RU2721445C2 - Meeting/guiding lighting based on printed-circuit light-emitting diode based on rylene - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: vehicle lighting systems.

SUBSTANCE: vehicle lighting device comprises a lighting device located on the vehicle, a proximity sensor and a controller. Proximity sensor is configured to detect proximity of the non-contact device worn by the passenger. Controller is configured to identify approach and removal of passenger, based on detected proximity, and controlling the lighting device to output the first light emission in response to the approximation and the second emission in response to the removal.

EFFECT: illumination for reading, vehicle enter and control is achieved.

20 cl, 9 dwg

Description

Cross reference to related application

[0001] This application is a partial continuation of US patent application No. 14 / 603,636, filed January 23, 2015, under the name "DOOR ILLUMINATION AND WARNING SYSTEM", which is a partial continuation of the application for US patent No. 14 / 086,442, filed November 21, 2013, entitled "VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE". The aforementioned related applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to vehicle lighting systems and, more particularly, to vehicle lighting systems having thin profiles that can be formed in accordance with non-planar surfaces.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Vehicle lighting has traditionally been used to provide illumination for reading, entering a vehicle, and driving. However, lighting can also be used to improve vehicle fixtures and systems to ensure that vehicle passengers, drivers and observers have an improved experience. Such enhancements may arise due to improvements in safety, visibility, aesthetics and / or functions. The invention provides a lighting system configured to illuminate a portion of a vehicle, and in some embodiments, it can alert a vehicle driver about a vehicle condition, such as an ajar state of a door.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a backlight apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes a lighting device located on the vehicle. At least one detection sensor is configured to detect the proximity of the driver and / or passenger, and the controller is configured to determine the proximity and removal of the driver and / or passenger. The controller is configured to control a lighting device for outputting a first light emission in response to an approach and a second radiation in response to a removal.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle lighting system is disclosed. The system comprises a lighting device, an ambient light sensor, and a detection sensor coupled to the controller. The lighting device is located on the vehicle and is configured to output light radiation. The ambient light sensor is configured to output an external lighting signal. The detection sensor is configured to output a detection signal. The controller is configured to identify the driver and / or passenger in the vicinity of the vehicle and activate the radiation based on the detection signal. The controller is further configured to control the radiation intensity based on the ambient light signal.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling at least one vehicle light source is disclosed. The method includes the step of determining the intensity of illumination of external lighting in the vicinity of the vehicle, and the step of storing data corresponding to the intensity of illumination. A lighting event can be detected, and a light source can be activated in response. The method may continue with the step of calculating the radiation intensity of the light source based on the data and the step of activating the light source in response to the lighting event. The controller can activate a light source with a calculated radiation intensity. The radiation intensity is calculated based on the data for activating the light source, based on the state of illumination that arose at a previous point in time.

[0007] These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by a person skilled in the art when studying the following description, claims, and the attached drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] In the drawings:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a front part of a passenger compartment of an automobile vehicle having various illuminated elements;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a rear portion of a passenger compartment of an automobile vehicle having various illuminated elements;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exterior of an automobile vehicle having various illuminated elements;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a detailed side view of a light forming assembly comprising a photoluminescent layer;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a side view of a light-forming assembly showing a photoluminescent layer configured to convert a wavelength of light;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a light forming assembly;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a backlight apparatus;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a backlight; and

[0017] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a lighting apparatus configured to control the illumination of a light-forming unit.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0018] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the invention, which may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures do not necessarily represent a detailed construction, and some schematic diagrams may be exaggerated or minimized to show an overview of the functions. In this regard, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as representing the basis for a specialist in the field of technology to study various ways of using the present invention.

[0019] As used here, the expression "and / or" when used in a list of two or more items means that any one of the items listed can be used on its own, or any combination of two or more items listed can be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B and / or C, the composition may contain only A; only B; only C; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C combined; or A, B, and C combined.

[0020] The invention provides new systems and methods configured to illuminate at least a portion of a vehicle based on the detection of an approaching driver and / or passenger or object approaching a vehicle. In various embodiments, the invention provides various systems and methods configured to detect, actuate, and control a backlight. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention provides a system configured to identify the approach or removal of a driver and / or passenger of a vehicle and highlighting at least a portion of the vehicle with a first color or a second color. The first color may correspond to a warm white light configured to meet an approaching driver and / or passenger, and the second color may correspond to a cool white light configured to escort a departing driver and / or passenger.

[0021] The invention provides various examples of backlight devices having light-forming units, some of which can be located on or in connection with various elements of the vehicle. The light forming unit may correspond to a thin flexible lighting unit that can be used in a variety of applications. For purposes of description, a vehicle element may refer to any internal or external portion of the vehicle equipment or part thereof suitable for receiving the backlight apparatus described herein. While the implementation of the backlight apparatus described herein is mainly directed to use in automobile vehicles, it should be understood that the apparatus or system can also be implemented in other types of vehicles configured to transport one or more passengers, such as, but not limited to a floating vessel, trains, and aircraft.

