RU2686587C2 - Photoluminescent dynamic light survey - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: lighting devices.SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to lighting devices. Illumination device has a circuit, a light source and a photoluminescent part. Circuit comprises an uncoated conductive part, which is conductively connected to the insulation terminal, and can be arranged in the panel defining the cavity forming the opening. Light source is configured to emit the first radiation. Photoluminescent part is located closer to the light source and is configured to convert part of the first radiation to the second radiation. Second radiation is removed from the cavity.EFFECT: possibility to protect light source from electric discharge.18 cl, 12 dwg

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a partial continuation of the application for the grant of US patent No. 14/301635, filed June 11, 2014 and entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT LAMP FOR READING DATA FROM VEHICLE" ("PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE READING LAMP"), which is a part of the application, which is a part-time read application. No. 14/156869, filed January 16, 2014, entitled "CELLAR LIGHTING OF A VEHICLE WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE" ("VEHICLE DOME LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE"), which is a partial continuation of the application for issuing a grant application for issuing a grant application for issuing a grant application for issuing a grant for a special offer. And under No. 14/086442, filed on November 21, 2013 and entitled “VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM” (“VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE”). This application is also a partial continuation of the application for the grant of US patent No. 14/267438, filed May 1, 2014, entitled "PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE FOR DYNAMIC LIGHTING" ("ESD PROTECTION FOR DYNAMIC LIGHTING"). The contents of the above related application are fully incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD TO WHICH INVENTION RELATES.

The present invention relates generally to lighting devices, and more specifically, to a lighting device adapted to protect a light source from electrical discharge.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, a lighting device is disclosed. The lighting device comprises a circuit adapted to be located in a panel defining a cavity forming an opening. The circuit contains a light source in communication with the controller, and configured to emit the first radiation. The photoluminescent part is located closer to the light source and is configured to convert at least part of the first radiation into the second radiation. The second radiation is removed from the cavity to give scattered light.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a lighting device is disclosed. The lighting device comprises a circuit adapted to be located in a panel defining a cavity. The circuit contains a light source in communication with the controller. The light source is adapted to emit the first radiation through at least a part of the cavity to the photoluminescent part. The photoluminescent part is adapted to convert at least part of the first radiation into the second radiation, which is removed from the cavity.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a lighting device is disclosed. The lighting device comprises a circuit adapted to be located in a panel defining a cavity. The circuit contains a light source in communication with the controller. The light source is arranged to emit the first radiation through at least a part of the cavity in the direction of the photoluminescent part. The photoluminescent part is adapted to convert at least part of the first radiation into the second radiation, which is removed from the cavity.

These and other aspects, objectives and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by experts in the field of technology to study the following description of the invention, the claims and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a passenger compartment of a vehicle;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle panel forming a cavity, showing a cross-sectional view of an illumination device;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a lighting device including a plurality of lenses;

FIG. 3B is a front view of an illumination device including a plurality of lenses;

FIG. 4 is a detailed view of an illumination device showing an uncoated conductive part for protection against electrostatic discharge;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a lighting system for a lighting device;

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle panel forming a cavity, showing the implementation of a lighting device;

FIG. 6B is a front view of the illumination device shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A illustrates a photoluminescent structure presented as a coating;

FIG. 7B illustrates a photoluminescent structure presented as a discrete particle;

FIG. 7C illustrates a plurality of photoluminescent structures represented as discrete particles and included in a separate structure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a configuration with a front illumination of an illumination device configured to convert a first wavelength of light into at least a second wavelength;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a backlit configuration of an illumination device configured to convert a first wavelength of light into at least a second wavelength;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle panel forming a cavity, showing the implementation of a lighting device;

FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of a vehicle panel forming a cavity, showing the implementation of a lighting device;

FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle panel forming a cavity, showing the implementation of a lighting device; and

FIG. 12B is a front view of the illumination device shown in FIG. 12A, in accordance with the disclosure.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of the passenger compartment 10 of the vehicle 12 is shown in accordance with the disclosure. The vehicle 12 is equipped with a lighting system, for example, a dynamic lighting system including a plurality of illuminators. The lighting system can be implemented by a lighting device or element containing a rigid or flexible / compliant circuit located in any number of cavities 14 throughout the entire inside of the vehicle 12. In various embodiments, the lighting system can be implemented to provide diffused lighting for the passenger compartment 10 vehicle 12. The lighting system is designed with the ability to produce a continuous shining light with a backlight along the length of each of the cavities 14. Scattered light The lighting provided by the lighting system can be used to provide various signs of indoor lighting. For example, a lighting system can provide dynamic lighting that can be implemented to create a visual effect of moving lighting throughout the passenger compartment 10.

The dynamic lighting provided by the lighting system can be used to create various visual effects that can provide visually appealing aesthetics in the passenger compartment 10. The lighting system can provide various output lighting functions in response to a variety of controls or input devices. The lighting system can be controlled by the central controller in communication with the input devices of the vehicle. The dynamic lighting function of the lighting system may be triggered in response to the opening or closing of the passenger door 18 of the vehicle 12, the locking or unlocking operation, the vehicle ignition or shutdown event, or any other events that may occur during unlocking the doors and operating the vehicle 12.

Dynamic illumination may refer to a light emitted from one or more light sources to reduce the luminous intensity, increase the luminous intensity or some sequential commissioning of the light sources in a certain sequence. Dynamic lighting can also refer to any other form of light emitted from a variety of light sources made with the ability to change the brightness or color, or illuminate a multitude of illuminators in different positions with time. For example, the lighting system may be implemented to provide dynamic lighting that appears to move from the steering column 20 through cavities 14 and around the passenger compartment 10 in response to a vehicle ignition event. In this example, the movement of dynamic lighting is demonstrated by arrows 22. The lighting system is designed to provide various benefits, including cost-effective options for implementing dynamic lighting, while maintaining reliable operation, including protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD).

