U.S. patent application number 15/612210 was filed with the patent office on 2018-12-06 for vehicle light assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ford Global Technologies, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Ford Global Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Pietro Buttolo, Paul Kenneth Dellock, Annette Lynn Huebner, Stuart C. Salter, James J. Surman.
Application Number | 20180345845 15/612210 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 62843290 |
Filed Date | 2018-12-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180345845 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Salter; Stuart C. ; et
al. |
December 6, 2018 |
VEHICLE LIGHT ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A vehicle light assembly includes a light source. A lens is
positioned proximate the light source. A conductive circuitry is
disposed on the lens and forms a capacitive sensor. A temperature
sensor is configured to detect a temperature of the light
source.
Inventors: |
Salter; Stuart C.; (White
Lake, MI) ; Buttolo; Pietro; (Dearborn Heights,
MI) ; Huebner; Annette Lynn; (White Lake, 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 |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ford Global Technologies,
LLC
|
Family ID: |
62843290 |
Appl. No.: |
15/612210 |
Filed: |
June 2, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21V 3/12 20180201; F21V
23/0485 20130101; B60Q 1/0023 20130101; B60Q 1/04 20130101; F21V
3/02 20130101; B60Q 1/0005 20130101; F21V 23/0442 20130101; B60Q
1/34 20130101; B60Q 2400/30 20130101; B60Q 1/30 20130101; F21S
45/60 20180101; F21S 43/20 20180101; F21V 23/0435 20130101; F21S
41/25 20180101; F21S 41/28 20180101 |
International
Class: |
B60Q 1/00 20060101
B60Q001/00; B60Q 1/30 20060101 B60Q001/30; B60Q 1/04 20060101
B60Q001/04; F21S 8/10 20060101 F21S008/10; F21V 3/04 20060101
F21V003/04; F21V 23/04 20060101 F21V023/04 |
Claims
1. A vehicle light assembly, comprising: a light source; a lens
positioned proximate the light source; a conductive circuitry
disposed on the lens and forming a capacitive sensor; a controller
configured to increase an illumination provided by the light source
in response to activation of the capacitive sensor; and a
temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the light
source.
2. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the conductive
circuitry forming the capacitive sensor also forms a heater.
3. The vehicle light assembly of claim 2, further comprising:
switching circuitry for selectively switching operation of the
conductive circuitry between the capacitive sensor and the
heater.
4. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the light
assembly forms a vehicle rear taillight.
5. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the conductive
circuitry comprises an optically transparent conductive
material.
6. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the conductive
circuitry comprises a first electrode comprising a first plurality
of electrode fingers and a second electrode comprising a second
plurality of electrode fingers, and wherein the first plurality of
conductive fingers are interdigitated with the second plurality of
conductive fingers.
7. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a
controller configured to reduce an electrical power to the light
source in response to a detected temperature of the light
source.
8. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the conductive
circuitry comprises at least one electrode that generates a
capacitive signal for the capacitive sensor and generates heat for
the heater.
9. The vehicle light assembly of claim 7, wherein the controller is
further configured to increase an illumination provided by the
light source in response to activation of the capacitive
sensor.
10. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the heater
operates as a resistive heater that generates heat based on
electric current.
11. A vehicle, comprising: a vehicle light assembly comprising: a
light source; a lens positioned proximate the light source; and a
conductive circuitry disposed on the lens and forming a capacitive
sensor; a controller configured to increase an illumination
provided by the light source in response to activation of the
capacitive sensor; and one or more wireless communication
transceivers configured to detect an electronic device proximate
the light assembly.
12. (canceled)
13. The vehicle of claim 11, further comprising: a temperature
sensor configured to detect a temperature of the light source.
14. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein the controller is further
configured to decrease an illumination provided by the light source
in response to a signal from the temperature sensor.
15. A method of illuminating a vehicle light assembly, comprising:
illuminating a light source at a first illumination; detecting a
capacitive signal proximate the light source; and illuminating the
light source at a second illumination in response to the detection
of the capacitive signal.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising the step: detecting
an electronic device proximate the light assembly.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein detection of the electronic
device is performed using a Bluetooth low energy detector disposed
within the light assembly.
18. The method of claim 15, further comprising the steps: detecting
a temperature of the light source; and illuminating the light
source at a third illumination in response to the detection of the
light source temperature.
19. The method of claim 15, further comprising the step: exciting a
photoluminescent structure using the light source.
20. The method of claim 15, further comprising the step: heating
the light assembly by passing an electric current through an
electric circuitry positioned proximate the light source.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to vehicles, and
more particularly, to vehicle light assemblies.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Automotive vehicles are commonly equipped with various
exterior lighting assemblies including vehicle headlights at the
front of the vehicle and taillights at the rear of the vehicle.
Vehicle exterior lighting assemblies typically include a light
source disposed within a housing having an outer lens. Some
assemblies experience moisture buildup on the inside of the lens.
In addition, moisture in the form of snow and ice may accumulate on
the outside of the lens in cold weather conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle
light assembly includes a light source. A lens is positioned
proximate the light source. A conductive circuitry is disposed on
the lens and forms a capacitive sensor. A temperature sensor is
configured to detect a temperature of the light source.
