BR102016001468A2 - PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE PANEL - Google Patents

Abstract

photoluminescent vehicle panel. a vehicle lighting apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises at least one opening arranged in a vehicle dashboard. A light source is arranged near the aperture and configured to emit a first emission having a first wavelength. a first photoluminescent portion is arranged near the panel substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a second emission having a second wavelength in response to receiving the first emission.

Description

(54) Title: VEHICLE PHOTOLUMINESCENT PANEL (51) Int. Cl .: B60Q 1/28 (30) Unionist Priority: 23/01/2015 US 14 / 603,656 (73) Holder (s): FORD GLOBAL

TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (72) Inventor (s): STUART C. SALTER; MICHAEL JAMES WHITENS; CORNEL LEWIS GARDNER (74) Attorney (s): MARIA PIA CARVALHO GUERRA (57) Summary: VEHICLE PHOTOLUMINESCENT PANEL. A vehicle lighting apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises at least one opening arranged in a vehicle panel. A light source is arranged close to the opening and configured to emit a first emission with a first wavelength. A first photoluminescent portion is arranged close to the panel substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a second emission presenting a second wavelength in response to the receipt of the first emission

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Invention Patent Descriptive Report for: “VEHICLE PHOTOLUMINESCENT PANEL”.

CROSS REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATION [001] This application is a continuation in part of US Patent Application No. 14 / 086,442, filed on November 21, 2013, and entitled VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE, the total description of which is incorporated herein for reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [002] The present description relates, in general, to vehicle lighting systems, and, more particularly, to vehicle lighting systems that employ photoluminescent structures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [003] Lighting from the use of photoluminescent materials offers a unique and attractive viewing experience. Therefore, it is desired to incorporate such photoluminescent materials into vehicle parts to provide ambient and task lighting.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [004] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a vehicle lighting apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises at least one opening arranged in a vehicle panel. A light source is arranged close to the opening and configured to emit a first emission with a first wavelength. A first photoluminescent portion is disposed close to the panel substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a second emission having a second wavelength in response to receiving the first emission.

[005] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle lighting apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises at least one opening arranged in a vehicle panel. A light source is arranged close to the opening and configured to emit a first emission

2/30 showing a first wavelength. The first photoluminescent portion is disposed close to the panel and substantially within the opening. The photoluminescent portion is configured to emit a second emission having a second wavelength in response to receiving the first emission.

[006] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle lighting apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises a plurality of openings arranged in a vehicle panel. A light source comprising a plurality of emitters is arranged close to the openings and configured to emit a first excitation emission. A photoluminescent portion is disposed substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a first output emission in response to receiving the first excitation emission. A controller is in communication with the light source and is operable to selectively activate each of the emitters.

[007] These and other aspects, objectives and characteristics of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art with careful examination of the specification, claims, and attached drawings presented below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [008] In the drawings:

[009] Figure 1 is a perspective view from the outside of a vehicle that demonstrates a lighting system;

[010] Figure 2A illustrates a side view of a photoluminescent structure considered as a coating;

[011] Figure 2B illustrates a side view of a photoluminescent structure considered as a discrete particle;

[012] Figure 2C illustrates a side view of a plurality of photoluminescent structures considered as discrete particles and incorporated in a separate structure;

[013] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a configuration of

3/30 front illumination of a lighting apparatus configured to convert a first wavelength of light into at least a second wavelength;

[014] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a rear lighting configuration of a lighting apparatus configured to convert a first wavelength of light into a second wavelength;

[015] Figure 5 is a detailed projected view of a vent arranged on a vehicle panel that demonstrates a lighting system;

[016] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a vent arranged on a vehicle hood that demonstrates a front lighting configuration of a lighting system;

[017] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a vent arranged on a vehicle hood that demonstrates a rear lighting configuration of a lighting system; and [018] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a lighting system configured to illuminate at least a photoluminescent portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [019] As required, detailed embodiments of the present description are described here. However, it will be understood that the described embodiments are merely exemplary of the description which can be carried out in various alternative forms. The figures do not necessarily show a detailed drawing and some diagrams can be exaggerated or minimized to show the general view of the function. Therefore, specific structural and functional details described here should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching the person skilled in the art to employ the present description in a variety of ways.

[020] As used here, the term and / or, when used in a list of two or more items, indicates that any of the items listed may be used alone, or that any combination of two or more of the items listed may

4/30 be employed. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B and / or C, the composition may contain A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in combination, A and C in combination, B and C in combination, or A, B and C in combination.

[021] The following description describes a lighting system for a vehicle configured to illuminate at least a portion of a breather or hood air outlet disposed on a vehicle hood or dashboard. In some embodiments, a light source comprising a plurality of emitters can be used to selectively illuminate a plurality of openings that form the vent. The light source can be configured to emit light at a first wavelength from the emitters or an excitation emission to excite at least a photoluminescent portion arranged close to at least one of the openings. The photoluminescent portion can be configured to convert the first wavelength into a second wavelength or an output emission. The first wavelength can correspond to a first color of light and the second wavelength can correspond to a second color of light, different from the first color. While several implementations of the lighting system described here refer to specific structures demonstrated in reference to at least one automotive vehicle, it will be appreciated that the vehicle lighting system can be used in a variety of applications.