Various modern lighting systems use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as light sources. LEDs offer various advantages, including long life and limited power consumption, but can also be susceptible to damage due to electricity that is discharged within their proximity, such as static discharge from passengers or the driver, or from other sources. The lighting system disclosed in the materials of the present application provides a new approach to the implementation of dynamic lighting in the vehicle 12 by including the uncovered conductive part in the diagram closer to the opening 24 of each of the cavities 14. Thus, the lighting system scheme is configured so that the layout the size of the circuit has been significantly reduced. In addition, each lighting device located in cavities 14 can be safely installed in the passenger compartment near the potential ESD zone without risking damage to the lighting system.

Next, with reference to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of a cavity 14 in a vehicle 12 is shown showing a cross-sectional view of an illumination device 32 or an illumination element for a lighting system. In this example, the cavity 14 is formed by a panel 34 having a blocked part 35. The cavity 14 can be formed by any part of the vehicle 12, for example, a vehicle interior trim panel 12. The locked part can correspond to a part that is easily accessible to the operator of the vehicle 12 The panel 34 is formed so that the cavity 14 is made with the ability to receive the lighting device 32. The cavity 14 is formed by the panel 34 and continues along the inner surface of the transport Features 12 to form an extended tray. The elongated tray forms an opening 24, from which light is emitted from the lighting device 32.

Although the panel 34 is shown in this example as having a specific shape forming the cavity 14, the lighting device 32 may be implemented in various internal and / or external parts of the vehicle 12. For example, a rigid or flexible circuit 36 may similarly be located in a cavity or a plurality of cavities formed along the headlining and the corresponding interior trim panels in the vehicle 12. Similarly, the circuit 36 may be located in a cavity formed by a panel located in ol edge panel of the vehicle 12, for example, a door panel or trim panels extending along the trunk trim. In the various examples discussed in the materials of the present application, the interior trim panel may refer to any part or parts of the vehicle 12. The cavity may be formed by the panel such that the lighting device 32 may be located therein. Part or parts of the vehicle, in addition, can form an aperture similar to the aperture 24, from the condition that the light emitted from the lighting device 32 can pass out through the aperture and produce radiant light emitted from the cavity.

The lighting device 32 comprises a circuit 36 in electrical communication with a light source, which, in one embodiment, includes at least one light emitting diode 38 (LED). Scheme 36 contains the first edge portion 40 and the second edge portion 42. Scheme 36 is oriented in cavity 14, from the condition that the second edge portion 42 is oriented closer to opening 24. The LED 38 is shown attached to pattern 36 closer to the first edge portion 40. additionally contains a conductive part, for example, an uncoated conductive part, closer to the second edge part 42. The conductive part corresponds to an insulation terminal, which can be realized by an uncovered ground terminal of the circuit 36. The conductive part is located closer to opening 24 and in Made with the ability to divert electrical discharge, for example, ESD, from at least one LED 38.

As discussed previously, LEDs can be implemented to give various benefits, but can be susceptible to electrical discharges that can cause permanent damage to lighting devices like lighting device 32. To prevent damage from local electric discharges, LEDs are typically located at least 25 mm from the affected area. The affected area may refer to a zone or area that may be affected by a passenger of the vehicle, so that an electrical discharge may occur in the area. Diversity between the LED and the affected area leads to excessive space consumption when implementing LEDs in lighting systems or may interfere with the intended lighting effect. The lighting device 32 provides for a significant reduction in the required separation from the affected area 44, meanwhile, preventing damage to the LEDs 38 from electrical discharges.

The lighting device 32 provides various benefits, including limiting the layout size and the corresponding size of the cavity in which the lighting device 32 can be located in the vehicle 12. The lighting device 32 is configured to receive an electrical discharge closer to the affected area 44 in the vehicle 12 and prevent damage to at least one LED 38 by providing an insulated conductive path for diverting an electrical discharge from at least one LED 38. Up to Details olnitelnye lighting device 32, circuit 36 and other components of the lighting device 32 is further discussed in relation to FIG. 3-5

The lighting device 32 further comprises a first lens 46 and a second lens 48. The first lens 46 may be an expanding lens. The first lens 46 is configured to receive light from at least one LED 38 and expand the light along the length of the panel 34. According to one embodiment, the first lens 46 is configured such that light is emitted with a consistent intensity along the opening 24 of the cavity 14. The second lens 48 may be a diffusing lens configured to receive light from the first lens 46 and further expand or diffuse the light. The first and second lenses 46, 48 are configured such that the light from the LED 38 is emitted along the length of the opening 24 to provide a soft uniform diffused glow emitted from the opening 24. The emitted light 50 from the cavity 14 is illustrated in FIG. 2 as a plurality of light rays extending outward from cavity 14.

The circuit 36 may comprise any printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible or compliant circuit, a flexible printed circuit, a flexible impression or a plastic circuit, or any other form of circuit. Flexible circuit 36 may be configured to have different sizes, made with the ability to match the proportions of the cavity. In some embodiments, the flexible circuit 36 can be configured to have a flexible or compliant design, such that the width and length of the circuit can bend and match the deviations of the cavity length 14. In some embodiments, the circuit 36 can form a thin malleable structure giving allowing the circuit 36 to be realized, having a low profile, configured to project a diffuse glow from panel 34 or any structure in which it is implemented scheme.

Scheme 36 can be formed from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, circuit 36 may be formed from various layers, for example, base layers, tie layers, protective layers, and conductive layers. The base layer can be formed from a base film having a polymer structure, such as polyester (PET), polyimide (PI), polyethylene-naphthalane (PEN), polyester-imide (PEI), as well as various fluoropolymer (FEP), copolymer polyimide films or other suitable materials. The bonding layer may comprise a bonding adhesive or a laminate, adapted to glue and compact the conductive layers with one or more base layers. The bonding adhesive may have a polymer base or any material acting to bond the conductive layer to the base layer. Conductive layers may contain conductive elements formed from conductive metallic foil or conductive printing inks, dyes or films. Conductive layers may vary in thickness, material and proportions to effectively conduct electrical current to power or signals from a central controller to control the lighting of at least one LED 38. Conductive elements may contain any form of conductive material and, in some embodiments, may be from copper formed from a ductile type, annealed type, electrolytically coated or any other form. Various materials and circuit designs disclosed in the materials of the present application are exemplary and should not be considered as limiting for disclosure.