[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
vehicle includes a vehicle light assembly including a light source.
A lens is positioned proximate the light source. A conductive
circuitry is disposed on the lens and forms a capacitive sensor.
One or more wireless communication transceivers is configured to
detect an electronic device proximate the light assembly.
[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of illuminating a vehicle light assembly, comprising:
illuminating a light source at a first illumination, detecting a
capacitive signal proximate the light source and illuminating the
light source at a second illumination in response to the detection
of the capacitive field.
[0006] These and other aspects, objects, and features of the
present disclosure 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] The following is a description of the figures in the
accompanying drawings. The figures are not necessarily to scale,
and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown
exaggerated in scale or in schematic in the interest of clarity and
conciseness.
[0008] In the drawings:
[0009] FIG. 1A is a side view of a photoluminescent structure
rendered as a coating for use in an assembly according to one
embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 1B is a top view of a photoluminescent structure
rendered as a discrete particle according to one embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 1C is a side view of a plurality of photoluminescent
structures rendered as discrete particles and incorporated into a
separate structure;
[0012] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a vehicle, according
to at least one example;
[0013] FIG. 2B is a rear perspective view of the vehicle of FIG.
2A, according to at least one example;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of one of a light assembly
taken through line of FIG. 2A, according to at least one
example;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of conductive circuitry formed
on the lens, according to at least one example;
[0016] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the conductive circuitry shown
in FIG. 4, according to at least one example;
[0017] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken through line VIA-VIA
of FIG. 4, according to at least one example;
[0018] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken through line VIB-VIB
of FIG. 4, according to at least one example;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating controls for
controlling the switching of the conductive circuitry, according to
at least one example;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a graph illustrating signals generated by the
capacitive sensor indicative of moisture on the lens;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a control routine for
controlling the switching between the capacitive sensor and heater,
according to at least one example; and
[0022] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a light control
routine for controlling the light assembly, according to at least
one example.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0023] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in the detailed description which follows and will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the description, or
recognized by practicing the invention as described in the
following description, together with the claims and appended
drawings.
[0024] 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.
[0025] In this document, relational terms, such as first and
second, top and bottom, and the like, are used solely to
distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action,
without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions.
[0026] 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.
[0027] 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.
[0028] Light emitted by the sun, ambient sources and/or a light
source 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.
[0029] 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.
[0030] In some examples, 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 principal 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.
[0031] 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.
[0032] Additional information regarding the construction of
photoluminescent structures 10 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
8,232,533 to Kingsley et al., entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND
ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY
ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY
EMISSION," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference. For additional information regarding fabrication and
utilization of photoluminescent materials to achieve various light
emissions, refer to U.S. Pat. No. 8,207,511 to Bortz et al.,
entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT FIBERS, COMPOSITIONS AND FABRICS MADE
THEREFROM"; U.S. Pat. No. 8,247,761 to Agrawal et al., entitled
"PHOTOLUMINESCENT MARKINGS WITH FUNCTIONAL OVERLAYERS"; U.S. Pat.
No. 8,519,359 to Kingsley et al., entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND
ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY
ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY
EMISSION"; U.S. Pat. No. 8,664,624 to Kingsley et al., entitled
"ILLUMINATION DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR GENERATING SUSTAINED SECONDARY
EMISSION"; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0183677 to Agrawal et
al., entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF
MANUFACTURE AND NOVEL USES"; U.S. Pat. No. 9,057,021 to Kingsley et
al., entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT OBJECTS"; and U.S. Pat. No.
8,846,184 to Agrawal et al., entitled "CHROMIC LUMINESCENT
OBJECTS," all of which are incorporated herein by reference in
their entirety.
[0033] 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.
[0034] 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 and/or ambient sources. 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. Additional information regarding the production of short
persistence photoluminescent materials is disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 8,163,201 to Agrawal et al., entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND
ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY
ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY
EMISSION," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0035] 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). 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.
[0036] 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 that emit the excitation light
24, including, but not limited to, natural light sources (e.g., the
sun) and/or any artificial light source. 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.
[0037] 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.
[0038] 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.
[0039] 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.
[0040] Additional information regarding the production of long
persistence photoluminescent materials is disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 8,163,201 to Agrawal et al., entitled "HIGH-INTENSITY,
PERSISTENT PHOTOLUMINESCENT FORMULATIONS AND OBJECTS, AND METHODS
FOR CREATING THE SAME," the entire disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference. For additional information
regarding long persistence phosphorescent structures, refer to U.S.
Pat. No. 6,953,536 to Yen et al., entitled "LONG PERSISTENT
PHOSPHORS AND PERSISTENT ENERGY TRANSFER TECHNIQUE"; U.S. Pat. No.
