Touch Interface Light Module With Lateral Reflector Light Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source modules struggle to provide a uniform light output while maintaining a low profile, as direct LED light outputs appear as separate spots, requiring significant space for optical components and light path length.
Innovation Solution
A compact light module design featuring a carrier with an elongate window and an array of light sources on its underside, utilizing a reflector arrangement to direct light through the window, allowing for a desired light path length without increasing the module's depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If direct light output is provided from LEDs, then the structure is simple and compact, but the light output appears as separate spots rather than uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent redirects the light path from a vertical direction (perpendicular to the carrier) to a lateral direction (parallel to the carrier surface). This dimensional change allows the light to travel a sufficient path length for uniformity without increasing the vertical depth of the module, thereby achieving uniform light output without adding complex optical components in the vertical dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The light path is divided into multiple segments through the use of reflector surfaces (first and second reflectors at different angles). Instead of a single direct path, light undergoes multiple reflections at different angles, which segments the light trajectory and distributes the light more uniformly across the output surface.
2Illumination intensity
If a significant light path length is provided for LED light output to spread, then uniform light output is achieved, but the size of the light source module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent exploits the lateral dimension (parallel to the carrier) instead of increasing the vertical dimension. By routing light paths laterally through reflectors, the module achieves a sufficient light path length for uniformity while maintaining a compact vertical profile, thus reducing the overall module size.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of thin reflector surfaces (which can be considered as reflective films or shells) allows the light to travel extended paths within a minimal vertical space. These thin reflective elements guide light laterally without adding significant volume to the module.
3Illumination intensity
If optical components are added to create uniform light output, then light uniformity is improved, but the depth of the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the light propagation direction from vertical to lateral. The reflectors are positioned to redirect light parallel to the carrier surface, allowing uniform light output to be achieved without increasing the vertical depth of the module. The light path length is extended in the lateral dimension rather than the vertical dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding optical components that extend the light path vertically (the conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by using reflectors to redirect light laterally. This inverted light path configuration achieves the same uniformity goal while minimizing vertical depth.
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 enables a space-efficient, uniform light output with reduced depth, suitable for integration into surfaces such as device user interfaces and automotive lighting, while maintaining a pleasant appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a reflector arrangement for reflecting light from the array of light sources towards the window to escape from the top surface
Data Source
AI summary
A control interface (10) for controlling a system, comprising a module comprising: a carrier (32) having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface; an elongate window formed in, or adjacent, the carrier; an elongate array of light sources (36) on the bottom surface of the carrier; a reflector arrangement (40) for reflecting light from the array of light sources towards the window (38) to escape from the top surface, such that a light path is formed between each light source and the window (38), with a portion of the light paths being parallel to the carrier (32), wherein the light sources are adapted to be turned on in response to a control signal; wherein the module further comprises: a user interface surface (20), comprising a track area (22) for receiving touch input from a user, wherein the window is formed beneath the track area; and a touch sensor circuit (34) beneath the track area (22), wherein the touch sensitive circuit (34) comprises a touch sensor region on the top surface of the carrier (32); and a controller (70) adapted to control the light sources in dependence on a detected location of a touch input.