[0022] With reference to FIG. 1 and 2, a passenger compartment 10 of a motor vehicle 12 is generally shown having a plurality of exemplary interior members 14a-14g located at the front and rear of the passenger compartment 10. The interior members 14a-14g generally correspond to the ceiling upholstery 14a, the floor mat 14b, door trim panel 14c and various parts of the seat, including a seat cushion 14d, a seat back 14e, a head restraint 14f, and a rear seat 14g, respectively. For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, each element 14a-14g may be configured to receive a light-forming unit, as further described here. The light-forming unit may be located in a selected area 16a-16g of each element 14a-14g. Vehicle 12 may comprise a plurality of light-forming units that can be used independently or in combination to provide functional and / or decorative lighting for vehicle 12.

[0023] With respect to the backlight apparatus described herein, it should be understood that the selected region 16a-16g is not limited to any particular shape or size and may include portions of an element having a planar and / or non-planar configuration. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the light-forming unit may have a thin profile and be made of flexible materials that provide the unit with non-planar surfaces. Although some elements 14a-14g were provided as an example, it should be understood that other elements can be used in accordance with the vehicle lighting system described herein. Such elements may include dashboards and components on them, interactive mechanisms (for example, push buttons, switches, dials, etc.), indicator devices (for example, speedometer, tachometer, etc.), printed surfaces and various internal and / or external sections of the vehicle 12, which may be of metal, polymer or of various materials.

[0024] With reference to FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the outer part of the vehicle 12. In addition to the internal elements, light-forming units, as discussed here, can be used to emphasize, complement and / or replace various external panels or external elements 18a-18h. Examples of external elements 18a-18j may include, but are not limited to, keyless entry buttons 18a, badges 18b, wheelhouse lights 18c, direction indicators 18d, side lights 18e, license plate lamps 18f, luggage lamp 18g, headlights 18h, 18i taillights, fog lights, near-door lamps, 18j side members lamps, trim lamps, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the internal or external elements described herein may provide various lighting functions. Some of these functions may correspond to lighting that may be illuminated in response to the approaching and / or removal of the driver or passenger of the vehicle 12. The lighting functions may provide improved aesthetics of the vehicle 12, and may also reduce manufacturing costs that may be associated with previously known lighting systems.

[0025] One or more of the light-forming units described herein may be associated with a controller. In some embodiments, the controller may further be associated with a vehicle control module. The vehicle control module may provide signals to the controller in response to various user inputs, vehicle operation information, vehicle status information, etc. In response to one or more signals received from the vehicle control module, the controller may be configured to control the backlight to illuminate one or more light-forming units to provide various lighting functions for the vehicle 12. Additional details regarding the controller and the control module of the vehicle means described with reference to FIG. 9. Although the light-forming nodes described herein are described as being in communication with a controller, one or more nodes can be controlled using various forms of switches and / or using an analog or digital circuit.

[0026] With reference to FIG. 4, the light forming unit 20 may correspond to a unit of thin film or printed light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light-forming assembly 20 may comprise a substrate 22. The substrate 22 may be opaque, transparent or translucent, and may be thin. The light forming assembly 20 can be used in a variety of applications that may require a thin overall thickness. The substrate 22 may be made of a polymer, for example polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc. In some embodiments, the substrate 22 may be pulled out of the roll to allow for inclusion in assembly operations for the light forming assembly 20, and may be approximately 0.005-0.060 inches (0.0127-0.1524 cm) thick.

[0027] The first electrode 24 or the conductive layer may be located on the substrate 22. The first electrode 24 and / or the various electrodes or conductive layers described herein may comprise a conductive epoxy resin, such as an epoxy resin containing silver or copper. The first electrode 24 is electrically connected to the first bus 26. The first bus 26 and the other buses or conductors described herein may be made of metal and / or conductive materials, which can be made by screen printing on electrodes or conductive layers. Tires can be used in the light-forming unit 20 to electrically connect multiple light sources 28 based on light emitting diodes (LEDs) to a power source. Thus, the first bus 26 and other tires used in the light forming unit can be configured to evenly transmit current along and / or across the surface of the light forming unit 20.

[0028] The LED sources 28 can be printed, distributed, or otherwise deposited onto the first electrode 24 using semiconductor inks (semiconductor inks) 30. The LED sources 28 can be distributed arbitrarily or in a controlled manner in the semiconductor inks 30. The LED sources 28 can correspond to micro-light emitting diodes of gallium nitride elements, which may have a size of approximately 5-400 μm in width, substantially aligned with the surface of the first electrode. The semiconductor ink 30 may include various binder and dielectric materials, including, but not limited to, one or more of gallium, indium, silicon carbide, phosphorus, and / or transparent polymeric binder materials. In this configuration, the semiconductor ink 30 may contain various concentrations of the LED sources 28 so that the surface density of the LED sources 28 can be adjusted for various applications.

