Segmented Vehicle Bodywork Lighting with RGB Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motor vehicle lighting and signaling devices are not suitable for displaying variable color and geometry lighting, and their fixed mounting locations do not align with current and future aesthetic and functional requirements.

Innovation Solution

A motor vehicle bodywork element with a wall featuring light diffusion zones on one face and light occultation zones on the other, separated by intermediate spaces forming opaque blocks connected by bridges, using a translucent layer and RGB LEDs controlled independently for dynamic lighting signatures, allowing for variable and adaptive lighting patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lighting devices with isolated light sources and transparent walls are used, then lighting function is achieved, but aesthetic integration and variable lighting patterns are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting pattern variabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wall is segmented into multiple diffusion zones separated by intermediate spaces, with opaque blocks positioned at specific locations. This segmentation allows independent control of light diffusion in different zones, enabling variable lighting patterns and signatures while maintaining a unified structural approach

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The wall structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical enclosure, enables light diffusion through translucent zones, creates light occultation through opaque blocks, and facilitates variable lighting patterns through the arrangement of diffusion zones and intermediate spaces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components

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

2Shape

If lighting devices are integrated into bodywork profiles, then aesthetic integration is improved, but mounting location flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic integrationVSAvoidmounting location flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The wall structure incorporates local variations in light diffusion and occultation properties through strategically positioned opaque blocks and diffusion zones. This allows the same basic structure to be adapted to different mounting locations and bodywork profiles while maintaining aesthetic integration and functional performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Manufacturing precision

If opaque blocks are used to create occultation zones, then light signaling precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight signaling precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The wall is constructed as a composite structure combining translucent material with integrated opaque blocks. This composite approach allows precise positioning of occultation zones while maintaining manufacturability through techniques such as injection molding with inserts or post-molding attachment of opaque elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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

Enables a unique and original light signature that is compatible with regulatory standards, adaptable to different driving phases and vehicle types, while maintaining a compact and aesthetic integration into various vehicle styles without disrupting body lines, and can be easily manufactured using injection molding.

Implementation Method 1

a wall (1) having, on a first face thereof, zones (11) for diffusing light emitted by at least one light source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight diffusion: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

said wall further having, on its second face, zones (12) for occulting light; characterized in that said occultation zones are separated by intermediate spaces forming said light diffusion zones

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 3

These light sources are so-called red green blue (RGB) LEDs, each controlled independently by a microprocessor so as to create a light signature

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentEP3549822B1Car body part with an embedded lighting device for a motor vehicle and motor vehicle comprising said car body part
Publication Date: 2022.06.15 PSA AUTOMOBILES SA
  • EP3549822B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2B
  • EP3549822B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3F

AI summary

The invention relates to: - a motor vehicle bodywork element comprising a wall (1) having on its first face, diffusion zones (11) diffusing the light emitted by at least one light source arranged opposite the first face; said wall (1) further having, on its second face, light-blocking zones (12), characterized in that said light-blocking zones (12) are separated by intercalated spaces (10) forming said light-blocking zones (12) and - a vehicle equipped with said bodywork element.