Segmented Vehicle Light Housing for Multi-Function Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting systems require multiple distinct components to provide various lighting functions, increasing packaging space and complexity, and lack the ability to adapt lighting based on ambient conditions.
Innovation Solution
A single lighting device with a housing divided into multiple segments, each containing light sources and a heat sink, controlled by sensors and a controller to adjust light states and functions based on environmental conditions, allowing for multiple lighting functions in a minimal package.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct lighting devices are provided to achieve different lighting functions, then the lighting functions are satisfied, but the packaging space and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single lighting device housing containing multiple light sources (first, second, and third light sources) that can be independently controlled to provide different lighting functions including high beam, low beam, and daytime running lights. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate lighting devices while maintaining all required lighting capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple lighting functions into a single integrated housing structure. The housing contains multiple light sources, reflectors, and optical components that work together to provide various lighting functions. The controller integrates control of all light sources from a single control unit, merging what would traditionally be separate devices into one unified system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct lighting devices are provided to achieve different lighting functions, then the lighting functions are satisfied, but the packaging space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single housing contains multiple light sources that can independently perform different lighting functions (high beam, low beam, daytime running lights), replacing multiple separate devices and significantly reducing the packaging space required while maintaining full lighting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where multiple light sources and optical components are positioned within a single housing structure. The reflectors and optical elements are arranged concentrically or in nested configurations around the light sources, maximizing space utilization and minimizing the overall volume of the lighting device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light sources are positioned to provide different lighting functions, then the lighting functions are achieved, but thermal management becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a heat sink as an intermediary thermal management component between the multiple light sources and the housing structure. The heat sink absorbs and dissipates thermal energy generated by the light sources, preventing heat accumulation that would occur with dense positioning of multiple light-emitting components in a single housing.
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 compact lighting system that can provide multiple functions, such as turn signals, high beams, and daytime running lights, while adapting to bright or dark conditions, reducing complexity and space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a printed circuit board extending between the upper housing and the lower housing, wherein the printed circuit board is in thermal communication with the lower housing; and one or more light sources located within each of the three or more segments to generate light, the one or more light sources being in thermal communication with the lower housing via the printed circuit board
Implementation Method 2
an upper housing comprising a lens that form an outermost lens of the light... the light generated in the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment are all directed through the lens
Data Source
AI summary
A light including: a housing that is connectable to a vehicle, the housing including: an upper housing with a lens that form an outermost lens of the light and a lower housing that is a heat sink, wherein the upper housing and the lower housing form an entire housing that is divided into three or more segments that include: a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment; a printed circuit board between the upper housing and the lower housing, wherein the printed circuit board is in thermal communication with the lower housing; and one or more light sources located within each of the three or more segments to generate light, the one or more light sources in communication with the lower housing via the printed circuit board; wherein the light generated in the first segment, the second segment, and the third segment are all directed through the lens.