[022] Referring to Figure 1, a lighting system 8 is shown in a projected view of a panel 10 of a vehicle 12. Panel 10 can correspond to a hood 14 of vehicle 12 configured to significantly enclose an engine compartment. A portion of the hood 14 can correspond to at least one vent 16. At least one vent 16 may comprise a plurality of openings 18 formed in panel 10 or an insert 20 arranged in panel 10. A light source 22, close to at least one of the openings 18 is arranged and configured to emit at least one excitation emission. The excitation emission can be configured to

5/30 excite at least one photoluminescent portion 24 arranged close to at least one of the openings 18 such that the photoluminescent portion 24 emits an output 26. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 can be operable to illuminate at least one of the openings 18 to create an ambient lighting effect for the vehicle 12.

[023] At least a photoluminescent portion 24 can be configured to convert an excitation emission emitted from the light source 22 into the output emission 26. The excitation emission may comprise the first wavelength of light. The output emission 26 and each of the output emissions discussed here can comprise at least a second wavelength of light. The second wavelength of light can comprise at least one wavelength having a longer wavelength than the first wavelength. As discussed here, the photoluminescent portion 24 and other photoluminescent portions can be configured to have photochemical properties configured to convert the first wavelength of light from the light source 22 to the second wavelength. The second wavelength may comprise additional wavelengths, including various combinations of wavelengths to emit light from the lighting system 8.

[024] The first wavelength of the excitation emission can correspond to a light violet or dark blue color. The first wavelength may have a peak wavelength of approximately less than 500 nm. The second wavelength of one or more output emissions may correspond to one or more wavelengths of light comprising at least one wavelength greater in length than the first wavelength. In some implementations, the second wavelength can correspond to a plurality of wavelengths that can make the output emissions look like significantly white light. In this configuration, the light emitted

6/30 of the light source 22 at the first wavelength is configured to excite the photoluminescent portion 24, In response to the excitation caused by receiving light at the first wavelength, the photoluminescent portion 24 can be configured to convert the first wavelength waveform to emit the output emission 26 to illuminate at least a portion of the vent 16 close to at least one of the openings 18. [025] The light source 22 may comprise a plurality of emitters in communication with a controller. The controller can be configured to selectively illuminate each of the plurality of emitters in response to one or more conditions or conditions of the vehicle. For example, a transmitter can be arranged next to each of the openings 18 next to a surface formed by the panel 10. Each of the emitters can be configured to illuminate at least a portion of a vent surface 16 and / or a screen arranged on each of the openings 18. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to selectively activate each of the emitters in such a way that the photoluminescent portions 24 are excited and emit the output 26 selectively from each of the openings. In this configuration, lighting system 8 can be configured to selectively illuminate each of the openings corresponding to a tachometer function, a flasher, a temperature gauge, a vehicle status, and / or a variety of vehicle conditions or states . The description can provide lighting systems configured to provide lighting to enhance the appearance and add valuable features to the vehicle 12.

[026] With reference to Figures 2A-2C, a photoluminescent structure 32 is generally shown as a coating (for example, a film) capable of being applied to a vehicle accessory, a discrete particle capable of being implanted in a vehicle accessory , and a plurality of discrete particles embedded in a separate structure capable of being applied to a vehicle accessory, respectively. As described here, a vehicle accessory can match a surface or portion of the vehicle

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12, for example, on the surface of one or more openings 18 formed in the panel 10. The photoluminescent structure 32 can correspond to the photoluminescent portions 24. At the most basic level, the photoluminescent structure 32 includes an energy conversion layer 34 that can be provided as a single-layer or multilayer structure, as shown by dashed lines in Figures 2A and 2B.

[027] The energy conversion layer 34 can include one or more photoluminescent materials featuring energy conversion elements selected from a phosphorescent or fluorescent material. Photoluminescent materials can be formulated to convert an introduced electromagnetic radiation into an emitted electromagnetic radiation, usually having a longer wavelength and expressing a color that is not characteristic of the introduced electromagnetic radiation. The difference in wavelength between the introduced and emitted electromagnetic radiation is referred to as the Stokes displacement and serves as the principle that drives the mechanism for an energy conversion process corresponding to a change in the wavelength of light, often referred to as downward conversion. In the various implementations discussed here, each of the wavelengths of light (for example, the first wavelength, etc.) corresponds to the electromagnetic radiation used in the conversion process.

[028] Each of the photoluminescent portions can comprise at least one photoluminescent structure 32 comprising an energy conversion layer (e.g., the conversion layer 34). The energy conversion layer 34 can be prepared by dispersing the photoluminescent material in a polymer matrix 40 to form a homogeneous mixture using a variety of methods. Such methods may include preparing the energy conversion layer 34 from a formulation in a liquid conductive medium and coating the energy conversion layer 34 on a desired planar and / or non-planar substrate of an accessory

8/30 vehicle. The energy conversion layer 34 can be deposited on a vehicle accessory by means of painting, canvas printing, spraying, extrusion coating, dip coating, roller coating, and bar coating. In addition, the energy conversion layer 34 can be prepared by methods that do not use a liquid conductive medium.

[029] For example, a solid state solution (homogeneous mixture in a dry state) of one or more photoluminescent materials can be incorporated into a polymer matrix 40 to provide the energy conversion layer 34. The polymer matrix 40 can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, compression molding, calendering, thermoforming, etc. In cases where one or more energy conversion layers 34 are considered to be particles, the single layer or multilayer energy conversion layers 34 can be implanted in a vehicle or panel accessory. When the energy conversion layer 34 includes a multilayer formulation, each layer may be sequentially coated. In addition, the layers can be separately prepared and later laminated or embossed together to form an integral layer. The layers can also be coextruded to prepare an integrated multilayer energy conversion structure.

