U.S. patent application number 15/208741 was filed with the patent office on 2018-01-18 for illuminated system for a vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ford Global Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Pietro Buttolo, Paul Kenneth Dellock, Stuart C. Salter, James J. Surman.
Application Number | 20180015877 15/208741 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59580677 |
Filed Date | 2018-01-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180015877 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Salter; Stuart C. ; et
al. |
January 18, 2018 |
ILLUMINATED SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE
Abstract
An illuminated system is provided herein. The illuminated system
includes a badge that is movable between a first position and a
second position. First and second light sources are disposed within
the badge. The first light source is configured to direct light in
a first direction. The second light source is configured to direct
light in a second direction. A vehicle feature is operably coupled
with the second light source. A first photoluminescent structure is
disposed on the vehicle feature and is configured to luminesce in
response to receiving an excitation light from the light source. A
controller is configured to selectively activate the first and
second light sources.
Inventors: |
Salter; Stuart C.; (White
Lake, MI) ; Buttolo; Pietro; (Dearborn Heights,
MI) ; Dellock; Paul Kenneth; (Northville, MI)
; Surman; James J.; (Clinton Township, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ford Global Technologies, LLC |
Dearborn |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
59580677 |
Appl. No.: |
15/208741 |
Filed: |
July 13, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 13/005 20130101;
B60Q 1/2669 20130101; B60Q 3/30 20170201; B62D 25/12 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62D 25/12 20060101
B62D025/12; B60R 13/00 20060101 B60R013/00; B60Q 1/26 20060101
B60Q001/26 |
Claims
1. An illuminated system for a vehicle, comprising: a badge movable
between a first position and a second position; first and second
light sources disposed within the badge, the first light source
configured to direct light in a first direction and the second
light source configured to direct light in a second direction; a
vehicle feature separately disposed from the badge and operably
coupled with the second light source; a first photoluminescent
structure disposed on the vehicle feature and configured to
luminesce in response to receiving an excitation light from the
light source; and a controller configured to selectively activate
the first and second light sources.
2. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 1, wherein the
first photoluminescent structure includes at least one
photoluminescent material configured to convert an excitation light
into a visible light.
3. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 1, wherein the
first photoluminescent structure includes a long persistent
photoluminescent material therein.
4. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 1, wherein the
first light source emits light that is directed forwardly of a
vehicle and the second light source directs light rearwardly of the
badge.
5. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 1, further
comprising: a second photoluminescent structure operably coupled
with the first light source.
6. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 5, wherein the
first and second light sources emit a wavelength of light that is
within one of blue light, violet light, and UV light spectrums.
7. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 1, further
comprising: optics operably coupled with the second light source
and configured to direct light towards the vehicle feature.
8. A vehicle illuminated system, comprising: a badge disposed on a
front of a vehicle, the badge movable between a first position and
a second position; and a light source disposed in the badge,
wherein the light source is concealed in the first position and
configured to emit excitation light rearwardly in the second
position towards a vehicle feature separately disposed from the
badge.
9. The illuminated system of claim 8, further comprising: a first
photoluminescent structure disposed on the vehicle feature and
configured to luminesce in response to receiving the excitation
light.
10. The illuminated system of claim 9, further comprising: a second
photoluminescent structure operably coupled with the light
source.
11. The illuminated system of claim 10, wherein the first
photoluminescent structure and the second photoluminescent
structure each include at least one photoluminescent material
configured to convert an excitation light into a visible converted
light that is outputted to a viewable portion.
12. The illuminated system of claim 8, wherein the vehicle feature
is a secondary hood release latch and the badge moves from the
first position to the second position to illuminate the secondary
hood release latch to assist in opening a vehicle hood.
13. The illuminated system of claim 8, wherein the vehicle feature
is a vehicle component within an engine compartment of the
vehicle.
14. The illuminated system of claim 9, wherein the badge includes a
light transmissive housing and substrate such that light emitted
from the light source may be emitted therethrough.
15. An illuminated system for a vehicle, comprising: a movable
badge disposed on a vehicle, the badge movable between a first
position and a second position forwardly of the first position; a
first light source disposed in the badge; and a vehicle feature
separately disposed from the badge and operably coupled with the
first light source, wherein the light source illuminates the
vehicle feature when the badge is disposed in the second
position.
16. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 15, further
comprising: a photoluminescent structure disposed on the vehicle
feature and configured to luminesce in response to receiving an
excitation light from the first light source.
17. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 15, wherein the
first light source is disposed on a first side of a printed circuit
board (PCB) and a second light source disposed on a second side of
the PCB.
18. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 15, wherein the
vehicle feature is a secondary hood release latch.
19. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 18, wherein the
badge is moved from the first position to the second position when
a primary hood release latch is deployed thereby causing the first
light source to illuminate the secondary hood release latch.
20. The illuminated system for a vehicle of claim 15, wherein a
camera system is concealed by the movable badge when the movable
badge is in the first position.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to vehicle lamp
assemblies, and more particularly, to vehicle lamp assemblies
employing one or more photoluminescent structures.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Illumination arising from the use of photoluminescent
structures offers a unique and attractive viewing experience. It is
therefore desired to implement such structures in automotive
vehicles for various lighting applications.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] According to one aspect of the present invention, an
illuminated system for a vehicle is disclosed. The illuminated
system includes a badge movable between a first position and a
second position. First and second light sources are disposed within
the badge. The first light source is configured to direct light in
a first direction. The second light source is configured to direct
light in a second direction. A vehicle feature is operably coupled
with the second light source. A first photoluminescent structure is
disposed on the vehicle feature and configured to luminesce in
response to receiving an excitation light from the light source. A
controller is configured to selectively activate the first and
second light sources.
