Vehicle Door Lighting System Using Optical Waveguide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting systems for vehicle interiors face challenges in providing effective illumination without causing glare or insufficient lighting, particularly in areas like foot spaces where light is not adequately distributed for tasks like reading.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system comprising an illumination source, an optical waveguide, and a radiating element integrated into the vehicle's interior module, where the optical waveguide is connected to a main frame and the radiating element is designed to emit light efficiently, using materials like silicon and light-conducting fibers to guide and diffuse light, and a decorative layer to enhance aesthetics and light transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If illumination sources are arranged visible through the window, then illumination intensity is improved, but glare and irritation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical waveguide as an intermediary between the illumination source and the interior space. Light from the illumination source is coupled into the waveguide, which then distributes it along its length. The waveguide acts as a mediator that transforms direct point-source illumination into distributed linear illumination, eliminating glare while maintaining intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination is transitioned from a point source (0D) to a linear distribution along the waveguide (1D). By arranging the waveguide in a linear configuration and coupling light along its length, the system distributes illumination across multiple spatial dimensions, reducing concentration and eliminating glare hotspots.
2Illumination intensity
If illumination sources are arranged in the foot area, then local illumination is improved, but light distribution upward is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide extends illumination from a point source to a linear array, distributing light both horizontally along the waveguide length and vertically through its thickness. This multi-dimensional light distribution ensures adequate illumination in all required directions, including upward light for reading tasks.
3Strength
If rigid structures are used for interior modules, then structural strength is improved, but vibration resistance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction combining rigid components (frame, waveguide structure) with flexible elements (mounting means, sealing). This composite approach maintains structural strength while introducing vibration absorption capabilities through the flexible components that can deform and dissipate mechanical energy.
Solution Approach 2:
Flexible mounting means are pre-installed to provide vibration cushioning before vibrations occur. These mounting elements are designed to absorb and dampen vibrations, protecting the rigid structural components and illumination sources from vibration-induced damage or malfunction.
4Illumination intensity
If complex lighting systems are implemented, then illumination quality is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical waveguide serves multiple functions: it guides light from the illumination source, distributes it along the interior module, and can be integrated with decorative elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high illumination quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The waveguide is merged with the interior module structure and decorative elements, combining structural, functional, and aesthetic components into a unified assembly. This integration reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps, lowering manufacturing complexity while achieving high-quality illumination.
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 system provides uniform, glare-free illumination suitable for various interior modules, such as vehicle doors and seats, with flexible and durable components that absorb vibrations, and can be easily manufactured for mass production, ensuring effective light distribution and an aesthetically pleasing design.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide, which is to say laminated or overlaid, which is optically connected to at least one illumination source. This means that the light that is emitted from at least one illumination source flows through the optical waveguide.
Implementation Method 2
A radiating element is again arranged in an advantageous manner on the optical waveguide, which is pasted or pressed therein or connected by means of another technically suitable method for arranging a radiating element on the optical waveguide.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system for an interior module of a motor vehicle of a motor vehicle provided with an illumination source, at least one optical waveguide and at least one radiating element. The at least one optical waveguide is arranged at a main frame of the interior module and the light generated by at least one illumination source is provided to a radiating element which is optically connected to the optical waveguide.