Indirect Vehicle Tail Light Diffusion via Multi-Element Homogenization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting and signaling systems face challenges in achieving uniform illumination and masking inhomogeneities in light distribution, particularly in motor vehicle rear lights, which affect the performance and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device comprising three diffusing elements: a first opaque diffusing element that reflects and diffuses light, a second translucent element that transmits and diffuses the reflected light, and a third translucent element that further diffuses and shapes the light, with each element having irregular surfaces and materials to enhance homogeneity and light control, ensuring indirect lighting and efficient light reflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single diffusing element is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the homogeneity of light distribution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light diffusion system is divided into three separate diffusing elements (first opaque, second translucent, third translucent) arranged in sequence. Each element performs a specific function: the first diffuses light from the LED, the second further diffuses and transmits, and the third provides final diffusion and geometry definition. This segmentation allows progressive homogenization of light without requiring a single complex element.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging diffusing elements at different positions along the light path (upstream and downstream of the lighting opening). The third element specifically projects a diffusion volume outward from the light, creating a three-dimensional light distribution structure that enhances homogeneity through spatial distribution.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the light source is directly exposed, then the lighting efficiency is improved, but the glare and inhomogeneities increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first opaque diffusing element acts as an intermediary between the LED light source and the external environment. It reflects and diffuses light toward the lighting opening while preventing direct exposure of the LED, thereby eliminating point source glare. The element is positioned upstream of the opening to ensure all light passes through the diffusion medium before exiting.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful point source characteristic of the LED is extracted and replaced by a distributed diffusion pattern. The opaque support with lighting opening separates the light source from the observation point, and the diffusing elements transform the concentrated LED emission into a homogeneous distributed light field.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple diffusing elements are used, then the homogeneity of light distribution is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The three diffusing elements are combined within a single housing structure, with the opaque support serving as both the LED mounting substrate and the first diffusing element. The elements work together as an integrated system where each component's function complements the others, achieving homogeneity without requiring separate complex subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The opaque support serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the LED, acts as the first diffusing element, and defines the housing structure. The third translucent element both diffuses light and defines the geometry of the lit area. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
4Illumination intensity
If the third diffusing element is positioned close to the lighting opening, then the light diffusion is enhanced, but the geometry definition is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The third element is positioned downstream of the lighting opening and projects a diffusion volume outward in three-dimensional space. This spatial arrangement allows the element to define the geometry of the lit area by controlling the extent and shape of the diffusion volume that extends from the light opening.
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 provides improved homogeneity and reduced glare by attenuating the effect of point light sources, resulting in a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing lighting effect, while also allowing for modulation of light diffusion and increased reflected light intensity.
Implementation Method 1
a first opaque diffusing element located upstream of the lighting opening and adapted to reflect and diffuse the light from the light source towards the opening
Implementation Method 2
a second translucent diffusing element located downstream of the first diffusing element at the lighting opening and intended to transmit and diffuse the light reflected and diffused by the first diffusing element
Implementation Method 3
a third translucent diffusing element located downstream of the second diffusing element and adapted to transmit and diffuse the light from the second diffusing element towards the outside of the light concerned
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for a lighting and/or signalling light of a vehicle, in particular for a tail light, characterised in that said device comprises, in a housing (1): at least one LED light source (3), attached to an opaque mounting (4, 9) comprising a lighting opening (5) intended for the passage of the light to be diffused indirectly toward the observer; a first opaque diffusing element (6) located upstream from the lighting opening and suitable for reflecting and diffusing the light from the light source toward the opening; a second translucent diffusing element (7) located downstream from the first diffusion element facing the lighting opening (5) and intended for transmitting and diffusing the light reflected and diffused by a first diffusing element; a third translucent diffusing element (8) located downstream from the second diffusing element (7) and suitable for transmitting and diffusing the light from the second diffusing element toward the outside of the light in question, said third diffusing element contributing to the shape of the light when turned on.