[0004] According to another aspect of the present invention, an
illuminated system for a vehicle is disclosed. The illuminated
system includes a badge disposed on a vehicle. The badge is movable
between a first position and a second position. A light source is
disposed in the badge. The first light source is concealed in the
first position and is configured to emit excitation light
rearwardly in the second position towards a vehicle feature.
[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, an
illuminated system for a vehicle is disclosed. The illuminated
system includes a movable member disposed on a vehicle. The member
is movable between a first position and a second position forwardly
of the first position. A first light source is disposed in the
member and configured to emit excitation light rearwardly. A
vehicle feature is operably coupled with the first light source.
The light source illuminates the vehicle feature when the member is
disposed in the second position.
[0006] These and other aspects, objects, and features of the
present invention will be understood and appreciated by those
skilled in the art upon studying the following specification,
claims, and appended drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] In the drawings:
[0008] FIG. 1A is a side view of a photoluminescent structure
rendered as a coating for use in a trim assembly according to one
embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 1B is a top view of a photoluminescent structure
rendered as a discrete particle according to one embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 1C is a side view of a plurality of photoluminescent
structures rendered as discrete particles and incorporated into a
separate structure;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a front side perspective view of a motor vehicle
incorporating an illuminated system, according to one
embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a first side fragmentary view of an articulable
badge, according to one embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a second side fragmentary view of an articulable
badge in a retracted position, according to one embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a first side fragmentary view of an articulable
badge in the deployed position, according to one embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a second side fragmentary view of an articulable
badge in the deployed position, according to one embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 7A is a side perspective view of the badge in the
deployed position having one or more light sources therein,
according to one embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of the badge in the
deployed position, according to one embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 7C is a side perspective view of the badge disposed on
a front portion of the vehicle, according to one embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 7D is a partial front perspective view of the vehicle
having an engine compartment that is illuminated by the badge,
according to one embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the badge, according to one
embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a printed circuit
board (PCB) disposed within the badge and having a plurality of
light sources thereon, according to one embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the badge taken along
the line X-X of FIG. 7A illustrating the badge having one or more
light sources oriented on a first side of the PCB and one or more
light sources oriented on a second side of the PCB, according to
one embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment
of the badge taken along the line X-X of FIG. 7A;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a top view of the light source illustrated in
FIG. 11; and
[0025] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the illuminated system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0026] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper,"
"lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical,"
"horizontal," "inward," "outward," and derivatives thereof shall
relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 2. However, it is to be
understood that the invention may assume various alternative
orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It
is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes
illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the
following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the
inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific
dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the
embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting,
unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
[0027] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention
are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the
disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that
may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are
not necessarily to a detailed design and some schematics may be
exaggerated or minimized to show function overview. Therefore,
specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not
to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis
for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present
invention.
[0028] As used herein, the term "and/or," when used in a list of
two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be
employed by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed
items can be employed. For example, if a composition is described
as containing components A, B, and/or C, the composition can
contain A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C
in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in
combination.
[0029] The following disclosure describes an illuminated system for
a vehicle. The illuminated system may advantageously employ one or
more photoluminescent structures that illuminate in response to
pre-defined events. The one or more photoluminescent structures may
be configured to receive an excitation light and re-emit a
converted light at a different wavelength typically found in the
visible wavelength spectrum.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, various exemplary embodiments of
photoluminescent structures 10 are shown, each capable of being
coupled to a substrate 12, which may correspond to a vehicle
fixture or vehicle related piece of equipment. In FIG. 1A, the
photoluminescent structure 10 is generally shown rendered as a
coating (e.g., a film) that may be applied to a surface of the
substrate 12. In FIG. 1B, the photoluminescent structure 10 is
generally shown as a discrete particle capable of being integrated
with a substrate 12. In FIG. 1C, the photoluminescent structure 10
is generally shown as a plurality of discrete particles that may be
incorporated into a support medium 14 (e.g., a film) that may then
be applied (as shown) or integrated with the substrate 12.
[0031] At the most basic level, a given photoluminescent structure
10 includes an energy conversion layer 16 that may include one or
more sublayers, which are exemplarily shown through broken lines in
FIGS. 1A and 1B. Each sublayer of the energy conversion layer 16
may include one or more photoluminescent materials 18 having energy
converting elements with phosphorescent or fluorescent properties.
Each photoluminescent material 18 may become excited upon receiving
an excitation light 24 of a specific wavelength, thereby causing
the light to undergo a conversion process. Under the principle of
down conversion, the excitation light 24 is converted into a longer
wavelength, converted light 26 that is outputted from the
photoluminescent structure 10. Conversely, under the principle of
up conversion, the excitation light 24 is converted into a shorter
wavelength light that is outputted from the photoluminescent
structure 10. When multiple distinct wavelengths of light are
outputted from the photoluminescent structure 10 at the same time,
the wavelengths of light may mix together and be expressed as a
multicolor light.
[0032] Light emitted by a light source 36 (FIG. 2) is referred to
herein as excitation light 24 and is illustrated herein as solid
arrows. In contrast, light emitted from the photoluminescent
structure 10 is referred to herein as converted light 26 and is
illustrated herein as broken arrows. The mixture of excitation
light 24 and converted light 26 that may be emitted simultaneously
is referred to herein as outputted light.
