RU2729343C2 - Lighting system for steering unit of vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: vehicle lighting system.SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to vehicle lighting systems. Lighting system for vehicle steering assembly comprises element extending from steering column, light source and first photoluminescent structure. Light source has a plurality of independently illuminated areas surrounding the outer periphery of the steering wheel and configured to illuminate the portion of the element. Photoluminescent structure is located on the element and is made with possibility of luminescence in response to excitation by the light source. Light source portion is functionally connected to the photoluminescent structure during rotation of the steering wheel.EFFECT: higher quality of illumination of various areas of vehicle.20 cl, 9 dwg

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a partial continuation of US Patent Application No. 14 / 603,636, filed January 23, 2015, entitled "DOOR ILLUMINATION AND WARNING SYSTEM," which is a partial continuation of US Patent Application No. 14 / 086,442, filed November 21, 2013 , titled "VEHICLE DOME LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE". The aforementioned related applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to vehicle lighting systems, and more particularly to vehicle lighting systems using one or more photoluminescent structures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The backlight resulting from the use of photoluminescent structures provides a unique and attractive visual experience. Therefore, it is desirable to use such structures in automotive vehicles for various lighting applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, a lighting system for a vehicle is disclosed. The lighting system includes an element extending from the steering column. A light source illuminating at least a portion of the element is located in the vehicle. The first photoluminescent structure is located on the element and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source.

In an exemplary embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle, the light source comprises a plurality of printed light emitting diodes.

According to a possible embodiment of a vehicle lighting system, the first photoluminescent structure comprises at least one photoluminescent material configured to down-convert incoming light received from at least a portion of the light sources into visible light that is output to the visible region.

According to a possible embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle, the element is in the form of a steering column switch that controls at least one function of the vehicle, and the first photoluminescent structure is in the form of a sign located on the steering column switch.

In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle lighting system further comprises a second photoluminescent structure located on the light source adapted to illuminate the steering wheel when illuminated.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the lighting system for a vehicle further comprises a controller for controlling an activation state of the light source in response to at least one vehicle-related condition.

According to an exemplary embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle, successive portions of a light source are illuminated to continuously emit light towards a predetermined location as the steering wheel rotates.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a lighting system is disclosed. The lighting system includes a steering wheel having a hub and a rim connected to the hub by means of a spoke. The light source is located on the hub. The element having the first luminescent structure is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by at least a portion of the light source.

According to a possible embodiment of a lighting system, the light source comprises a printed light emitting diode.

According to a possible embodiment of the lighting system, successive portions of the light source are illuminated to continuously emit light towards a predetermined location as the steering wheel is rotated.

According to a possible embodiment of the lighting system, the first luminescent structure is designed as a sign that notifies the driver and / or passenger of the function of the element.

According to a possible embodiment of the lighting system, the first luminescent structure comprises at least one luminescent material configured to down-convert incoming light received from at least a portion of a printed light emitting diode into visible light that is outputted to a visible portion.

According to a possible embodiment, the lighting system further comprises a second luminescent structure, separated from the steering wheel, capable of luminescence in response to excitation by the light source.

According to a possible embodiment of the lighting system, the first luminescent structure is illuminated with a first color and the second luminescent structure is illuminated with a second color.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly is disclosed. The lighting system includes a switch coming from the steering column of the vehicle. The light source is located in the vehicle. The first photoluminescent structure is located on the switch. The first photoluminescent structure is configured to luminesce in response to excitation with light from at least a portion of the light source.

According to a possible embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly, the light source comprises a plurality of printed light emitting diodes.

According to a possible embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly, the first photoluminescent structure comprises at least one photoluminescent material configured to downconvert incoming light received from at least a portion of the light sources into visible light that is output into visible light. plot.

According to a possible embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly, the incoming light comprises one of blue light, violet light, and ultraviolet light.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lighting system for the vehicle steering assembly further comprises a second photoluminescent structure located on the light source configured to provide general illumination of the vehicle in front of the steering wheel, and a third photoluminescent structure located on an element located in the vehicle.

According to an exemplary embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly, successive portions of the light source are illuminated to continuously emit light towards a predetermined location as the steering wheel rotates.

According to a possible embodiment of a lighting system for a vehicle steering unit, the first photoluminescent structure luminesces in the first color and the second photoluminescent structure luminesces in the second color.

These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention will be understood and taken into account by a person skilled in the art upon examination of the following description, claims and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle interior equipped with a lighting system used on a portion of a steering assembly in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side view of a steering assembly located in a vehicle cabin using a lighting system in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2 illustrating a light source in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2, further illustrating a light source according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3C is a sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2 illustrating an alternative light source in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 3D is a sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2 illustrating a light source having a luminescent structure separated by light transmitting portions disposed on the light source according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2 illustrating an alternative light source having a luminescent structure disposed on the light source configured to convert a portion of light emitted from the light source from a first wavelength to a second wavelength, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of a light generating unit according to one embodiment having different types and concentrations of LED sources transversely along the light generating unit;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an element that can be used as a component of a lighting system;

FIG. 6 is a side view of a steering assembly using a lighting system in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary side view of a vehicle interior using a lighting system and a second luminescent structure on a vehicle element;

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of a vehicle interior using a photoluminescent structure lighting system located in a component that is separated from the steering assembly, according to another embodiment; and

FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of a vehicle and lighting system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

For purposes of this description, the expressions "top", "bottom", "right", "left", "back", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and their derivatives will refer to the invention as it is oriented in FIG. ... 1. However, it should be understood that the invention may take on various alternative orientations, unless explicitly indicated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting unless the claims explicitly state otherwise.

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are only an example of the invention, which may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures do not necessarily reveal the construction in detail, and some diagrams may be enlarged or reduced to provide an overview of their function. In this regard, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but only as providing a basis for a person skilled in the art to study the various applications of the present invention.

In this context, the expression "and / or" when used in a list of two or more elements means that any of the listed elements can be applied by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed elements can be applied. For example, if the composition is described as containing components A, B and / or C, then the composition may contain only A; only B; only C; A and B combined; A and C combined; B and C combined; or A, B and C combined.

The following disclosure describes a lighting system configured to illuminate an area located in the vicinity of a vehicle steering assembly. The lighting system may preferably use one or more photoluminescent structures to illuminate in response to predetermined events. One or more photoluminescent structures may be configured to convert light received from a respective light source and re-emit light at a different wavelength, typically in the visible spectrum. In some embodiments, the light source may have a thin structure, thereby facilitating the installation of the light source in small vehicle accommodation spaces where conventional light sources cannot be practiced.

