Vehicle Approach Lighting with Dynamic Path Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle approach lighting systems are static and lack a dynamic, stylistic element, failing to enhance the visual appeal of vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle lighting system that includes a projector coupled to a side structure or door, equipped with a sensor to detect approaching individuals and project a dynamic light pattern onto the ground, creating an illuminated path that adjusts based on the person's location, simulating a 'red carpet' effect or aligning with their approach direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If static lighting solutions like puddle lamps are used, then the lighting system is simple to implement, but the appearance is dull and lacks dynamic styling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting system complexityVSAvoidvisual appeal
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system transitions from static puddle lamps to a dynamic projector-based system that can change light patterns, intensity, and direction. The projector dynamically adjusts the illuminated path based on detected person location and approach direction, creating a living, adaptive lighting experience that enhances visual appeal while maintaining reasonable system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes multiple lighting parameters including intensity, pattern shape, direction, and color temperature based on detected conditions. The projector can vary these parameters in real-time to create different ambient effects and stylistic elements, transforming the dull static light into an engaging dynamic display.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Illumination intensity

If a dynamic lighting system with person detection is implemented, then the visual appeal and stylistic element are enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual appealVSAvoidlighting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system performs multiple functions: it provides basic illumination, detects person presence and location, tracks approach direction, dynamically adjusts light patterns, and creates stylistic effects. By consolidating these functions into an integrated system with a projector and sensor, the patent achieves high visual appeal while managing complexity through multi-functionality rather than separate dedicated components for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting system automatically detects persons and adjusts its own operation without manual control. The sensor continuously monitors the environment, and the projector autonomously modifies light patterns based on detected parameters, making the system self-regulating and reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the light pattern shifts to align with approach direction, then the adaptability to user movement is improved, but the control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to person movementVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously detects person location and approach direction, using this feedback to dynamically adjust the light pattern orientation. The sensor provides real-time positional data, and the control system processes this information to shift the illuminated path accordingly, creating a responsive adaptive system that follows the person's movement while maintaining manageable control complexity through continuous feedback loops.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 a dynamic and aesthetically appealing approach lighting that enhances the vehicle's appearance by creating a personalized and adaptive illumination path, improving the user experience and visual appeal.

Implementation Method 1

A sensor detects a remote device carried on a person approaching the vehicle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation detection: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the projector projects a light pattern onto a ground surface to define an illuminated path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight projection: Light

Data Source

PatentUS10065555B2Directional approach lighting
Publication Date: 2018.09.04 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US10065555B2 patent drawing
  • US10065555B2 patent drawing
  • US10065555B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lighting system of a vehicle is provided herein. A projector is coupled to a side structure of the vehicle. A sensor detects a remote device carried on a person approaching the vehicle. Based on a detected location of the remote device relative to the vehicle, the projector projects a light pattern onto a ground surface to define an illuminated path leading up to the vehicle and pointing towards the person.