WO2016001936A2 - Appareil de signalisation de direction pour un véhicule à moteur - Google Patents

Appareil de signalisation de direction pour un véhicule à moteur Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016001936A2
WO2016001936A2 PCT/IN2015/000267 IN2015000267W WO2016001936A2 WO 2016001936 A2 WO2016001936 A2 WO 2016001936A2 IN 2015000267 W IN2015000267 W IN 2015000267W WO 2016001936 A2 WO2016001936 A2 WO 2016001936A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
lighting
motor vehicle
turn
lighting elements
closed loop
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IN2015/000267
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English (en)
Other versions
WO2016001936A3 (fr
Inventor
Rohit Singh
Original Assignee
Rohit Singh
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Rohit Singh filed Critical Rohit Singh
Publication of WO2016001936A2 publication Critical patent/WO2016001936A2/fr
Publication of WO2016001936A3 publication Critical patent/WO2016001936A3/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/50—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating other intentions or conditions, e.g. request for waiting or overtaking
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/34—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction
    • B60Q1/38—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction using immovably-mounted light sources, e.g. fixed flashing lamps
    • B60Q1/381—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction using immovably-mounted light sources, e.g. fixed flashing lamps with several light sources activated in sequence, e.g. to create a sweep effect

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a direction signalling apparatus for motor vehicles.
  • the general purpose of the present invention is to provide a direction signalling apparatus for motor vehicle that is configured to include all advantages of the prior art and to overcome the drawbacks inherent in the prior art offering some added advantages.
  • the present invention provides a direction signaling apparatus for a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one lighting module having at least one closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements; and a control unit operatively coupled to the lighting module; sequentially illuminating the plurality of lighting elements in a counter-clockwise pattern for signaling a U-turn from a left side of the motor vehicle, and sequentially illuminating the plurality of lighting elements in a clockwise pattern for signaling a U-turn from a right side of the motor vehicle.
  • the present invention provides the direction signalling apparatus for indicating U-turns in a safe, visually reliable and simple manner
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a direction signalling apparatus for a motor vehicle,according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a lighting module of a direction signalling apparatus installed in a central rear portion of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate various functional states of the lighting module of the direction signalling apparatus of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a pair of lighting modules of a direction signalling apparatus installed on two corners of the rear portion of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 5A-5F illustrate various functional states of the lighting module of the direction signalling apparatus of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate a lighting module of the direction signalling apparatus having a pentagonal configuration along with various functional states thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate a lighting module of the direction signalling apparatus having an oval configuration along with various functional states thereof, according to another embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a lighting module having a square configuration along with various functional states thereof, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a pair of lighting modules of a direction signalling apparatus installed on two corners of the front portion of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a pair of lighting modules of a direction signalling apparatus installed on a side portion of a motor vehicle, according to another embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 1 1 illustrates a lighting module of a direction signalling apparatus installed on a side portion of a motor bike, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 12 illustrates a lighting module for a direction signalling apparatus comprising an outer looped arrangement of LEDs and an inner looped arrangement of LEDs, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 13 illustrate a sectional view of a lighting module of a direction signalling apparatus installed on a body of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate a lighting module comprising an outer opaque sub-module and an inner reflecting surface and various functional states thereof, according to another embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic diagram of a direction signalling with a detail illustration of the components of a control unit of the direction signalling apparatus.
  • FIG. 16 illustrates a circuit diagram of interaction of a control IC unit of the control unit of FIG. 14 with a lighting module.
  • the term 'plurality' refers to the presence of more than one of the referenced item and the terms 'a', 'an', and 'at least' do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
  • the present invention relates to a direction signalling apparatus that can be incorporated in motor vehicles for providing a U-turn signal. Additionally, the direction signalling apparatus can provide for signalling a left turn or a right turn.
  • the direction signalling apparatus of the present invention can be incorporated as a separate unit in existing motor vehicles. Alternatively, or in addition, the direction signalling apparatus can be included as an inherent component in new motor vehicles.
  • the direction signalling apparatus is capable of being incorporated in all kinds of motor vehicles ranging from 2-wheelers to 16 wheelers. Some examples of motor vehicles include cars, vans, trucks, buses, trailers, motorbikes, scooters, and the like.
  • the direction signalling apparatus of the present invention provides for indicating U-turns in a safe, visually reliable and simple manner.
  • a direction signalling apparatus 100 for a motor vehicle.
  • the apparatus 100 includes alighting module 102 and a control unit 104.