With reference to FIG. 1, a lighting system 10 that is configured to illuminate an area and / or one or more components of a vehicle 14 located in the vicinity of a steering wheel 16 is disposed in a steering assembly 12 of a vehicle 14 according to one embodiment. The steering assembly 12 is configured to control the operation of the steering control for the vehicle 14. The steering assembly 12 may be installed through a portion of the dashboard 18 of the vehicle interior 14. The steering assembly 12 may include a steering column 20 and a steering wheel 16 connected thereto for rotation in coordination with the steering column 20. The steering wheel 16 may include a hub 22 and a rim 24, which is connected to the hub 22 by means of at least one spoke 26. In the illustrated embodiment, three spokes 26 are used to connect the hub 22 to the rim 24. are substantially concentrated in the lower half of the steering wheel 16 to provide sufficient visibility to the instrument panel 28 which is located forward of the vehicle from the steering wheel 16. However, it is envisaged that any number of spokes 26 may be used in any orientation without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

When the driver wants to control the steering angle of the driving wheels of the vehicle 14, the driver turns the rim 24 of the steering wheel 16. Since the rim 24 is connected to the hub 22 through the spokes 26, the rotation of the rim 24 causes the hub 22 and the shaft 30 located in the steering column 20 to rotate. 30 is connected to a steering gear (not shown) that adjusts the angular position of the vehicle wheels in order to control the steering.

Vehicle 14 may further include a seat assembly 32 that includes a seat 34 pivotally coupled to the seat back 36 and a gear selector 38 that controls the mode of operation of the vehicle's gearbox. It should be understood that the steering assembly 12 described herein can be used for any vehicle 14, such as, but not limited to, coupes, sedans, trucks, SUVs, vans, and the like. Additionally, it should be understood that any lighting system 10 found elsewhere on the vehicle 14 may also be manufactured in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, vehicle 14 may include an instrument panel 18, a steering column 20, and a steering column covering assembly 40. The steering column 20 may include a steering wheel 16, a steering shaft 30, an element 42, and associated wires. According to one embodiment, the element 42 may be in the form of a steering column switch. The steering column paddles may control a function of the vehicle 14 such as a cruise control system, a turn signal, lighting system (s) and / or a windscreen wiper system. The steering column switch can generally be depressed or slid around the switch portion to make contact and trigger one of the vehicle's functions. Or, the steering column switch may require the driver to rotate the area to make contact and trigger one of the vehicle's functions. In some examples, the rotary movement sets a change in a specific function, for example, setting a specific light intensity from a variety of possible light intensities, or setting a specific wiper speed from a variety of possible wiper speeds. Additionally or alternatively, element 42 may be a device that is mounted on and extends from a mounted steering column that is configured to shift gears in an automatic transmission. The gearbox can have many different gear shift positions such as park gear, reverse gear, neutral gear, and final gear. It should also be understood that the element 42 can be any type of device located on or extending from the steering column 20, or a location located near them, without deviating from the concepts provided herein.

In addition, the steering column 20 and / or steering wheel 16 can be positioned to be adjustable relative to the dashboard 18 or other part of the vehicle 14. For example, the steering column 20 or a portion thereof can be tilted, raised or lowered to position the steering column 20 and / or the steering wheel 16 at the desired location. Positioning can be facilitated automatically or with one or more controls, such as an electrical switch or mechanical control 44, which can be operated to lock or unlock the steering column 20 to allow manual positioning.

The steering column cover assembly 40 may be disposed around at least a portion of the steering column 20. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the steering column cover assembly 40 is generally located between the dashboard 18 and the steering wheel 16. The steering column cover assembly 40 may be configured to hide one or more gaps between the steering column 20 and the dashboard 18 and bend to position the steering column 20. ...

The steering column cover assembly 40 may have any suitable configuration. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the steering column covering assembly 40 includes an upper shroud 46 and a lower shroud 48. The upper and lower shrouds 46, 48 collectively form a cavity that receives at least a portion of the steering column 20. The upper and lower shrouds 46, 48 may include integrally formed flange portions for connecting the upper and lower housings 46, 48 to each other.

The upper and lower casings 46, 48 can be made from any suitable material or materials. For example, the upper and lower shrouds 46, 48 can be made of a polymeric material such as thermoplastic olefin (TPO) or polypropylene to help reduce unwanted noise, such as squeaks, which can be caused by contact between the steering column cover assembly 40 and the dashboard. 18 and / or steering column 20. In addition, the upper and lower casings 46, 48 may be manufactured in any suitable manner, such as by a molding process such as injection molding.

Element 42 may extend outwardly from steering column 20. In one embodiment, element 42 may be configured as a steering column switch that controls a variety of vehicle functions. For example, element 42 may control the operation of various vehicle circuits and devices, such as vehicle windshield wipers and washer controls, turn signals, and switching vehicle headlights between low and high beams. Additionally or alternatively, element 42 may be used to control turning on, off, setting and resuming the speed operation of the vehicle cruise control device or any other function that the driver and / or passenger may need. Item 42 may further include a sign 50 thereon, such as an emblem, logo, or driver information (eg, to inform the driver that item 42 is being placed in a given location). Sign 50 may be placed on member 42 using any technique known in the art, including but not limited to printing, etching, and any known forming process.

The light source 52 may be located on and / or in the steering assembly 12. As illustrated, the light source 52 is located on the front portion 54 of the steering wheel hub 22 and is oriented to emit light outward from the hub 22 to illuminate at least a portion of the element 42. According to one In an embodiment, the light source 52 includes a flexible circuit board (e.g., a copper flex board) that is connected, attached to, or located under a portion of the hub 22. In such a design, the flexible circuit board may flex with the flexing of the hub 22 to allow the lighting system 10 to bend around steering wheel 16.

According to one embodiment, the light source 52 is configured to completely surround the periphery of the front portion 54 of the steering wheel hub 22. As will be described in more detail below, the light source 52 may be configured to include a plurality of portions that may be independently illuminated. Accordingly, one portion of the light source 52 can be illuminated at one time. For example, the light source 52 may only illuminate a portion thereof that is oriented towards a member 42 extending outwardly from the steering column cover assembly 40. In this configuration, portions of the light source 52 may become illuminated as the steering wheel 16 is rotated to continuously illuminate a predetermined a place such as item 42.

The photoluminescent structure 62 can be applied or otherwise placed on and / or near the light source 52. One or more light sources 52 may be located in the lighting system 10 and configured to emit light towards a target location. More specifically, light emitted from the light source 52 towards the target site can be converted by the photoluminescent structure 62 and re-emitted as light having a different wavelength, usually in the visible spectrum. In the illustrated embodiment, the target site is an area located near element 42. It is contemplated that the lighting system 10 can have a wide range of target sites so that the lighting system 10 can be used for a variety of functions. Exemplary functions include the use as meeting / following lighting, switch backlight 42, general lighting, and / or a lamp that provides information about elements 148 (FIG. 7) of vehicle 14 to a driver and / or passenger.