[0033] The energy conversion layer 16 may be prepared by dispersing
the photoluminescent material 18 in a polymer matrix to form a
homogenous mixture using a variety of methods. Such methods may
include preparing the energy conversion layer 16 from a formulation
in a liquid carrier support medium 14 and coating the energy
conversion layer 16 to a desired substrate 12. The energy
conversion layer 16 may be applied to a substrate 12 by painting,
screen-printing, spraying, slot coating, dip coating, roller
coating, and bar coating. Alternatively, the energy conversion
layer 16 may be prepared by methods that do not use a liquid
carrier support medium 14. For example, the energy conversion layer
16 may be rendered by dispersing the photoluminescent material 18
into a solid-state solution (homogenous mixture in a dry state)
that may be incorporated in a polymer matrix, which may be formed
by extrusion, injection molding, compression molding, calendaring,
thermoforming, etc. The energy conversion layer 16 may then be
integrated into a substrate 12 using any methods known to those
skilled in the art. When the energy conversion layer 16 includes
sublayers, each sublayer may be sequentially coated to form the
energy conversion layer 16. Alternatively, the sublayers can be
separately prepared and later laminated or embossed together to
form the energy conversion layer 16. Alternatively still, the
energy conversion layer 16 may be formed by coextruding the
sublayers.
[0034] In some embodiments, the converted light 26 that has been
down converted or up converted may be used to excite other
photoluminescent material(s) 18 found in the energy conversion
layer 16. The process of using the converted light 26 outputted
from one photoluminescent material 18 to excite another, and so on,
is generally known as an energy cascade and may serve as an
alternative for achieving various color expressions. With respect
to either conversion principle, the difference in wavelength
between the excitation light 24 and the converted light 26 is known
as the Stokes shift and serves as the principle driving mechanism
for an energy conversion process corresponding to a change in
wavelength of light. In the various embodiments discussed herein,
each of the photoluminescent structures 10 may operate under either
conversion principle.
[0035] Referring back to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the photoluminescent
structure 10 may optionally include at least one stability layer 20
to protect the photoluminescent material 18 contained within the
energy conversion layer 16 from photolytic and thermal degradation.
The stability layer 20 may be configured as a separate layer
optically coupled and adhered to the energy conversion layer 16.
Alternatively, the stability layer 20 may be integrated with the
energy conversion layer 16. The photoluminescent structure 10 may
also optionally include a protective layer 22 optically coupled and
adhered to the stability layer 20 or other layer (e.g., the
conversion layer 16 in the absence of the stability layer 20) to
protect the photoluminescent structure 10 from physical and
chemical damage arising from environmental exposure. The stability
layer 20 and/or the protective layer 22 may be combined with the
energy conversion layer 16 through sequential coating or printing
of each layer, sequential lamination or embossing, or any other
suitable means.
[0036] According to one embodiment, the photoluminescent material
18 may include organic or inorganic fluorescent dyes including
rylenes, xanthenes, porphyrins, and phthalocyanines. Additionally,
or alternatively, the photoluminescent material 18 may include
phosphors from the group of Ce-doped garnets such as YAG:Ce and may
be a short persistence photoluminescent material 18. For example,
an emission by Ce.sup.3+ is based on an electronic energy
transition from 4D.sup.1 to 4f.sup.1 as a parity allowed
transition. As a result of this, a difference in energy between the
light absorption and the light emission by Ce.sup.3+ is small, and
the luminescent level of Ce.sup.3+ has an ultra-short lifespan, or
decay time, of 10.sup.-8 to 10.sup.-7 seconds (10 to 100
nanoseconds). The decay time may be defined as the time between the
end of excitation from the excitation light 24 and the moment when
the light intensity of the converted light 26 emitted from the
photoluminescent structure 10 drops below a minimum visibility of
0.32 mcd/m.sup.2. A visibility of 0.32 mcd/m.sup.2 is roughly 100
times the sensitivity of the dark-adapted human eye, which
corresponds to a base level of illumination commonly used by
persons of ordinary skill in the art.
[0037] According to one embodiment, a Ce.sup.3+ garnet may be
utilized, which has a peak excitation spectrum that may reside in a
shorter wavelength range than that of conventional YAG:Ce-type
phosphors. Accordingly, Ce.sup.3+ has short persistence
characteristics such that its decay time may be 100 milliseconds or
less. Therefore, in some embodiments, the rare earth aluminum
garnet type Ce phosphor may serve as the photoluminescent material
18 with ultra-short persistence characteristics, which can emit the
converted light 26 by absorbing purple to blue excitation light 24
emitted from a light source 36 (FIG. 2). According to one
embodiment, a ZnS:Ag phosphor may be used to create a blue
converted light 26. A ZnS:Cu phosphor may be utilized to create a
yellowish-green converted light 26. A Y.sub.2O.sub.2S:Eu phosphor
may be used to create red converted light 26. Moreover, the
aforementioned phosphorescent materials may be combined to form a
wide range of colors, including white light. It will be understood
that any short persistence photoluminescent material known in the
art may be utilized without departing from the teachings provided
herein.
[0038] Additionally, or alternatively, the photoluminescent
material 18, according to one embodiment, disposed within the
photoluminescent structure 10 may include a long persistence
photoluminescent material 18 that emits the converted light 26,
once charged by the excitation light 24. The excitation light 24
may be emitted from any excitation source (e.g., any natural light
source, such as the sun, and/or any artificial light source 36).