  • the lighting module 102 operates on a user command 106, which can be given by a driver of the motor vehicle.
  • the user command 106 operates the control unit 104, which is in operatively coupled with the lighting module 102.
  • the control unit 104 is configured to send various commands to the lighting module 102for indicating directional signals, such as the U-turn, left turn and right turn signals.
  • the apparatus 100 comprises a user switch (not shown) operatively coupled to the control unit 104.
  • the user switch is capable of receiving user command from a driver of the motor vehicle and communicating such commands to the control unit.
  • the user switch can be a separate module installed in vicinity of a driver/user.
  • the user switch can be incorporated as an add-on component in the existing system of driver controls.
  • the control unit 104 itself has a user interface that can be directly accessed by a driver/user for giving commands.
  • the lighting module 102 includes at least one closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements operatively coupled to the control unit 104.
  • lighting elements include, but are not limited to light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), polymer light emitting diodes (PLEDs), and lighting elements comprising similar material technologies of small molecules and subsequently phosphorescent organic lighting. Therefore, the lighting module 102 of the present invention can use any suitable lighting element capable of producing required light for the apparatus 100.
  • the terms "lighting module”, “lighting elements”, and “LEDs” are interchangeably used for referring to the light source of the direction signalling apparatus of the present invention. The functioning of the lighting module 102 to provide for U-turn, left turn or right turn signalling is described with reference to below description and accompanying figures.
  • FIG. 2 illustrated is a lighting module 202 of a direction signalling apparatus, similar to the apparatus 100, installed in a central rear portion of the motor vehicle 210, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the specific embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 is directed towards a direction signalling apparatus which can be used in conjunction with conventional or existing motor vehicles, such as the motor vehicle 210, which is already installed with rear direction jndicator-lights 212 and 214.
  • the direction signalling apparatus of FIG. 2 can be incorporated as an inherent component in new motor vehicles.
  • the lighting module 202 is centrally installed on a rear portion 216 of the motor vehicle 210 and in between the rear direction- indicator lights 212 and 214.
  • the direction signalling apparatus incorporated in the motor vehicle 210 also includes a control unit (not shown), such as the control unit 104 of FIG. 1. It is to be understood that the control unit and/or the user switch may be installed in the vicinity of a driver's seat allowing a driver to suitably operate the direction signalling apparatus.
  • the lighting module 202 of the direction signalling apparatus is configured to indicate a U-turn signal, whereas the rear direction indicator-lights 212 and 214 are configured to indicate the left and right turn signals respectively.
  • the lighting module 202 comprises a closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements, such as lighting elements 220a, 220b, 220c and 220d (hereinafter collectively referred to as lighting elements 220).
  • the closed loop shape of FIGS. 3 A and 3B is due to the arrangement of individual lighting elements arranged adjacent to each other to form a circular shape.
  • the lighting elements 220 are LEDs.
  • FIG. 3A illustrates a functional state of the lighting module 202 for signalling a U-turn from a left side of the motor vehicle 210.
  • the lighting elements 220 sequentially illuminate in a counter-clockwise pattern, shown with a directional arrow A.
  • an illumination intensity of the lighting element 220a appears greater than the illumination intensity of 220b.
  • the illumination intensity of lighting element 220b appears greater than the illumination intensity of lighting element 220c that in turn has greater illumination intensity than the lighting element 220d. Therefore, the illumination intensity becomes sequentially stronger and weaker in a cqunter-clockwise pattern giving the effect of an indication shown by arrow A, thereby signalling a U-turn to be taken from the left side of the motor vehicle 210.
  • FIG. 3B illustrates a functional state of the lighting module 202 for signalling a U-turn from a right side of the motor vehicle 210.
  • the lighting elements 220 sequentially illuminate in a clockwise pattern, shown with a directional arrow B.
  • an illumination intensity of the lighting element 220a appears greater than the illumination intensity of 220d.
  • the illumination intensity of lighting element 220d appears greater than the illumination intensity of lighting element 22.0c thai in turn has greater illumination intensity than the lighting element 220b. Therefore, the illumination intensity becomes Sequentiall stronger and weaker in a clockwise pattern giving the effect of an indication shown by arrow- B, thereby signalling a U-turn to be taken from the right side of the motor vehicle 230.
  • a pair of lighting .modules 402a and 402b of a direction signal lin apparatus (such as the -apparatus 100) installed on two corners of rear portion of a motor vehicle 410.