[030] Referring again to Figures 2A and 2B, the photoluminescent structure 12 can optionally include at least one stability layer 36 to protect the photoluminescent material contained in the energy conversion layer 34 from photolytic and thermal degradation. The stability layer 36 can be configured as a separate layer optically coupled and adhered to the energy conversion layer 34. The stability layer 36 can also be integrated with the energy conversion layer 34. The photoluminescent structure 32 can also optionally include a protective layer 38 optically coupled and adhered to the stability layer 36 or another layer or coating to protect the structure

9/30 photoluminescent 32 of physical and chemical damage from environmental exposure.

[031] The stability layer 36 and / or the protection layer 38 can be combined with the energy conversion layer 34 to form an integrated photoluminescent structure 32 through sequential coating or printing of each layer, or by lamination or modeling in sequential relief. Alternatively, several layers can be combined by coating, lamination or sequential relief modeling to form a substructure. The substructure can then be laminated or shaped to form the integrated photoluminescent structure 32. Once formed, the photoluminescent structure 32 can be applied to a chosen vehicle accessory. [032] In some implementations, the photoluminescent structure 32 can be incorporated into a vehicle accessory as one or more discrete multilayer particles, as shown in Figure 2C. The photoluminescent structure 32 can also be provided as one or more discrete multilayer particles dispersed in the polymer matrix 40 which is subsequently applied to a vehicle accessory or panel as a contiguous structure. Additional information regarding the construction of photoluminescent structures to be used in at least one photoluminescent portion of a vehicle is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,232,533, to Kingsley et al., Entitled PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION, deposited on July 31, 2012, the full description of which is incorporated herein for reference.

[033] With reference to Figure 3, a lighting system 8 is generally shown according to a forward lighting configuration 42. In this configuration, the light or an excitation emission 44 is emitted from the light source 22 and is converted into the emission output 26 by the energy conversion layer 34 of at least one photoluminescent portion 24. The portion

10/30 photoluminescent 24 can be arranged close to panel 10 and can be configured to illuminate at least one of the openings 18. The forward lighting configuration 42 is further discussed with reference to Figure 5. [034] The excitation emission 44 can comprise the first wavelength, and the output emission 26 can comprise at least the second wavelength. The lighting system 8 comprises the photoluminescent structure 32 disposed at least in the photoluminescent portion 24, for example, the first photoluminescent portion 48. The photoluminescent structure 32 can be considered as a coating and applied to a substrate 50 of a vehicle accessory. In an exemplary embodiment, substrate 50 can correspond to a screen 54a arranged in opening 18. The photoluminescent material can also be dispersed as a polymer matrix 40 corresponding to the energy conversion layer 34, which can be used to form at least one portion of panel 10 corresponding to one or more of the openings 18 and / or the screen 54a.

[035] In some implementations, the energy conversion layer 34 may additionally include the stability layer 36 and / or the protection layer 38. In response to at least one emitter of the light source 22 that is activated, the emission of excitation 44 is received by the energy conversion layer 34 and converted from the first wavelength λι into an output emission having at least the second wavelength, for example, the output emission 26. The output emissions discussed here may comprise a plurality of wavelengths configured to emit any color of light from each of the photoluminescent portions discussed here. In some implementations, each of the output emissions may correspond to a different color of light. The light colors of the output emissions may correspond to the photochemical structure of each of the photoluminescent portions. In this way, each of the output emissions can be configured to emit different colors of light in response to receiving an excitation emission.

11/30 [036] In various implementations, the lighting system 8 comprises at least one photoluminescent material incorporated in the polymer matrix 40 and / or energy conversion layer 34 and is configured to convert an excitation emission to the first wavelength λι in the output emissions having at least the second wavelength. In order to generate the plurality of wavelengths, the energy conversion layer 34 can comprise one or more photoluminescent materials configured to emit the output emissions as wavelengths of light in the red, green and / or blue color spectra. Such photoluminescent materials can be further combined to generate a wide variety of light colors for the output emissions. For example, photoluminescent materials of red, green and blue emission can be used in a variety of proportions and combinations to control the output color of the output emissions.

[037] Each of the photoluminescent materials can vary in output intensity, output wavelength, and peak absorption wavelengths based on a specific photochemical structure and combinations of photochemical structures used in the energy conversion layer 34. How For example, the output emission 26 can be changed by adjusting the wavelength of an excitation emission to activate the photoluminescent materials at different intensities to change the color of the output emission 26. In addition, or alternatively to the photoluminescent materials of red, green and blue emission, other photoluminescent materials can be used alone and in various combinations to generate the output emissions in a wide variety of colors. In this way, the lighting system 8 can be configured for a variety of applications to provide a desired color and lighting effect for the vehicle 12.

[038] To obtain the various colors and combinations of photoluminescent materials described here, the lighting system 8 can use any form of photoluminescent materials, for example, materials

12/30 photoluminescent, organic and inorganic dyes, etc. For additional information regarding the manufacture and use of photoluminescent materials to obtain various light emissions, refer to US Patent No. 8,207,511 to Bortz et al., Entitled PHOTOLUMINESCENT FIBERS, COMPOSITIONS AND FABRICS MADE THEREFROM, deposited at June 26, 2012, to US Patent No. 8,247,761, to Agrawal et al., Entitled PHOTOLUMINESCENT MARKINGS WITH FUNCTIONAL OVERLAYERS, filed on August 21, 2012, to North American Patent No. 8,519,359 B2, to Kingsley et al., entitled

PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION, filed on August 27, 2013, to US Patent No. 8,664,624 B2, for Kingsley et al., GENERATED ILLUSTRATION SECONDARY EMISSION, filed on March 4, 2014, to US Patent Publication No. 2012/0183677, to Agrawal et al., Entitled PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND NOVEL USES, filed on July 19, 2012, to United States Patent Publication No. 2014/0065442 A1, to Kingsley et al., Entitled PHOTOLUMINESCENT OBJECTS, filed on March 6, 2014, and to United States Patent Publication No. 2014/0103258 A1, to Agrawal et al ., entitled CHROMIC LUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS AND TEXTILES, filed on April 17, 2014, all of which are incorporated herein for reference in their entirety.