The long persistence photoluminescent material 18 may be defined as
having a long decay time due to its ability to store the excitation
light 24 and release the converted light 26 gradually, for a period
of several minutes or hours, once the excitation light 24 is no
longer present.
[0039] The long persistence photoluminescent material 18, according
to one embodiment, may be operable to emit light at or above an
intensity of 0.32 mcd/m.sup.2 after a period of 10 minutes.
Additionally, the long persistence photoluminescent material 18 may
be operable to emit light above or at an intensity of 0.32
mcd/m.sup.2 after a period of 30 minutes and, in some embodiments,
for a period substantially longer than 60 minutes (e.g., the period
may extend 24 hours or longer, and in some instances, the period
may extend 48 hours). Accordingly, the long persistence
photoluminescent material 18 may continually illuminate in response
to excitation from any light sources 36 that emits the excitation
light 24, including, but not limited to, natural light sources
(e.g., the sun) and/or any artificial light source 36. The periodic
absorption of the excitation light 24 from any excitation source
may provide for a substantially sustained charge of the long
persistence photoluminescent material 18 to provide for consistent
passive illumination. In some embodiments, a light sensor may
monitor the illumination intensity of the photoluminescent
structure 10 and actuate an excitation source when the illumination
intensity falls below 0.32 mcd/m.sup.2, or any other predefined
intensity level.
[0040] The long persistence photoluminescent material 18 may
correspond to alkaline earth aluminates and silicates, for example
doped di-silicates, or any other compound that is capable of
emitting light for a period of time once the excitation light 24 is
no longer present. The long persistence photoluminescent material
18 may be doped with one or more ions, which may correspond to rare
earth elements, for example, Eu.sup.2+, Tb.sup.3+ and/or Dy.sup.3.
According to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the
photoluminescent structure 10 includes a phosphorescent material in
the range of about 30% to about 55%, a liquid carrier medium in the
range of about 25% to about 55%, a polymeric resin in the range of
about 15% to about 35%, a stabilizing additive in the range of
about 0.25% to about 20%, and performance-enhancing additives in
the range of about 0% to about 5%, each based on the weight of the
formulation.
[0041] The photoluminescent structure 10, according to one
embodiment, may be a translucent white color, and in some instances
reflective, when unilluminated. Once the photoluminescent structure
10 receives the excitation light 24 of a particular wavelength, the
photoluminescent structure 10 may emit any color light (e.g., blue
or red) therefrom at any desired brightness. According to one
embodiment, a blue emitting phosphorescent material may have the
structure Li.sub.2ZnGeO.sub.4 and may be prepared by a high
temperature solid-state reaction method or through any other
practicable method and/or process. The afterglow may last for a
duration of 2-8 hours and may originate from the excitation light
24 and d-d transitions of Mn.sup.2+ ions.
[0042] According to an alternate non-limiting exemplary embodiment,
100 parts of a commercial solvent-borne polyurethane, such as Mace
resin 107-268, having 50% solids polyurethane in
Toluene/Isopropanol, 125 parts of a blue green long persistence
phosphor, such as Performance Indicator PI-BG20, and 12.5 parts of
a dye solution containing 0.1% Lumogen Yellow F083 in dioxolane may
be blended to yield a low rare earth mineral photoluminescent
structure 10. It will be understood that the compositions provided
herein are non-limiting examples. Thus, any phosphor known in the
art may be utilized within the photoluminescent structure 10
without departing from the teachings provided herein. Moreover, it
is contemplated that any long persistence phosphor known in the art
may also be utilized without departing from the teachings provided
herein.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, a vehicle 28 is shown demonstrating an
illuminated system 30 configured to illuminate a portion of a latch
assembly 32 and/or vehicle engine compartment 34. The illuminated
system 30 may include a light source 36 disposed proximately to a
front portion 38 of the vehicle 28 and the photoluminescent
structure 10 disposed on a component of the latch system 30.
[0044] The vehicle 28 includes a hood 40 covering the engine
compartment 34. The hood 40 is generally formed as a panel having a
forward edge 42 and a rearward edge 44. The hood 40 may be
connected to the body of the motor vehicle 28 by hinges 46. The
hood 40 is releasably connected to the motor vehicle 28 through a
hood latch assembly 32 and is pivotable relative to the motor
vehicle 28 to move between an open position and a closed position.
In the described example, the hood latch assembly 32 is located
adjacent the forward edge 42 of the hood 40 and the hinges 46 may
be located at the rearward edge 44 of hood 40. In exemplary
embodiments, any closure of the vehicle 28, which may refer to at
least one of a vehicle hood 40 configured to enclose the engine
compartment 34, a deck lid, and/or a trunk lid configured to
enclose a cargo compartment may include the illuminated system 30
provided herein. In alternate embodiments, the closure may
correspond to a hatch or door 48 of a vehicle 28.