The light source 52 may be molded or otherwise attached to a portion of the steering wheel 16, such as the hub 22, in one embodiment. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the hub 22 and the light source 52 are placed in the mold simultaneously, and the over-molded material 66 (FIG. 3A) is positioned over the combination of the hub 22 and the light source 52. In embodiments in which over-molded material 66 is pressure cured, over-molded material 66 may be applied to hub 22 in a partially cured state. In one embodiment, the overmolding process includes applying the overmold 66 to at least a portion of the combination of hub 22 and light source 52 by spraying, brushing, dipping, printing, laminating, or rolling, and then curing the overmold 66. This process results in that the hub 22 and the light source 52 are connected to each other. In some embodiments, over-molded material 66 may include polymeric material, silicon, urethane material, vinyl, and / or any other material that may be preferred or structurally strong for placement in an area that regularly comes into contact with the driver and / or passenger. vehicle 14. In addition, in some embodiments, the over-molded material 66 may be transparent or light-transmitting and may provide light scattering characteristics. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments, the hub 22 and the over-molded material 66 may be the same component or may be integrally formed with each other. It is contemplated that the light source 52 may be located elsewhere and oriented so as to illuminate at least a portion of the element 42.

With reference to FIG. 3A-3E show a cross-sectional view of a light source 52 configured for use on a vehicle 14 with an external photoluminescent structure 62 in accordance with one embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the light source 52 may have a multi-layer structure that includes a light production unit 60, a photoluminescent structure 62, a visible region 64, and an over-molded material 66. It should be understood that the visible region 64 and the over-molded material 66 can be two separate components or can be formed in one piece as a single component.

The light-generating assembly 60 may correspond to a thin-film or printed light-emitting diode (LED) assembly and may include a substrate 68 as its bottommost layer. Substrate 68 may include a material of polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any other material known in the art, in the order of 0.0127-0.1524 cm thick, and is positioned above the intended surface of the vehicle 14 on which the light source 52 (eg hub 22) is to be received. Alternatively, as a cost reduction measure, substrate 68 may directly correspond to an existing vehicle structure 14 (eg, hub 22, outer panels and / or inner panels).

The light-generating assembly 60 includes a positive electrode 70 disposed above the substrate 68. The positive electrode 70 includes a conductive epoxy resin, such as, but not limited to, an epoxy resin containing silver or copper. Positive electrode 70 is electrically connected to at least a portion of a plurality of LED sources 72 disposed in semiconductor ink 74 and applied to positive electrode 70. Similarly, negative electrode 76 is also electrically connected to at least a portion of LED sources 72. Negative electrode 76 located above the semiconductor ink 74 and includes a transparent or light-transmitting conductive material such as, but not limited to, indium tin oxide. Additionally, each of the positive and negative electrodes 70, 76 is electrically connected to the controller 78 and the power source 80 through a corresponding bus 82, 84 and conductive wires 86, 88. The buses 82, 84 can be printed along the opposite edges of the positive and negative electrodes 70, 76, and the points of connection between the buses 82, 84 and the conductive wires 86, 88 may be located at opposite corners of each bus 82, 84 to help distribute the current evenly across the buses 82, 84. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the orientation of the components in the light generating assembly 60 can be changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the negative electrode 76 may be located below the semiconductor ink 74, and the positive electrode 70 may be located above the aforementioned semiconductor ink 74. Similarly, additional components such as the busbars 82, 84 may also be located in any orientation so that the light production unit 60 could emit incoming light 100 (Fig. 3B) towards the desired location.

The LED sources 72 may be distributed in an arbitrary or controllable manner in the semiconductor ink 74 and may be configured to emit focused or unfocused light towards the photoluminescent structure 62. The LED sources 72 may correspond to micro-light emitting diodes of gallium nitride elements in the order of about 5 to about 400 microns, and the semiconductor ink 74 can include various bonding materials and dielectric materials, including, but not limited to, one or more of gallium, indium, silicon carbide, phosphorus, and / or transparent polymer binders.

The semiconductor ink 74 can be applied by various printing processes, including inkjet and screen printing processes of ink on the selected area (s) of the positive electrode 70. More specifically, it is assumed that the LED sources 72 are distributed in the semiconductor ink 74 and have such a shape and the size that a significant number of LED sources 72 align with the positive and negative electrodes 70, 76 when applying the semiconductor ink 74. A portion of the LED sources 72 that are ultimately electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes 70, 76 can be illuminated by a combination buses 82, 84, controller 78, power supply 80, and lead wires 86, 88. In one embodiment, power supply 80 may correspond to vehicle power supply 80 operating at 12-16 volts DC. Additional information regarding the design of the light generating units is disclosed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0264396 A1 to Lowenthal et al. Entitled "ULTRA-THIN PRINTED LED LAYER REMOVED FROM SUBSTRATE" published March 12, 2014, full disclosure which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Also with reference to FIG. 3A, the photoluminescent structure 62 is positioned above the negative electrode 76 as a coating, layer, film, or other suitable application. With respect to the present illustrated embodiment, the photoluminescent structure 62 may be a multilayer structure including an energy conversion layer 90, an optional stabilizing layer 92 and an optional protective layer 94.

The energy conversion layer 90 includes at least one photoluminescent material 96 having energy conversion elements with phosphorescent or fluorescent properties. For example, the photoluminescent material 96 can include organic or inorganic fluorescent dyes, including rylenes, xanthenes, porphyrins, phthalocyanines. Additionally or alternatively, the photoluminescent material 96 may include luminescent substances from the group of cerium-doped garnets, such as YAG: Ce. The energy conversion layer 90 can be prepared by dispersing the photoluminescent material 96 in a polymer matrix to form a homogeneous mixture using a variety of methods. Such methods may include preparing an energy conversion layer 90 from a composition in a liquid carrier and applying an energy conversion layer 90 to negative electrode 76 or other desired substrate 68. The energy conversion layer 90 may be applied to negative electrode 76 by dyeing, screen printing, flexography, spraying, slot-coating, dip coating, strip coating roll coating, and / or any other methods known in the art. Alternatively, the energy conversion layer 90 can be prepared by methods that do not use a liquid carrier. For example, the energy conversion layer 90 can be formed by dispersing the photoluminescent material 96 into a solid solution (homogeneous mixture in a dry state) that can be incorporated into a polymer matrix formed by extrusion, injection molding, compression compaction, calendering, hot molding, etc.

