Vehicle Emblem Proximity Sensor Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle assemblies primarily focus on aesthetic improvements through backlit emblems but lack functional actuation capabilities, often placing operational elements in discreet and inaccessible locations, which compromises both design and usability.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional assembly combining a vehicle emblem with a proximity sensor system, incorporating a light distribution device and a circuit board with a proximity sensor to enable user-friendly actuation of vehicle functions while maintaining aesthetic appeal, using a light source for backlighting and control feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If operational elements are placed in discreet locations to maintain aesthetic appearance, then the visual design is improved, but the accessibility and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the vehicle emblem (aesthetic element) with the proximity sensor (functional element) into a single integrated assembly. The emblem serves dual purposes: as a visual identifier and as the location for contactless operation, eliminating the need to place operational elements in separate discreet locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle emblem is transformed into a multifunctional component that simultaneously provides visual identification, aesthetic appeal, and contactless operational control through the integrated proximity sensor. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the prominent emblem location also the operational interface.
2Ease of operation
If a proximity sensor is integrated into the emblem assembly, then the ease of operation through contactless actuation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The proximity sensor, light distribution device, and emblem are merged into a single integrated assembly. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate operational elements and wiring, while enabling contactless actuation through the prominent emblem location.
3Shape
If the light distribution device is used solely for aesthetic backlighting, then the visual design is improved, but the functional actuation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The light distribution device is designed to serve dual functions: providing aesthetic backlighting for the emblem and serving as the operational interface for the proximity sensor. The light guide structure enables both visual appeal and contactless actuation, resolving the contradiction between aesthetics and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting function and sensing function are merged into a single integrated system where the light distribution device and proximity sensor work together through the emblem, enabling both aesthetic illumination and functional actuation through the same structure.
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 assembly provides reliable and user-friendly access to vehicle functions by integrating visual identification with functional actuation, allowing sensing without direct contact and offering redundant switching options, enhancing both design and operational accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
A light source is in turn arranged under the light distribution device or in it, so that the combined effect of the light source and light distribution device results in backlighting of the cover element arranged thereon
Implementation Method 2
Both capacitive and inductive proximity sensors can be used as proximity sensors. Both types are available on the market and have corresponding switching regulations.
Implementation Method 3
Both capacitive and inductive proximity sensors can be used as proximity sensors.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly (1) for actuating a vehicle function, having a cover element (2), which is at least partially formed as a vehicle emblem. A light distribution device (7), which is arranged under the cover element (2) and has a light source (9c) arranged under or in the light distribution device, is arranged to backlight the cover element. A printed circuit board (8) having a proximity sensor (9b) is arranged under the light distribution device (7), the proximity sensor being formed and aligned to sense proximities to the cover element (2). A control and evaluation circuit (9d) is coupled to the light source (9c) and to the proximity sensor (9b) in order to switch the light source depending on a proximity.