[0029] In some embodiments, LED sources 28 and semiconductor inks 30 can be produced by Nth Degree Technologies Worldwide Inc. The semiconductor ink 30 can be applied using various printing processes, including inkjet and screen printing processes of ink on the selected portion (s) of the substrate 22. More specifically, it is assumed that the LED sources 28 are distributed in the semiconductor ink 30, and have such a shape and the size, that a significant number of them are preferably aligned with the first electrode 24 and the second electrode 34 when applying semiconductor ink 30. Some of the LED sources 28, which are ultimately electrically connected to the electrodes 24, 34, can be highlighted using a voltage source applied to the first electrode 24 and the second electrode 34. In some embodiments, a power source operating at 12-16 V DC from the vehicle’s power source can be used as a power source for supplying current to the LED sources 28. Additional information regarding the design of the light-forming unit similar to forming unit 20 is disclosed in US Patent Publication No. 2014-0264396 A1 from Lowenthal et al., entitled "ULTRA-THIN PRINTED LED LAYER REMOVED FROM SUBSTRATE", filed March 12, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0030] At least one dielectric layer 36 may be printed on top of the LED sources 28 to encapsulate and / or secure the LED sources 28 in the desired position. At least one dielectric layer 36 may correspond to a first dielectric layer 36a and a second dielectric layer 36b, which may be of a transparent material. The second electrode 34 may correspond to an upper transparent conductive layer printed on top of the dielectric layer 36 for electrically connecting the electrodes 24, 34. The second electrode 34 is electrically connected to the second bus 38. Tires 26, 38 can be used in the light-forming unit 20 to electrically connect multiple sources 28 light based on light emitting diodes (LEDs) with a power source.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first electrode 24 and the second electrode 34 may correspond to a cathode electrode and an anode electrode, respectively. Although described as the cathode and anode of the light-forming unit 20, the first electrode 24 and the second electrode 34 may be configured such that the second electrode 34 (anode) is located on the substrate, and the first electrode 24 (cathode) is located on at least one dielectric layer 36. Tires 26, 38 can be printed along the opposite edges of the electrodes 24, 34 and are electrically terminated at the anode and cathode terminals. The connection points between the buses 26, 38 and the power supply can be located in opposite corners of each bus 26, 38 to evenly distribute the current across each bus.

[0032] Referring again to FIG. 4, a photoluminescent layer 40 can be deposited on a second electrode 34. The photoluminescent layer can be deposited as a coating, layer, film and / or photoluminescent substrate. The photoluminescent layer 40 may be applied by screen printing, flexography, and / or otherwise attached to the second electrode 34. In various embodiments, LED sources 28 may be configured to emit exciting radiation containing a first wavelength corresponding to blue light. The LED sources 28 may be configured to emit exciting radiation into the photoluminescent layer 40 so that the photoluminescent material is excited. In response to receiving exciting radiation, a photoluminescent material converts the exciting radiation with a first wavelength into output radiation containing at least a second wavelength longer than the first wavelength. Additionally, one or more coatings 41 or sealing layers may be applied to the outer surface of the light forming assembly 20 to protect the photoluminescent layer 40 and various other portions of the assembly 20 from destruction and wear.

[0033] Next, with reference to FIG. 5 shows a detailed view of the photoluminescent layer 40 of the light-forming unit 20. The light-forming unit 20 is made similar to the light-forming unit 20 shown in FIG. 4, with similarly numbered elements having the same or comparable function and structure. Although not shown in FIG. 5, the LED sources 28 are in electrical communication with the electrodes 24, 34 and the power source so that the exciting radiation can be output from the LED sources 28.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the exciting radiation 42 may correspond to the exciting radiation having a first wavelength corresponding to the blue, violet and / or ultraviolet spectral color range. The blue spectral color range contains a wavelength range generally expressed as blue light (~ 440-500 nm). In some embodiments, the first wavelength may comprise a wavelength in the ultraviolet and near the ultraviolet color range (~ 100-450 nm). In an exemplary embodiment, the first wavelength may 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.

[0035] In operation, the exciting radiation 42 is transmitted to at least partially the light transmitting material of the photoluminescent layer 40. The exciting radiation is emitted from the LED sources 28 and can be configured such that the first wavelength corresponds to at least one absorption wavelength of one or more photoluminescent materials located in the photoluminescent layer 40. For example, the photoluminescent layer 40 may include an energy conversion layer 44 configured to convert the exciting radiation 42 with a first wavelength into output radiation 32 having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. The output radiation 32 may comprise one or more wavelengths, one of which may be longer than the first wavelength. The conversion of the exciting radiation 42 to the output radiation 32 using the energy conversion layer 44 is called the Stokes shift.

[0036] In some embodiments, output radiation 32 may correspond to multiple wavelengths. Each of the many wavelengths can correspond to essentially different spectral color ranges. For example, at least a second wavelength of the output radiation 32 may correspond to a plurality of wavelengths (eg, second, third, etc.). In some embodiments, multiple wavelengths may be combined in the output radiation 32 to look like essentially white light. Many wavelengths can be created by a red-emitting photoluminescent material having a wavelength of approximately 620-750 nm, a green emitting photoluminescent material having a wavelength of approximately 526-606 nm, and emitting a blue or blue-green color of the photoluminescent material having a wavelength longer than the first wavelength and approximately 430-525 nm. Many wavelengths can be used to create a wide variety of light colors from each of the photoluminescent portions converted from the first wavelength. Although specific colors are mentioned here: red, green, and blue, various photoluminescent materials can be used to create a wide variety of colors and combinations to control the appearance of the output radiation 32.