[039] Light source 22 can also be referred to as an excitation source and is operable to emit at least excitation emission 44 or any of the excitation emissions discussed here. The light source 22 or each of the emitters can comprise any form of light source, for example, halogen lighting, fluorescent lighting, light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic LEDs (OLEDs), polymer LEDs (PLEDs), lighting in

13/30 solid state or any other form of lighting configured to emit excitation emissions. The excitation emissions of the light source 22 can be configured such that the first wavelength λι corresponds to at least one absorption wavelength of one or more photoluminescent materials of the energy conversion layer 34 and / or matrix of polymer 40. In response to receiving light at the first wavelength λι, the energy conversion layer 34 can be performed and emit one or more output wavelengths, for example, the second emission showing the second wavelength λ2 . The first emission 44 provides an excitation source for the energy conversion layer 34 targeting the absorption wavelengths of a specific photoluminescent material or a combination thereof used here. Thus, the lighting apparatus 8 can be configured to emit excitation emissions at a desired intensity and color of light.

[040] In an exemplary implementation, the light source 22 comprises an LED configured to emit the first wavelength λι which can correspond to a range of blue, violet and / or ultraviolet spectral color. The range of blue spectral color comprises a range of wavelengths generally expressed as blue light (-440-500 nm). In some implementations, the first λι wavelength may comprise a wavelength in the ultraviolet and close to ultraviolet color range (-100-450 nm). In an exemplary implementation, λι, can be approximately equal to 470 nm. Although specific wavelengths and wavelength ranges are discussed with reference to the first wavelength, the first wavelength can generally be configured to excite any photoluminescent material.

[041] In an exemplary implementation, the first wavelength λι can be approximately less than 500 nm. Shorter wavelengths and spectral blue color range can be used as

14/30 a source of excitation for the lighting apparatus 8 due to these wavelengths presenting limited perceptual acuity in the spectrum visible to the human eye. By using shorter wavelengths for the first wavelength λι, and by converting the first wavelength with the conversion layer 34 into at least one longer wavelength, the lighting device 8 can create a visual light effect originating from the photoluminescent structure 32. In this configuration, lighting system 8 can provide a cost effective system for providing lighting in a variety of locations.

[042] As discussed here, each wavelength of the plurality of wavelengths corresponding to the excitation emissions can correspond to a significantly different spectral color range. The second wavelength can correspond to a plurality of wavelengths configured to look like substantially white light. The plurality of wavelengths can be generated by a red-emitting photoluminescent material having a wavelength of approximately 620-750 nm, a green-emitting photoluminescent material having a wavelength of 526-606 nm, and a photoluminescent material of blue to bluish green emission having a wavelength longer than the first wavelength λι and approximately 430-525 nm in one embodiment. The plurality of wavelengths can be used to generate a wide variety of colors of light from each of the converted photoluminescent portions of the first wavelength.

[043] With reference to Figure 4, lighting system 8 is generally shown according to a backlight configuration 52 and can be configured to convert excitation emission 44 from light source 22 into output emission 26. The configuration backlight 52 can correspond to a configuration discussed with reference to Figure 7 which demonstrates a screen 54b that can be composed of at least one material

15/30 partially transmissive light with the photoluminescent portion 24 arranged thereon. The backlighting configuration 52 comprises the energy conversion layer 34 and / or the photoluminescent material dispersed in a polymer matrix 40. Similar to the energy conversion layer 34 demonstrated in reference to the forward lighting configuration 42, the conversion layer of energy 34 can be configured to be excited and emit one or more wavelengths corresponding to the second wavelength in response to receiving excitation emission 44. In the backlight configuration 52, the polymer matrix can be of at least material partially transparent forming the screen 54b in such a way that the excitation emission can be converted by the photoluminescent portion 24 to emit the output emission 26.

[044] The plurality of wavelengths of the output emission 26 can be configured to emit any color of light from the photoluminescent portion 24 in response to the excitation of the energy conversion layer 34. The color of the light corresponding to the output emission 26 can be controlled with the use of specific types and / or ratios of photoluminescent materials, as discussed here. The output emission 26 can correspond to the light output that can illuminate at least a portion of the vehicle 12 next to the panel 10. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 can be operable to illuminate an external portion of the vehicle 12.

[045] In some implementations, each of the photoluminescent portions discussed here (for example, the photoluminescent portion 24) may comprise organic or inorganic fluorescent dye configured to cover the excitation emission 44 in the output emission 26. For example, the photoluminescent portions may comprise a photoluminescent structure of rilenes, xanthenes, porphyrins, phthaloocyanins, or other materials suitable for a specific Stokes shift defined by an absorption and fluorescence emission range. In some embodiments, the photoluminescent portions can be at least one luminescent material

16/30 inorganic selected from the group of matches. The inorganic luminescent material can be more particularly from the group of cerium-doped (Ce) grenades, such as YAG: Ce. Thus, each of the photoluminescent portions can be selectively activated by a wide range of wavelengths received at excitation emission 44 configured to excite a specific photoluminescent material and emit an output emission having a desired color.

[046] At least a photoluminescent portion 24 can be configured to convert an excitation emission emitted from the light source 22 into an output emission 26. The excitation emission may comprise the first wavelength of light. The output emission 26 and each of the output emissions discussed herein can comprise at least a second wavelength of light. The second wavelength of light can comprise at least one wavelength having a longer wavelength than the first wavelength. As discussed here, the photoluminescent portion 24 and other photoluminescent portions can be configured to have photochemical properties configured to convert the first wavelength of light from the light source 22 to the second wavelength. The second wavelength may comprise additional wavelengths, including various combinations of wavelengths to emit light from the lighting system 8.