6,117,362 to Yen et al., entitled "LONG-PERSISTENT BLUE PHOSPHORS";
and U.S. Pat. No. 8,952,341 to Kingsley et al., entitled "LOW RARE
EARTH MINERAL PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS AND STRUCTURES FOR
GENERATING LONG-PERSISTENT LUMINESCENCE," all of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0041] Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a vehicle 30 is generally
depicted. The vehicle 30 is depicted as a sports-utility vehicle,
but it will be understood that the vehicle 30 may be a pickup
truck, sedan, compact and/or other types of vehicles 30 without
departing from the teachings provided herein. The vehicle 30 is
shown having a plurality of light assemblies 34 positioned around
the vehicle 30. For example, the light assemblies 34 may be
headlights (e.g., FIG. 2A), taillights (e.g., FIG. 2B) and/or a
variety of light assemblies 34 positioned around the vehicle 30
(e.g., running lights, reverse lights, brake lights, turn
indicators, center high mount stop lamp, running board lights,
etc.). In headlight examples of the light assemblies 34, the light
assemblies 34 are configured to provide headlight illumination
forward of the vehicle 30. In taillight examples, the light
assemblies 34 are configured to provide taillight illumination
generally rearward of the vehicle 30. One or more of the light
assemblies 34 may be configured to include conductive circuitry
that provides moisture sensing and removal of the moisture from the
respective lighting assemblies 34. As will be explained in greater
detail below, the conductive circuitry may also serve as a
proximity sensor to detect the presence of a user or a touch by the
user of the light assembly 34.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 3, the light assembly 34 is shown having a
housing 36 and an outer lens 38 connected to housing 36. Housing 36
is generally fixed to the vehicle body in a conventional manner.
Disposed within the housing 36 and outer lens 38 is a light source
40, a reflector 42, and an inner lens 44. The light source 40 may
include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent
bulbs, halogen bulbs, or other sources of light illumination. In
LED examples of the light source 40, the light source 40 may be
positioned on a printed circuit board 46. The printed circuit board
(PCB) 46 may incorporate one or more temperature sensors 48. The
temperature sensor 48 may be a standalone device coupled to the PCB
46, or may be part of an existing component (e.g., the built-in
temperature sensor 48 may be built into a microprocessor on the PCB
46). As will be explained in greater detail below, the temperature
sensor 48 may be configured to generally detect a temperature of
the PCB 46, the light source 40, the light assembly 34, and/or
other components within and proximate the light assembly 34.
[0043] The reflector 42 is generally positioned to reflect light
output from the light source 40 forward of the vehicle 30 through
the inner lens 44 and outer lens 38 to illuminate a roadway
generally forward of the vehicle 30. The inner lens 44 and outer
lens 38 may be made of a clear light transmissive polymeric
material, glass material and/or combinations thereof. In the
depicted example, the light assembly 34 is configured as a
headlight configured as a low beam light assembly, a high beam
light assembly, and/or a combination of low and high light beam
assemblies. Additionally, the housing 36 and outer lens 38 may
contain a plurality of light sources for multiple functions, such
as headlight illumination, daylight running lamps, turn signals,
flashers, and other lighting functions. It will be understood that
although depicted as an exterior light, the light assembly 34 may
be an interior light assembly 34 such as a map light, dome light,
puddle light, trunk light and/or other light assemblies 34
positioned within an interior of the vehicle 30.
[0044] The vehicle light assembly 34 includes conductive circuitry
50 provided on the outer lens 38 for providing a capacitive sensor
for moisture sensing and a heater for heating or defrost
operations. The conductive circuitry 50 forms both a capacitive
sensor for sensing moisture on the lens and a heater for removing
the moisture. In the depicted example, the conductive circuitry 50
is formed on the inside surface of the outer lens 38, but it will
be understood that the conductive circuitry 50 may otherwise be
formed on the outside surface of the outer lens 38 and/or in an
intermediate layer of the outer lens 38.
[0045] The photoluminescent structure 10 may be positioned on an
interior and/or an exterior surface of the outer lens 38. The
photoluminescent structure 10 may be configured as an indicia such
as alphanumeric text, numbers, symbols and/or pictures. As will be
explained in greater detail below, the light source 40 may be
configured to emit the excitation light to excite the
photoluminescent structure 10.
[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 4-6B, the conductive circuitry 50
includes control circuitry for controlling the conductive circuitry
50. The conductive circuitry 50 is made up of an electrically
conductive material that allows electrical current and signals to
be transmitted thereon. The conductive circuitry 50 includes a
first electrode 52 having a first plurality of electrode fingers 54
shown extending between conductive lines 56 and 58. The conductive
circuitry 50 also includes a second electrode 60 having a second
plurality of electrode fingers 62 that are electrically isolated or
dielectrically isolated from the first plurality of electrode
fingers 54. The first and second plurality of electrode fingers 54
and 62 are interdigitated so as to form a capacitive coupling
therebetween when configured as a capacitive sensor. A dielectric
layer 64 is disposed between electrode fingers 62 and connecting
line 58 to allow the signal lines to cross over without making
electrical connections. As such, the second electrode 60 and
corresponding electrode fingers 62 are dielectrically isolated from
connecting line 58 and the first electrode 52 and corresponding
electrode fingers 54.
