U-Shaped Vehicle Light Guide for Multi-Function Lighting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle lighting devices struggle to provide multiple light functions in a space-saving manner.

Innovation Solution

A U-shaped light guide element is formed by connecting two flat light guides, with one guide forming a deflection section and the other projecting at an angle from an intersection area, allowing for multiple light functions to be generated efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate light guides are used to provide different light functions, then various light functions can be achieved, but the device occupies more space and becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight function versatilityVSAvoiddevice area
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple light guides (first light guide with deflection section, second light guide with linear decoupling, third light guide with point decoupling) into a single integrated light guide element that intersects itself. This merging allows multiple light functions (taillight, side marker, logo illumination) to be achieved within a compact area while reducing structural complexity compared to using separate light guides for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The light guide element is designed as a universal structure that performs multiple functions simultaneously. The first light guide provides both taillight function (via deflection section) and logo illumination (via intersection area), while the second light guide provides side marker function. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device area needed for each individual light function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate light guides are used to provide different light functions, then various light functions can be achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight function versatilityVSAvoidlight guide structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple light guides into a single integrated light guide element with self-intersection. Instead of using separate light guides for taillight, side marker, and logo functions, all are combined into one element where the first light guide intersects with the second light guide, reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The light guide element is designed as a universal multi-functional structure. The first light guide serves dual purposes: creating taillight via its deflection section and illuminating logos via its intersection area with the second light guide. This multi-functionality reduces structural complexity compared to dedicated separate light guides for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 the generation of various light functions, such as taillights, side markers, and logos, in a compact and space-efficient design.

Implementation Method 1

a first flat light guide having a linear light coupling surface and a light decoupling surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTotal internal reflection: Total Internal Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The second light guide has a coupling agent, so that light is decoupled from a front flat side of the same to create a light function

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS12546451B2Lighting device for vehicles
Publication Date: 2026.02.10 HELLA GMBH & CO KGAA
  • US12546451B2 patent drawing
  • US12546451B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lighting device comprising a first light unit having a light source and a first flat light guide having a linear light coupling surface and a light decoupling surface. A second light unit has a light source and a second flat light guide having a linear light coupling surface and a linear light decoupling surface. The first flat light guide and the second flat light guide are connected to each other in a single piece to form a light guide element. Opposite flat sides of the first light guide and opposite flat sides of the second light guide intersect in an intersection area. The first flat light guide has a deflection section between a first flat section and a second flat section of the first flat light guide. The first flat light guide and the second flat light guide form a U-shaped light guide element in a transverse plane.