Vehicle Hanger Illumination via Proximity Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle hanger assemblies are often located in dark areas of vehicles, making it difficult for passengers to view the hangers and their contents, such as purses or coats, due to the lack of adequate illumination.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle hanger assembly equipped with proximity sensors and a light source that illuminates objects supported on the hanger when a user is detected in close proximity, adjusting light intensity based on the hanger's deployment state and user presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light source is added to illuminate the hanger area, then visibility of objects and contents is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is integrated into the hanger assembly structure itself, merging the illumination function with the existing hanger components. This consolidation adds lighting capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity by utilizing the existing structural framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs sensors to automatically detect user presence and activate illumination without requiring manual intervention. The hanger assembly serves itself by autonomously controlling the light source based on detected conditions, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms and reducing operational complexity.
2Ease of operation
If sensors and light sources are integrated into the hanger assembly, then visibility and usability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: supporting objects, detecting user presence via sensors, and providing illumination. By integrating these diverse functions into a single universal assembly, the patent improves usability while managing manufacturing complexity through consolidated design rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts light intensity based on detected conditions such as user presence and ambient light levels. This parameter adjustment capability enhances usability by providing appropriate illumination levels while allowing the use of standard manufacturing processes for the underlying components.
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
Enhances visibility of objects and their contents by providing controlled light illumination, improving usability and accessibility of the hanger assembly in various vehicle locations.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor having a proximity sensor arranged to detect a user in close proximity to the hanger
Implementation Method 2
a light source arranged to illuminate an object supported on the hanger when the user is detected in close proximity to the hanger
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle hanger assembly includes a deployable hanger supported by a structure on a vehicle. A first proximity sensor detects a user in close proximity to the hanger, and a second sensor detects deployment of the hanger. A light source is controlled to illuminate the object at a first intensity when the hanger is deployed and arranged to illuminate an object supported on the hanger at a second intensity when the user is detected in close proximity to the hanger.