[0037] The photoluminescent materials corresponding to the photoluminescent layer 40 or the energy conversion layer 44 may contain organic or inorganic fluorescent dyes adapted to convert the exciting radiation 42 to the output radiation 32. For example, the photoluminescent layer 40 may contain a photoluminescent structure of rylene, xanthenes, porphyrins, phthalocyanines, or other materials corresponding to a specific Stokes shift, determined by the absorption range and fluorescence of the radiation. In some embodiments, the photoluminescent layer 40 may consist of at least one inorganic luminescent material selected from the group of luminescent substances. The inorganic luminescent material may more specifically be from the group of cerium doped garnets, for example, YAG: Ce. In this regard, each of the photoluminescent sites can be selectively activated with a wide range of wavelengths received from the exciting radiation 42, configured to excite one or more photoluminescent materials to emit the output radiation having the desired color.

[0038] Referring again to FIG. 5, the light forming unit 20 may further include a coating 41 in the form of at least one stability layer 48 configured to protect the photoluminescent material contained in the energy conversion layer 44 from photolytic and / or thermal degradation. Layer 48 stability can be made in the form of a separate layer, optically connected to and glued to the layer 44 of the energy conversion. The stability layer 48 may also be combined with the energy conversion layer 44. The photoluminescent layer 40 may also optionally include a protective layer 50 optically bonded to and adhered to the resistance layer 48 or any layer or coating to protect the photoluminescent layer 40 from physical and chemical degradation due to environmental influences.

[0039] The resistance layer 48 and / or the protective layer 50 can be combined with the energy conversion layer 44 to form a combined photoluminescent structure 52 by successively coating or printing each layer or sequentially laminating or indenting. Additionally, several layers can be combined by sequential coating, laminating or indentation to form a substructure. The substructure can then be laminated or depressed to form a combined photoluminescent structure 52. After the formation of the photoluminescent structure 52 can be deposited on the surface of at least one of the electrodes 24, 34 so that the exciting radiation 42 received from the LED sources 28 is converted into output radiation 32. Additional information regarding the construction of photoluminescent structures used in at least one photoluminescent portion of a vehicle is disclosed in US Pat. No. 8,232,533 to Kingsley et al., Entitled “PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTERIONERAGENTAL AND ELECTRIC ELEMENTS” SECONDARY EMISSION ”, filed July 31, 2012, the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0040] In some embodiments, the coating 41 may further comprise a colored layer applied to the light forming unit 20 and configured to control or adjust the appearance of the light forming unit 20 in an unlit state. As shown in FIG. 5, the colored layer may correspond to reference numbers 48 and / or 50. The colored layer may comprise at least partially a light-transmitting polymer layer or coating that may be applied to the outer surface of the light-forming unit 20. The colored layer may be painted in any color to suit the desired appearance of the light-forming unit 20.

[0041] Next, with reference to FIG. 6, an exemplary embodiment of the light-forming unit 60 is described. The light-forming unit 60 may be configured to emit a first output radiation 62, which may correspond to an output radiation 32 and a second output radiation 64. In some embodiments, the first output radiation 62 and the second output radiation 64 are emitted in response to the activation of at least one exciting radiation, for example, exciting radiation 42. Although the light-forming unit 60 is described with reference to a specific embodiment, the light-forming units may contain various features, characteristics and / or designs without deviating from the intent of the invention.

[0042] The light forming unit 60 may be configured to emit a first output radiation 62 and a second output radiation 64 independently. In order to provide independent activation of the first output radiation 62 and the second output radiation 64, the controller may be coupled to the first stacked emitting layer 92 and the second stacked emitting layer 94 of the light forming unit 60. Each of the stacked emitting layers may contain similar elements for the light forming unit 20, having similar sections, numbered in a similar manner for clarity.

[0043] The light-forming assembly 60 is shown in conjunction with at least one of the inner or outer surface 81, which may correspond to at least one panel or element 82 of the vehicle 12. The light-forming assembly 60 may be attached to the outer surface 81 using an adhesive layer 84. The adhesive layer 84 may correspond to various forms of adhesive, for example, acrylic adhesive, epoxy adhesive, etc. Thus, the light-forming unit 60 can be attached to the outer surface 81 essentially flush with one or more class A surfaces of at least one panel or element of the vehicle 12.

[0044] The mounting surface 86 of the light forming unit 60 may correspond to a substrate 22 or a film layer. The substrate 22 may correspond to a layer of dielectric material configured to protect and electrically isolate at least one emitting layer of the light-forming unit 60. In an exemplary embodiment, the light-forming unit 60 comprises a plurality of emitting layers in a multilayer configuration. In this configuration, the first stacked emitting layer 92 and the second stacked emitting layer 94 can be included in the light-forming unit to control the color of the light or radiation exiting the site.

[0045] Each of the stacked emitting layers 92 and 94 may include a first electrode 24 and a second electrode 34 with a printed LED layer 96 containing LED sources 28 printed on the surface between them. The printed LED layer 96 may be applied to at least one of the electrodes using a liquid suspension containing a concentration of LED light sources 28 distributed therein. The controller may be configured to activate the exciting radiation 42a and 42b from each of the printed LED layers 96 corresponding to each of the first laid emitting layer 92 and the second laid emitting layer 94, respectively. The controller can selectively activate the stacked emitting layers 92 and 94, delivering signals transmitted by a bus similar to the first bus 26 and the second bus 38.

