Exterior Trim Light Guide for Hidden 3D Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems for exterior trim parts of electric vehicles lack a functional lighting solution that remains visually uniform in an unlit state and only reveals three-dimensional features when illuminated, failing to provide both aesthetic and safety-relevant information effectively.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system for exterior trim parts that incorporates a transparent plastic cover element with a light window and opaque sections, using LEDs to create a 'secret until lit' effect, where the design area is only visible when illuminated, providing a uniform appearance in the unlit state and showcasing three-dimensional features, symbols, or logos when lit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a transparent plastic front panel with integrated lighting modules is used, then aesthetic design and decorative lighting functions are improved, but the lighting becomes visible even when unlit and loses functional significance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a color-changing principle by using an opaque coating on the front panel that can transition between opaque and transparent states. When the coating is opaque, the lighting module is hidden and the panel maintains a uniform appearance. When illuminated, the coating becomes transparent, revealing the lighting module and its functional information. This resolves the contradiction by making the lighting visible only when needed, preserving both aesthetic design and functional significance.
2Shape
If separate decorative components with chrome foil are integrated into the front panel, then design elements and brand symbols are enhanced, but the components create visible joints and sealing issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the decorative components with the front panel by integrating them directly into the plastic material during the molding process. Brand symbols and design elements are molded directly into the panel surface, eliminating the need for separate components, chrome foil applications, and adhesive bonding. This integration approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining enhanced design elements while eliminating visible joints and sealing issues.
3Shape
If the front panel is made closed to improve aerodynamics, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but cooling air requirements are reduced which may affect engine cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic principle by making the front panel adjustable between closed and open states. The panel can be closed to improve aerodynamics during normal driving conditions, and opened to allow cooling air flow when engine cooling is required. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to optimize for either aerodynamics or cooling depending on operational needs.
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 visually uniform exterior appearance in unlit conditions while offering temporary illuminated features for safety, communication, and design elements, enhancing the functionality of exterior panels without visible joints or sealing issues.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one light source is arranged in such a way that it couples its light laterally into a light coupling area of the design area, which acts as a light guide body.
Implementation Method 2
the local design structure is formed as a local material change inside the light guide, which is produced by means of a laser.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a lighting system (1) for an exterior trim part of a motor vehicle, comprising at least one design area (2) having a visible side facing outwards and a rear side with a back surface (2b) and side surfaces (2a), wherein the design area (2) is configured as a light guide and is machined in the area of a light window for displaying a characteristic feature appearing three-dimensional on the visible side on the back surface (2b), comprising a housing element (4) with a colored bottom surface (4b) and side surfaces (4c), wherein an air gap remains between the back surface (2b) of the design area (2) and the bottom surface (4b), and wherein an installation space remains between the design area (2) and the side surface (4c) of the housing element (2) in which a light source (6) is arranged, wherein the light can be coupled into a side surface of the design area (2).can be coupled out at the laser structure (11) and then shines through the design area (2) on the outside, wherein the light source (6) is covered or can be covered by a color-giving coating (3).