Compliant implementations of scheme 36 can be formed by applying a variety of manufacturing technologies and materials. A rigid or semi-flexible implementation in a similar way can be produced by implementing a variety of technologies. The circuit design can be implemented by any one of or by a combination of a one-sided flexible circuit, a flexible dual access circuit, a relief flexible circuit, a two-sided flexible circuit, a multi-layer flexible circuit, a rigid bendable circuit, a flexible polymeric film circuit or including those that still need to be developed. The specific design of circuit 36 may vary to suit a variety of applications. The number of layers and the specific design may additionally vary in implementations that use circuit 36 in combination with additional systems, integrated circuits, and data interfaces implemented in the vehicle 12.

The first lens 46 and the second lens 48 may be constructed from any material acting to transmit light through it. The first lens 46 is made with the possibility to have a shape with a triangular profile, from the condition that the light received from the LED 38, expanded from the narrow upper part and spread through the extended lower part. Additional details of the lighting device 32 are discussed in relation to FIG. 3b. The second lens 48 may be configured to have an etched, matte or roughened surface and / or, or be constructed with a structure of materials designed to diffuse light received from the first lens 46. The first lens 46 and the second lens 48 are configured to project the emitted light 50 along the length of the opening 24. In some embodiments, the first lens 46 and the second lens 48 may be of a polymeric material. Although the first lens 46 and the second lens 48 are described as discrete lenses of the illumination device 32, the first lens 46 and the second lens 48 may be combined, jointly molded or joined to form a single lens, or formed in one piece of the same material. A single lens can be configured to both expand and diffuse the light emitted from at least one LED 38, or, if desired, change the color of the emitted light.

Next, with reference to FIG. 3A and 3B, respectively, shows a cross-sectional view and a front view of the lighting device 32. A cross-sectional view of the lighting device 32 shown in FIG. 3A shows a circuit 36, at least one LED 38, a first lens 46 and a second lens 48. The lighting device 32 is configured to protect at least one LED 38 from electrical discharge, and in addition to provide that the lighting device 32 has a compact layout size. In some embodiments, implementation, depth D of the lighting device 32 may be less than 10 mm. The height H of the lighting device may be less than 20 mm. In an exemplary implementation, the depth D is about 3 mm or less, and the height H is about 6 mm or less. In such embodiments, the layout size of the lighting device 32 can be realized by at least one LED 38, which is located less than 25 mm from the potentially affected area 44 closer to the second edge portion 42. This useful space-saving design can be implemented along with preventing damage to at least one LED 38 by providing a conductive portion 76 closest to the second edge portion 42.

The front view of the lighting device 32 shown in FIG. 3B shows the assembled portion 62 of the illumination device 32, showing the circuit 36 and the second lens 48. In FIG. 3B, an illumination device 32 is shown including groups of a first lens 46 and at least one LED 38 equally spaced along the length L of the illumination device 32. In addition, the lighting controller 66 is in communication with each of the at least one LED 38. Each lighting controller is configured to control the light emitted from at least one of the LEDs 38. In some embodiments, the lighting device 32 may form an elongated flexible assembly, configured to emit accordingly Vet along the length L of the lighting device 32.

Each of the lighting controllers 66 is in communication with the central controller via a control line. In response to a signal from the central controller, each of the lighting controllers 66 is operative to control the light emitted from each of the LEDs 38 or the designated group of LEDs 38. In addition, discussion of various aspects of the lighting device 32, including the central controller, line control and other various parts are not included in FIG. 3B for clarity. Such details are further discussed in relation to FIG. 4 and 5.

The light emitted from each of the LEDs 38 is received by each of the first lenses 46 and propagates along the length L of the lighting device 32 closer to the second edge portion 42. Each of the first lenses 46 is configured, for example, to have a shape with a triangular profile, such that the light received from each of the LEDs 38 expanded from the narrow top 68 and propagated through the extended bottom 70. Each of the first lenses 46 can be placed such that the overlapping portion 72 is formed between each of the adjacent first lenses 46. The overlapping portion 72 is configured to ensure that the light from the LED 38 spreads evenly to the second lens 48. The second lens 48 is configured to receive the light emitted through each of the first lenses 46 and diffuse the light so that the overlapping portion 72 each of the first lenses 46 was emitted uniformly from the lighting device 32. In this configuration, the lighting device 32 is operable to emit light evenly along the length L to form a consistent diffuse glow from the second lens swarm 48.

The cut portion 74 or the partially assembled portion is also shown in FIG. 3B to demonstrate the conductive portion 76 extending closer to the second edge portion 42 of the circuit 36. The length L of the circuit 36 corresponds to the length of the panel 34 and the corresponding opening 24, as shown in FIG. 1 and 2. The conductive part 76 corresponds to an insulation terminal, which can be realized by an uncovered ground terminal located on the circuit 36. The conductive part 76 is located closer to the affected part 44 and configured to divert electrical discharge, for example, ESD, from at least one LED 38 and lighting controller circuit 66.

Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a detailed view of the lighting device 32 and the circuit 36 is shown. The assembled portion 82 of the lighting device 32 is shown as a reference to demonstrate each of the first lenses 46 and the second lens 48. The diagram 36 is further shown in more detail than described previously by hiding or removing each of the first the lenses 46 and the second lens 48 for the sake of intelligibility, as shown in the plurality of assembled portions 84. The circuit 36 includes each of the lighting controllers 66 and the LEDs 38 located closer to the first edge 40. Each of the lighting controllers 66 and the LEDs 38 spaced evenly along the length L of the circuit 36 to emit light evenly from the second edge portion 42 along the length L of the circuit 36.