[0047] Switching circuitry including a plurality of switches, shown
as first switch SW1, second switch SW2, third switch SW3, and
fourth switch SW4 are illustrated connected to the conductive
circuitry 50 to control switching of the conductive circuitry 50
between the capacitive sensor and heater operations. Each of the
switches SW1-SW4 may be controlled by control circuitry including a
microprocessor 66 as shown. The first switch SW1 connects the first
electrode 52 via connecting line 56 to a defrost voltage source
shown as V.sub.D. The fourth switch SW4 is shown connecting the
first electrode 52 via the connecting line 58 to ground. As such,
when the first switch SW1 and fourth switch SW4 are in the closed
positions for the heater operation, a defroster voltage V.sub.O is
applied across the first electrode 52 from the first connecting
line 56 across fingers 54 to the second connecting line 58 and to
ground to cause electric current to flow therethrough and generate
heat across the first electrode 52 to operate as a heater to
defrost or defog the outer lens 38. At the same time, switches SW2
and SW3 are in the open position during the heater/defogger or
defrost operation. It will be understood that electrical current
passing through the first electrode 52 generates heat due to the
electrical resistance of the circuit which forms a resistive heater
for removing moisture from the outer lens 38. Moisture may be in
the form of humidity which is water vapor in the air, or may be in
the form of condensation which is water on a surface which can be
in the form of liquid water or frozen water (e.g., ice or
frost).
[0048] The conductive circuitry 50 may also be configured to
operate in a sensing operation as a capacitive sensor to sense
moisture on the outer lens 38 such as condensation on the inside or
outside of the outer lens 38 or snow or ice on the outside of the
outer lens 38. Further, the conductive circuitry, when operating as
the capacitive sensor, may be configured to detect a disturbance
(e.g., a finger or other vehicle user's touch on or proximate the
light assembly 34) in an activation field emitted, or created, by
the conductive circuitry 50. When moisture is sensed on the outer
lens 38 (e.g., while the conductive circuitry 50 is operating as
the capacitive sensor), the conductive circuitry 50 may be switched
to the heater configuration to remove the sensed moisture. In order
to operate as a capacitive sensor, the conductive circuitry 50 is
controlled by opening the first switch SW1 and the fourth switch
SW4 and closing the second switch SW2 and the third switch SW3.
With the first and fourth switches SW1 and SW4 open, electrical
power from the defrost voltage is removed and with the second and
third switches SW2 and SW3 closed, the microprocessor 66 is able to
control drive and receive signals to and from the first and second
electrodes 52 and 60 so as to generate a capacitive activation
field for sensing moisture on the outer lens 38. The capacitive
sensor is configured to sense moisture, such as condensation on the
interior surface of the outer lens 38 and humidity proximate to the
interior surface of the lens 38 and water vapor on the outside of
the lens 38 such as in the form of liquid or ice. The moisture is
sensed by a change in the signal generated by the proximity sensor
due to the moisture content in the air on the surface of the outer
lens 38. When moisture is detected, the conductive circuitry may be
switched to the heater operation to remove the moisture. It should
be appreciated that the housing 36 or lens 38 may have a moisture
outlet such as a GoreTex.RTM. patch to allow heated moisture to
exit the interior.
[0049] The capacitive sensor employs the first electrode 52 as a
drive electrode and the second electrode 60 as a receive electrode,
each having interdigitated fingers 54 and 62, respectively, for
generating a capacitive field. According to various examples, the
first electrode 52 receives square wave drive signal pulses applied
at a voltage. The second electrode 60 has an output for generating
an output voltage. It should be appreciated that the first and
second electrodes 52 and 60 and corresponding electrode fingers 54
and 62 may be arranged in various configurations for generating the
capacitive fields as the sense activation fields, according to
various examples. It should also be appreciated that the first and
second electrodes 52 and 60 may otherwise be configured so that
other types of single electrode sensors or other multiple electrode
sensors may be used. The conductive circuitry 50 may be formed with
conductive ink or may be alternatively formed with rigid or
flexible circuitry that may be adhered or otherwise attached to the
outer lens 38.
[0050] According to various examples, the first electrode 52 is
supplied with an input voltage as square wave signal pulses having
a charge pulse cycle sufficient to charge the second electrode 60
to a desired voltage. The second electrode 60 thereby serves as a
measurement electrode. When moisture, such as humidity or
condensation on the interior or exterior surface of the outer lens
38 is detected, the moisture causes a disturbance in the activation
field which generates a signal that is processed to determine the
moisture level. The disturbance of the activation field is detected
by processing the charge pulse signals.
[0051] The conductive circuitry 50 may be formed with a film of
indium tin oxide (ITO). According to various examples, the ITO
forming the conductive circuitry 50 may be formed as an ink printed
onto the interior surface of the outer lens 38. The ITO may be
deposited as a thin film onto the surface of the outer lens 38 and
may have a thickness of about 1,000-3,000 angstroms to form a
transparent electrical conductor. The ITO layer forming the
conductive circuitry 50 is a substantially visually transparent
medium that can be used to form the first and second electrodes 52
and 60 and other conductive signal lines for forming the proximity
sensors and the heating elements. As such, the conductive circuitry
50 will remain substantially invisible to a user looking through
the outer lens 38. In other examples, other transparent and
semi-transparent or visible conductive inks or films may be used to
form the conductive circuitry 50.