[0045] Still referring to FIG. 2, a badge 50 is generally shown
mounted on the front portion 38 of the vehicle 28. In other
embodiments, the badge 50, or any other trim component, may be
located elsewhere, such as, but not limited to, other locations of
the front portion 38, a side portion 52, or a rear portion 54 of
the vehicle 28. Alternatively, the badge 50 may be disposed inside
the vehicle 28. The badge 50 may be configured as an insignia that
is presented as an identifying mark of a vehicle manufacturer, or
any other desired information, and includes a front viewable
portion 128 that is generally prominently displayed on the vehicle
28. In the presently illustrated embodiment, the badge 50 is
centrally disposed on a front fascia 56 of the vehicle 28, thus
allowing the badge 50 to be readily viewed by an observer looking
head-on at the vehicle 28. The badge 50 may be articulable and
conceal a hidden camera system 58 which may be disposed behind the
badge 50, or any other cover disposed on the vehicle 28. As will be
described below in greater detail, one or more light sources 36
(FIG. 7A) may be disposed within the badge 50 and may illuminate in
a plurality of manners to provide a distinct styling element to the
vehicle 28.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 3-6, the badge 50, according to one
embodiment, is coupled to the hidden camera system 58 that includes
a housing 60 that holds a camera 62. The camera system 58 may
further include a drive motor 64, associated gear transmission 66,
a linkage 68 connecting the drive motor and gear transmission to
the badge 50, and the camera 62. A gasket may be provided around
the front opening 72 of the housing 60 to seal the front of the
housing 60 when the badge 50 is in a retracted position.
[0047] As illustrated, the linkage 68 includes a crank arm 74, a
first link 76, a second link 78, a badge support bracket 80 on
which the badge 50 is mounted thereto or integrally formed
therewith, and a camera mounting bracket 82. According to one
embodiment, the crank arm 74 is connected to the gear transmission
66 by a rotating driveshaft 84. The opposite end of the crank arm
74 is pivotally connected to the first link 76 by a pivot pin 86.
The second end of the first link 76 is connected to the second link
78 by a pivot pin 88. The first end of the second link 78 is
connected to the badge support bracket 80 by a pivot pin 90. The
second end of the second link 78 is connected to the camera
mounting bracket 82 by a cam or roller 92 that is received and
moves in a track 94 provided on the camera mounting bracket 82.
[0048] The second link 78 is pivotally mounted at a first point to
the housing 60 by a pivot pin 96 received in a boss 98. The pivot
pin 88 connecting the first and second links 76, 78 is provided at
a second point on the link 78 between the first point and the
second end. In the illustrated embodiment, the second link 78 is
substantially C-shaped.
[0049] The camera mounting bracket 82 may engage a camera housing
100 and securely hold the camera 62 in position. The camera
mounting bracket 82 is pivotally connected to the housing 60 by a
first pivoting support arm 102. For instance, the support arm 102
is pivotally supported on the housing 60 by a boss 104. The badge
support bracket 80 (and, therefore, the badge 50 supported thereon)
is pivotally mounted to the housing 60 by a second pivoting support
arm 106. Additionally, the second support arm 106 is pivotally
mounted to the housing 60 on the boss 108.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the hidden camera system 58
includes the camera 62 in the retracted position and the camera 62
hidden from view by the badge 50 (deleted from FIGS. 3 and 4 for
clarity). When activated, the camera 62 is displaced to a deployed
position, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6. To move to such a
position, the drive motor 64 operates through the gear transmission
66 and the driveshaft 84 to turn the crank arm 74 in the direction
of action arrow A. This causes the first link 76 to translate in
the direction of action arrow B so as to pivot the second link 78
about the boss 98 in the direction of action arrow C. This
simultaneously causes the badge 50 to pivot open about the boss 108
and the camera 62 to pivotally deploy about the boss 104. An
abutment 110, projecting from the side of the camera mounting
bracket 82 engages a stop on the housing 60 when the camera 62 and
badge 50 are both in the deployed position. A biasing element, in
the form of a torsion spring 112, is received around the boss 104,
to bias the camera 62 toward the deployed position, which may
ensure that the camera 62 is repeatedly deployed into the
substantially same position during each deployment. According to
one embodiment, the torsion spring 112 has a first end 114 secured
in a socket to the housing 60 and a second end 116 engaging the
camera mounting bracket 82.
[0051] When it is desired to retract the camera 62, the drive motor
64 is driven in the opposite direction. This drives the crank arm
74 in the direction opposite to action arrow A which in turn causes
the first link 76 to translate in a direction opposite to action
arrow B. As a result, the second link 78 pivots in a direction
opposite to action arrow C causing the camera 62 to be retracted
while the badge is retracted. When the camera 62 and the badge 50
are retracted, the abutment 110 engages a second stop 70 formed on
the housing 60. It will be appreciated that the articulation
assembly described herein is a non-exclusive example of an assembly
capable of moving the badge 50 between a retracted position and a
deployed position. Any other mechanism known in the art may be used
in conjunction with the articulation assembly described herein, or
in place of the articulation assembly described herein, without
departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0052] Referring to FIGS. 7A-7D, the badge 50, when in the deployed
position is disposed forwardly of the front fascia 56 of the
vehicle 28 and may also be disposed above the forward edge 42 of
the hood 40. As will be described in greater detail below, the
badge 50 includes one or more light sources 36 that may emit
excitation light 24a and/or converted light 26a forwardly of the
vehicle 28 and/or the badge 50. The one or more light sources 36
may also emit excitation light 24b and/or converted light 26b
rearwardly of the badge 50. The forwardly emitted light 24a, 26a
may provide a distinct aesthetic feature for the vehicle 28 and/or
provide illumination for the camera disposed behind the badge 50.
The rearwardly emitted light 24b, 26b may be used to illuminate a
secondary hood release latch 118, the engine compartment 34 of the
vehicle 28, and/or any other feature of the vehicle 28.