FIG. 4, additional details of circuit 36 are shown illustrating control line 86, system ground line 88, and power supply line 90. Each of the lighting controllers 66 is in communication with the central controller via control line 86. The lighting controllers 66 are additionally powered through the power supply line 90 and the system ground line 88. The central controller is configured to control each of the lighting controllers 66 to selectively control the light emitted from each of the LEDs 38. A block diagram describing the activation of each of the lighting controllers 66 via the control line 86 is discussed referring to FIG. five.

The conductive part 76 is located closer to the second edge part 42 of the circuit 36. When located in the cavity in the vehicle 12, the conductive part 76 is placed closer to the affected area 44 and the opening 24. The conductive part 76 is configured to divert electrical discharge, for example, ESD, from at least one LED 38. Conductive portion 76 is configured to conduct electrical energy closest to the second edge portion 42 to insulated ground 92. As such, the conductive portion 76 may contain any conductive material that exposed to the environment closest to the affected area 44 in order to discharge the electrical discharge. Such materials may include copper, aluminum, gold, silver, platinum, iridium, carbon, or any other electrically conductive material that may be included as an uncoated layer, wire, coating, or circuit terminal 36.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an illumination system 100 including an illumination device 32 in accordance with the disclosure. Each of the lighting controllers 66 is in communication with the central controller 102 via at least the control line 86. The lighting controllers 66 are configured to receive power from the central controller 102 via the power supply line 90 and the system ground line 88. Each of the controllers 66 is additionally in communication with and configured to control at least one LED 38 in response to at least one signal received from the central controller 102 via control line 86. In this configuration, the central controller 102 is operative to control each of the LEDs 38, emitting a control signal that can be identified by the specific lighting controller 104 from the lighting controllers 66.

For example, central controller 102 is in communication with specific controller 104 via control line 86. In order to control the intensity, color and / or frequency or other aspect of the illumination of lighting devices associated with a specific lighting controller 104, the central controller 102 can transmit a signal via control line 86, including the address or identifier and the command corresponding to the specific controller 104 lighting. In response to receiving the identifier from the central controller 102, the lighting controller 104 may respond to the activation of the specific LED 106 according to a command from the central controller 102. Thus, the central controller 102 is configured to selectively activate and control each of the lighting LED 38 by transmitting signals via control line 86 to selectively activate specific LEDs of the lighting device 32. In addition, the central controller may be configured to control a plurality of lighting devices installed throughout the passenger compartment 10 of the vehicle 12 in order to provide different sequences of dynamic lighting in different locations of the vehicle 12 in a contrasting or coordinated manner.

Each lighting controller 66 may comprise at least one circuit configured to control the brightness of an attached LED (for example, a specific LED 106). The lighting controller 66 includes a dimming control circuit configured to adjust the brightness or intensity of the light source in response to a signal received from the central controller 102. In response to a command from the central controller 102, the lighting controller 104 can supply voltage / current to the LED 106 and change the intensity of the emitted light based on the voltage / current level or voltage / current signal. The voltage / current signal is transmitted to the LED 106 via terminals 107 connecting each of the lighting controllers 66 to the corresponding at least one LED 38. In some embodiments, the light source intensity can be controlled by the controller by changing the voltage / current signal in a periodic signal, such as with pulse width modulation. In response to the frequency of a periodic signal, the light source can output a level of light that can be perceived as brighter or dimmer, corresponding to higher and lower frequencies or longer or shorter pulse durations. For example, the brightness of the LEDs can be controlled by changing the relative duration of the voltage / current on to control the level of brightness or the intensity of the light emitted from the LEDs.

Each of the at least one LED 38 may correspond to a grouping of LEDs, for example, an array of red, green, blue pixels (RGB), two-color LEDs, three-color LEDs, multi-color LEDs, etc. By implementing each of at least one LED 38 as in the RGB pixel array, the central controller 102 may be operative to send commands to each lighting controller 66 to further control the color of the light emitted from each of the at least one LED 38. While the LEDs are discussed in detail in this disclosure, the other ue such light sources may be implemented in the illumination device 32 disclosed herein. For example, each of the at least one of the LEDs 38 discussed in the materials of this application may be implemented with phosphorus-based LEDs, organic LEDs (OLED), quantum-particle LEDs, or any other similar lighting technology that may benefit from protection from nearby electrical discharge.

The conductive part 76, as previously discussed, is located closer to the second edge portion 42 of the lighting device 32. In the first configuration 108, the conductive terminal is in communication with the central controller 102 via insulated ground. Insulated grounding may include grounding or similar grounding designed to isolate the central controller, lighting controllers 66, and LED 38 from electrical discharge. In the second configuration 110, the conductive terminal can be connected directly to the earth ground isolated from the central controller 102. Although two configurations conductive part 76 is demonstrated in the materials of this application, additional configurations for the conductive part may vary according to with the essence of disclosure.

In various embodiments of the disclosure, the conductive portion 76 may provide an uncoated conductive terminal closer to the affected region 44 of the lighting device 32 in order to protect at least one LED 38 from electrical discharge, for example, ESD. The uncoated conductive terminal may be exposed to the environment closer to the affected area 44 while each of the control line 86, the system ground line 88 and the power supply line 90 may be covered in a laminated material capable of sticking, insulating and sealing the conductive material . The substantially uncoated conductive part 76 may provide an insulated path so that an electrical discharge is diverted from at least one LED 38 to prevent damage to the lighting device 32.

In some embodiments, the lighting device, as discussed herein, may comprise a photoluminescent portion located closer to cavity 14. FIG. 6A, 6B, 10, 11, 12A, and 12B show various configurations of lighting devices, similar to lighting device 32. For example, each of the lighting devices may include a lighting controller 66 configured to control at least one light source, such as an LED 38, in response to a control signal from the central controller 102. Additionally, each of the lighting devices may be configured to be placed in a cavity, for example, a cavity 14 formed by a panel located along the edge Juba vehicle panel 12. In such configurations, the lighting units may comprise a conductive portion 76 closer to the second edge portion 42 such that the circuit 36 can be protected from ESD closer to the affected part. Essentially, the same reference numbers can be used to describe identical features and elements of various lighting devices for clarity, and to demonstrate the various possible combinations that can be implemented in addition to the specific examples disclosed in this application.