  • the- lighting module 402a is disposed on a left side of the motor vehicle and the lighting module 02b is disposed on a left side of the motor vehicie.Eaeh of the lighting nodules 402a and 402b is structurally and functionally similar to the lighting module 202 as explained in conjunction with the FIGS. 3A and 3B.
  • the conventional rear direction-indicator lights (such as, the rear direction-indicator lights 212 and 234 of FIG. 2) can be replaced with lighting module 402a and 402b by incorporating a direction signalling apparatus in the motor vehicle 410.
  • the lighting modules 402a and 402b are spaced apart from each other and installed on corners 4.12 and 414 of a rear portion 416 of the motor vehicle 410.
  • the direction signalling apparatus also includes a control unit (not shown), such as the control unit 104 of FIG. 1. It is to be understood that the control unit and/or the user switch may be installed in the vicinity of a driver's seat -allowing a driver to .suitably operate the direction signal 1i g apparatus ,
  • the direction signalling apparatu incorporated in the motor vehicle 410 of FIG. 4 is configured to Indicate a U-turn signal from the left side of the motor vehicle 410, & U-tur signal from the right side of the motor vehicle 410, a left turn signal and a right turn signal.
  • These four different functional modes are illustrated in PIGS, 5A- SF.As shown in FIG. 5 A, SC and SO, the lighting module 402acoroprises a closed loop of plurality of lighting elements, such as lighting elements 520a, 520b, 520c and 520d (hereinafter collectively referred, to as lighting elements 520). Also, as shown in FIG.
  • the lighting module 402b comprises a closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements, such as lighting elements 540a, 540b, 540c and 540d (hereinafter collectively referred to as lighting elements 540).
  • FIG. 5A illustrates a functional state of the lighting module 402a for signalling a U-turn from a left side of the motor vehicle 410.
  • the lighting elements 520 sequentially illuminate in a counter-clockwise pattern, shown with a directional arrow A.
  • an illumination intensity of the lighting element 520a appears greater than the illumination intensity of 520b.
  • the illumination intensity of lighting element 520b appears greater than the illumination intensity of lighting element 520c that in turn has greater illumination intensity than the lighting element 520d.
  • the illumination intensity becomes sequentially stronger and weaker in a cqunter-clockwise pattern giving the effect of an indication shown by arrow A, thereby signalling a U-turn to be taken from the left side of the motor vehicle 410.
  • the lighting module 402b will also function in a similar fashion as what is described for lighting module 402a with reference to FIG. 5A. Specifically, the lighting elements of the lighting module 402b illuminate in a counter-clockwise pattern for signalling a U-turn from a left side of the motor vehicle 410.
  • FIG. 5B illustrates a functional state of the lighting module 402a for signalling a U-turn from a right side of the motor vehicle 410.
  • the lighting elements 520 sequentially illuminate in a clockwise pattern, shown with a directional arrow B.
  • an illumination intensity of the lighting element 520a appears greater than the illumination intensity of 520d.
  • the illumination intensity of the lighting element 520d appears greater than the illumination intensity of the lighting element 520c that in turn has greater illumination intensity than the lighting element 520b.
  • the illumination intensity becomes sequentially stronger and weaker in a clockwise pattern giving the effect of an indication shown by arrow B, thereby signalling a U-turn to be taken from the right side of the motor vehicle 410.
  • the lighting module 402b will also function in a similar fashion as what is described for lighting module 402a with reference to FIG. 5B. Specifically, the lighting elements of the lighting module 402b illuminate in a clockwise pattern for signalling a U-turn from a right side of the motor vehicle 410.
  • FIGS. 5C and 5D illustrate a functional state of the lighting module 402a for signalling a left turn.
  • all lighting elements 520 switch on at once, and in FIG. 5D all lighting elements 520 switch off at once, thereby creating a blinking effect for signalling a left turn.
  • This method of signalling a left turn is similar to signalling of left turn by indicator light 212 of FIG. 2.
  • FIGS. 5E and 5F illustrate a functional state of the lighting module 402b for signalling a right turn.
  • all lighting elements 540 switch on at once, and in FIG. 5F all lighting elements 540 switch off at opce, thereby creating a blinking effect for signalling a left turn.
  • This method of signalling a left turn is similar to signalling of left turn by indicator light 214 of FIG. 2.
  • the lighting elements 520 of the lighting module 402 and the lighting modules 540 of the lighting module 402b can switch on/off simultaneously such that both lighting modules 402a and 402b are blinking for performing the conventional function of parking lights.