To protect the photoluminescent material 96 contained in the energy conversion layer 90 from photolytic and thermal degradation, the photoluminescent structure 62 may include a stabilizing layer 92. The stabilizing layer 92 may be formed as a separate layer optically coupled and adhered to the conversion layer 90 energy or otherwise combined with it. The photoluminescent structure 62 may also include a protective layer 94 optically coupled and adhered to a resilient layer 92 or another layer (e.g., an energy conversion layer 90 in the absence of a resilient layer 92) to protect the photoluminescent structure 62 from physical and chemical degradation resulting from due to environmental influences. The resilience layer 92 and / or the backing layer 94 may be combined with the energy conversion layer 90 by sequential application or printing of each layer, sequential lamination or embossing, or any other suitable means. Additional information regarding the design of photoluminescent structures is disclosed in US Patent No. 8,232,533 to Kingsley et al., Entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED 2011" entities of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

In operation, the photoluminescent material 96 is composited to be energized upon receiving incoming light 100 (FIG. 3B) of a particular wavelength from at least a portion of the LED sources 72 of the light generating unit 60. As a result, the incoming light 100 undergoes an energy conversion process and is re-energized. is emitted at a different wavelength. In one embodiment, the photoluminescent material 96 can be formulated to convert incoming light 100 to longer wavelength light, otherwise known as down-conversion. Alternatively, the photoluminescent material 96 can be formulated to convert incoming light 100 to shorter wavelength light, otherwise known as upconversion. In either approach, the light converted by the photoluminescent material 96 can be immediately output 102 (FIG. 3B) from the photoluminescent structure 62 or otherwise used in an energy cascade in which the converted light serves as incoming light to excite another composition of the photoluminescent material 96 located in the energy conversion layer 90, wherein the subsequent converted light can then be outputted from the photoluminescent structure 62 or used as incoming light, etc. With respect to the energy conversion processes described herein, the difference in wavelength between the incoming light 100 and the converted outgoing light 102 is known as Stokes shift and serves as the primary driving mechanism for the energy conversion process corresponding to the change in the wavelength of the light.

Next, referring to FIG. 3A, the visible region 64 is located above the photoluminescent structure 62. In some embodiments, the visible region 64 may include a plastic, silicon or urethane material and is molded onto the photoluminescent structure 62 and the light generating assembly 60. Preferably, the visible region 64 should be at least partially light transmitting. Thus, the visible area 64 will be illuminated by the photoluminescent structure 62 during the energy conversion process. Additionally, due to the over-molding of the visible region 64, it can also function to protect the photoluminescent structure 62 and the light generating assembly 60. The visible region 64 may be flat and / or arcuate to increase its visibility potential in the luminescent state. Like the photoluminescent structure 62 and the light production unit 60, the visible region 64 can also benefit from a thin design, thereby facilitating the installation of the light source 52 in small accommodation spaces found in the vehicle 14.

In some embodiments, a decorative layer 98 may be disposed between the visible region 64 and the photoluminescent structure 62. The decorative layer 98 may include polymeric material or other suitable material and is configured to control or change the appearance of the visible region 64 of the light source 52. For example, the decorative layer 98 may be configured to give a textured appearance to the visible area 64 when the visible area 64 is in an unlit state. In other embodiments, the decorative layer 98 can be painted in any color to complement the vehicle 14 structure on which the light source 52 is to be received. For example, the decorative layer 98 may be the same color as the hub 22 so that the lighting system 10 is substantially hidden when in an unlit state. Alternatively, the decorative layer 98 may provide a mark 50 and / or an emblem, so that the decorative layer 98 and the mark 50 can be illuminated and / or otherwise illuminated by the light-generating unit 60. In any case, the decorative layer 98 must be at least partially light-transmitting, so that the photoluminescent structure 62 is not prevented from illuminating the visible portion 64 during the energy conversion process.

The over-molded material 66 is disposed around the light-generating assembly 60 and the photoluminescent structure 62 and may be integrally formed with the visible area 64. The over-molded material 66 can protect the light-producing assembly 60 from physical and chemical damage due to environmental influences. The over-molded material 66 can have viscoelastic properties (i.e., have both toughness and resilience), low Young's modulus, and / or high strain at break compared to other materials, so that the over-molded material 66 can protect the light production assembly 60 in contact with him. For example, the over-molded material 66 can protect the light-producing assembly 60 from repeated contact that can occur when drivers use the steering assembly 12 using the lighting system 10 described herein.

In some embodiments, the photoluminescent structure 62 may be used separately and at a distance from the light-producing assembly 60. For example, the photoluminescent structure 62 may be located on a component or surface of the vehicle 14 in close proximity, but not in physical contact, with the light-producing assembly 60, as will be detailed. described below. It should be understood that in embodiments in which the photoluminescent structure 62 is embedded in various components separated from the light source 52, the light source 52 may nevertheless have the same or a similar structure as the light source 52 described with reference to FIG. 3A.

With reference to FIG. 3B illustrates a process 104 for converting energy to create monochromatic luminescence, in accordance with one embodiment. For purposes of illustration, the power conversion process 104 is described below using the light source 52 shown in FIG. 3A. In this embodiment, the energy conversion layer 90 of the photoluminescent structure 62 includes a single photoluminescent material 96 that is configured to convert incoming light 100 received from the LED sources 72 into outgoing light 102 having a different wavelength than that associated with the incoming light 100. More specifically, the photoluminescent material 96 is composited to have an absorption spectrum that includes the emission wavelength of the incoming light 100 supplied from the LED sources 72. The photoluminescent material 96 is also composited to have a Stokes shift. resulting in a converted visible outgoing light 102 having an emission spectrum expressed in the desired color, which can vary depending on the lighting application. The converted visible outgoing light 102 is output from the light source 52 through the visible area 64, thereby causing the visible area 64 to be illuminated with a desired color. In one embodiment, the energy conversion process 104 is downconverted, wherein the incoming light 100 includes light at the lower end of the visibility spectrum, such as blue, violet, or ultraviolet (UV) light. This allows the use of blue, violet, or UV light emitting diodes as LED sources 72, which can provide a relative cost advantage over simply using light emitting diodes of the desired color and the aforementioned energy conversion process in general. In addition, the backlight provided by the visible region 64 can provide a unique, substantially uniform and / or attractive visual experience that can be difficult to replicate with non-photoluminescent media.

With reference to FIG. 3C illustrates a second energy conversion process 106 for creating a plurality of colors of light in accordance with one embodiment. For comparability, the second power conversion process 106 is also described below using the light source 52 shown in FIG. 3A. In this embodiment, the energy conversion layer 90 includes first and second photoluminescent materials 96, 108 that are mixed in the energy conversion layer 90. Alternatively, the photoluminescent materials 96, 108 can be isolated from each other as needed. It should also be understood that the energy conversion layer 90 may include more than two different photoluminescent materials 96, 108, in which case the concepts provided herein are applied in a similar manner. In one embodiment, the second energy conversion process 106 is downconverted using blue, violet, and / or ultraviolet light as the excitation source.

