Motor Vehicle Optical System Using Diffusion Screen
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical systems for motor vehicles using multiple LEDs to perform a main optical function are costly and space-consuming, as they require a large number of light sources, and the use of LEDs for decorative curtain lights does not contribute significantly to the main optical function.
Innovation Solution
An optical system with a limited number of LEDs and a diffusion screen where the upper lateral flange diffuses light beams to increase the visible illuminated surface, performing both the main optical function and a complementary lateral marking function, using micro-roughnesses to disperse light and a reflecting prism to direct beams to the front edge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple LEDs are used to perform the main optical function, then the illumination coverage is improved, but the cost and space consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
A diffusion screen is introduced as an intermediary element between the LEDs and the external environment. The screen receives light from a limited number of LEDs and distributes it across a larger area through diffusion, enabling comprehensive illumination coverage without requiring numerous LEDs. The screen acts as a mediator that transforms concentrated light sources into distributed illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffusion screen utilizes its surface area in a dimensional sense to expand light distribution. By positioning LEDs at specific locations and using the screen's extended surface, the system achieves wide-area illumination without increasing the number of light sources. The screen's geometry (including lateral flanges) provides additional dimensional space for light diffusion.
2Area of stationary object
If decorative curtain lights are added to increase visible surface, then the aesthetic effect is improved, but the energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The diffusion screen serves multiple functions simultaneously: it performs the main optical function by distributing light across the visible surface, provides decorative curtain lighting effects through its lateral flanges, and maintains energy efficiency by using the same light sources for both purposes. The lateral flanges of the screen create decorative illumination without requiring additional dedicated light sources, thus achieving multi-functionality.
3Illumination intensity
If a large number of LEDs are used to achieve comprehensive optical function, then the illumination intensity is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the main optical function and decorative lighting functions into a single integrated system using the diffusion screen. By merging these functions and using a limited number of high-intensity LEDs positioned strategically behind the screen, the system achieves both comprehensive illumination and aesthetic effects without the cost of separate lighting systems. The screen's geometry allows it to serve as both functional and decorative element.
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 effectively performs the main optical function while reducing the number of LEDs required, increasing the visible illuminated surface and achieving a decorative effect without significant space or energy wastage, thus addressing the cost and space issues of previous systems.
Implementation Method 1
a diffusion screen, also known as a light guide; at least one light source, notably of the LED type, each light source of the optical system producing a set of rays of light which are propagated in the diffusion screen
Implementation Method 2
the upper lateral flange diffuses a light beam via a plurality of micro-roughnesses suitable to disperse to the exterior of the diffusion screen some of the rays of light propagating in the diffusion screen
Implementation Method 3
a reflecting prism suitable to direct the light beams produced by the light sources, in particular LEDs, to the front edge of the diffusion screen
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system for a motor vehicle, the optical system performing at least one main optical function and including in particular a diffusion screen, at least one light source of the LED type, each LED of the optical system producing a set of rays of light to be propagated in the diffusion screen wherein the screen is in the form of a curved sheet, with an upper lateral flange and a lower lateral flange which meet at a periphery which has in particular a rear face and a front edge and the principal function is performed essentially via an output face constituted by the front edge of the diffusion screen.