Vehicle Roof Trim Light Pipe Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle interior lighting systems face challenges in packaging and cost constraints, particularly in integrating various lighting types such as ambient, courtesy, and functional lighting within the cabin while minimizing glare and ensuring safety without compromising aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A trim component with integrated light pipes within a vehicle roof trim panel, featuring tapered sidewalls and a backing layer that defines a trim ring, allows for the projection of light inwardly through the sunroof or moonroof opening, utilizing a controller to manage lighting modes and intensity, and includes a light pipe system with LEDs for efficient light transmission and diffusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple types of lighting (ambient, courtesy, functional) are integrated into the vehicle cabin, then the quality and perceived safety of the interior is improved, but the packaging space and cost constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lighting types (ambient, courtesy, and functional lighting) into a single integrated trim ring assembly. The trim ring houses light pipes that can deliver different lighting functions through a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate lighting systems and reducing overall packaging space and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim ring assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural trim coverage around the sunroof, houses and protects light pipes, enables multiple lighting modes (ambient, courtesy, functional), and integrates mounting carriers for secure installation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the luminance of the lighting is kept relatively low to prevent glare and distraction, then occupant comfort is improved, but the illumination effectiveness for safety and visibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipes are designed to distribute light locally around the sunroof perimeter rather than creating a single bright source. This localized light distribution provides sufficient illumination for safety and visibility while maintaining lower overall luminance levels that prevent glare and driver distraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The light pipes act as intermediaries between the light source and the interior cabin space. They transmit and diffuse light along their length, transforming concentrated light output into a softer, more distributed illumination pattern that reduces glare while maintaining visibility.
3Device complexity
If light pipes are integrated within the trim ring structure, then packaging space is reduced and cost is lowered, but the manufacturing precision and assembly complexity are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The trim ring is designed with pre-formed integrated carriers that are molded or formed as part of the trim ring structure itself. These carriers are prepared in advance during trim ring manufacturing, providing pre-positioned mounting points that simplify subsequent light pipe installation and ensure precise positioning without requiring complex post-assembly adjustments.
4Shape
If the trim panel includes tapered sidewalls to define a moonroof opening, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the structural strength and light pipe positioning precision are challenged
Solution Approach 1:
The trim ring assembly likely uses composite materials or multi-layer construction that combines aesthetic shaping capabilities with structural reinforcement. The tapered sidewalls can be formed with aesthetic contours while incorporating internal reinforcement structures or materials that maintain structural integrity despite the non-uniform geometry.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing integration of lighting within the vehicle roof, enhancing safety and comfort by offering customizable lighting modes while minimizing light loss and glare, thus addressing packaging and cost constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one light pipe may be disposed within the integrated carriers
Implementation Method 2
provides sufficient lighting to illuminate a majority of the cabin interior
Data Source
AI summary
A trim component is provided. The trim component may include a trim panel, a backing layer, and at least one light pipe. The trim panel may have tapered side walls that extend from an inner portion of the panel and terminate at an edge to define a moonroof opening. The backing layer may wrap around the edge to define a trim ring. The trim panel may include integrated carriers that may project away from the panel and around the trim ring. The at least one light pipe may be disposed within the integrated carriers.