With respect to the present illustrated embodiment, the excitation of the photoluminescent materials 96, 108 is mutually exclusive. That is, the photoluminescent materials 96, 108 are composited to have non-overlapping absorption spectra and Stokes shifts that produce different emission spectra. Also, when selecting the photoluminescent materials 96, 108 according to the composition, attention should be paid to the selection of the appropriate Stokes shifts so that the converted outgoing light 102 emitted from one of the photoluminescent materials 96, 108 does not excite the other, unless it is desired. According to one exemplary embodiment, a first portion of LED sources 72, roughly shown as LED sources 72a, is configured to emit incoming light 100 having an emission wavelength that excites only the photoluminescent material 96 and converts the incoming light 100 into visible outgoing light 102 the first color (for example, white). Likewise, a second portion of LED sources 72, roughly shown as LED sources 72b, is configured to emit incoming light 100 having an emission wavelength that excites only the second photoluminescent material 108 and converts the incoming light 100 to visible outgoing light 102 of a second color (for example, red). Preferably, the first and second colors are visually distinguishable from each other. Thus, the LED sources 72a and 72b can be selectively activated using the controller 78 to cause the photoluminescent structure 62 to luminesce in multiple colors. For example, controller 78 may activate only the LED sources 72a to drive only the photoluminescent material 96, causing the visible region 64 to be illuminated with the first color. Alternatively, the controller 78 may only activate the LED sources 72b to drive only the second photoluminescent material 108, causing the visible area 64 to be illuminated with a second color.

Alternatively, controller 78 may activate LED sources 72a and 72b together, which causes both photoluminescent materials 96, 108 to be energized, resulting in visible region 64 being illuminated with a third color that is a mixture of first and second colors (eg, pink). The intensities of the incoming light 100 emitted from each LED source 72a, 72b can also vary proportionally with respect to each other so that additional colors can be obtained. For energy conversion layers 90 containing more than two different photoluminescent materials 96, 108, a greater variety of colors can be obtained. The colors contemplated include red, green, blue, and combinations thereof, including white, all of which can be obtained by selecting suitable photoluminescent materials and properly driving their respective LED sources 72a, 72b.

With reference to FIG. 3D illustrates a third power conversion process 110 including a light generating unit 60 such as described with reference to FIG. 3A and a photoluminescent structure 62 disposed thereon, according to an alternative embodiment. The photoluminescent structure 62 is configured to convert the incoming light 100 received from the LED sources 72 into visible outgoing light 102 having a different wavelength from the wavelength associated with the incoming light 100. More specifically, the photoluminescent structure 62 is composited to have an absorption spectrum that includes the emission wavelength of the incoming light 100 supplied from the LED sources 72. The photoluminescent material 96 is also formulated to have a Stokes shift resulting in a converted visible outgoing light 102 having an emission spectrum expressed in the desired color , which can vary depending on the lighting application.

The photoluminescent structure 62 can only be applied to a portion of the light generating unit 60, for example in the form of a strip. Light-transmitting portions 112 may be located between the photoluminescent structures 62 to allow incoming light 100 emitted from LED sources 72 at a first wavelength to pass through them. The light-transmitting portions 112 may be open space, or may be made of transparent or light-transmitting material. The incoming light 100 emitted through the light transmitting portions 112 may be directed from the light generating unit 60 to a second photoluminescent structure 132 (FIG. 7) located near the light generating unit 60. The second photoluminescent structure 132 may be configured to luminesce in response to the incoming light 100. which is guided through the light transmitting portions 112.

With reference to FIG. 3E shows a fourth energy conversion process 114 for creating a plurality of light colors using a light generating unit 60 such as described with reference to FIG. 3A, and a photoluminescent structure 62 located thereon. In this embodiment, the photoluminescent structure 62 is positioned above the upper portion of the light generating assembly 60. The photoluminescent material 96 is excited so that a portion of the incoming light 100 emitted from the LED sources 72 passes through the photoluminescent structure 62 at a first wavelength (i.e., the incoming light 100 emitted from the light source 52 is not converted by the photoluminescent structure 62). The intensity of the emitted light 100 can be converted by pulse width modulation or current control to vary the amount of incoming light 100 emitted from the LED sources 72 that passes through the photoluminescent structure 62 without being converted to a second outgoing 102 wavelength. For example, if the light source 52 is configured to emit light 100 at a low level, substantially all of the incoming light 100 may be converted to a second wavelength of the outgoing light 102. In this configuration, the color of the outgoing light 102 corresponding to the photoluminescent structure 62 may be emitted from the light generating node 60. If the light source 52 is configured to emit incoming light 100 at a high level, only a portion of the first wavelength can be converted by the photoluminescent structure 62. In this configuration, the first portion of the incoming light 100 can be converted by the photoluminescent structure 62, and the second portion of the incoming light 100 may be emitted from the light generating unit 60 at a first wavelength towards additional photoluminescent structures 132 located near the light source 52. Additional photoluminescent structures 132 may luminesce in response to incoming light 100 emitted from light source 52.

In one exemplary embodiment, a first portion of LED sources 72, roughly shown as LED sources 72c, is configured to emit incoming light 100 having a wavelength that excites the photoluminescent material 96 in the photoluminescent structure 62 and converts the incoming light 100 into visible light. light 102 of the first color (for example, white). Likewise, a second portion of LED sources 72, roughly shown as LED sources 72d, is configured to emit incoming light 100 having a wavelength that passes through the photoluminescent structure 62 and excites additional photoluminescent structures 132 located near the lighting system 10, thereby illuminating second color. The first and second colors can be visually distinguishable from each other. Thus, the LED sources 72c and 72d can be selectively activated using the controller 78 to cause the lighting system 10 to fluoresce in a variety of colors.

The light generating unit 60 may also include optics 116 that are configured to direct incoming light 100 emitted from LED sources 72c, 72c and outgoing light 102 emitted from photoluminescent structure 62 to predetermined locations. For example, incoming light 100 emitted from LED sources 72c, 72d and photoluminescent structure 62 may be directed and / or focused towards a desired element 148 (FIG. 7) and / or a location near the light source 52.

With reference to FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of a light production unit 60 according to one embodiment having different types and concentrations of LED sources 72a, 72d laterally along the light production unit 60. As illustrated, the first portion 118 of the light production unit 60 includes LED sources 72a that are configured to emit incoming light 100 having an emission wavelength in the first color (eg, white) spectrum. Likewise, the second portion 120 of the light generating unit 60 includes LED sources 72d that are configured to emit incoming light 100 having an emission wavelength in the second color (eg, red) spectrum. The first and second portions 118, 120 of the light-generating assembly 60 may be separated by insulating or non-conductive baffles 122 from the adjacent portions by any means known in the art so that each portion 118, 120 can be illuminated independently of any other portion 118, 120 Additionally, each region 118, 120 located in the light production unit 60 may include a respective bus 82, 84, 124, 126, 128, 130 coupled to the controller 78 and configured to illuminate each respective region 118, 120. It should be understood that tires 82, 84, 124, 126, 128, 130 may be connected to each portion 118, 120 of the light generating assembly 60 on opposite sides in alternative embodiments as described above.