[0053] As shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D, the badge 50 may emit
excitation light 24 towards the secondary hood release latch 118,
which may include the photoluminescent structure 10 thereon. In
operation, according to one embodiment, when a primary hood release
mechanism, disposed with the vehicle 28, releases the hood 40, the
badge 50 may move to the deployed position and emit rearwardly
directed excitation light 24b. The motor vehicle operator then
moves to the front of the vehicle 28 in close proximity to the hood
40 to search for and locate the secondary hood release latch 118 by
inserting his or her fingers under the partially opened hood
40.
[0054] To assist in locating the secondary hood release latch 118,
the photoluminescent structure 10, disposed on the secondary hood
release latch 118, is configured to luminesce in response to
receiving excitation light 24 from the light source 36 is directed
at the secondary hood release latch 118. Once located, the motor
vehicle operator actuates the secondary hood release latch release
handle 119 left or right, or up or down, depending on the design to
open the hood 40. It will be appreciated that any component
disposed adjacently to, or rearwardly of, the light source 36 may
also luminesce in response to receiving excitation light 24
therefrom. For example, a vehicle feature disposed in the engine
compartment 34 may have a photoluminescent structure 01 thereon and
luminesce in response to the excitation light 24 once the hood 40
is placed in the open position.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, the badge 50 is shown, according to one
embodiment, having a substrate 122, which may correspond to the
badge support bracket 80, or be attached thereto. The substrate 122
may be attached to a housing 124. The substrate 122 may form a rear
portion 126 of the badge 50 and may be capable of being secured to
the badge support bracket 80 via any suitable means known in the
art.
[0056] The housing 124 may include the front viewable portion 128
located on a forward portion 130 thereof. The front viewable
portion 128 may include a background region 132 and indicia 134.
The front viewable portion 128 may include a transparent and/or
translucent portion and one or more substantially opaque
portion(s), which may be configured as opaque coatings applied to
the front viewable portion 128. In some embodiments, some, or all,
of the front viewable portion 128 may be left open to the front
portion 38 of the vehicle 28. According to one embodiment, the
background region 132 may be opaque or light blocking whereas the
portion associated with the indicia 134 is light transmissive. As
shown, the indicia 134 includes a rim portion 136 and a
cross-portion defined by a long arm L and a short arm S.
[0057] According to one embodiment, the substrate 122 and/or the
housing 124 may be constructed from a rigid material such as, but
not limited to, a polymeric material and may be assembled to one
another via sonic welding, laser welding, vibration welding,
injection molding, or any other process known in the art.
Alternatively, the substrate 122 and/or the housing 124 may be
assembled together via the utilization of adhesives and/or
fasteners. Alternatively still, the substrate 122 and/or the
housing 124 may be integrally formed as a single component.
[0058] With further reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, a printed circuit
board (PCB) 138 may be secured between the substrate 122 and
housing 124. According to one embodiment, the substrate 122
includes a plurality of raised platforms 140. A fastener hole 142
is defined in each platform 140 and a plurality of corresponding
through holes 144 is defined by the PCB 138. Accordingly, a
plurality of complimentary mechanical fasteners (not shown) may be
inserted through the through holes 144 of the PCB 138 and
mechanically engaged to the fastener holes 142 for removably fixing
the PCB 138 to the substrate 122.
[0059] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the PCB 138 may have one or
more of light sources 36 disposed thereon. The light sources 36 may
include any form of light source. For example, fluorescent
lighting, light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic LEDs (OLEDs),
polymer LEDs (PLEDs), solid-state lighting, or any other form of
lighting configured to emit light may be utilized. In some
embodiments, a reflective (e.g., white) solder mask 146 may be
applied to the PCB 138 to reflect light incident thereon. In
operation, the light sources 36 may each be independently activated
to emit light in a variety of colors at variable intensity. The
light sources 36 may be activated concurrently or at different time
intervals to exhibit different lighting effects.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 11, an exemplary cross section taken along
the line X-X of FIG. 7A is illustrated. The badge 50, as described
herein, may have one or more sets of one or more light sources 36.
The light sources 36 may be disposed on two opposing sides 154, 156
of the PCB 138 and configured to direct excitation light 24 in two
substantially opposing directions.
[0061] A decorative layer 158 may be disposed between the light
sources 36 and the front viewable portion 128. The decorative layer
158 may additionally, or alternatively, be disposed between the
light sources 36 and the rear viewable portion 160 to substantially
conceal the components disposed between the substrate 122 and
housing 44.
[0062] Referring still to FIG. 11, optics 162 may be operably
coupled with the light sources 36 for further directing excitation
light 24 and/or converted light 26 in a desired direction. The
optics 162 may be an individual component, or integrally formed
with an additional component of the badge 50. For example, the
optics 162 may be integrally disposed on the badge 50 with an
overmold material 164. The overmold material 164 may protect the
light sources 36 from physical and chemical damage arising from
environmental exposure.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 12, a cross section taken along the line
X-X of FIG. 7A illustrates a portion of the badge 50 according to
an alternate embodiment in which the badge 50 includes first and
second plurality of light sources 36a, 36b integrally formed into a
light-producing assembly 166. While the light-producing assembly
166 is shown in a planar configuration, it should be appreciated
that non-planar configurations are possible in instances where it
is desired to place the light-producing assembly 166 in a curved
orientation.