[047] With reference now to Figure 5, the lighting system 8 is shown corresponding to the vent 16 which forms a portion of the hood 14 as the insert 20. The vent 16 comprises the plurality of openings 18 formed in the insert 20. At least one The openings comprise a light source 22 configured to emit the excitation emission 44. The excitation emission 44 can be configured to excite at least a photoluminescent portion 24 arranged close to at least one of the openings 18. In this configuration, at least a portion photoluminescent 24 can be

17/30 configured to emit output 26 to illuminate at least a portion of the screen 54.

[048] Breather 16 may comprise a plurality of baffles 60 configured to form the openings 18. Each baffle 60 may be angled towards a passenger compartment or front windshield of the vehicle 12. A plurality of screens 62 may comprise at least a photoluminescent portion 24 arranged thereon and / or applied as a coating on a surface thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the openings 18 formed in the insert 20 comprises the light source 22 arranged next to the screen 54. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 can be configured to selectively illuminate each of the screens 54 independently to emit ambient lighting in the form one or more openings 18 emissions.

[049] The baffles 60 can be configured to direct one or more outgoing emissions 26 from a plurality of screens 62 such that the outgoing emissions 26 are clearly visible to one or more occupants of the vehicle 12 and significantly hidden from the visibility of those outside the vehicle 12. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 can be operable to illuminate at least one of the openings 18 to create an ambient lighting effect for the vehicle 12 by lighting one or more of the screens 62 without distracting the drivers from other vehicles that may be operating nearby. In addition, the configuration of baffles 60 on vent 16 can provide lighting system 8 to operate safely in accordance with one or more legal requirements for the operation of vehicle 12 on public roads.

[050] Each light source 22 can be in communication with a controller, which can additionally be in communication with one or more vehicle systems via a communication bar. Each light source 22 can be activated independently by the controller in such a way that the excitation emissions 44 emitted from at least one emitter excite each portion

18/30 photoluminescent 24. The controller can be configured to illuminate each of the photoluminescent portions 24 in response to various vehicle systems, for example, a tachometer, a temperature meter, a speedometer, etc. In such implementations, the controller can be configured to illuminate more of the photoluminescent portions 24 with the selective illumination of the emitters arranged next to them, as discussed with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[051] For example, the controller can illuminate each of the emitters of the light source 22 in such a way that a greater number of the photoluminescent portions 24 corresponding to the openings 18 are illuminated. The photoluminescent portions 24 can be illuminated in response to the controller which identifies that a signal corresponding to the tachometer, the temperature meter, or the speedometer has exceeded a threshold. That is, the controller can illuminate an additional light source emitter 22 in response to receiving a signal corresponding to a higher engine operating rate, a higher engine temperature, or a higher vehicle speed, respectively. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 can be configured to provide information to a vehicle operator corresponding to an operating condition of the vehicle 12 (for example, the engine operating rate, the engine temperature, the engine speed, etc. .). This information can be communicated to the vehicle operator 12 with the selective lighting of numerous photoluminescent portions 24 corresponding to the operating condition.

[052] As shown in Figure 5, the lighting system can correspond to the front lighting configuration 42 or the rear lighting configuration 52. The front lighting configuration 42 and the rear lighting configuration 52 are further discussed with reference to Figures 6 and 7, respectively. In an exemplary implementation, at least one photoluminescent portion can correspond to a plurality of photoluminescent portions. For example, at least one

19/30 photoluminescent portion 24 can correspond to a first photoluminescent portion 64, a second photoluminescent portion 66, a third photoluminescent portion 68, a fourth photoluminescent portion 70, and a fifth photoluminescent portion 72. In this configuration, each of the screens 62 can be configured to illuminate in different colors in response to receiving the excitation emission 44 from the emitters of source 22.

[053] Each of the operating conditions discussed here can be communicated to the controller as one or more signals that identify a rate, an intensity, and / or an amplitude of each of the operating conditions discussed here. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller can illuminate the first photoluminescent portion 64 in response to a vehicle 12 engine that is idling and / or a vehicle 12 headlight system that is active. The controller can illuminate the second photoluminescent portion 66 in response to receiving a signal that exceeds a first threshold. The controller can illuminate the third photoluminescent portion 68 in response to receiving a signal that exceeds a second threshold. The controller can illuminate the fourth photoluminescent portion 70 in response to receiving a signal that exceeds a third threshold. The controller can illuminate the fifth photoluminescent portion 72 in response to receiving a signal that exceeds a fourth threshold. In this configuration, the controller can be configured to sequentially illuminate each of the photoluminescent portions 64, 66, 68, 70 in response to a vehicle operating condition 12.