In one embodiment, the first and second colors are visually distinguishable from each other. Thus, the LED sources 72a and 72d can be selectively activated using the controller 78 to cause the LED sources 72a, 72d to be illuminated with a plurality of colors. For example, the controller 78 may activate only the LED sources 72a to illuminate only the portion 118 of the light generating unit 60 with the first color. Alternatively, the controller 78 may only activate the LED sources 72d to illuminate only the portion 120 of the light production unit 60 with a second color. It should be understood that the light production unit 60 may include any number of regions 118, 120 having different LED sources 72a, 72d that can be illuminated in any desired color. In addition, it should also be understood that portions having different LED sources 72a, 72d may be oriented in any practicable manner and are not necessarily contiguous.

The semiconductor ink 74 can also contain different concentrations of LED sources 72a, 72d such that the density of LED sources 72a, 72d or the number of LED sources 72a, 72d per unit area can be adjusted for different lighting applications. In some embodiments, the density of the LED sources 72a, 72d may vary along the length of the light source 52. For example, portion 120 of light generating assembly 60 may have a higher density of LED sources 72 than peripheral portions 118, or vice versa. In such embodiments, the light source 52 may appear brighter or brighter in order to preferentially highlight specific locations. In other embodiments, the density of the LED sources 72a, 72d may increase or decrease with increasing distance from a preselected point (eg, a specific portion of the light source 52).

With reference to FIG. 5, element 42 includes one arm 56 pivotally mounted on one side of the casing attached to the steering column 20 in an easily accessible position for the driver of the vehicle 14. The arm is gimbally suspended at one end portion 58 in the casing so as to move in a plurality of mutually separate planes P1, P2. Additionally, the arm can be provided with a rotatable end cap 136 as well as a slide 138 movable along the longitudinal axis of the arm. Drives are installed in the housing and in response to the movement of the lever in one direction, i.e. for example, in one of a plurality of mutually separate planes, or rotation of the end cap 136 moves the switching element maintaining contacts between different switching positions to effect switching of electrical connections 142 for a particular vehicle operating circuit. Any suitable material can be used to form any portion of element 42, including, but not limited to, polymeric material.

In a typical application, the pivoting movement of the lever in the substantially vertical plane P1 around its gimbal to the cowl controls the vehicle turn signals, and the pivoting movement of the lever in the substantially horizontal plane P2 controls the switching of the vehicle's headlights between low beam, high beam, and possibly short-term inclusion of the main beam. Rotation of the end cap 136 is used to control the operation of the vehicle's windshield wiper system between on and off states and possibly many intermittent different speeds.

In vehicles using automatic cruise control, a slide switch or element 138 may be mounted on element 42 and move to select between various positions, including off, on, and instant resumption of the speed position setting. A spring-loaded button 140 can be movably mounted to the end of the end cap 136 and is used to set the desired speed for the cruise control device. Moving the slider 138 and / or button 140 between different positions causes the electrical contacts installed in the lever to close different cruise control circuits depending on the particular position of the slider 138 and the speed setting button. However, it should be understood that any other control of the vehicle may be located on element 42. Additionally, it should be understood that any number of switches may be located in the steering assembly 12 of the vehicle 14 and implemented in accordance with the present invention without deviating from the concepts provided herein. ...

With reference to FIG. 6, the lighting system 10 is adapted to be attached to the hub 22 of the steering wheel 16 according to one embodiment. As illustrated, the light generating assembly 60 emits a substantial portion of the incoming light 100 and outgoing light 102 outward from the hub 22. However, it is contemplated that the incoming light 100 can be directed in any desired direction in the vehicle 14 depending on the design and placement of the steering assembly 12. For example, incoming light 100 and outgoing light 102 may be emitted in a forward direction in a vehicle in some embodiments.

The photoluminescent structure 62 is operatively connected to the light source 52. For example, in one embodiment, the light source 52 may be located on the front portion 54 of the hub 22. The photoluminescent structure 62 may be located in and / or form a sign 50 that is located on the element 42 and is operatively connected to the light source 52. As a result, the sign 50 containing the photoluminescent structure 62 can be excited by the light source 52 and emit the converted outgoing light 102, thereby illuminating a vehicle element that is usually difficult to illuminate.

The lighting system 10 may further include a user interface 134 located near the lighting system 10 or any other desired location in the vehicle 14. The user interface 134 may be configured such that a user can control the wavelength of the light that is emitted by the LED sources 72 that are highlighted. Alternatively, the user interface 134 may be used to switch the lighting system 10 to a variety of modes and / or functions. The user interface 134 can use any type of control known in the art to control the light source 52, such as, but not limited to, switches (eg, push buttons 140, proximity sensors, etc.) and can be located in any practicable location. For example, the user interface 134 may be a push button 140 located at one end of the element 42.

Also with reference to FIG. 6 illustrates a light production unit 60 having five portions 144a, 144b, 144c, 144d, 144e. Each area 144a, 144b, 144c, 144d, 144e can be illuminated separately and in a variety of colors and intensities, as described herein. As described above, the portion of the light source 52 that is optically coupled to the element 42 can emit light towards the mark 50 disposed thereon. Accordingly, each region 144a, 144b, 144c, 144d, 144e may be sequentially illuminated as the steering wheel 16 is rotated. Each region 144a, 144b, 144c, 144d, 144e may return to an unlit state when the specific region is no longer optically associated with the desired element 148. such as element 42. It should be understood that the above example is not limiting, and that any desired illumination pattern may be used for a variety of vehicle-related conditions without departing from the teachings provided herein.

In an alternative embodiment, the first element 42 extends from the first side of the steering column 20 and the second element 42 extends from the opposite side of the steering column 20. The first and second elements 42 may both have photoluminescent structures 62 thereon which are configured to emit outgoing light 102. when the incoming light 100 is directed to each respective area. In this configuration, the light production unit 60 can illuminate two independent regions, thereby energizing each photoluminescent structure 62 simultaneously.

In some embodiments, some or all of the portions of the light production unit 60 may also be illuminated when the vehicle 14 detects a problem with a certain portion of the vehicle 14. For example, when the amount of fuel in the vehicle 14 is consumed below a predetermined portion, the portion of the light production unit 60 can flash so that the driver can recognize the required action. Exemplary problems that the warning light can cause include low tire pressure, low oil pressure, low battery and / or any other system malfunction on board the vehicle 14.