  • the shape of the lighting module (such as the lighting module 202) is not limited to a circular pattern and can be extended to any shape that can incorporate the concept of a closed loop lighting arrangement for signalling of U turns. Few such examples are discussed herein with reference to FIGS. 6A-6D, FIGS. 7A- 7D, and FIGS. 8A-8D.
  • FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate a lighting module 602 of the direction signalling apparatus having a pentagonal configuration along with various functional states thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the lighting module 602 is not limited to a pentagonal shape, and can be embodied in any polygonal shape.
  • the lighting module 602 can have a hexagonal shape or an octagonal shape.
  • the lighting module 602 comprises a closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements, such as lighting elements 620a, 620b, 620c and 620d (hereinafter collectively referred tp as lighting elements 620).
  • FIGS. 6A-6D The four different functional modes of the lighting module 602 are illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6D. Specifically, FIG. 6A illustrates the functioning of U-turn signalling from the left side of the motor vehicle. FIG. 6B illustrates the functioning of U-turn signalling from the right side of the motor vehicle. FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate the functioning of left turn signal or the right turn signal. It should be noted herein that the lighting module 602 can be controlled only to function as U-turn signalling apparatus, wherein conventional left/right turn signal indicators are already present.
  • FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate a lighting module 702 of the direction signalling apparatus having an oval configuration along with various functional states thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the lighting module 702 comprises a closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements, such as lighting elements 720a, 720b, 720c and 720d (hereinafter collectively referred to as lighting elements 720).
  • the four different functional modes of the lighting module 702 are illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7D.
  • FIG. 7A illustrates the functioning of U-turn signalling from the left side of the motor vehicle.
  • FIG. 7B illustrates the functioning of U-turn signalling from the right side of the motor vehicle.
  • FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate the functioning of left turn signal or the right turn signal.
  • the lighting module 702 can be controlled only to function as U-turn signalling apparatus, wherein conventional left/right turn signal indicators are already present.
  • FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a lighting module 802 of the direction signalling apparatus having a square configuration along with various functional states thereof, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the lighting module 802 comprises a closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements, such as lighting elements 820a, 820b, 820c and 820d (hereinafter collectively referred to as lighting elements 820).
  • the four different functional modes of the lighting module 802 are illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8D.
  • FIG. 8A illustrates the functioning of U-turn signalling from the left side of the motor vehicle.
  • FIG. 8B illustrates the functioning of U-turn signalling from the right side of the motor vehicle.
  • FIGS. 8C and 8D illustrate the functioning of left turn signal or the right turn signal.
  • the lighting module 802 can be controlled only to function as U-turn signalling apparatus, wherein conventional left/right turn signal indicators are already present.
  • the lighting modules of the direction signally apparatus can be installed on various sections of a motor vehicle.
  • the lighting module is installed in a central rear portion of the motor vehicle.
  • the lighting module can be installed on two corners of the rear portion of a motor vehicle.
  • the lighting modules can be installed in front portion and/or side portion of the motor vehicle.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a pair of lighting modules 902a and 902b of the direction signalling apparatus installed on two corners of the front portion 912 of a motor vehicle 910 (for example, a bus or a truck).
  • a motor vehicle 910 for example, a bus or a truck.
  • Each of the lighting modules902a and 902b is structurally and functionally similar to the lighting modules402a and 402b as explained in conjunction with the FIGS. 4 and 5A-5F.
  • the conventional front direction-indicator lights can be replaced with lighting modules 902a and 902b by incorporating a direction signalling apparatus in the motor vehicle 910.
  • the indication signal provided by the lighting modules 902a and 902b of the direction signalling apparatus assists the drivers of motor vehicles and pedestrians approaching the motor vehicle 910 to identify the direction in which motor vehicle 910 will turn.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a pair of lighting modules 1002a and 1002b of the direction signalling apparatus installed on a side portion 1012 of a motor vehicle 1010 (for example, a bus). As illustrated in FIG. 10, the lighting modules 1002a and 1002b are disposed on the side portion 1012 at two extreme corners. Each of the lighting nodulesl002a and 1002b is structurally and functionally similar to the lighting modules402a and 402b as explained in conjunction with the FIGS. 4 and 5A-5F.
  • the indication signal provided by the lighting modules 1002a and 1002b of the direction signalling apparatus assists the drivers of motor vehicles and pedestrians on the side of the motor vehicle 1010 to identify the direction in which motor vehicle 1010 will turn.