[0046] The first laid-down emitting layer 92 may be configured to generate a first excitation radiation 42a to illuminate the first photoluminescent portion 40a in the first output radiation 62. The second laid-down emitted layer 94 may be configured to generate a second excitation radiation 42b to illuminate the second photoluminescent portion 40b in the second output radiation 64. In this configuration, the light forming unit 60 may be capable of independently illuminating the first portion of the radiating surface 97 in the first color of light by emitting the first output radiation 62. The light forming unit 60 may also be configured to illuminate the second portion of the radiating surface 97 in a second color of light by emitting a second output radiation 64. Additionally, in some embodiments, the light forming unit 60 may be configured to shift or adjust the color of the combined output radiation 62 and 64 from the radiation surface 96.

[0047] In a multilayer configuration, each of the stacked emitting layers 92 and 94 may be of substantially light transmitting materials such that the first exciting radiation 42a can be transmitted through the second stacked emitting layer 94. For example, the electrodes can be indium and tin oxide (ITO ), and at least one dielectric layer 36 of the printed LED layer 96 may be light emitting polymer and graphene. In this configuration, each of the exciting radiation may be emitted into the photoluminescent portions 40a and 40b to produce output radiation 62 and 64.

[0048] Output radiation 62 and 64 can be generated by each of the photoluminescent materials in the energy conversion layers of the respective photoluminescent sections 40a and 40b. Each of the stacked emitting layers 92 and 94 may be configured to emit exciting radiation 42a and 42b with the same wavelengths or substantially different wavelengths. The wavelength output by the LED sources 28 corresponding to each of the stacked emitting layers 92 and 94 can be aligned with the absorption range of one or more photoluminescent materials used in each of the respective photoluminescent sections 40a and 40b. In this configuration, the controller can activate the first stacked emitting layer 92 for emitting the exciting radiation 42a to excite the first photoluminescent portion 40a and activate the second stacked emitting layer 94 for emitting the exciting radiation 42b to excite the second photoluminescent portion 40b.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first photoluminescent portion 40a and the second photoluminescent portion 40b may correspond to a combined photoluminescent layer 98. The combined photoluminescent layer 98 may comprise one or more photoluminescent materials configured to have substantially different absorption ranges. For example, the first photoluminescent material may have a first absorption range configured to become excited in response to receiving the first exciting radiation 42a. In response to receiving the first exciting radiation 42a, the combined photoluminescent layer 98 can emit a first output radiation 62 in a first color.

[0050] The second photoluminescent material may have a second absorption range configured to become excited in response to receiving the second excitation radiation 42b. In response to receiving the second excitation radiation 42b, the combined photoluminescent layer 98 may emit a second output radiation 64 in a second color other than the first color. The second absorption range may differ significantly from the first absorption range so that the first absorption range and the second absorption range do not substantially overlap. Thus, each of the stacked emitting layers 92 and 94 can illuminate the combined photoluminescent layer 98. In this configuration, the combined photoluminescent layer 98 can be configured to emit each of the output radiation 62 and 64 essentially independently.

[0051] When using the combined photoluminescent layer 98 in the light-forming unit 60, portions of the backlight apparatus from which the first output radiation 62 and the second output radiation 64 are emitted can be the same. That is, the light forming unit 60 can be configured to selectively emit the first output radiation 62 and the second output radiation 64 from the emitting surface 97 of the light forming unit 60 so that the first output radiation 62 and the second output radiation 64 can be output from a substantially identical surface. In this configuration, one portion of the lighting apparatus, as discussed herein, can be configured to selectively emit the first output radiation 62 in the first color and the second output radiation 64 in the second color. Such a node 60 may be configured to use a portion of the lighting apparatus to selectively output the first output radiation 62 in the form of warm white light (for example, reddish or yellowish-white light) in response to the approach of the driver or passenger of the vehicle 12. Additionally, the node 60 can be configured to use the same portion of the lighting apparatus to selectively output the second output radiation 64 in the form of cold white light (for example, bluish or greenish-white light) in response to the removal of the driver or passenger of the vehicle 12.

[0052] Next, with reference to FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method 110 for controlling a backlight apparatus comprising a light-forming assembly. The light forming unit may correspond to the light forming units 20 and 60, which are discussed herein, or to any light forming unit. Light-forming units can be made on selected areas 16a-16g of the internal elements 14a-14g, external elements 18a-18j and various surfaces or surface areas of the vehicle 12. In this configuration, the invention provides a lighting system configured to produce attractive directional lighting emitted from different sections of the vehicle 12.

[0053] Method 110 may begin with initializing a lighting control system (112). The lighting control system may be initialized during a start-up procedure or sequence controlled by a controller, as discussed here. Further details regarding the controller are discussed with reference to FIG. 9. After initialization, the controller can monitor an area close to the vehicle 12 for a lighting event, for example, approaching or removing a driver and / or passenger (114) of a vehicle. The controller can detect and / or identify the approach or removal of the driver and / or passenger by identifying the proximity of a contactless device, such as a key fob, key, or other device that can be detected by a proximity sensor associated with the controller. The proximity sensor may correspond to an RF proximity sensor configured to identify the range or distance of the contactless device of the relative vehicle 12. In response to detecting the contactless device, the controller may be configured to identify whether the driver and / or passenger is approaching or moving away (116) vehicle.