[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 5-6B, the first and second electrodes
52 and 60 and corresponding first and second plurality of
conductive fingers 54 and 62, respectively, may be formed on the
inside surface of the outer lens 38. The first electrode 52 may be
disposed on or adhered via an adhesive onto the inner surface of
outer lens 38. The second electrode 60 is also disposed onto the
inner surface of outer lens 38 such that the second plurality of
fingers 62 is interdigitated with the first plurality of fingers
54. In order to prevent short circuiting of the first and second
electrodes 52 and 60, the dielectric layer 64 may be disposed
between the first and second electrodes 52 and 60 on the inner
surface of connecting line 58 such that the second electrode 60 and
second plurality of conductive fingers 62 are separated from the
first electrode 52 at that location as shown in FIG. 6B. The
remainder of the first and second electrodes 52 and 60 and
conductive fingers 54 and 62 may be substantially coplanar on the
inner surface of the outer lens 38 as depicted in FIG. 6A. It will
be understood that the dielectric layer 64 may be enlarged to cover
substantially more or all of the surface area between the first and
second electrodes.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 7, the conductive circuitry 50 is
illustrated controlled by a controller 70. The signals generated by
the capacitive sensor input to the controller 70. The controller 70
may include circuitry, such as the microprocessor 66 and a memory
72. The control circuitry may include sense control circuitry for
processing the activation field of the capacitive sensor to sense
moisture proximate to the outer lens 38 and/or touching of the
light assembly 34. It will be understood that other analog and/or
digital control circuitry may be employed to process the capacitive
field signals to determine the presence of moisture buildup on the
outer lens 38 and initiate defogging or moisture removal with
activation of the heater operation as well as aid in the detection
of touching of the light assembly 34 without departing from the
teachings provided herein.
[0054] The controller 70 may include an analog-to-digital (A/D)
comparator integrated within or coupled to the microprocessor 66
and may receive voltage output from the capacitive sensor, convert
the analog signal to a digital signal, and provide a digital signal
to the microprocessor 66. The controller 70 may include a pulse
counter integrated within or coupled to the microprocessor 66 that
counts the charge signal pulses that are applied to the drive
electrode, performs a count of the pulses needed to charge the
capacitor until the voltage output reaches a predetermined voltage,
and provides the count to the microprocessor 66. The pulse count is
indicative of the change in capacitance of the capacitive signal.
The controller 70 may provide a pulse width modulated signal to a
pulse width modulated drive buffer to generate the square wave
pulse which is applied to the drive electrode. The controller 70
may determine the moisture present at or proximate to the outer
lens 38 and control the heater by controlling the switches SW1-SW4
as outputs. As will be explained in greater detail below, the
controller 70 may also regulate the electrical current applied to
the light source 40 in response to activation of the capacitive
sensor. For example, the memory 72 may include a control routine 74
for controlling the switches to switch operation of the conductive
circuitry 50 between the capacitive sensing operation mode and the
heater operation mode, a location sensing routine 76 for
determining the location of an electronic device 78 proximate the
vehicle 30, and a light control routine 80 for adjusting the
intensity of light provided by the light source 40 based on a
number of factors. The electronic device 78 may include a
cellphone, a key FOB, wearable device (e.g., fitness band, watch,
glasses, jewelry, wallet), apparel (e.g., a tee shirt, gloves,
shoes or other accessories), personal digital assistant, headphones
and/or other devices capable of wireless transmission (e.g., radio
frequency, Bluetooth, ultrasonic).
[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, the change in signal charge pulse
counts detected during various moisture conditions is shown as
signals 82A-82E. The change in signal 82A-82E is a count value
difference between an initialized reference count value for
different levels of moisture present on the outer lens 38. As
moisture in the form of condensation on the outer lens 38 or
humidity proximate thereto increases, the moisture enters the
activation field associated with the capacitive sensor and causes a
disruption to the capacitance, thereby resulting in a raw signal
increase as shown by signals 82B-82E. Signal 82A represents a clean
lens having little or no moisture in which the signal 82A is
relatively low and steady. Signal 82B shows the signal when sensing
ice on the outside surface of the outer lens 38 which has a
relatively high signal output. Signal 82C shows the results of
condensation formed on the outer lens 38. Signal 82D shows the
effect of rain on the outer surface of the outer lens 38. Signal
82E shows a defogging signal pattern that shows the removal of
moisture during the heater operation. By monitoring the signal
generated by the capacitive sensor and comparing the signal to
known moisture values, the condensation or humidity can be sensed
and used to control the heater to remove the condensation from the
outer lens 38.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 9, routine 100 is illustrated for
controlling the switches to switch operation of the conductive
circuitry 50 between the capacitive sensing operation mode and the
heater operation mode. Routine 74 begins at step 102 and proceeds
to step 104 to open all switches SW1-SW4. Next, at step 106, the
second and third switches SW2 and SW3 are closed. This places the
conductive circuitry 50 into the capacitive sensor mode of
operation. The capacitance is then measured at step 108. Proceeding
to step 110, routine 100 determines if de-icing is required based
on the measured capacitance indicating that moisture has built up
on the outer lens. De-icing may be required when there is
sufficient condensation on the inside or outside of the lens or
snow or ice on the outside of the lens. If de-icing is not
required, routine 74 returns to step 102. If de-icing is required,
routine 100 proceeds to step 112 to open the second and third
switches SW2 and SW3 and then to step 114 to close the first and
fourth switches SW1 and SW4. This places the conductive circuitry
50 into the heater mode of operation. At this point, the heater
operates to heat the outer lens 38 to remove some or all of the
moisture from the outer lens 38. Routine 100 proceeds to step 116
to wait for a time period (e.g., one minute, two minutes, etc.) to
operate the heater before returning to step 102. It will be
appreciated that routine 100 may be repeated to cycle the
conductive circuitry 50 between the capacitive sensing and heater
modes of operation a predetermined number of times or if moisture
is sensed again as present on the outer lens 38.