[054] Additionally, each of the photoluminescent portions 64, 66, 68, 70 and 72 can be configured to illuminate in one or more colors. For example, the first photoluminescent portion 64 can comprise a photoluminescent material configured to emit a first output color 74 corresponding to a first output emission 76. The second photoluminescent portion 66 can comprise a photoluminescent material configured to emit a second output color 78 corresponding to a

20/30 second output emission 80. The third photoluminescent portion 68 may comprise a photoluminescent material configured to emit a third output color 82 corresponding to a third output emission 84. The fourth photoluminescent portion 70 may comprise a photoluminescent material configured to emit a fourth output color 86 corresponding to a fourth output emission 88. The fifth photoluminescent portion 72 may comprise a photoluminescent material configured to emit a fifth output color 90 corresponding to a fifth output emission 92. In this configuration, each of the photoluminescent portions 64, 66, 68, 70 and 72 can each be configured to emit one or more colors of light in such a way that each of the openings 18 can be configured to emit ambient light in a wide variety of colors. [055] With reference now to Figures 6 and 7, seen in cross section along the section line V-V of vent 16 are shown corresponding to the front lighting configuration 42 and the rear lighting configuration 52, respectively. In the forward lighting configuration 42, each light source 22 is arranged outside the screen 54a with respect to an external surface 102 of the vent 16. Each light source 22 can be affixed and / or formed on an internal surface 104 of each baffle 60 In this configuration, at least one emitter of a plurality of emissions 106 from the light source 22 can be selectively illuminated by the controller such that the excitation emission 44 affects the outer surface 108 of at least one of the screens 54a. In response to receiving the excitation emission 44, the photoluminescent portion 24 disposed on the outer surface 108 can be excited so that the output emission 26 is emitted from the outer surface 108 of at least one corresponding screen 54a. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 is operable to selectively illuminate each of the openings 18 with the illumination of at least a portion of each of the screens 54a.

[056] As shown in Figure 6, the first photoluminescent portion 64 and the second photoluminescent portion 66 are shown

21/30 as presenting details. The first photoluminescent portion 64 can emit the first output emission 76 in response to the receipt of the excitation emission 44. Additionally, the second photoluminescent portion 66 can emit the second output emission 80 in response to the receipt of the excitation emission 44. In this configuration , the lighting system controller 8 can selectively illuminate each of the photoluminescent portions discussed here with the selective illumination of an emitter 106 of the light source 22 that corresponds to a selected photoluminescent portion.

[057] Referring now to Figure 7, in the rear lighting configuration 52, each emitter 106 of the light source 22 is disposed within the screen 54b with respect to the outer surface 102 of the vent 16. Each emitter 106 can be affixed and / or formed on an internal surface 104 of each baffle 60. In this configuration, each emitter 106 of the light source 22 can be selectively activated by the controller in such a way that the excitation emission 44 affects an internal surface 112 of at least one of the screens 54b . The excitation emission 44 can pass through the at least partially light transmissive material of the screen 54b. Since the excitation emission passes through the material of the screen 54b, the photoluminescent portion 24 can be excited in such a way that the output emission 26 is emitted from the outer surface 114 of at least one corresponding screen 54b. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 is operable to selectively illuminate each of the openings 18 with the lighting of at least a portion of each screen 54b. [058] As shown in Figure 7, the first photoluminescent portion 64 and the second photoluminescent portion 66 are shown as demonstrating details. The first photoluminescent portion 64 can emit the first output emission 76 in response to the receipt of the excitation emission 44. Additionally, the second photoluminescent portion 66 can emit the second output emission 80 in response to the receipt of the excitation emission 44. In this configuration , the lighting system controller 8 can selectively illuminate each of the photoluminescent portions 24 discussed

22/30 here with the selective lighting of an emitter 106 of the light source 22 corresponding to a selected photoluminescent portion.

[059] Referring again to Figures 1 and 5, in some embodiments, one or more of the photoluminescent portions 64, 66, 68, 70 and 72 can be additionally configured to emit an additional light color in response to receiving an emission of excitement. For example, the first photoluminescent portion 64 can be configured to emit a first output color 74 in response to receiving a first excitation emission 44a and a sixth output color 122 in response to receiving a second excitation emission 44b. In this example, the sixth color of light output 122 can be activated similar to the first color of output 74, but can be activated in response to an excitation emission comprising a substantially different wavelength than the first excitation emission 44, Each of the excitation emissions, the first excitation emission 44a and the second excitation emission 44b, can be indicated as an excitation emission 44 shown in Figures 3, 4, 6 and 7.

[060] For example, in some embodiments, emitter 106 of light source 22 may correspond to a first emitter configured to emit a first excitation emission and a second emitter configured to emit a second excitation emission. In this configuration, the first excitation emission and the second excitation emission can be operable to excite a first photoluminescent element 124 and a second photoluminescent element 126 of each photoluminescent portion 24 substantially independently. The first photoluminescent element 124 can be configured to emit the first output color 74 and the second photoluminescent element 126 can be configured to emit the sixth output color 122. Each of the photoluminescent materials corresponding to the photoluminescent elements 124 and 126 can be substantially excited independently by the first emitter and the second emitter corresponding to emitter 106 of the light source 22.

23/30 [061] Referring again to Figure 1, in some embodiments, the lighting system 8 can be configured to illuminate at least one of the openings 18 to display a flasher 128. Flasher 128 may comprise a first directional indicator 129a and a second directional indicator 129b corresponding to the first photoluminescent portion 64 arranged in vents 16 located on opposite sides of the vehicle 12. However, it will be understood that the flasher 128 and other color changing configurations can be implemented in any of the photoluminescent portions discussed here (e.g. 64, 66, 68, 70, 72) or used in other parts of the vehicle 12. The first photoluminescent portion 64 may comprise the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126, as discussed with reference to Figure 5. Each of the photoluminescent elements can correspond to one or more photoluminescent materials. The first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 can also be configured to have a first absorption band and a second absorption band, respectively. In general, the first absorption band and the second absorption band can correspond to substantially different bands or partially overlapping bands of light wavelengths.

[062] The first emitter and the second emitter are shown in Figure 8 and indicated as reference numerals 130 and 132. The first emitter 130 can be configured to emit the first excitation emission 44a having a wavelength corresponding to an absorption of peak of the first absorption range. The second emitter 132 can be configured to emit the second excitation emission 44b having a wavelength corresponding to a peak absorption of the second absorption band.

