Single DC/DC Converter for Vehicle Lighting Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional actuation devices for motor vehicle lighting, which combine daytime running lights, position lights, and turn signals, are expensive and complex due to the need for separate DC/DC converters for each type of light.
Innovation Solution
A single DC/DC converter is used for both turn signal and another type of light, with a control unit to manage the converter and ensure correct operation, eliminating the need for redundant converters and allowing for cost and weight savings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate DC/DC converters are used for each type of light (turn signal and daytime running light/position light), then the reliability and functionality of each lighting system is ensured, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single DC/DC converter that can serve multiple lighting functions (turn signal and daytime running light/position light) through selective connection via switching means. The converter is controlled by a control unit that receives control signals and activates the appropriate lighting function, eliminating the need for separate dedicated converters for each light type while maintaining reliable operation of all lighting systems.
2Reliability
If separate DC/DC converters are used for each type of light, then the operational reliability is maintained, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate DC/DC converters into a single shared converter that serves both turn signal and daytime running light/position light functions. The control unit manages the switching between different lighting functions, allowing one converter to replace what would traditionally require two separate converters, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while preserving the operational reliability of each lighting system.
3Device complexity
If a single DC/DC converter is used for both types of light, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the control signals and the single DC/DC converter. The control unit receives control signals and manages the switching between different lighting functions (turn signal and daytime running light/position light) through switching means connected to the converter. This intermediary handles the control complexity internally, allowing the converter itself to remain relatively simple while still achieving the desired functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation device (4) for a lighting device (3) of a motor vehicle (1), which includes at least one LED associated with a turn signal and at least one LED associated with another type of light, in particular a daytime running light and/or a position light, and a common optical system (10) for the types of light, wherein the actuation device (4) has a single DC/DC converter (11) used for both the LEDs of the turn signal and for the LEDs of the other type of light, as well as a control unit (12) for controlling the DC/DC converter (11) in response to a control signal.