In an alternative embodiment, vehicle 14 may be equipped with a heated and / or cooled steering wheel 16 as is known in the art. The lighting system 10 may be configured to illuminate the steering wheel 16 in a first color (eg, blue) when the steering wheel 16 cools. Likewise, the steering wheel 16 may be configured to be illuminated in a second color (eg, red) when the steering wheel 16 heats up.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the light production unit 60 may be attached, attached, and / or molded onto the top surface of the hub 22. Thus, the light production unit 60 can be flush with the top surface of the hub 22, thereby partially hiding from the driver's view when unlit. In one embodiment, the lighting system 10 and / or one or more of its components has a soft comfortable shell both to protect the lighting system 10 and to limit flexion of portions of the lighting system 10. Exemplary materials that may be used include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl chloride, vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer and polyester elastomer.

With reference to FIG. 7, the first photoluminescent structure 62 is located on the light generating unit 60, the second photoluminescent structure 132 is located on the element 42, and the third photoluminescent structure 146 is located on the element 148 of the vehicle 14, for example, in the area of the dashboard 28 and / or the dashboard 18. As described above , the portion of the light generating unit 60 on which the photoluminescent structure 62 is provided converts the incoming light 100 into outgoing light 102 of a different wavelength. The second portion of the light generating assembly 60 emits incoming light 100, which is further converted by the second photoluminescent structure 132 on the element 42, thereby illuminating the portion thereof and / or the sign 50 located thereon at a wavelength that may be different from the wavelength that is emitted. from the first photoluminescent structure 62. The third photoluminescent structure 146 is located on the instrument panel 28 and is configured to emit outgoing light 102 of a respective unique wavelength. The outgoing light 102 can be used as illumination of a sign 50 located in the vehicle 14, meeting / following sequential light, general light, to illuminate any internal element 148 of the vehicle 14 and / or a signal indicator.

Also with reference to FIG. 7, within the lighting system 10, two light generating units 60 may be disposed to emit light in the forward direction of the vehicle. The first light generating unit 60 may be located on the front portion of the steering wheel rim of the vehicle and may have a photoluminescent structure 62 thereon to emit outgoing light 102 towards the dashboard 28, dashboard 18, or any other element 148 in front of the driver and / or passenger of the vehicle. facilities. The second light production unit 60 may be located on the hub 22. The first part of the light emitted from the second light production unit 60 may be converted by the photoluminescent structure 62 thereon, thereby providing general light and / or illumination of the steering wheel 16. The second part of the light emitted from the second light generating unit 60 may be directed towards the element 42 having a photoluminescent structure 62 thereon, as described herein. The photoluminescent structure 62 can be illuminated in response to incoming light 100 emitted from any light generating unit 60 in response to predetermined conditions.

In use, it is contemplated that additional photoluminescent structures 132 near the lighting system 10 may be located at any desired location and are not limited to dashboard 28. For example, additional photoluminescent structure 132 may be located on dashboard 18. Additionally, second photoluminescent structure 132 may also provide advantages in safety, such as notifying the incoming driver and / or passenger about certain items 148 in the vehicle 14.

According to an alternative embodiment, the light source 52 can be located on any component in the vehicle 14 that is located near the element 42, for example, on the dashboard 18 or the dashboard 28. The light source 52 can be stationary or can be located on a movable component and is made in accordance with the concepts provided herein so that the light source 52 can be in optical communication with the photoluminescent structure 62. The second photoluminescent structure 132 can be located on the light source 52 or on any additional element 148 that can also be optically coupled to the light source 52.

With reference to FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a lighting system 10. As illustrated, a first photoluminescent structure 62 is located on element 42. The incoming light 100 emitted from light source 52 may be of the first wavelength that is capable of driving first photoluminescent structure 62 on element 42. In response the first photoluminescent structure 62 may be illuminated at the second wavelength of the outgoing light 102, thereby illuminating designated portions of the element 42.

The second photoluminescent structure 132 may be located at a location that is separate from the steering assembly 12. For example, a second photoluminescent structure 132 may be located on the floor 152 of the vehicle, which is configured to convert incoming light 100 to outgoing light 102 of a different wavelength, thereby highlighting element 148 and / or sign 50 located thereon. As described above, the first portion of the light production unit 60 located on the hub 22 can be illuminated and directed towards the element 42, while the second portion of the light production unit is at the same time directed towards the second photoluminescent structure 132. Alternatively, the second portion of the light production unit 60 can drive the second the photoluminescent structure 132 when the vehicle 14 is in the first state (e.g., when the vehicle door is opened and for a predetermined amount of time thereafter), and the first portion of the light generating unit 60 may be illuminated when the vehicle 14 is in the second state (e.g., when the vehicle engine is running).

With reference to FIG. 9 generally shows a schematic diagram of a vehicle 14 on which a lighting system 10 is implemented. The lighting system 10 includes a controller 78 in communication with a light source 52. The controller 78 may include a memory 145 having instructions contained therein, which are executed by the processor 147 of the controller 78. The controller 78 may provide power to the light source 52 or the corresponding bus 82, 84 via a power supply 80 located on board the vehicle 14. B In addition, controller 78 may be configured to control incoming light 100 emitted from each light source 52 based on feedback received from one or more vehicle control modules 150, such as, but not limited to, body control module, control module engine, steering control module, brake control module, etc., or a combination thereof. By controlling the incoming light 100 emitted from the light source 52, the lighting system 10 may be illuminated in a variety of colors and / or patterns to provide an aesthetic appearance, or may provide vehicle information to an intended observer. For example, when the lighting system 10 is illuminated, the lighting system 10 may illuminate a sign 50 located on the switch 42 in the vehicle 14.

In operation, the photoluminescent structure 62 may exhibit intermittent monochromatic or multicolor illumination. For example, the controller 78 may cause the light source 52 to periodically emit only the first wavelength of the incoming light 100 through the LED sources 72 to cause the photoluminescent structure 62 to be periodically illuminated with the first color. Alternatively, the controller 78 may cause the light source 52 to periodically emit only the second wavelength of the incoming light 100 through the LED sources 72 to cause the photoluminescent structure 62 to be periodically illuminated with a second color. Alternatively, the controller 78 may cause the light source 52 to simultaneously and periodically emit light of the first and second wavelengths to cause the photoluminescent structure 62 to periodically illuminate with a third color formed by an additive mixture of the first and second color light. Still alternatively, the controller 78 may cause the light source 52 to alternate between periodically emitting the first and second wavelengths of the incoming light 100 to cause the photoluminescent structure 62 to periodically illuminate by alternating between the first and second colors. The controller 78 may cause the light source 52 to periodically emit the first and / or second wavelengths of incoming light at a regular time interval and / or an irregular time interval.

In another embodiment, the lighting system 10 may include a user interface 134. The user interface 134 may be configured such that a user can control the wavelength of the incoming light 100 that is emitted by the LED sources 72 and / or the LED sources 72 that are illuminated. Such a configuration may allow a user to control which items 148 (FIG. 7) are illuminated (eg, item 42, general light, signal indicator, turn signal, etc.).

