Vehicle Illumination Device Intermediary Optics Gradient Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Illumination devices for vehicles with matrix-based second light modules experience inhomogeneities and large light-intensity gradients at the border area between first and second light distributions, leading to disruptive transitions.
Innovation Solution
An intermediary optics unit is introduced between the primary and secondary optics units of the second light module, which gradually diminishes light-intensity gradients in a controlled manner, using scattering optical elements and fiber-optic fingers to create a smooth transition, and can be integrated into existing designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a matrix-based second light module is used to produce a second light distribution, then the light distribution can be precisely controlled and adjusted, but inhomogeneities and large light-intensity gradients arise at the border area between the first and second light distributions
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary optics unit is introduced between the primary optics unit and the secondary optics unit of the second light module. This intermediary unit acts as a mediator that processes the light from the matrix-based light sources, transforming the abrupt light-intensity gradients into a smoother transition. The intermediary optics unit includes optical elements that gradually blend the light distribution, eliminating the inhomogeneities at the border area while preserving the precise control capabilities of the matrix-based system.
2Extent of automation
If numerous semiconductor-based light sources are arranged as a matrix in the second light module, then the light distribution can be dynamically adjusted, but abrupt light-intensity gradients are created at the border area
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary optics unit serves as a mediator between the dynamically adjustable matrix-based light sources and the final light distribution. It processes the light output from the semiconductor-based light sources, smoothing out the abrupt gradients that would otherwise disrupt the overall light distribution. This allows the automated adjustment of the matrix system to function effectively while minimizing harmful light intensity variations at the borders.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediary optics unit changes the optical parameters of the light emerging from the matrix-based light sources. By modifying parameters such as light intensity distribution, beam shape, and angular spread through optical elements like lenses and diffusers, the system transforms abrupt gradients into gradual transitions. This parameter transformation enables dynamic adjustment of the light distribution while maintaining uniformity at the border areas.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second light module is configured as a matrix system with numerous semiconductor-based light sources, then the light distribution focus can be changed, but large light-intensity gradients are perceived as disruptive in the border area
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary optics unit acts as a mediator that enables the matrix-based light sources to achieve focus adjustment while minimizing harmful light intensity gradients. It processes the light from the semiconductor-based light sources, smoothing transitions in the border areas. This allows the light distribution focus to be changed adaptively without creating disruptive gradients that would otherwise be perceived by observers.
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
This solution eliminates abrupt light-intensity gradients, producing a homogeneous transition between light and dark areas, reducing glare and enhancing the overall homogeneity of the light distribution.
Implementation Method 1
the intermediary optics unit has a lens with scattering optical elements that are preferably configured as buffer optical elements
Implementation Method 2
The primary optics unit is formed by a one-piece light conductor with numerous fiber-optic fingers protruding in the direction of the respective light sources
Data Source
AI summary
An illumination device for vehicles with a first light module for producing a first light distribution and with a second light module for producing a second light distribution. The second light module has numerous semiconductor-based light sources arranged as a matrix, a primary optics unit with primary optical elements assigned to each of the light sources and a secondary optics unit. An intermediary optics unit is arranged between the primary optics unit and the secondary optics unit of the second light module; the intermediary optics unit is designed so that a light-intensity gradient of the second light distribution gradually diminishes in a vertical and/or horizontal direction in a lower subarea, in which the first light distribution of the first light module connects or overlaps with an upper subarea.