Next, with reference to FIG. 6A and 6B, a side view in cross section and a front view of the implementation of the lighting device 120, respectively. In some embodiments, implementation, lens 46, described in relation to some embodiments as a spreading lens, can be used in combination with or can be replaced by a photoluminescent part 122 for spreading and scattering the light emitted from a variety of light sources 124 along the length L of the lighting device 120 For example, the photoluminescent portion 122 may be used in combination with or instead of the first lens 46 and / or the second lens 48. In such embodiments, the photoluminescent portion 122 may be ystvuyuschey to expand the light at the length L circuit 36 such that the light emitted from the opening 24 along the deduced aperture 24 uniformly.

The photoluminescent portion 122 may be located on the surface 126 of the circuit 36. The surface 126 may be facing outward into the volume of the cavity 14. The light sources 124 may be configured to emit a first radiation 128 directed in the direction of the photoluminescent part 122. In response to receiving the first radiation 128 , the energy conversion layer of the photoluminescent part 122 may become excited and emit the second radiation 130. The second radiation 130 may be converted by the photoluminescent part 122 from the first radiation 128. The second and The radiation 130 emitted from the photoluminescent portion 122 can expand and diffuse the light emitted from the lighting device 120 from the condition that the light is evenly distributed along the length L.

Next, with reference to FIG. 6B, the first radiation 128 emitted from each of the light sources 124 may be directed in the direction of the photoluminescent portion 122 and converted to a second radiation 130. The first radiation 128 may contain the first wavelength of the light, and the second radiation 130 may contain at least the second wavelength Sveta. The second wavelength of light may correspond to at least one wavelength having a longer wavelength or spectral radiation than the first wavelength. In an exemplary implementation, the first length λ ₁ may be less than about 500 nm. The color range of the blue spectrum and shorter wavelengths can be used as an excitation source for the photoluminescent part due to the limited wavelengths of the subjectively perceived sharpness in the visible spectrum of the human eye. Thus, if the non-transformed portion of the first radiation comes out through the opening 24, the non-transformed portion may be limited to such an extent that it is not easily perceived by the human eye.

In some embodiments, the central controller 102 may be configured to adjust the color of the emitted light 50 by sending control signals to the lighting controllers 66 to adjust the output intensity or energy level of the light source 124. For example, if the light source 124 is configured to output the first radiation 128 at a low level, essentially all of the first radiation 128 can be converted to the second radiation 130. In this configuration, the color of the light corresponding to the second radiation can be output as emitted light 50 of cavity 14. If the light source 124 is configured to output the first radiation 128 at a high level, only part of the first radiation 128 can be converted to the second radiation 130. In this configuration, the color of the light corresponding to mixture of the first radiation 128 and second radiation 130, may be output as emitted light 50. Thus, each of the controllers 66 may adjust the light intensity or energy level of the first radiation 128 to control the output color of the emitted radiation 50.

Although a low level and a high level of intensity are discussed with respect to the first radiation 128, it will be understood that the intensity of the first radiation 128 may vary among a variety of intensity levels to adjust the color tone corresponding to the emitted light 50 from the cavity 14. As described in the materials of this application, the color The second radiation 130 can be largely dependent on the specific photoluminescent materials used in the photoluminescent part 122. Additionally, the photo conversion ability the luminescent part can be largely dependent on the concentration of photoluminescent materials used in the photoluminescent part 122. By adjusting the range of intensities that can be output from the light source 124, the concentration and proportions of the photoluminescent materials 122 and the types of photoluminescent materials used in the photoluminescent part 122, the lighting devices discussed in the materials of this application may be operable to form shea okogo range of colors of the scattered light 50 by mixing the first radiation 128 to the second 130 radiation.

FIG. 7A shows a photoluminescent structure 142, generally shown as reproduced as a coating (e.g., film), capable of being applied to the circuit 36 and / or part of the panel 34. FIG. 7B shows a photoluminescent structure 142 as a discrete particle capable of being embedded in the material of circuit 36 or panel 34. FIG. 7C shows the photoluminescent structure 142 as a plurality of discrete particles included in a separate structure capable of being deposited on the circuit 36 or panel 34. The photoluminescent structure 142 may correspond to photoluminescent parts, as discussed in the materials of this application. At the most basic level, the photoluminescent structure 142 includes an energy conversion layer 144, which may be provided as a single layer or a multilayer structure, as shown by the broken lines in FIG. 7A and 7B.

The energy conversion layer 144 may include one or more photoluminescent materials having energy conversion elements selected from a phosphorescent or fluorescent material. Photoluminescent materials can be compiled to convert the input electromagnetic radiation into output electromagnetic radiation, usually having a longer wavelength and expressing a color that is not characteristic of the input electromagnetic radiation. The difference in wavelength between input and output electromagnetic radiation is indicated by reference as the Stokes shift and serves as the principal driving mechanism for the energy conversion process, corresponding to a change in the wavelength of light, often referred to as a down-conversion. In the various embodiments discussed herein, each of the light wavelengths (for example, the first wavelength, etc.) corresponds to the electromagnetic radiation used in the conversion process.

Each of the photoluminescent parts may contain at least one photoluminescent structure 142 containing an energy conversion layer (for example, a conversion layer 144). The energy conversion layer 144 may be prepared by spreading the photoluminescent material in the polymer matrix 150 to form a homogeneous mixture using a variety of methods. Such methods may include preparing an energy conversion layer 144 from a composition in a liquid carrier medium and coating the energy conversion layer 144 to the desired flat and / or non-planar basis of the vehicle panel or circuit 36. The coating of the energy conversion layer 144 may be applied to the vehicle panel by dyeing, screen printing, spraying, slit coating, dip coating, roll coating and strip coating. Additionally, the energy conversion layer 144 may be prepared by methods that do not use a carrier liquid.