With respect to the above-described examples, the controller 78 may convert the intensity of the emitted first and second wavelengths of the incoming light 100 by pulse width modulation or current control. In some embodiments, the controller 78 may be configured to adjust the color of the emitted light by sending control signals to adjust the intensity or energy output level of the light source 52. For example, if the light source 52 is configured to output the first radiation at a low level, substantially all of the first radiation can be converted to the second radiation. In this configuration, the color of the light corresponding to the second radiation may correspond to the color of the emitted light from the lighting system 10. If the light source 52 is configured to output the first radiation at a high level, only a portion of the first radiation can be converted to the second radiation. In this configuration, the color of light corresponding to the mixture of the first radiation and the second radiation can be outputted as the emitted light. Thus, each of the controllers 78 can control the output color of the emitted light.

Although the low level and high intensity level are considered with reference to the emission of the incoming light 100, it should be understood that the intensity of the first emission of the incoming light 100 can be varied between multiple intensity levels to adjust the color hue corresponding to the emitted light from the lighting system 10. The intensity difference can be varied. manually or changed automatically by the controller 78 based on specified conditions. In one embodiment, the first intensity can be output from the lighting system 10 when the light sensor detects daylight conditions. The second intensity may be output from the lighting system 10 when the light sensor determines that the vehicle 14 is operating in a low light environment.

As described herein, the color of the outgoing light 102 may be significantly dependent on the particular photoluminescent material 96 used in the photoluminescent structure 62. Additionally, the converting ability of the photoluminescent structure 62 may be significantly dependent on the concentration of the photoluminescent material 96 used in the photoluminescent structure 62. By adjusting the range of intensities that can be output from the light source 52, the concentration, types and proportions of the photoluminescent materials 96 in the photoluminescent structure 62 discussed herein can be selected to create a range of color tints of the emitted light by mixing the first radiation with the second radiation.

Accordingly, herein is preferably provided a lighting system using a steering assembly. The steering assembly retains its structural properties while providing a fluorescent light with both functional and decorative characteristics. In some embodiments, the light source may have a thin structure, thereby facilitating the installation of the light source in small vehicle accommodation spaces where conventional light sources cannot be practiced.

The skilled person will understand that the construction of the described invention and other components is not limited to any particular material. Other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein can be made from a wide variety of materials, unless otherwise described herein.

For purposes of description, the expression “connected” (in all its forms: connect, connect, connected, etc.) generally means the connection of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to each other. Such a connection can be fixed or movable in nature. Such a connection can be achieved with two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate elements formed in one piece in one piece with each other or with these two components. Such a connection may be permanent in nature, or it may be removable or detachable, unless otherwise noted.

It is also important to note that the structure and arrangement of elements of the invention as shown in the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few variations of the present invention are described in detail in this disclosure, it will be understood by those skilled in the art who studies this disclosure that many transformations are also possible (e.g., changes in dimensions, dimensions, designs, shapes and proportions of various elements, parameter values, layouts , use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without significant deviation from the new ideas and advantages of the given object. For example, elements shown as one piece may be formed from multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple pieces may be formed as one piece, the operation of interfaces may be reversed or otherwise changed, the length or width of structures, and / or the elements, or connectors, or other elements of the system can be changed, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements can be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system can be made from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures and combinations. Accordingly, all such transformations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Other substitutions, conversions, changes, and exceptions may be made in the design, operating conditions and layouts of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

It should be understood that any described processes or steps in the described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present invention. The exemplary designs and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

It should also be understood that changes and transformations can be made in the above structures and methods without deviating from the teachings of the present invention, and it should be further understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims, unless the claims are explicitly stated indicate otherwise.

Claims (31)

1. Lighting system for the steering unit of the vehicle, containing: an element extending from the steering column; a light source having a plurality of independently illuminated portions surrounding an outer periphery of the steering wheel and configured to illuminate a portion of the element; and a first photoluminescent structure located on the element and configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source, wherein at least one portion of the light source is operatively connected to the photoluminescent structure as the steering wheel rotates. 2. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of printed light emitting diodes. 3. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first photoluminescent structure comprises at least one photoluminescent material configured to downconvert incoming light received from at least a portion of the light sources into visible light that is output into a visible area. 4. The lighting system for the steering unit of the vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the element is made in the form of a steering column switch that controls at least one function of the vehicle, and the first photoluminescent structure is made in the form of a sign located on the steering column switch. 5. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a second photoluminescent structure located on the light source configured to provide backlighting of the steering wheel when illuminated. 6. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a controller for controlling an activation state of the light source in response to at least one vehicle-related condition. 7. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 1, wherein successive portions of the light source are illuminated to continuously emit light towards a predetermined location as the steering wheel rotates. 8. Lighting system for the steering unit of the vehicle, containing: a steering wheel having a hub and a rim connected to the hub by means of a spoke; a plurality of light sources located peripherally around the hub in a plurality of independently illuminated areas with variable concentration; and an element having the first luminescent structure and which is capable of luminescence in response to excitation by at least a portion of the plurality of light sources. 9. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of light sources comprise a printed light emitting diode. 10. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 8, wherein successive portions of the plurality of light sources are illuminated to continuously emit light towards a predetermined location as the steering wheel is rotated. 11. The lighting system for the vehicle steering assembly according to claim 8, wherein the first luminescent structure is made in the form of a sign that notifies the driver and / or passenger of the function of the element. 12. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 9, wherein the first luminescent structure comprises at least one luminescent material configured to down-convert incoming light received from at least a portion of the printed light emitting diode into visible light, which is displayed in the visible area. 13. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 8, further comprising a second luminescent structure, separated from the steering wheel, capable of luminescence in response to excitation by the plurality of light sources. 14. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 13, wherein the first luminescent structure is illuminated with a first color and the second luminescent structure is illuminated with a second color. 15. Lighting system for the steering unit of the vehicle, containing: a switch extending from the steering column of the vehicle; a light source located in the vehicle; a first photoluminescent structure disposed on the switch, the first photoluminescent structure being configured to luminescence in response to excitation with light emitted from at least a portion of the light source; a second photoluminescent structure located on the light source configured to provide general illumination of the vehicle in front of the steering wheel; and a third photoluminescent structure located on an element located in the vehicle and separated from the steering assembly. 16. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 15, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of printed light emitting diodes. 17. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly as claimed in claim 16, wherein the first photoluminescent structure comprises at least one photoluminescent material configured to down-convert incoming light received from at least a portion of the light sources into visible light that is output into a visible area. 18. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 17, wherein the incoming light comprises one of blue light, violet light, and ultraviolet light. 19. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 15, wherein successive portions of the light source are illuminated to continuously emit light towards a predetermined location as the steering wheel rotates. 20. The lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly according to claim 15, wherein the first photoluminescent structure luminesces in a first color and the second photoluminescent structure luminesces in a second color.

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