[0057] Referring again to FIG. 7 the vehicle 30 is also equipped
with one or more sensors for detecting if a person and the
electronic device 78 (FIG. 2B) are near or proximate the vehicle
30. The sensors may include wireless communication transceivers
150. The vehicle 30 and/or light assembly 34 may include one or a
plurality of wireless communication transceivers 150 and be
configured to interact with the electronic device 78. The wireless
communication transceivers 150 may communicate with the electronic
device 78 over a wireless signal (e.g., radio frequency). In a
specific example, the wireless communication transceivers 150 may
be a Bluetooth.TM. RN4020 module, or an RN4020 Bluetooth.TM. low
energy PICtail board configured to communicate with the electronic
device 78 using Bluetooth.TM. low energy signals. The wireless
communication transceivers 150 may include a transmitter and a
receiver to transmit and receive wireless signals (e.g.,
Bluetooth.TM. signals) to and from the electronic device 78. It
will be appreciated that the wireless communication transceivers
150 may utilize other forms of wireless communication between with
the electronic device 78 and other wireless communication
transceivers 150 such as Wi-Fi.TM. without departing from the
teachings provided herein. The wireless communication transceivers
150 may be positioned on or within the controller 70. The wireless
communication transceiver 150 is configured to communicate with the
microprocessor 66 such that one or more of the routines stored in
the memory 72 is activated. The electronic device 78 may include
one or more routines which control the communication between the
wireless communication transceiver 150 and the electronic device
78. For example, in mobile smart phone examples of the electronic
device 78, the phone may include one or more applications 154
configured to communicate with the wireless communication
transceivers 150. In various examples, the wireless communication
transceivers 150 are standalone devices that are not in
communication with body control modules, electronic control
modules, engine control modules and/or other features of the
vehicle 30. For example, the wireless communication transceivers
150 may only be capable of communication with the controller 70 and
the electronic device 78. In other examples, the wireless
communication transceivers 150 may communicate with the body
controller or other onboard controllers.
[0058] In examples utilizing multiple wireless communication
transceivers 150, the transceivers 150 may be in communication with
one another or may mutually communicate with a master controller or
module (e.g., body control module). The wireless communication
transceivers 150 may be disposed within other accessories of the
vehicle 30, or may be standalone units. The electronic device 78
may communicate with all, some, or none of the wireless
communication transceivers 150 as the electronic device 78 enters
and exits the communication range of the transceivers 150. Each of
the wireless communication transceivers 150 may be aware of its
location within the vehicle 30 and capable of sharing its location
with the electronic device 78. In various examples, the wireless
communication transceivers 150 are capable of communicating with
the electronic device 78 such that the location of the electronic
device 78 may be determined therefrom (e.g., based on signal
strength and/or return time of the signal) or vice versa. According
to various examples, the location sensing routine 76 in the memory
72 of the controller 70 may utilize the signal strength and time to
return of the signals between the wireless communication
transceivers 150 and the electronic device 78 to triangulate the
position of the electronic device 78 as the person moves around and
inside of the vehicle 30. In examples where the wireless
communication transceivers 150 communicate with a master module,
the location of the electronic device 78 may be calculated in the
master module. The location of the electronic device 78 may have
sufficient resolution to determine which seat within the vehicle 30
the user is approaching or sitting in. The electronic device 78 may
then share its determined location with the wireless communication
transceivers 150 such that appropriate features may be activated by
the appropriate transceivers 150. It will be understood that the
location sensing routine 76 may be located on the electronic device
78 and that any location determinations may be made by the
electronic device 78 and shared with the wireless communication
transceivers 150 without departing from the teachings provided
herein.
[0059] Choosing which electronic devices 78 should be trusted, and,
therefore, given access to command of the controller 70, may be
determined based on whether the electronic device 78 has been
inside of the vehicle 30 before. Memory within the wireless
communication transceivers 150 may store identifying information
relating to electronic devices 78 which were detected within the
vehicle 30 (e.g., using the location sensing routine 76) and which
may therefore be generally regarded as "friendly," registered
and/or as the owner of the vehicle 30. In an exemplary method of
determining that an unknown electronic device 78 is friendly, the
wireless communication transceivers 150 detect the presence of an
unknown electronic device 78, detect a characteristic signal shift
(e.g., attenuation or increase in signal at corresponding wireless
communication transceivers 150) indicative of the unknown
electronic device 78 entering or being within the vehicle 30 across
multiple wireless communication transceivers 150, and store
characteristic information about the electronic device 78 for
future identification. It will be understood that a determination
of the location of the electronic device 78 to be within the
vehicle 30 may also prompt a storing of the characteristic
information about the electronic device 78 for future
identification. Utilizing the past and/or present location of the
electronic device 78 as a security feature to determine if it is
allowed access to the controller 70 may be particularly
advantageous as the replication of signal shifting indicative of
the electronic device 78 entering the vehicle 30 and the location
of the electronic device 78 is particularly difficult to fake.
