Front Face Shut-Off Flap With Integrated Light Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal management devices in vehicles face challenges in reducing bulk while integrating lighting functions with air flow control flaps, as light sources are typically positioned behind the flaps, increasing the assembly's size and obstructing their functionality when flaps are closed.
Innovation Solution
A shut-off device with a light guide and light source integrated into the flap structure, allowing the flap to function as both an air flow controller and a lighting element, with the light guide partially housed in an opening, enabling visibility even when the flap is closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If light sources are positioned behind the flaps to enable lighting function, then the lighting function is achieved, but the bulk of the front face assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lighting function with the shut-off device by integrating the light source and light guide directly into the flap structure. The light guide is at least partially housed in the opening of the shut-off device, combining two previously separate functions (air flow control and lighting) into a single integrated component, thereby achieving lighting without increasing overall assembly bulk
Solution Approach 2:
The shut-off device is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls air flow passage and simultaneously provides lighting functionality. The light guide integrated into the opening allows the same structural element to serve both aerodynamic control and illumination purposes, making the system more versatile without requiring additional space
2Illumination intensity
If light sources are positioned behind the flaps, then the lighting function is achieved, but the light cannot perform its function when the flaps are closed
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide is segmented and at least partially housed within the opening of the shut-off device rather than being completely behind it. This segmentation allows the light guide to extend into a position where it can emit light through the opening even when the flap is in the closed position, ensuring the lighting function remains operational in all states
Solution Approach 2:
The light guide extends in the longitudinal direction of the shut-off device, utilizing the opening space along the length of the flap. This dimensional arrangement allows light to be emitted from within the opening structure itself, ensuring visibility regardless of the flap's angular position
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 solution reduces the bulk of the front face assembly by integrating lighting into the shut-off device, allowing air flow control and various lighting scenarios without increasing the assembly's size, while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the shut-off device comprising at least an opening, a light guide and a light source, all three of which extend mainly in said direction, the light guide being at least partially housed in the opening
Implementation Method 2
The light guide is configured to direct the light rays emitted by the light source through the opening made in the shut-off device
Data Source
AI summary
A shut-off device for a front face assembly configured to be fitted in a vehicle is disclosed. The shut-off device is adapted to take up a first position in which the shut-off device allows the passage of air flow through the front face assembly and a second position in which the shut-off device prevents the passage of air flow through the front face assembly. The shut-off device extends mainly in a longitudinal direction L. The shut-off device includes at least an opening, a light guide, and a light source. The opening, light guide, and light source extend mainly in the longitudinal direction L. The light guide is at least partially housed in the opening.