Vehicle Illumination System with Modulated Light for Range Finding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicles face challenges in integrating compact, cost-effective illumination systems that can provide both general illumination and support range finding and data transfer systems, as existing solutions require additional space and are costly due to the need for separate modulated light sources.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle illumination system that incorporates a light source with modulated light emitting diodes, capable of emitting light in the visible wavelength range, which can be modulated at high frequencies to support both illumination and range finding, as well as data transfer, without the need for additional illumination units, utilizing a single light source for multiple functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional illumination systems are integrated for range finding, then range finding functionality is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the existing vehicle illumination system to serve dual purposes: general illumination and range finding. The illumination system is equipped with both visible light sources (for illumination) and infrared light sources (for range finding and data transfer), allowing a single system to perform multiple functions without requiring separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple illumination functions into a single integrated system. The control unit coordinates visible and infrared light sources within the same illumination system, merging what would traditionally be separate systems into one unified structure that reduces overall complexity and cost.
2Measurement precision
If separate modulated light sources are provided for range finding, then accurate distance measurement is achieved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing illumination system is adapted to serve as the light source for range finding, eliminating the need for separate dedicated light sources. The system uses infrared LEDs that can be modulated at high frequencies required for accurate time-of-flight measurements, while still functioning as part of the vehicle's standard illumination system.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system provides its own modulated light for range finding without requiring external or additional light sources. The control unit enables the illumination system to self-generate the necessary modulated signals for both illumination and measurement functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional infrared sending units are integrated for data transfer, then vehicle-to-vehicle communication is enabled, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is designed to perform multiple functions including general illumination, range finding, and data transfer. The same infrared-capable light sources used for illumination and range finding are also utilized for vehicle-to-vehicle communication, eliminating the need for separate communication hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges data transfer functionality into the existing illumination system by using the control unit to modulate the infrared light sources for communication purposes. This integration combines what would traditionally be separate systems (illumination and communication) into one unified structure, reducing space requirements.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional illumination systems are used without modulation, then simple and cost-effective illumination is provided, but range finding and data transfer functions are not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system incorporates dynamic modulation capability through the control unit, which can adjust the emission characteristics of the light sources. The system can switch between continuous illumination mode and modulated mode (for range finding and data transfer), providing adaptability while maintaining simplicity when modulation is not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit enables the illumination system to adapt its behavior based on requirements, providing both simple continuous illumination and complex modulated light patterns for advanced functions, all through a single system without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
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 efficient, versatile illumination and modulated light for range finding and data transfer, reducing space and production costs while maintaining functionality for driver assistance and information exchange between vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a light source (102; 202) which comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes (105) and is configured for emitting light in a visible wavelength range
Implementation Method 2
a modulation unit (101; 201) configured for modulating the emitting of light by the light source (102; 202) with a frequency high enough so that the modulation of the light is substantially not perceivable by a person
Implementation Method 3
a detector (206) configured for detecting modulated light emitted by another vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle illumination system includes a light source emitting light for illuminating the vehicle surroundings or the vehicle interior or both, and a modulation unit modulating the emitting of light of the light source, where the emitted light is modulated with a frequency that is high enough so that the modulation of the light is substantially not perceivable by a person.