[063] In embodiments featuring substantially different ranges for the first absorption range and the second absorption, the first emitter 130 and the second emitter 132 can be operable to excite each of the

24/30 the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 substantially independently. The lighting system controller 8 can be additionally operable to control the intensity of the first excitation emission and the second excitation emission to control a color of light emitted from the first photoluminescent portion 64. The lighting system 8 can be operable to adjust the intensity of each emitter 130, 132 of the light source 22 with the variation of a magnitude and / or a duty cycle of the voltage / current supplied to emitters 130, 132. In this way, the lighting system 8 can be operable to adjust a relative intensity of light emitted from the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 such that the color of light emitted from the first photoluminescent portion 64 is a combination of the first output color 74 and the sixth output color 122.

[064] With the use of photoluminescent materials having absorption bands corresponding to substantially different wavelengths of light, the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 can be excited independently by their respective emitters 130 and 132. For example, first output color 74 can correspond to red light and the sixth output color 122 can correspond to green light. In this configuration, system 8 may be operable to use the first photoluminescent portion 64 as a tachometer display and a blinker. For example, the controller may be operable to selectively activate each of the photoluminescent portions 64, 66, 68, 70 and 72 to display a relative intensity of the engine's operation. The operation of the engine can be displayed in colors ranging from green, corresponding to the first photoluminescent portion 64, to red, corresponding to the fifth photoluminescent portion 72. In this configuration, the intensity of the engine operation can be visually communicated to an operator by the vehicle 12 .

[065] Additionally, the controller can be configured to

25/30 selectively illuminate at least one of the photoluminescent portions 64, 66, 68, 70 and 72 in a different color (for example, yellow or orange) to indicate activation of the vehicle's flasher 128 in addition to the tachometer display. For example, by adjusting the intensity of the first emitter 130 and the second emitter 132, the controller can change the output color emitted from the first photoluminescent portion from green to orange. The change color can be controlled by adjusting the intensity of the first excitation emission 44a and the second excitation emission 44b to emit any combination of the first output color 74 and the sixth output color 122 of the first photoluminescent portion 64. In this configuration , one or more photoluminescent portions can be configured to emit any color of light with the mixture of a first color and a second color with the control of an intensity of the first excitation emission 44a and the second excitation emission 44b.

[066] An example of a specific combination of photoluminescent materials will now be discussed with reference to the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126. The first absorption range of the first photoluminescent element 124 may correspond to a range of wavelengths in the range of blue light and / or close to UV with wavelengths of approximately 390,450 nm. The second absorption range of the second photoluminescent element 126 may correspond to a substantially non-overlapping range of wavelengths in the range of UV and / or blue light having wavelengths of approximately 250-410 nm. The first excitation emission, emitted from the first emitter 130, can be approximately 470 nm and configured to cause the first photoluminescent element 124 to emit an emission at approximately 525 nm. The second excitation emission, emitted from the second emitter 132, can be approximately 370 nm and configured to cause the second photoluminescent element 126 to emit an emission at approximately 645

26/30 nm. In this way, the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 can be selectively excited by each of the emitters 130, 132 to independently emit a substantially green light and a substantially red-orange color light, respectively.

[067] In general, the photoluminescent materials of the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 can be combined in various proportions, types, layers, etc. to generate a variety of colors for each of the luminescent emissions. Although specific materials and structures of photoluminescent materials are discussed here, several materials can be used without departing from the spirit of the description. In some implementations, the first photoluminescent element 124 is configured to be the first absorption band which is substantially larger than the second absorption band. In addition, the first photoluminescent element 124 can be configured to emit a substantially shorter wavelength than the second photoluminescent element 126.

[068] In some implementations the first photoluminescent element 124 may comprise an organic fluorescent dye configured to convert the first excitation emission to emit an emission having the first output color 74, which can correspond to substantially green light. For example, the first photoluminescent material can comprise a photoluminescent structure of rilenes, xanthenes, porphyrins, phthalocyanines, and other materials suitable for a specific Stokes shift defined by the first absorption and fluorescence emission range. The first photoluminescent element 124 and a corresponding material can be configured to have a shorter Stokes displacement than the second photoluminescent element 126. In this way, each of the photoluminescent elements 124 and 126 can be independently illuminated by emitters 130 and 132 to emit different light colors.

27/30 [069] The second photoluminescent element 126 may comprise a photoluminescent structure 32 configured to generate a longer Stokes displacement than the first photoluminescent element 124. The second photoluminescent element 126 may comprise an organic or inorganic material configured to have the second absorption range and a desired output or color wavelength. In an exemplary embodiment, the photoluminescent structure 32 of the second photoluminescent element 126 may be at least one inorganic luminescent material selected from the group of matches. The inorganic luminescent material can be more particularly from the group of cerium-doped (Ce) grenades, such as YAG: Ce. This configuration can provide a second Stokes displacement of the second photoluminescent element 126 to be longer than a first Stokes displacement of the first photoluminescent element 124.

[070] Additionally, system 8 can be operable to emit a variety of colors from each of the photoluminescent portions (eg 64, 66, 68, 70, 72) with a mixture of the first excitation emission 44a and the second emission of excitation 44b at different intensities. In this configuration, the light source 22 may be operable to mix the light emitted from each of the photoluminescent portions 24 to emit at least a first color of light and a second color of light to display an operating condition of the engine (for example, the engine operating rate, engine temperature, engine speed, etc.) and at least one additional indicator, for example, a signal or a lighting indicator.