[0054] The controller can also be configured to identify a lighting event if the driver and / or passenger of the vehicle 12 is located near the vehicle 12 using at least one of the imaging device or the intuitive lighting control. For example, if the controller is in communication with one or more cameras or imaging devices configured to view an area close to the vehicle 12, the controller may use image data received from the imaging device to identify an object corresponding to an approaching driver and / or passenger of the vehicle means 12. Additionally, the controller can use the signal received via the communication bus to identify that the door or closing element of the vehicle 12 is open or otherwise accessed (for example, actions are performed with the keypad, the handle moves, etc. .). Based on gaining access to the closing element of the vehicle 12, the controller may consider that the driver and / or passenger is approaching based on gaining access to the internal or external handle, an ignition event, or the plurality of additional vehicle conditions that can be transmitted to the controller. In this regard, the method can use many signals corresponding to various signals received by the controller to identify the approach or removal of the driver and / or passenger of the vehicle 12.

[0055] If, at decision step 116, the controller identifies that the driver and / or passenger is approaching, method 110 may continue at step 118. After detecting an approaching driver and / or passenger at step 118, the controller may activate output radiation (eg, output radiation 32 , first output radiation 62). Based on the detection of an approaching driver and / or passenger, the controller can selectively output the first output radiation 62 in the form of warm white light (e.g., reddish or yellowish-white light) to provide warm incoming light for the approaching driver and / or passenger (120). The controller may maintain the first output radiation 62 for a waiting period, which may correspond to the fact that the controller has identified that the driver and / or passenger has entered the vehicle (for example, using a door sensor), the expiration of a predetermined time interval and / or the detection of that the driver and / or passenger withdrew from the vehicle 12 (122). After step 122, the controller may deactivate the first output radiation 62 and return to step 114 (124).

[0056] If the controller determines at step 116 that the driver and / or passenger is moving away from the vehicle 12, the method 110 may continue at step 126. After detecting the departing driver and / or passenger at step 126, the controller can activate the output radiation (for example , output radiation 32, second output radiation 64). Based on the detection of a retreating driver and / or passenger, the controller can selectively output the first output radiation 62 as cold white light (e.g., bluish or greenish-white light) to provide cool light for the retiring driver and / or passenger (128). The controller may support the second output radiation 64 for a waiting period, which may correspond to the fact that the controller has identified that the driver and / or passenger has entered the vehicle (for example, using a door sensor), the expiration of a predetermined time interval and / or the detection of that the driver and / or passenger withdrew from the vehicle 12 (130). After step 130, the controller may deactivate the first output radiation 62 and return to step 114 (132).

[0057] Next, with reference to FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 140 for controlling a backlight apparatus comprising a light-forming assembly. The light forming unit may correspond to the light forming units 20 and 60, which are discussed herein, or to any light forming unit. Light-forming units can be made on selected areas 16a-16g of the internal elements 14a-14g, external elements 18a-18j and various surfaces or surface areas of the vehicle 12. In this configuration, the invention provides a lighting system configured to produce attractive directional lighting emitted from different sections of the vehicle 12.

[0058] Method 140 may begin with initializing a lighting control system (142). Method 140 may correspond to intuitive lighting control. The lighting control system may be initialized during a start-up procedure or sequence controlled by a controller, as discussed here. Further details regarding the controller are discussed with reference to FIG. 9. After initialization, the controller can detect the light intensity from the ambient light sensor in the form of an ambient light signal (144). The controller can store measurements of light intensities from the external light signal in memory (146). Further, the controller may detect a lighting event (148). The lighting event may correspond to opening or gaining access to the door of the vehicle 12, detecting a driver and / or passenger in the vicinity of the vehicle 12, and various other detection and activation methods regarding the condition of the vehicle 12, which can be transmitted to the controller via the communication bus.

[0059] After detecting a lighting event, the controller can calculate the intensity of the output radiation (for example, output radiation 32, first output radiation 62 and / or second output radiation 64) based on the history of lighting from the ambient light signal (150). With the calculated light intensity, the controller can activate the backlight, which may contain a light-forming unit (for example, light-forming nodes 20 and 60) (152). The light intensity can be calculated in accordance with the intensity of external lighting for the last time period. The time period may correspond to the time required by the human eye to get used to or adapt to the level of lighting that has changed.

[0060] For example, the time period may correspond to a predetermined period that occurred before the lighting event in step 148. The time period may correspond to a time interval of about 1-7 previous minutes before the lighting event. Additionally, the time interval may be approximately 5 minutes. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller may calculate the duration based on a change in the level of ambient lighting, which is determined based on the history of the level of ambient lighting. In various embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the illumination intensity of the output radiation for greater brightness if the time period preceding the illumination event corresponds to brighter external illumination than the current level of external illumination. Additionally, the controller may be configured to calculate the illumination intensity of the output radiation for greater dimness or lower brightness if the time period preceding the lighting event corresponds to a dimmer or less bright external illumination than the current level of external illumination. In this configuration, the controller may be configured to control the backlight to emit comfortable lighting based on a previous level of external lighting prior to the lighting event.