  • FIG. 1 illustrated is a lighting module 1 102 of direction signalling apparatus installed on a side portion 1 1 12 of a motorbike 1 1 10.
  • a lighting module (not shown) similar to the lighting module 1 102 can be installed on other side of the motorbike 1 110.
  • the lighting module 1200 comprises an outer closed loop 1210 and an inner closed loop 1220.
  • the outer closed loop 1210 has a plurality of lighting elements, such as, 1212a, 1212b, 1212c, and 1212d (hereinafter collectively referred to as lighting elements 1212).
  • the lighting elements 1212 are similar to the plurality of lighting elements described with reference to FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8, such as light elements 220, 520,540, 620, 720, and 820.
  • the inner closed loop 1220 has a plurality of lighting elements, such as, 1222a, 1222b, 1222c, and 1222d (hereinafter collectively referred to as lighting elements 1222).
  • the lighting elements 1222 are similar to the plurality of lighting elements described with reference to FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8, such as light elements 220, 520, 540, 620, 720, and 820.
  • the lighting module 1200 is configured to have various functional states adapted to indicate a U-turn signal, a left turn signal and a right turn signal.
  • one of the outer and inner closed loops 1210 and 1220 lighting unit 1200 is adapted to exhibit a counter-clockwise sequential illumination for signalling a U-turn from the left side of a motor vehicle.
  • the other closed loop is adapted to exhibit a clockwise sequential illumination for signalling a U-turn from the right side of a motor vehicle.
  • the outer closed loop 1210 of the lighting elements 1212a, 1212b, 1212c, and 1212d is configured to exhibit a counter-clockwise sequential illumination. Due to the sequential illumination in a counter-clockwise pattern, an illumination intensity of the lighting element 1212a appears greater than the illumination intensity of 1212b. Similarly, the illumination intensity of lighting element 1212b appears greater than the illumination intensity of lighting element 12120c that in turn has greater illumination intensity than the lighting element 1212d. Therefore, the illumination intensity becomes sequentially stronger and weaker in a counter-clockwise pattern, giving the effect of signalling a U-turn to be taken from the left side of the motor vehicle.
  • the inner closed loop 1220 of the lighting elements 1222a, 1222b, 1222c, and 1222d is configured to exhibit a clockwise sequential illumination. Due to the sequential illumination in a clockwise pattern, an illumination intensity of the lighting element 1222a appears greater than the illumination intensity of 1222d. Similarly, the illumination intensity of lighting element 1222d appears greater than the illumination intensity of lighting element 1222c that in turn has greater illumination intensity than the lighting element 1222b. Therefore, the illumination intensity becomes sequentially stronger and weaker in a clpckwise pattern giving the effect of signalling a U-turn to be taken from the right side of the motor vehicle
  • the lighting elements of lighting module 1200 when installed on two corners of rear portion of a motor vehicle can be used to indicate a left turn signal and a right turn signal similar to the plurality of lighting elements described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8, such as light elements 520, 540, 620, 720, and 820.
  • the lighting elements of the lighting module 1200 can switch on/off such that both lighting elements 1212 and 1222 are blinking for performing the conventional function of parking lights.
  • the lighting unit 1200 of the present embodiment can be incorporated in the lighting modules 602, 702, and 802 (illustrated and explained in conjunction with FIGS. 6-8) for having different structural configurations.
  • the lighting module 602 can include a pair of closed loops, such as the first and second closed loopsl210 and 1220, having a pentagonal shape.
  • the lighting module 702 can include a pair of closed loops having a substantially oval shape.
  • the lighting module 802 can include a pair of closed loops having a square shape.
  • FIG. 13 illustrated is a sectional view of a lighting module 1300 installed on a body 1310 of a motor vehicle, such as the motor vehicle 210 shown in FIG. 2.
  • the lighting module 1300 includes a cover 1320 (for example, a transparent acrylic sheet) for covering lighting elements 1330.
  • the cover 1320 is supported on the body 1310 with the help of a projecting body element 1340.
  • the projecting body element 1340 along with the cover 1320 forms a closed housing for the lighting elements 1330.
  • the lighting module 1300 also includes wire 1350 for electrical connection to the control unit of the direction signalling apparatus via a slot 1312 on the body 1310.
  • FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c illustrated is a lighting module 1402 of a direction signalling apparatus, similar to the apparatus 100, installed in a central rear portion of the motor vehicle 1410, according to an another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the specific embodiment depicted in FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c is directed towards a direction signalling apparatus which can be used in conjunction with conventional or existing motor vehicles, such as the motor vehicle 1410, which is already installed with rear direction indicator- lights 1430 and 1440.
  • the direction signalling apparatus of FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c can be incorporated as an inherent component in new motor vehicles.
  • the lighting module 1402 is centrally installed on a rear portion 1450 of the motor vehicle 1410 and in between the rear direction- indicator lights 1430 and 1440.
  • the direction signalling apparatus incorporated in the motor vehicle 1410 also includes a control unit (not shown), such as the control unit 104 of FIG. 1. It is to be understood that the control unit and/or the user switch may be installed in the vicinity of a driver's seat allowing a driver to suitably operate the direction signalling apparatus.
  • the lighting module 1402 is comprises an outer opaque sub-module 1460 and an inner reflecting sub-module 1470.
  • An inner surface 1462 of the outer opaque sub-module 1460 comprises a closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements 1480 such that the closed loop of a plurality of lighting elements 1480 are hidden behind the outer opaque sub-module 1460.
  • a surface 1472 is configured to reflect the light coming from the plurality of lighting elements 1480.
  • the lighting module 1402 of the direction signalling apparatus is configured tp indicate a U-turn signal, whereas the rear direction indicator-lights 1430 and 1440 are configured to indicate the left and right turn signals respectively.
  • FIGS. 14b and 14c illustrated are various functional states of the lighting module 1402, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 14b illustrates a functional state of the lighting module 1402 for signalling a U-turn from a left side of the motor vehicle 1410.
  • the lighting elements 1480 sequentially illuminate in a counter-clockwise pattern, shown with a directional arrow A.
  • reflecting intensity units 1480a, 1480b, 1480c and 1480d are generated from corresponding lighting elements 1480.
  • the reflecting intensity unit 1480a appears in having greater intensity than reflecting intensity unit 1480b.
  • the reflecting intensity unit 1480b appears greater than reflecting intensity unit 1480c that in turn has greater intensity than reflecting intensity unit 1480d. Therefore, the reflecting intensity received from the surface 1472 becomes sequentially stronger and weaker in a counter-clockwise pattern giving the effect of an indication shown by arrow A, thereby signalling a U-turn to be taken from the left side of the motor vehicle 1410.
  • FIG. 14c illustrates a functional state of the lighting module 1402 for signalling a U-turn from a right side pf the motor vehicle 1410.
  • the lighting elements 1480 sequentially illuminate in a clockwise pattern, shown with a directional arrow B.
  • reflecting intensity units 1480a, 1480d, 1480c and 1480b are generated from corresponding lighting elements 1480.
  • the reflecting intensity unit 1480a appears in having greater intensity than reflecting intensity unit 1480d.
  • FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic diagram of a direction signalling with a detail illustration of the components of a control unit 104 of the direction signalling apparatus 100.
  • the control unit 104 includes a power control unit 104a which is operatively coupled with and an integrated circuit(IC) control unit 104b.
  • the Power to this control unit 104 is supplied by the existing power supply of the vehicle via power control unit 104a.
  • the control unit 104 produces a variety of signals depending upon the user command 106 which operates the light module 102 which is in operative communication with control unit 104, causing it to on off (flash) and move in one of a variety of specific frequencies and directions for indicating directional signals, such as the U-turn, left turn and right turn signals.
  • the example of the direction of the movement of the light module 102 may be in the form of sequential clock wise pattern, sequential counter-clock wise pattern, on and off.
  • IC refers to a piece of specially prepared silicon (or another semiconductor) into which a very complex electronic circuit is etched using photographic techniques. Silicon chips can contain computer processors, memory and special devices. The chip is very fragile and so is normally surrounded by a tough plastic package, and electrical contact with the chip is provided through metal legs sticking out of the package. Performance of the IC is higher since the components switch quickly, consuming little power.
  • the IC control unit 104b comprises a timer, square wave frequencies and a simple reverse forward light chaser circuit.
  • the timer used herein is IC 555 which is used in a variety of timer, pulse generation, and oscillator applications.
  • the IC 555 can be used to provide time delays, as an oscillator, and as a flip-flop element.
  • IC 555 is an 8pin timer IC and has mainly two modes of operation; monostable and astable. In monostable mode time delay of the pulses can be precisely controlled by an external resistor and a capacitor wherein IC 555 functions as a one-shot pulse generator.