[0064] With respect to the illustrated embodiment, the
light-producing assembly 166 includes a substrate 168, which may
include a substantially transparent, or translucent, polycarbonate,
poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA), or polyethylene terephthalate
(PET) material in the range of 0.005 to 0.060 inches thick. A
positive electrode 170 is arranged over the substrate 168 and
includes a substantially transparent conductive material such as,
but not limited to, indium tin oxide. The positive electrode 170 is
electrically connected to a printed light emitting diode (LED)
arrangement that is arranged within a semiconductor ink 172 and
applied over the positive electrode 170. Likewise, a substantially
transparent negative electrode 174 is also electrically connected
to the printed LED arrangement 186. The negative electrode 174 is
arranged over the semiconductor ink 172 and includes a transparent
or translucent conductive material such as, but not limited to,
indium tin oxide. In alternative embodiments, the positive and
negative electrodes 170, 174 may swap positions within the
light-producing assembly 166 if desired. Each of the positive and
negative electrodes 170, 174 are electrically connected to a
controller 120 via a corresponding bus bar 176, 178 connected to
one of the conductive leads 180. The bus bars 176, 178 may be
printed along opposite edges of the positive and negative
electrodes 170, 174 and the points of connection between the bus
bars 176, 178 and the conductive leads 180 may be at opposite
corners of each bus bar 176, 178 to promote uniform current
distribution along the bus bars 176, 178. The controller 120 may
also be electrically connected to a power source 184, which may
correspond to a vehicular power source operating at 12 to 16
VDC.
[0065] The printed LED arrangement 186 may be dispersed in a random
or controlled fashion within the semiconductor ink 172. In the
presently illustrated embodiment, the printed LED arrangement 186
includes a first plurality of LED sources 36a biased to direct
light towards the front viewable portion 128 and a second plurality
of LED sources 36b biased to direct light towards the rear viewable
portion 160. The light sources 36a, 36b may correspond to
micro-LEDs of gallium nitride elements in the range of 5 to 400
microns in size and the semiconductor ink 172 may include various
binders and dielectric material including, but not limited to, one
or more of gallium, indium, silicon carbide, phosphorous, and/or
translucent polymeric binders.
[0066] Given the small sizing of the printed light sources 36a,
36b, a relatively high density may be used to create substantially
uniform illumination. The semiconductor ink 172 can be applied
through various printing processes, including ink jet and
silkscreen processes to selected portion(s) of the positive
electrode 170. More specifically, it is envisioned that the light
sources 36a, 36b are dispersed within the semiconductor ink 172,
and shaped and sized such that they align with the positive and
negative electrodes 170, 174 during deposition of the semiconductor
ink 172. The portion of the light sources 36a, 36b that ultimately
are electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes
170, 174 may be selectively activated and deactivated by the
controller 120. The LED sources (e.g., 36a) may be disposed in one
or more sets, as described herein.
[0067] Referring still to FIG. 12, the light-producing assembly 166
may further include the photoluminescent structure 10 arranged over
the negative electrode 174 as a coating, layer, film or other
suitable deposition. As described above, the photoluminescent
structure 10 may be arranged as a multi-layered structure including
an energy conversion layer 16, an optional stability layer 20,
and/or an optional protective layer 22.
[0068] In some embodiments, the decorative layer 158 may be
disposed between the front viewable portion 128 and the
light-producing assembly 166. The decorative layer 158 may include
a polymeric material, film, and/or other suitable material that is
configured to control or modify an appearance of the front viewable
portion 128. For example, the decorative layer 158 may be
configured to confer a metallic appearance when the light-producing
assembly 166 is in an unilluminated state. In other embodiments,
the decorative layer 158 may be tinted any color.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 13, the light-producing assembly 166,
according to one embodiment, is illustrated from a top view having
varying types and concentrations of LED sources 36a, 36c,
transversely along the light-producing assembly 166. As
illustrated, the first and second sets of one or more light sources
36 may be separated by insulative, or non-conductive, barriers 190
from proximately disposed sets of one or more light sources 36
through any means known in the art such that each set of one or
more light sources 36 may be illuminated independently of any other
set of one or more light sources 36. Further, each set of one or
more light sources 36 disposed within the light-producing assembly
166 may include a respective bus bar 176, 178 coupled to the
controller 120 and configured to electronically energize and then
illuminate each respective set of one or more light sources 36.
[0070] The light sources 36a, 36b may all be orientated in the same
direction and/or in opposing directions, as described herein. It
should be appreciated that the light-producing assembly 166 may
include any number of sets of one or more light sources 36 having
varying LED sources 36a, 36b, therein that may illuminate in any
desired color. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the portions
having varied LED sources 36a, 36b may be orientated in any
practicable manner and need not be disposed adjacently.
[0071] With further reference to FIG. 13, the semiconductor ink 172
may also contain various concentrations of LED sources 36a, 36b,
such that the density of the LED sources 36a, 36b, or number of LED
sources 36a, 36b, per unit area, may be adjusted for various
lighting applications. In some embodiments, the density of LED
sources 36a, 36b, may vary across the length of the light-producing
assembly 166. For example, the first set of light sources 36 may
have a greater density of LED sources 36a than alternate sets of
light sources 36, or vice versa.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 14, a box diagram of a vehicle 28 is shown
in which an illuminated badge 50 is implemented. The badge 50
includes a controller 120 in communication with the one or more
light sources 36. The controller 120 may include memory 188 having
instructions contained therein that are executed by a processor 190
of the controller 120. The controller 120 may provide electrical
power to the light sources 36 via a power source 184 located
onboard the vehicle 28. In addition, the controller 120 may be
configured to control the light output of the one or more light
sources 36 based on feedback received from one or more vehicle
control modules 192 such as, but not limited to, a body control
module, engine control module, steering control module, brake
control module, the like, or a combination thereof. By controlling
the light output of the one or more light sources 36, the badge 50
may illuminate in a variety of colors and/or patterns to provide
excitation light 24 thereby causing a vehicle feature to
luminesce.
