Vehicle Lighting Device With Segmented Reflector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting devices are complex and costly, requiring multiple light sources and reflectors to achieve a predetermined light distribution, which complicates their design and increases space usage.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device with reflector segments of different shapes integrated into a single reflector, allowing for the generation of near-field and far-field illumination without additional optical elements, using a single light source and minimizing the number of light sources required, thereby simplifying the structure and saving installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources and reflectors are used to achieve predetermined light distribution, then the light distribution quality is improved, but the device complexity and space usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is divided into multiple reflector segments with different basic shapes, where each segment generates a specific partial light distribution (e.g., near-field or far-field illumination). This segmentation allows complex light distribution patterns to be achieved through a single light source combined with a segmented reflector, avoiding the need for multiple light sources and reflectors while maintaining high illumination quality
Solution Approach 2:
A single reflector structure performs multiple functions by incorporating reflector segments with different basic shapes. Each segment type is responsible for generating specific partial light distributions, allowing the single reflector to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate reflectors and light sources, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive illumination coverage
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources and reflectors are arranged in different levels, then the predetermined light distribution is achieved, but the installation space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple reflector functions are merged into a single integrated reflector structure. The reflector segments with different basic shapes are combined in one reflector that can be positioned at a single level with the light source, eliminating the need for multi-level arrangements. This merging reduces the installation space from what would be required for multiple separate reflectors arranged in different levels to a compact single-level configuration
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of arranging multiple light sources and reflectors in different vertical levels (utilizing the vertical dimension), the invention transitions to a horizontal arrangement where multiple reflector segments with different basic shapes are positioned side-by-side at the same level. This dimensional change from vertical stacking to horizontal integration significantly reduces the vertical installation space while achieving the same light distribution objectives
3Device complexity
If reflector segments with different basic shapes are integrated into a single reflector, then the number of light sources is minimized and space is saved, but the manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is designed with different local geometries through its segmented structure, where each reflector segment has a specific basic shape optimized for its function (e.g., near-field or far-field illumination). This local differentiation is achieved within a single integrated reflector component, allowing specialized optical performance in different regions without requiring separate reflectors. The local quality approach enables functional optimization while maintaining a unified manufacturable structure
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 solution enables a homogeneous, space-saving, and cost-effective light distribution suitable for agricultural vehicles and machinery, achieving both near-field and far-field illumination with a single reflector, reducing complexity and enhancing manufacturing ease.
Implementation Method 1
The reflector has several reflector segments which have a different basic shape and are thereby intended for the generation of different partial light distributions
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a lighting device for vehicles with a housing (1) containing an opening edge (3) which is connected to a transparent end plate (5) via a sealing and/or adhesive medium (4), wherein a number of light sources (6) and reflectors (7) are arranged in the housing (1), wherein each light source (6) is assigned a single reflector (7) for deflecting the light emitted by the light source (6) into a main emission direction (H) of the lighting device according to a predetermined light distribution, wherein the reflector (7) has a reflector surface with a basic shape containing a plurality of facets (13, 14).wherein the reflector (7) comprises a first reflector segment (10) containing a reflector surface with a first basic shape for generating a first partial light distribution (T1) on the one hand and a second reflector segment (11) containing a reflector surface with a second basic shape for generating a second partial light distribution (T2) on the other hand.