[0061] While the backlight is activated, the controller can continue to control the intensity of the ambient lighting using the ambient lighting signal (154). Based on the ambient light signal, the controller can update or adjust the intensity of the light emitted from the backlight apparatus (156). For example, the controller may increase the intensity if the level of ambient lighting increases, and decrease the intensity if the level of external lighting decreases. In this configuration, the backlight can adjust the intensity of the output radiation described herein based on real-time changes in ambient light, and / or can adjust the intensity in a delayed configuration to allow one or more eyes of the person in the vicinity of the vehicle 12 to become accustomed to ambient light conditions measured by an ambient light sensor in an existing lighting condition.

[0062] The method 140 may further continue to control the intensity of the output emissions until the controller determines a break in the activation period or lighting event, for example, removing or approaching the driver and / or passenger of the vehicle 12 (158). After a break, the controller can deactivate the backlight and return to step 144 to continue monitoring the intensity of the ambient light (160). The invention provides various methods and systems for controlling at least one illumination function of a backlight device for a vehicle. The various methods and steps described herein can be implemented in various combinations without deviating from the intent of the application to provide flexible solutions for illuminating a vehicle.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller may be coupled to a rain sensor configured to detect the presence of rain. For example, the vehicle 12 may be equipped with rain detection wipers having a rain sensor configured to detect rain on the windshield of the vehicle 12. Rain detection may be transmitted to the controller via a communication bus. The rain sensor may correspond to an optical / infrared sensor located close to the windshield of the vehicle 12. In response to the detection by the rain sensor that rain is present in the vehicle’s working environment 12, the controller may increase the level or intensity of the output radiation. The intensity of the output radiation can be increased by the controller for a predetermined time after rain is detected.

[0064] The methods and systems described herein provide various light sources and control circuits configured to provide lighting that is both visually attractive and also emitted at an intensity that is comfortable for observers of vehicle 12. For example, the intensity of the output radiation may be lower in environments with lower ambient light levels. The intensity of the output radiation may increase based on increased ambient illumination, rain detection, and various other conditions described herein. Thus, the invention provides various new systems for providing lighting for a vehicle 12.

[0065] With reference to FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a lighting apparatus 170 or system comprising a light-forming (s) assembly (s) 20 and / or 60. A controller 172 is in communication with the light-forming assembly via electrode leads. Controller 172 may be coupled to vehicle control module 174 via vehicle communication bus 176. Communication bus 176 may be configured to transmit signals to a controller 172 identifying various vehicle conditions. For example, communication bus 176 may be configured to transmit to a controller 172 a vehicle drive selection, an ignition state, an open or ajar door state, remote activation of a light-forming unit 20, or any other information or control signals that can be used to activate or control the output radiation 32, 62 and / or 64. Although the controller 172 is described herein, in some embodiments, the light forming unit 20 may be activated in response to electrical or electromechanical switching in response to the position of the closing member of the vehicle 12.

[0066] The controller 172 may include a processor 178 having one or more circuits configured to receive signals from the communication bus 176 and output signals to control the light-forming unit 20 to emit the output radiation 32. The processor 178 may be associated with a memory 180 made with the ability to store instructions for controlling the activation of the light-forming unit 20. The controller 172 may further be associated with an ambient light sensor 182. The ambient light sensor 182 may be configured to transmit a lighting state, for example, a brightness level or an external lighting intensity near the vehicle 12. In response to the external lighting level, the controller 172 may be configured to control the intensity of the light coming from the light-forming (them) node (s) 20 and / or 60. The intensity of the light emanating from the light-forming (s) node (s) 20 and / or 60 can be controlled by controlling the duty cycle, current or voltage supplied to the light-forming (s) node (s) 20 and / or 60.

[0067] The controller may further be coupled to proximity sensor 184. In various embodiments, the proximity sensor 184 may correspond to various components that may be associated with the controller 172. For example, the proximity sensor 182 may correspond to a Bluetooth sensor associated with a mobile device, a mobile phone signal detection device, a proximity radar (for example, a warning blind spots and / or lane change signal) and an ultrasonic proximity sensor (e.g. parking sensors in various areas of the exterior of the vehicle 12), cameras or imaging devices (e.g. 360-degree surveillance cameras or autonomous working cameras), and driver assistance cameras (e.g. rear view cameras, blind spots cameras, forward-facing cameras, etc.). Additionally, the proximity sensor 184 may correspond to a capacitive sensor, which may be located near the window, bumper and various panels or covers of the vehicle, electromagnetic sensors, laser sensors and / or radar systems that can be used in an adaptive cruise control system and / or driver assistance system. The proximity sensor may also correspond to at least one infrared sensor that can be used in a lane change warning system or a blind spot warning system.