[0073] In operation, the badge 50 may exhibit a constant unicolor
or multicolor illumination. For example, the controller 120 may
prompt one of the first and second sets of one or more light
sources 36 within the badge 50 to flash a multitude of colors at a
pre-defined interval. Simultaneously, the remaining sets of one or
more light sources 36 may illuminate in a steady unicolor, may
flash through a multitude of colors, may excite the first, second,
and/or third photoluminescent structure 10, and/or be placed in an
off state by the controller 120. Also, the controller 120 may vary
power to each light source 36 from 1 to 5 times steady state
current to vary the color and brightness of each illumination. The
controller 120 may also illuminate multiple colors within a single
light source 36 concurrently, thereby producing additional color
configurations if the single light source 36 is configured as a
Red, Green, Blue (RGB) LED.
[0074] In another embodiment, the photoluminescent structure 10 may
exhibit periodic unicolor or multicolor illumination. For example,
the controller 120 may prompt the first set of light sources 36a to
periodically emit excitation light 24 to cause the photoluminescent
structure 10 to periodically illuminate in the first color.
Alternatively, the controller 120 may prompt the second set of
light sources 36b to periodically emit excitation light 24 to cause
the photoluminescent structure 10 to periodically illuminate.
[0075] In another embodiment, the badge 50 may include a user
interface 194. The user interface 194 may be configured such that a
user may control the wavelength of excitation light 24 that is
emitted by the light source 36 or the pattern of illumination of
displayed on the front viewable portion 128 and/or the rear
viewable portion 160.
[0076] In some embodiments, the controller 120 may be configured to
adjust a color of the converted light 26 by sending control signals
to adjust an intensity or energy output level of the light source
36. For example, if the one or more light sources 36 are configured
to emit the excitation light 24 at a low level, substantially all
of the excitation light 24 may be converted to the converted light
26 by the first, second, and/or third photoluminescent structure
10. In this configuration, a color of light corresponding to the
converted light 26 may correspond to the color of the converted
light 26 from the badge 50 and/or the vehicle feature. If the first
and second sets of one or more light sources 36 are configured to
emit the excitation light 24 at a high level, only a portion of the
excitation light 24 may be converted to the converted light 26 by
the first, second, and/or third photoluminescent structure 10. In
this configuration, a color of light corresponding to mixture of
the excitation light 24 and the converted light 26 may be output as
the converted light 26. In this way, the controller 120 may control
an output color of the converted light 26.
[0077] Though a low level and a high level of intensity are
discussed in reference to the excitation light 24, it shall be
understood that the intensity of the excitation light 24 may be
varied among a variety of intensity levels to adjust a hue of the
color corresponding to the converted light 26 from the badge 50.
The variance in intensity may be manually altered, or automatically
varied by the controller 120 based on pre-defined conditions.
According to one embodiment, a first intensity may be output from
the badge 50 when a light sensor senses daylight conditions. A
second intensity may be output from the badge 50 when the light
sensor determines the vehicle 28 is operating in a low light
environment.
[0078] As described herein, the color of the converted light 26 may
be significantly dependent on the particular photoluminescent
materials 18 utilized in the photoluminescent structure 10.
Additionally, a conversion capacity of the photoluminescent
structure 10 may be significantly dependent on a concentration of
the photoluminescent material 18 utilized in the photoluminescent
structure 10. By adjusting the range of intensities that may be
output from the light sources 36, the concentration, types, and
proportions of the photoluminescent materials 18 in the
photoluminescent structure 10 discussed herein may be operable to
generate a range of color hues of the converted light 26 by
blending the excitation light 24 with the converted light 26.
Moreover, the photoluminescent structure 10 may include a wide
range of photoluminescent materials 18 that are configured to emit
the converted light 26 for varying lengths of time.
[0079] Accordingly, an illuminated system for a vehicle has been
advantageously described herein. The illuminated system provides
various benefits including an efficient and cost-effective means to
produce illumination that may function as a distinct styling
element that increases the refinement of a vehicle, or any other
product that may have the illuminated system disposed thereon.
[0080] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the
art that construction of the described invention and other
components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary
embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a
wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.
[0081] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all
of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the
joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or
indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature
or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two
components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional
intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary
body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may
be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature
unless otherwise stated.
[0082] It is also important to note that the construction and
arrangement of the elements of the invention as shown in the
exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few
embodiments of the present innovations have been described in
detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this
disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are
possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes
and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters,
mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations,
etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and
advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements
shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or
elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the
operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied,
the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector
or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number
of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be
varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of
the system might be constructed from any of a wide variety of
materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of
a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly,
all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope
of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications,
changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating
conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary
embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present
innovations.
[0083] It will be understood that any described processes or steps
within described processes may be combined with other disclosed
processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the
present invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed
herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as
limiting.
[0084] It is also to be understood that variations and
modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and
methods without departing from the concepts of the present
invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts
are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these
claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
* * * * *