Further, it will be understood that more conventional methods of
connecting electronic devices 78, such as pairing and manually
connecting, may also be utilized to designate friendly devices
78.
[0060] The light control routine 80 may control the light assembly
34 in a variety of manners depending on detected properties of the
electronic device 78 (e.g., known or unknown device, location, and
user specific data) and/or signals from the temperature sensor 48.
For example, if a known or friendly electronic device 78 is
detected near (e.g., within about 2 m) the rear of the vehicle 30
and the capacitive sensor detects a change in the activation field
(i.e., indicative of a person in possession of the electronic
device 78 touching or getting close to the light assembly 34), the
light control routine 80 may be configured to alter an electrical
current provided to the light source 40 to change intensity of
illumination from the light source 40 (e.g., by overdriving the
light source 40). For example, the light control routine 80 may
begin with a step 170 (FIG. 10) of illuminating the light source 40
at a first illumination. The first illumination may be a standard
illumination or the light source 40 may be off. Next, a step 174 of
detecting a capacitive signal proximate the light source 40 is
performed. The capacitive signal may be the detection of a change
of the activation field by the capacitive sensor. As explained
above, this capacitive signal may be the touch of a user of the
light assembly 34. Next a step 178 of illuminating the light source
40 at a second illumination in response to the detection of the
capacitive signal may be carried out. The second illumination may
be higher or lower relative to the first illumination. In practice,
the light control routine 80 may be advantageous in allowing the
light of the light assembly 34 to be altered in real time by a
person proximate the light assembly 34. For example, a person
located proximate the light assembly 34 may touch the light
assembly 34 in order to change (e.g., increase or decrease) the
illumination of the light assembly 34. Such a feature may be
advantageous in allowing the person to increase the illumination if
they are working behind the vehicle 30 or to decrease the
illumination if the lights are too bright. It will be understood
that the person may touch the light assembly 34 multiple times to
cycle though various illuminations provided by the light assembly
34. Further, the cycling of various illuminations may be carried
out through use of the application 154 on the electronic device 78.
Even further, each light assembly 34 may be individually controlled
and/or touching one light assembly 34 may increase or decrease the
illumination from all light assemblies 34. It will be understood
that touching the light assembly 34 may further activate the light
source 40 to emit excitation light 24 which excites the
photoluminescent structure.
[0061] According to various examples, the light control routine 80
may only be activated while detection of a friendly electronic
device 78 is proximate the vehicle 30. Such a feature may be
advantageous in decreasing the risk of unknown people adjusting the
illumination provided by the light assembly 34 and potentially
depleting the battery of the vehicle 30.
[0062] The light control routine 80 may further be run with sensor
data from the temperature sensor 48. For example, the light control
routine 80 may further include a step 182 of detecting a
temperature of the light source 40 and a step 186 of illuminating
the light source 40 at a third illumination in response to the
detection of the light source temperature. The third illumination
may be less than or greater than the first and/or second
illuminations. Thermal management (e.g., the expulsion or getting
rid of heat) of the light source 40 is important in maintaining an
even and consistent illumination; however, the maximum operating
temperature assumption for the light source 40 (e.g., about
167.degree. F.-221.degree. F. for an LED on a PCB) is not accurate
most of the time. As such, by incorporating the temperature sensor
48 to sense the temperature of the light source 40, overdriving of
the light source 40 may be achieved, even if in short bursts. For
example, if the capacitive sensor detects touch by the user
triggering the higher second illumination, the light source 40 may
be overdriven by the controller 70 until the temperature sensor 48
detects a critical temperature and rolls back driving of the light
source 40 to a lower third illumination which is sustainable. In
other words, the controller 70 may be configured to reduce an
electrical power to the light source 40 in response to a detected
temperature of the light source 40. It will be understood that the
third illumination may be greater than the first and/or second
illuminations. As such, the light assembly 34 and/or light source
40 may be able to output an increased illumination in the second
illumination compared to the first illumination (e.g., two or three
times greater) for as long as can be sustained without causing
permanent damage to the light source 40.
[0063] According to various examples, detection of the location of
the electronic device 78 may allow for the light assembly 34 to
change where light is projected to using optics and/or by altering
which light source 40 is activated. For example, as the electronic
device 78 is detected moving away or toward the vehicle 30, the
optics may adjust the direction of the light from the light
assembly 34 to follow the electronic device 78.
[0064] According to various examples, detection of location of the
electronic device 78 relative to the vehicle 30 also permits the
wireless communication transceivers 150 to determine if an
unrecognized electronic device 78 is proximate the vehicle 30. Such
an unrecognized electronic device 78 may be owned or carried by a
potential burglar or threat to the vehicle 30. In events where an
unrecognized electronic device 78 is detected proximate the vehicle
30 for greater than a predetermined time, the wireless
communication transceivers 150 and/or controller 70 may activate
one or more counter measures. Countermeasures may include a strobe
light from the light assembly 34 or directing light from the
assembly 34 at the electronic device 78. In some examples, any
available identifying information about the electronic device 70
may be stored for later retrieval if the owner of the vehicle's
electronic device 78 is not detected proximate the vehicle 30 at
the same time.