[0068] In various configurations described herein, the proximity sensor 184 may be coupled to the controller 172 and configured to detect the proximity of the driver and / or passenger of the vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor may be configured to identify a specific person or group people detected by the proximity sensor 172. In such embodiments, the proximity sensor 182 can be configured to identify the owner of the vehicle 12, a family member of the owner of the vehicle 12, the owner of a vehicle of the same make or company as the vehicle 12, etc. In such embodiments, the controller 172 may use the proximity sensor 184 to identify the signature or signal of the mobile device 186.

[0069] Mobile device 186 may correspond to a key fob, key, mobile phone, etc. (for example, a device having a radio frequency signature) detected in the vicinity of the vehicle 12. Thus, the controller 172 can detect a specific person or person belonging to the group based on the radio frequency signal and activate the lighting operation in response to the detection. By identifying various groups of people associated with the vehicle 12 or the manufacturer of the vehicle 12, the controller may be configured to control the illumination operation of the backlight for emitting light at different times, in different modes, colors, etc. based on a specific group or person approaching or moving away from the vehicle 12.

[0070] The invention provides new systems and methods configured to illuminate at least a portion of a vehicle based on the detection of an approaching driver and / or passenger or object approaching a vehicle. In various embodiments, the invention provides various systems and methods configured to detect, and activate, and control a backlight. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention provides a system configured to determine the proximity or removal of a driver and / or passenger of a vehicle and illuminate a vehicle in a first color or a second color. The first color may correspond to a warm white light configured to meet an approaching driver and / or passenger, and the second color may correspond to a cool white light configured to escort a departing driver and / or passenger.

[0071] For the purpose of describing and defining these intentions, it is noted that the expressions “substantially” and “approximately” are used here to represent an inherent degree of uncertainty that can be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement or other representation. The expressions “essentially” and “approximately” are also used here to represent the degree to which the quantitative representation may vary from that indicated by reference, without leading to a change in the main function of the entity of consideration.

[0072] It should be understood that variations and modifications may be made in the above structure without deviating from the teachings of the present invention, and it should further be understood that such intentions are intended to be encompassed by the following claims, unless the claims are formulated in explicitly indicate otherwise.

Claims (33)

1. A vehicle lighting system comprising: a lighting device located on the vehicle; a proximity sensor configured to detect proximity of a contactless device worn by a passenger; and a controller configured to identify the approach and removal of the passenger based on the detected proximity, and control the lighting device for outputting the first radiation of light in response to the approach and the second radiation in response to removal. 2. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the first radiation corresponds to a first color of light and the second radiation corresponds to a second color different from the first color. 3. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the first radiation contains one or more wavelengths having a longer wavelength than the second radiation. 4. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the first color corresponds to a warmer color than the second color. 5. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 4, wherein each of the first radiation and the second radiation corresponds to essentially white light, each of which has shades corresponding to the first color and the second color, respectively. 6. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device comprises a first light generating layer printed in a first liquid suspension, configured to emit a first radiation. 7. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 6, wherein the lighting device comprises a second light generating layer printed in a second liquid suspension, configured to emit a second radiation. 8. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, further comprising an illumination sensor coupled to the controller, configured to transmit an external lighting signal to the controller to control the intensity of at least one of the first radiation and the second radiation. 9. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the proximity sensor corresponds to a detection antenna configured to detect the key fob as a non-contact device. 10. A vehicle lighting system comprising: a lighting device located on the vehicle, configured to output light radiation; an ambient light sensor configured to output an external illumination signal corresponding to an environment close to the vehicle; at least one detection sensor configured to output a detection signal to indicate passenger proximity; and a controller configured to: passenger identification near the vehicle and radiation activation based on the detection signal; and control the intensity of radiation based on the signal of external lighting. 11. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 10, in which the controller is also configured to monitor the external lighting signal and record changes in the lighting level reported by the external lighting signal. 12. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to determine the radiation intensity based on the last maximum value or minimum value of the lighting level for a given period of time. 13. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 12, in which a predetermined period of time corresponds to the most recent data for 30 seconds - 10 minutes, corresponding to the lighting level. 14. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to set the radiation intensity to an increased level based on the last maximum value, which is brighter relative to the level of illumination corresponding to the current lighting condition. 15. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to set the radiation intensity to a lower level based on the last minimum value that is darker relative to the lighting level corresponding to the current lighting condition. 16. The vehicle lighting system of claim 10, wherein the controller is also connected to a rain sensor located on the vehicle configured to output a rain signal. 17. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to increase radiation intensity in response to determining humidity from the rain sensor for a predetermined period of time. 18. A method for controlling a vehicle lighting system, comprising the steps of: detect the intensity of illumination of external lighting in the vicinity of the vehicle; detecting a lighting event configured to activate a light source; calculating the radiation intensity of the light source based on the detected light intensity; and activating the light source in response to a lighting event at the aforementioned radiation intensity, the radiation intensity is calculated based on the detected light intensity to activate the light source based on the lighting condition that occurred at a previous point in time. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising controlling a light intensity while the light source is activated and adjusting the light intensity based on the current level of light intensity. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein adjusting the light intensity based on the current light intensity level is smoothly adjusted relative to the current light level for a period of time corresponding to the difference between the current level and at least one of the maximum and minimum light intensity identified in the data.

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