Vehicle Lighting Optical Element Wedge Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting assemblies face challenges in achieving uniform radiance and efficient light distribution, despite refinements in lamp efficiency, indicating a need for further improvements in optical design to enhance light diffusion and distribution.
Innovation Solution
The optical element features a first surface with a specific optical design and a second surface with a wedge structure, including a first and second wedge wall that converge at an angle, combined with light diffusion patterns and micro-fluted wedges, to optimize light distribution and directionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional optical elements (reflectors, light guides, Fresnel lenses) are used to collect and distribute light, then light collection efficiency is improved, but uniform radiance distribution across the broad area deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is divided into multiple discrete optical features (first optical feature, second optical feature, third optical feature) with different functions. The first optical feature collects light, while the second and third features independently control light distribution in different regions, allowing each segment to optimize its specific function rather than a single design attempting to do everything.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the optical element are designed with different optical properties. The first optical feature has specific geometry for light collection, while the second optical feature (with angled surface) and third optical feature have distinct configurations for controlling light distribution in different areas, creating locally optimized light control throughout the element.
2Shape
If lighting assemblies use uniquely shaped designs for aesthetic purposes, then visual appeal is improved, but achieving uniform radiance array deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different optical characteristics to different regions of the lens to compensate for the challenges posed by unique shapes. Each optical feature is strategically positioned and configured to address specific light distribution needs in different areas of the uniquely shaped lens, ensuring uniform radiance despite the non-standard overall geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension of optical control through the angled surface of the second optical feature and the specific geometry of multiple optical features, allowing light distribution to be controlled in three-dimensional space rather than relying solely on two-dimensional surface patterns, thereby achieving uniform radiance in uniquely shaped assemblies.
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 configuration ensures even and harmonious light distribution, optimizing visibility and aesthetics by collimating and diffusing light effectively, with the angled wedges and micro-flutes directing light rays towards the center of the vehicle for improved performance.
Implementation Method 1
The optical element includes a first surface having a first optical design and a second surface having second optical design
Implementation Method 2
Such optical elements can include reflectors, light guides, and lens designs that collect and distribute light from the light source
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle light assembly includes an array of light sources mounted in a generally planar base. An optical element includes a first surface having a first optical design and a second surface having second optical design. The second optical design includes a wedge having a first wedge wall and a second wedge wall that converges with the first wedge wall. The second wedge wall extends at an angle to the first wedge wall. A bezel surrounds the base and the optical element, and an outer lens is positioned adjacent the outside surface of the optical element. The optical element is between the base and the outer lens, and the outer lens has an inner surface including an optical design.