  • Applications include timers, missing pulse detection, bouncefree switches, touch switches, frequency divider, capacitance measurement, pulse-width modulation (PWM) and the like .
  • the frequency & duty cycle are controlled by two external resistors and a capacitor wherein 555 can operate as an oscillator.
  • Uses include LED and lamp flashers, pulse generation, logic clocks, tone generation, security alarms, pulse position modulation and the like.
  • IC 555 is very commonly used for generating time delays and pulses. In the present invention astable timer IC 555 is used.
  • Square wave frequency refers to a non-sinusoidal periodic waveform in which the amplitude alternates at a steady frequency between fixed minimum and maximum values, with the same duration at minimum and maximum. The transition between minimum to maximum is instantaneous for an ideal square wave; this is not realisable in physical systems. Square waves are often encountered in electronics and signal processing.
  • the square wave frequencies is provided by the timer IC 555 which is further fed into the simple reverse forward light chaser circuit which is described below.
  • the simple reverse forward light chaser circuit refers to an electronic configuration which is able tp generate or illuminate a group of light module in some predetermined sequence.
  • the simple reyerse forward light chaser circuit used herein is a popular IC 4017.
  • the IC 4017 is very commonly employed for making sequencer circuit.
  • IC 4017 is a 16 pin dual in line IC.
  • the dual in line JC is an electronic device package with is a rectangular housing and two parallel rows of electrical connecting pins. The package may be through-hole mounted to a printed circuit board or inserted in a socket.
  • the IC 4017 is very commonly employed for making light module sequencer circuit which can be used for many interesting light pattern generations, and can be used for various decorative purposes.
  • the control unit 104 as per the command received from the user command 106 deciding to take U-turn or left turn or right turn makes the lighting module 102 on/off (flash) and move in one of a variety of specific frequencies and directions for indicating directional signals.
  • the flashing and movement of the lighting module 102 is done with the help of timer, square wave frequencies and a simple reverse forward light chaser circuit as described above which is present in control unit 104.
  • FIG. 16 illustrates a circuit diagram of interaction of IC control unit 104b of the control unit 104 of FIG. 15 with a lighting module 102.
  • the IC control unit 104b comprises IC 4017 and IC 555.
  • the IC 4017 has 10 outputs which generates the sequencing high outputs in the order of the pin outs - 3, 2, 4,7, 10, 1,5, 6, 9, 1 1 (not shown in the figure) which is specifically the lighting module 102 as described in FIG. 1& FIG. 15.
  • the sequencing takes place in response to a frequency applied at pin 14 of the IC 4017.
  • Pin 16 is the positive supply input
  • pin 8 is the negative supply input or the ground line
  • pin 13 is used clock inhibit and is connected to ground
  • pin 12 (not shown in the figure) is the clock carry out and is not required for single IC 4017 applications, so it is left open.
  • Pin 15 is the reset pin, and it resets the output to the start pin in response to a positive response to it.
  • the pin 15 of the IC is connected to the second last pin 9 of the IC 4017, which means the output resets every-time the sequencing reaches pin 9, and the moment this pin goes high, the IC 4017 repeats the action by resetting the system.
  • pin 14 is a clock input and is fed with a square wave frequency.
  • the square wave frequency is obtained from IC 555.
  • IC 555 is connected via pin 14 with the IC 4017 for providing IC 4017 with the square wave frequency for the sequencing of the pin outs which is further connected with the light module 102.
  • the light module connected with the pin outs of the IC 4017 just make the pin outs of the IC 4017 to move in to and fro manner by forcing first 5 pin outs move in a forward chasing pattern, while the following 5 pin outs are redirected to same light module but in opposite direction, making the pattern look like to and fro chasing motion.
  • the IC 555 is an 8 pin IC.
  • Pin 1 is for ground pin 2 is for trigger which is basically voltage below 1/3 Vcc to trigger the pulse.
  • Pin 3 is an output which is pulsating output which is fed into the IC 4017 in the embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pin 4 is for reset which is basically active low and interrupts the timing interval at output,
  • Pin 5 is a control voltage which basically provides access to the internal voltage divider; default 2/3 Vcc,
  • pin 6 is a threshold wherein pulse ends when the yoltage is greater than control,
  • pin 7 is discharge which is open collector output to discharge the capacitor and pin 8 belongs to supply voltage, which is of range of 5V (4.5V - 16 V).
