Vehicle Light Guide With Notch For Dual Output Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting devices require a large amount of space to generate multiple light functions, such as tail lights and side marker lights, due to the need for separate light sources and guides for each function.
Innovation Solution
A notch is incorporated on the lateral surface of a single light guide to deflect a portion of the coupled light laterally, allowing for the generation of a second light function, such as a side marker light, using the same light source and guide, with an optics element positioned in front of the second light output surface to enhance the side marker function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate light sources and light guides are used for each light function (tail light, side marker light), then each light function can be generated independently, but the device requires a large amount of space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single light guide to perform multiple light functions (tail light, side marker light, brake light) through different coupling-out surfaces. The light guide serves as a universal optical component that can generate different light patterns and functions by strategically positioning coupling-out surfaces at specific locations along its length, eliminating the need for separate light guides for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the light guide into multiple functional zones along its longitudinal axis, where each zone has coupling-out surfaces positioned to serve specific light functions. The light guide is segmented into a first region for tail light/side marker light functions and a second region for brake light function, allowing independent control of different light functions from a single integrated component.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple light functions are generated using a single light guide with notches, then space is reduced, but the light distribution uniformity may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning coupling-out surfaces with specific properties at different locations along the light guide. Each coupling-out surface is designed with appropriate orientation and characteristics to produce the specific light function required at that location, while the overall light guide maintains uniform light distribution through careful design of the light source arrangement and coupling-out surface positioning.
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
Enables the generation of at least two light functions, like tail and side marker lights, in a compact design, optimizing space usage and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining low light losses.
Implementation Method 1
The light emitted by the light source is coupled into the front of the light guide and passed on to the lateral surfaces of the light guide by total reflection
Data Source
AI summary
The device has a lateral surface (7) for forming a light output coupling surface (5), and a light-source for emitting light, which is fed into a light conductor (2). A part (6) of the light fed into the conductor is decoupled at the coupling surface. The lateral surface has a notch (8), which is formed such that another part (10) of the light is deflected at right angles to a longitudinal direction of the conductor and is outputted at another light output coupling surface (12), which is arranged in a section of the lateral surface, where the section is located opposite the notch.