of reflecting surfaces provides flexibility in forming different light distribution patterns and controlling irradiated and non-irradiated regions in various directions.
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 configuration enables the formation of desired light distribution patterns with irradiated and non-irradiated regions in intersecting directions, enhancing the optical unit's ability to control light distribution and reduce eccentricity during rotation.
Implementation Method 1
a rotary reflector rotating in one direction around its rotation axis while reflecting light emitted from a light source
Data Source
AI summary
An optical unit includes a rotary reflector rotating in one direction around its rotation axis while reflecting light emitted from a light source. The rotary reflector is provided with a plurality of reflecting surfaces such that light of the light source reflected by the rotary reflector rotating is configured to form a desired light distribution pattern. Each of the reflecting surfaces includes a first reflecting surface configured to form a first partial region of the light distribution pattern, and a second reflecting surface configured to form a second partial region of the light distribution pattern different from the first partial region.