  • circuit diagram described in the FIG. 16 is arranged in its normal sequencing or chaser mode, however the clever introduction of the diodes at the outputs of the IC make the sequencing appear to be reversing and forwarding from start to finish and vice versa.
  • the circuit diagram as illustrated in FIG.16 uses resistors Rl, R2, R3 and R4 and capacitors CI and C2. Different values of resistor and capacitor creates different flash rates and sequencing of the lighting module 102.
  • the resistor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element. Resistors act to reduce current flow, and, at the same time, act to lower voltage levels within circuits.
  • the capacitor is a passive two-terminal electrical component used to store energy electrostatically in an electric field. Specifically, capacitors are common components of electronic circuits, used almost as frequently as resistors. The basic difference between the two is the fact that capacitor resistance (called reactance) depends on the frequency of the signal passing through the item.
  • the value of capacitor C 1 decides the sequencing of the lighting module 102.
  • the applied value of capacitor CI is nominal (for example 10 nano farad)
  • the sequencing of the lighting module is at least in the clockwise direction.
  • the applied value of capacitor CI is greater than the nominal value as described above then the sequencing takes place in opposite direction to the direction as described for nominal value of the capacitor.
  • the value of the capacitor CI is even more than that of the value as described above for second sequencing, then the entire lighting module will flash (On/Off).
  • the value of the capacitor CI is changed by the driver of the motor vehicle in the form of user command 106as described in FIG. 1 & FIG. 15.
  • the value of capacitor is changed by the help of the switch (not shown) which is installed near to the driver seat of the motor vehicle.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil de signalisation de direction pour un véhicule à moteur, ledit appareil comprenant : au moins un module d'éclairage comportant au moins une boucle fermée d'une pluralité d'éléments d'éclairage; et une unité de commande couplée fonctionnellement au module d'éclairage, activant de façon séquentielle la pluralité d'éléments d'éclairage dans le sens inverse des aiguilles d'une montre pour signaler un demi-tour à partir d'un côté gauche du véhicule à moteur et activant de façon séquentielle la pluralité d'éléments d'éclairage dans le sens des aiguilles d'une montre pour signaler un demi-tour à partir d'un côté droit du véhicule à moteur.
PCT/IN2015/000267 2014-06-30 2015-06-26 Appareil de signalisation de direction pour un véhicule à moteur WO2016001936A2 (fr)

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Cited By (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2020212449A1 (fr) * 2019-04-17 2020-10-22 Audi Ag Dispositif d'éclairage pour un véhicule automobile servant à produire une animation lumineuse
FR3103257A1 (fr) * 2019-11-20 2021-05-21 Psa Automobiles Sa Dispositif d’éclairage à défilement en train d’onde
EP3981675A4 (fr) * 2019-06-04 2022-08-03 Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Phare pour véhicule à deux roues
EP4039541A4 (fr) * 2019-09-30 2023-10-18 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Dispositif de commande d'éclairage et procédé de commande d'éclairage pour lampe de véhicule, et système de lampe de véhicule
EP4039542A4 (fr) * 2019-09-30 2023-10-18 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Dispositif de commande d'éclairage et procédé de commande d'éclairage pour lampe de véhicule, et système de lampe de véhicule

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5731755A (en) * 1996-08-27 1998-03-24 Boxer; Caryn Vehicular U-turn indicator
US7002458B2 (en) * 2003-09-02 2006-02-21 Exon Science, Inc. Vehicular turning indicator

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2020212449A1 (fr) * 2019-04-17 2020-10-22 Audi Ag Dispositif d'éclairage pour un véhicule automobile servant à produire une animation lumineuse
CN113692366A (zh) * 2019-04-17 2021-11-23 奥迪股份公司 用于产生光动画的用于机动车的发光设备
EP3981675A4 (fr) * 2019-06-04 2022-08-03 Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Phare pour véhicule à deux roues
US11952071B2 (en) 2019-06-04 2024-04-09 Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Two-wheeled vehicle lamp turn signal
EP4039541A4 (fr) * 2019-09-30 2023-10-18 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Dispositif de commande d'éclairage et procédé de commande d'éclairage pour lampe de véhicule, et système de lampe de véhicule
EP4039542A4 (fr) * 2019-09-30 2023-10-18 Stanley Electric Co., Ltd. Dispositif de commande d'éclairage et procédé de commande d'éclairage pour lampe de véhicule, et système de lampe de véhicule
FR3103257A1 (fr) * 2019-11-20 2021-05-21 Psa Automobiles Sa Dispositif d’éclairage à défilement en train d’onde

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