For example, a solid solution (a homogeneous mixture in a dry state) of one or more photoluminescent materials may be included in the polymer matrix 150 to provide an energy conversion layer 144. Polymer matrix 150 can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, pressure molding, extrusion, thermoforming, etc. In cases where one or more energy conversion layers 144 are made as particles, single layer or multilayer energy conversion layers 144 can be embedded in the circuit 36 and / or part of the panel 34. When the energy conversion layer 144 includes a multilayer composition, each layer can be coated sequentially. Additionally, the layers can be prepared separately, and later layered or embossed with each other to form a solid layer. Layers can also be jointly extruded to prepare a single multi-layer energy conversion structure.

Returning to FIG. 7A and 7B, the photoluminescent structure 142 may optionally include at least one stability layer 146 to protect the photoluminescent material contained within the energy conversion layer 144 from photolytic and thermal degradation. The stability layer 146 may be configured as a layer optically bonded and adhered to the energy conversion layer 144. Stability layer 146 can also be combined with energy conversion layer 144. The photoluminescent structure 142 may also optionally include a protective layer 148 optically bonded and spliced with a layer 146 of stability or some kind of layer or coating to protect the photoluminescent structure 142 from physical and chemical damage caused by environmental factors.

Stability layer 146 and / or protective layer 148 may be combined with energy conversion layer 144 to form a single photoluminescent structure 142 by sequential coating or printing each layer, or by successive layering or embossing. Alternatively, several layers may be combined by successive coating, layering or embossing to form a substructure. The substructure may then be layered or embossed to form a single photoluminescent structure 142. Once formed, the photoluminescent structure 142 may be applied to the selected vehicle panel.

In some embodiments, the photoluminescent structure 142 may be included in the circuit 36 and / or part of the panel 34 as one or more discrete multilayer particles, as shown in FIG. 7C. The photoluminescent structure 142 may also be provided as one or more discrete multilayer particles dispersed in a polymer matrix 150, which is subsequently applied to the vehicle panel as an adjacent structure. Additional information regarding the structure of the photoluminescence WITH LONG-TERM SUSPENSION OF SECONDARY RADIATION ”(“ PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION ”) filing July 31, 2012, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 8, an illumination device, for example, an illumination device 120, is generally shown according to configuration 152 with a front light. In this configuration, the light or the first radiation 128 emitted from the light source 124 is converted into the second radiation 130 by the energy conversion layer 144. The first radiation 128 contains the first wavelength λ ₁ , and the second radiation 130 contains the second wavelength λ ₂ . The lighting device 120 comprises a photoluminescent structure 142 located on or in at least one photoluminescent part. The photoluminescent structure 142 may be provided as a coating and applied to the base of a vehicle panel, for example, part of the circuit 36 and / or part of the panel 34. The photoluminescent material may also be concentrated as a polymer matrix 150, corresponding to the energy conversion layer 144.

In some embodiments, the energy conversion layer 144 may further include a stability layer 146 and / or a protective layer 148. In response to the commissioning of the first light source 124, the first radiation 128 is received by the energy conversion layer 144 and converted from the first radiation 128, having a first wavelength λ ₁ , to a second radiation 130 having at least a second wavelength λ ₂ . The second radiation 130 may contain multiple wavelengths, made with the ability to emit any color of light from the photoluminescent part 122.

In various embodiments, the lighting device 120 comprises at least one photoluminescent material enclosed in a polymer matrix 150 and / or an energy conversion layer 144 and configured to convert the first radiation 128 with the first wavelength λ ₁ to the second radiation 130 having at least measure the second wavelength λ ₂ . In order to generate multiple wavelengths, the energy conversion layer 144 may contain one or more photoluminescent materials configured to emit the second radiation 130 as wavelengths of light in the red, green, and / or blue color spectra. Such photoluminescent materials can additionally be combined to form a wide variety of colors of light for the second radiation 130. For example, photoluminescent materials emitting red, green and blue radiation can be used in a variety of proportions and combinations to control the output color of the second radiation 130.

Each of the photoluminescent materials can differ in output intensity, output wavelength and peak absorption wavelengths based on the specific photochemical structure and combinations of photochemical structures used in the energy conversion layer 144. As an example, the second radiation 130 can be changed by adjusting the wavelength λ _{1 of the} first radiation to introduce photoluminescent materials at different intensities to change the color of the second radiation 130. In addition or as an alternative to emitting red, green and blue light photoluminescent materials Other photoluminescent materials can be used alone and in various combinations to form the second radiation 130 in a wide variety of colors. Thus, the lighting device 120 can be configured for a variety of applications to give the desired color and lighting effect to the vehicle.

To achieve the different colors and combinations of photoluminescent materials described in the materials of this application, the lighting device 120 may use any form of photoluminescent materials, such as photoluminescent materials, organic and inorganic dyes, etc. For further information regarding the manufacture and use of photoluminescent materials for to achieve different emissions, see US Patent No. 8207511 on Bortz and others, entitled “PHOTOLUMINESCENT FIBERS, MPOZITY and fabrics made from them »(« PHOTOLUMINESCENT FIBERS, COMPOSITIONS AND FABRICS MADE THEREFROM »), with a filing date of June 26, 2012; U.S. Patent No. 8,247,761 to Agrawala and Others, entitled “PHOTOLUMINESCENT MARKING WITH FUNCTIONAL LINING” (“PHOTOLUMINESCENT MARKINGS WITH FUNCTIONAL OVERLAYERS”), filed on August 21, 2012; US Patent number 8519359 B2 at Kingsley and the other entitled "Stable to photolysis and in various media structure for highly efficient conversion of electromagnetic energy and sustainable secondary emission» ( «PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION») , with the filing date of August 27, 2013; U.S. Patent No. 8664624 B2 for Kingsley et al. entitled “ILLUMINATION SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR SUSTAINABLE SECONDARY EMISSION” (“ILLUMINATION DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR GENERATING SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION”), with a filing date of 4 March 2014 US Patent Publication No. 2012/0183677 on Agrawala and Others, entitled “PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND NEWEST APPLICATIONS” (“PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND NOVEL USES”), with a filing date of July 19, 2013 US Patent Publication No. 2014/0065442 A1 to Kingsley and Others, entitled “PHOTOLUMINESCENT OBJECTS” (“PHOTOLUMINESCENT OBJECTS”), filed on March 6, 2014; and US Patent Publication No. 2014/0103258 A1 on Agrawala and Others, entitled “COLOR LUMINESTER COMPOSITIONS AND TEXTILE PRODUCTS” (“CHROMIC LUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS AND TEXTILES”), filed on April 17, 2014, all of which are included in this application by reference in its entirety.