[071] Referring now to Figure 8, a block diagram of the lighting system 8 demonstrates a controller 142 configured to control the lighting of the light source 22 to illuminate the photoluminescent portions 24. Controller 142 may be in communication with a bar 144 of the vehicle. Communication bar 144 can be configured to dispense signals to controller 142 that identify various states of the

28/30 vehicle. For example, the communication bar 144 can be configured to communicate to the controller 142 a vehicle activation selection, an ignition status, a remote activation of the light source 22, or any other information or control signals that can be used to adjusting the illumination of the lighting system 8. In addition, control 142 can be configured to receive at least one signal that identifies a rate, an intensity and / or an amplitude of each of the operating conditions. Such signals can be communicated to controller 142 via various vehicle systems, for example, a tachometer, a temperature gauge, a speedometer, etc. In this configuration, the controller 142 of the lighting system 8 can be configured to provide information to an operator of the vehicle 12 corresponding to an operating condition (for example, the engine operating rate, the engine temperature, the engine speed, a status of a blinker, etc.) with the selective illumination of the first emitter 130 or the second emitter 132 of the light source 22. In this configuration, controller 142 is operable to selectively activate the first emitter 130 and the second emitter 132 to illuminate the first photoluminescent element 124 and the second photoluminescent element 126 substantially independently.

[072] Controller 142 may comprise a processor 146 which comprises one or more circuits configured to receive the signals from the communication bar 144 and output signals to control the light source 22 to emit the first excitation emission 44a, the second emission 44b and various combinations thereof. Processor 146 may be in communication with memory 148 configured to store instructions to control activation of light source 22. Controller 142 may additionally be in communication with an ambient light sensor 150. Ambient light sensor 150 may be operable to communicate a light condition, for example, a brightness level or ambient light intensity close to the vehicle 12. In response to the ambient light level, controller 142 can be configured to

29/30 adjust an intensity of light emitted from one or more emitters from each of the light sources 22. The intensity of the light emitted from the light source 22 can be adjusted by controlling a duty cycle, a current or a voltage supplied for the light source 22.

[073] The description provides a lighting system configured to illuminate at least a portion of a breather or hood air intake on a vehicle hood or dashboard. In some embodiments, a plurality of emitters can be used to selectively illuminate a plurality of openings that form the vent. In this configuration, the lighting system 8 can be configured to selectively illuminate each of the openings corresponding to a tachometer function, a flasher, a temperature gauge, a vehicle status, and / or a variety of vehicle conditions or conditions. The description can provide lighting systems configured to provide lighting to enhance the appearance and add valuable features to a variety of vehicles. While the various implementations of the lighting system described here refer to specific structures demonstrated in reference to at least one automotive vehicle, it will be appreciated that the lighting system can be used in a variety of applications.

[074] For the purpose of describing and defining the present teachings, it is noted that the terms substantially and approximately are used here to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that can be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The terms substantially and approximately are also used here to represent the degree to which a quantitative representation can vary from a given reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject in question.

[075] It will be understood that variations and modifications can be formed in the aforementioned structure without departing from the concepts of the present invention, further being understood that such concepts are intended

30/30 to be covered by the following claims, unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

1/4

Claims (20)

1. Vehicle lighting apparatus characterized by comprising: at least one opening arranged in a vehicle panel; a light source arranged close to the opening and configured to emit a first emission having a first wavelength; and a first photoluminescent portion disposed close to the panel substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a second emission having a second wavelength in response to receiving the first emission. 2. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the panel corresponds to an external vehicle panel. 3. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the panel corresponds to at least a portion of a vehicle hood. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises a screen arranged in the opening and configured to extend to a perimeter of the opening formed by the panel. 5. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the photoluminescent portion is arranged on the screen. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the light source is arranged substantially within a cavity formed in the panel by the opening. 7. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the light source is arranged on an internal wall of the panel behind the screen with respect to an external surface of the panel. 8. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the photoluminescent portion and the screen are at least 2/4 partially transmissive light and configured to illuminate the screen in a backlight configuration in such a way that an external surface of the screen is illuminated in response to receiving the first emission. 9. Vehicle lighting apparatus, characterized by comprising: at least one opening arranged in a vehicle panel; a light source arranged close to the opening and configured to emit a first emission having a first wavelength; and a first photoluminescent portion disposed close to the panel substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a second emission having a second wavelength in response to receiving the first emission. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the panel corresponds to at least a portion of a vehicle hood. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that it additionally comprises a screen arranged in the opening and configured to extend to a perimeter of the opening formed by the panel. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the photoluminescent portion is arranged on the screen. 13. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the light source is arranged outside the screen with respect to an external surface of the panel. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the openings are formed in the vehicle panel in such a way that the openings are tilted towards a passenger cabin of the vehicle and configured to direct the second 3/4 emission of each of the openings to display a tachometer status in the passenger cabin. 15. Vehicle lighting apparatus characterized by comprising: a plurality of openings arranged in a vehicle panel; a light source comprising a plurality of emitters arranged close to the openings and configured to emit a first excitation emission; a photoluminescent portion disposed substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a first output emission in response to receiving the first excitation emission; and a controller configured to selectively activate each of the emitters. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the controller is configured to illuminate at least one emitter corresponding to each of the openings in response to an operating rate of a vehicle engine. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the controller is configured to sequentially illuminate more of the openings in response to a higher vehicle operating rate. 18. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the controller is configured to illuminate each of the emitters corresponding to an operating temperature of a vehicle engine. 19. Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the photoluminescent portion comprises a first photoluminescent element configured to emit the first output and a second photoluminescent element configured to emit a second output. 4/4 Vehicle lighting apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that at least one of the emitters corresponding to an opening is operable to emit a second excitation emission to selectively excite the second photoluminescent element to emit the second output emission. 1/7