The light source 124 may also be referred to as an excitation source and is operable to emit at least the first radiation 128. The light source 124 may contain any form of light source, for example, halogen lighting, fluorescent lighting, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic LED (OLED), polymer LED (PLED) and solid-state lighting or any other form of lighting, configured to output the first radiation 128. The first radiation 128 from the first light source 124 can be configured, from conditions so that the first λ ₁ wavelength corresponds to at least one absorption wavelength of one or more photoluminescent materials of the energy conversion layer 144 and / or polymer matrix 150. In response to receiving light at the first λ length of ₁ wave, the energy conversion layer 144 can be excited and output one or more output wavelengths, for example, a second radiation having a second λ ₂ wavelength. The first radiation 128 gives an excitation source for the energy conversion layer 144, aiming at the absorption wavelengths of a particular photoluminescent material or its combination used in it. As such, the lighting device 120 may be configured to output the second radiation 130 to form the required intensity and color of the light.

In an exemplary implementation, the plurality of light sources 124 comprises LEDs configured to emit a first wavelength λ _{1 of a} wave, which may correspond to a blue spectrum, a violet and / or ultraviolet color range. The color range of the blue spectrum contains a range of wavelengths, generally expressed as blue light (~ 440-500 nm). In some embodiments, the implementation, the first wavelength λ ₁ may contain a wavelength in the ultraviolet or near ultraviolet color range (~ 100-450 nm). In an exemplary implementation, λ ₁ may be approximately equal to 470 nm. Although specific wavelengths and wavelength ranges are discussed with respect to the first wavelength λ ₁ , the first wavelength λ ₁ as a rule can be configured to excite any photoluminescent material.

As discussed herein, the wavelengths corresponding to the second radiation 130 may correspond to a plurality of wavelengths configured to manifest as any color of light, and may include substantially white light. Multiple wavelengths can be formed by a red-emitting photoluminescent material having a wavelength of approximately 620-750 nm, an emitting green radiation of a photoluminescent material having a wavelength of approximately 526-606 nm, and emitting a blue or blue-green radiation by a photoluminescent material having a wavelength of greater than the first wavelength λ ₁ , and approximately 430-525 nm, in one of the embodiments. A variety of wavelengths can be used to form a wide variety of light colors from the photoluminescent portion 122, converted from the first wavelength λ ₁ .

Referring to FIG. 9, an illumination device, for example, an illumination device 170 discussed with respect to FIG. 11 is generally shown according to the backlit configuration 156 for converting the first radiation 128 from the light source 124 to the second radiation 130. In this configuration, the first radiation 128 may be emitted from the light source 124 in the direction of the optical device 158 having on it and / or placed in it. Optical device 158 may have at least partially translucent material, such that the first radiation 128 can pass through a material, for example, a translucent polymeric material. By passing through the first photoluminescent portion 122, the first radiation can be converted to the second radiation 130 and output from the optical device 158.

The backlit configuration 156 may comprise an energy conversion layer 144 and / or photoluminescent material concentrated in a polymer matrix 150. Like the energy conversion layer 144 shown in relation to the front light configuration 152, the energy conversion layer 144 can be configured to be excited and output one or more wavelengths corresponding to the second wavelength in response to receiving the first radiation 128. The plurality of wavelengths of the second radiation 130 may be configured to down any photoluminescent color of light from portion 122 in response to excitation energy conversion layer 144. The color of the light corresponding to the second radiation 130 can be controlled by using specific types and / or ratio of photoluminescent materials, as discussed in the materials of this application.

Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the lighting device 160 is shown in a configuration 152 with a front light. In some embodiments, the implementation of the circuit 36 of the lighting device 160 may be located on the first side 162 of the cavity 14, and the photoluminescent portion 122 may be located on the second side 164 of the cavity 14. In this configuration, the light source 124 may be configured to direct the first radiation 128 in the direction of the photoluminescent part 122 located on the second side 164. Upon receiving the first radiation 128, the photoluminescent part 122 can convert a significant part of the first radiation 128 into a second radiation 130. The second and The radiation 130, in this case, can be emitted outside through the opening 24 of the panel 34 as the emitted light 50. The emitted light can have a color substantially corresponding to the second radiation 130. As discussed in the materials of this application, if part of the first radiation 128 is not converted to the second radiation 130, the emitted light 50 can largely maintain the color properties of the second radiation 130 due to the limited visibility of the first radiation 128.

The lighting device 160 may further comprise at least one reflection enhancement element 166 located on the light receiving surface 168 of the panel 34 or an additional panel adjacent thereto. The light receiving surface 168 may correspond to a surface in the path of the emitted light 50. At least one reflection enhancement element 166 may correspond to one or more molded polymeric material elements like panel 34. The reflection enhancement elements 166 may comprise one or more reflective materials, for example aluminum silver and other metallic materials placed as a coating and / or metallized in vacuum structure located on the outer surface of one or more molded elements. In this configuration, the reflection enhancement elements 166 may reflect the emitted light 50 to create an enhanced illumination effect.

Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the lighting device 170 is shown in a backlit configuration 156. Some embodiments of the lighting device 170 may include an optical device 158 arranged from the condition that the first radiation 128 passes through the optical device 158 to be emitted through the opening 24. After passing through the optical device 158, the first radiation 128 can be converted to the second radiation 130 The second radiation 130, in such a case, can be emitted outside through the opening 24 of the panel 34 as the emitted light 50. The backlit configurations 156 can ensure that For the first degree, all of the first radiation 128 is converted to the second radiation 130. However, the addition of the optical device 158 may increase the cost of producing the lighting device 170.

Next, with reference to FIG. 12A and 12B, the lighting device 180 is shown in a side view in cross section and in front view, respectively. In some embodiments, the lighting device 180 may comprise a plurality of dispersion elements 182 located closer to the photoluminescent portion 122. In this particular example, the photoluminescent portion 122 is located on the surface of the circuit 36. However, the plurality of dispersion elements 182 may similarly be located cavities 14. For example, the photoluminescent portion 122 and the scattering elements 182 may be located on a second surface 164, similar to the example illustrated in FIG. 10. Additionally, the photoluminescent portion 122 and the scattering elements 182 may be located on the first side 162, and the circuit 36 may be located on the second side 164.

In the example shown in relation to FIG. 12A and 12B, the first radiation 128 may be emitted from the light source 124 and directed towards the photoluminescent portion 122 and the scattering elements 182. Dispersion elements 182 may be formed in a variety of geometric shapes configured to cause the first radiation 128 to disperse in the photoluminescent portion 122. In this particular example, each of the dispersion elements 182 is formed to have an elongated pyramid shape that can be configured to diffuse the first radiation 128 over the length L of the photoluminescent portion 122. In this configuration, the diffusion elements 182 can expand the first radiation 128 along the length L of the photoluminescent portion 122 to guarantee To see that the first radiation 128 is received consistently along the length of the photoluminescent part 122. By expanding the first radiation 128 along the length L of the photoluminescent part 122, the lighting device 180 can ensure that the first radiation 128 is largely converted into the second radiation 130, so that the emitted light 50 evenly distributed along the length L.

The various devices and systems described herein may be implemented to provide dynamic illumination, controlled by a central controller, to emit light. The central controller may control a plurality of lighting controllers attached to the LEDs to emit light, which seems to be moving throughout the passenger compartment of the vehicle, by setting the order of successive lighting devices. Lighting systems and lighting devices provide various benefits, including cost-effective options for implementing dynamic lighting, while maintaining reliable operation, including protection against ESD. The lighting system disclosed in the materials of this application provides a new approach to the implementation of dynamic lighting in a vehicle by including the uncovered conductive part in the diagram closer to the cavity opening where the lighting device is located. The lighting devices discussed in the materials of this application provide a significantly reduced footprint and can be safely installed in the passenger compartment near a potential ESD area without risking damage to the lighting system.

The methods and devices described above can be implemented in many different ways in many different combinations of hardware, software, or both hardware and software. For example, all or parts of central controller 102 may include circuits in a controller, microprocessor, or application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or may be implemented by discrete logic or components, or a combination of other types of analog or digital circuits combined in a single integrated circuit or distributed among numerous integrated circuits. All or part of the logic described above can be implemented as instructions for execution by a processor, controller or other processing device and can be stored in a tangible or non-transient computer-readable or computer-readable medium, such as flash memory, random access memory (RAM, RAM) or read-only memory (ROM, ROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM) or other machine-readable media.

It should be understood that changes and modifications may be made to the above construction without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and in addition, it should be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims, unless this formula explicitly states otherwise. .

Claims (23)

1. A lighting device comprising: a circuit comprising an uncoated conductive part, conductively connected to an isolation terminal, and configured to be located in a panel defining a cavity forming an opening; a light source adapted to emit a first radiation; and the photoluminescent part located closer to the light source and configured to convert at least part of the first radiation into the second radiation, while the second radiation is removed from the cavity. 2. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent part is located along the length of the circuit. 3. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the first radiation corresponds to the first color of light, and the second radiation corresponds to the second color of light. 4. The lighting device according to claim 3, wherein the second color is sharper than the first color. 5. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent portion is located on the surface of the circuit. 6. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the circuit is located on the first surface of the cavity, and the photoluminescent part is located on the second surface of the cavity. 7. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the uncoated conductive portion is oriented closer to the opening, providing a path for an electrical discharge to protect the light source from electrical discharge. 8. A lighting device comprising a circuit adapted to be disposed in a panel defining a cavity, the circuit comprising: a light source configured to emit the first radiation through at least part of the cavity to the photoluminescent part, while the photoluminescent part is made with the ability to convert at least part of the first radiation to the second radiation that is output from the cavity, while the circuit contains an uncoated conductive part, conductively connected to an isolation terminal. 9. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the first radiation corresponds to the first color of light, and the second radiation corresponds to the second color of light. 10. The lighting device according to claim 9, wherein the first color corresponds to a shorter wavelength of light than the second color. 11. The lighting device of claim 9, wherein the second color corresponds to a plurality of light wavelengths. 12. The lighting device according to claim 8, further comprising a controller that is configured to adjust the intensity of the first radiation so that at least part of the first radiation is removed from the cavity. 13. The lighting device according to claim 12, wherein the first color is mixed with the second color to form a third color, in response to outputting a portion of the first radiation. 14. The lighting device according to claim 12, wherein the hue of the third color extracted from the cavity changes in response to the intensity of the first radiation. 15. A lighting device comprising a circuit adapted to be located in a panel defining a cavity, the circuit comprising: a light source configured to emit the first radiation through at least part of the cavity to the photoluminescent part, while the photoluminescent part is made with the ability to convert at least part of the first radiation to the second radiation that is removed from the cavity, while the photoluminescent part additionally contains many elements scattering of light formed in the shape of an elongated pyramid extending from the surface of the circuit. 16. The lighting device according to claim 15, wherein the photoluminescent portion is located on the surface of the circuit. 17. The lighting device according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of light scattering elements are adapted to expand the first radiation over the photoluminescent part. 18. The lighting device according to claim 15, wherein the circuit comprises an uncoated conductive portion, conductively connected to an isolation terminal.

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