[0065] Use of the presently disclosed vehicle 30 and light assembly
34 may offer a variety of advantages. First, changing the
illumination of the light assembly 34, in backup light examples,
may provide wide coverage behind the vehicle 30 with bright task
lighting which may be advantageous for camp site set-up, work
sites, etc. Second, changing the illumination of the light assembly
34, in brake light examples, may provide light for camp sites and
other outdoor activities. The benefit of the red light is that it
does not attract bugs and preserves night vision. Third, changing
the illumination of the light assembly 34, in license plate light
examples, may provide a direct stream of light downward in the area
of a trailer hitch and the ground directly behind the vehicle 30.
Fourth, headlight examples of the light assembly 34, which
typically put out large amounts of illumination, may be dimmed to
be used as work lights. Fifth, the present disclosure allows a key
fob or recent occupant's electronic device to function as an
authorization method to control who can control the light assembly
34. Sixth, the light control routine 80 may turn off the light
assembly 34 at about 50% battery charge with to protect battery
life of the vehicle 30. Seventh, use of the wireless communication
transceivers 150 allows for the light assembly 34 to be activated
as a person approaches or leaves (e.g., to activate welcome or
farewell lighting). Eighth, use of the wireless communication
transceivers 150 allows for a low consumption of power from the
vehicle 30 while the driver or passengers are away from the vehicle
30. Ninth, use of the photoluminescent structure 10 on the outer
lens 38, in conjunction with the conductive circuitry 50 allows a
user of the vehicle 30 to tap the light assembly 34 to excite the
photoluminescent structure 10. It will be understood that the
photoluminescent structure 10 may be excited regardless of whether
the light assembly 34 is emitting visible light.
[0066] According to various embodiments, a vehicle light assembly
includes a light source, a lens positioned proximate the light
source, a conductive circuitry disposed on the lens and forming a
capacitive sensor, and a temperature sensor configured to detect a
temperature of the light source. Embodiments of the vehicle can
include any one or a combination of the following features: [0067]
the conductive circuitry forming the capacitive sensor also forms a
heater; [0068] switching circuitry for selectively switching
operation of the conductive circuitry between the capacitive sensor
and the heater; [0069] the light assembly forms a vehicle rear
taillight; [0070] the conductive circuitry comprises an optically
transparent conductive material; [0071] the conductive circuitry
comprises a first electrode comprising a first plurality of
electrode fingers and a second electrode comprising a second
plurality of electrode fingers, and wherein the first plurality of
conductive fingers are interdigitated with the second plurality of
conductive fingers; [0072] a controller configured to reduce an
electrical power to the light source in response to a detected
temperature of the light source; [0073] the controller is further
configured to increase an illumination provided by the light source
in response to activation of the capacitive sensor; [0074] the
conductive circuitry comprises at least one electrode that
generates a capacitive signal for the capacitive sensor and
generates heat for the heater; and/or [0075] the heater operates as
a resistive heater that generates heat based on electric
current.
[0076] According to various embodiments, a method of illuminating a
vehicle light assembly includes the steps: illuminating a light
source at a first illumination; detecting a capacitive signal
proximate the light source; and illuminating the light source at a
second illumination in response to the detection of the capacitive
field. Embodiments of the method can include any one or a
combination of the following steps and features: [0077] detecting
an electronic device proximate the light assembly; [0078] detection
of the electronic device is performed using a Bluetooth low energy
detector disposed within the light assembly; [0079] detecting a
temperature of the light source; [0080] illuminating the light
source at a third illumination in response to the light source
temperature; [0081] exciting a photoluminescent structure using the
light source; and/or [0082] heating the light assembly by passing
an electric current through an electric circuitry positioned
proximate the light source.
[0083] Modifications of the disclosure will occur to those skilled
in the art and to those who make or use the disclosure. Therefore,
it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and
described above are merely for illustrative purposes and not
intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by
the following claims, as interpreted according to the principles of
patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.
[0084] 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.
[0085] As used herein, the term "about" means that amounts, sizes,
formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics
are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger
or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors,
rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors
known to those of skill in the art. When the term "about" is used
in describing a value or an end-point of a range, the disclosure
should be understood to include the specific value or end-point
referred to. Whether or not a numerical value or end-point of a
range in the specification recites "about," the numerical value or
end-point of a range is intended to include two embodiments: one
modified by "about," and one not modified by "about." It will be
further understood that the end-points of each of the ranges are
significant both in relation to the other end-point, and
independently of the other end-point.
[0086] The terms "substantial," "substantially," and variations
thereof as used herein are intended to note that a described
feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description.
For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to denote
a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover,
"substantially" is intended to denote that two values are equal or
approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" may
denote values within about 10% of each other, such as within about
5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.
[0087] As used herein the terms "the," "a," or "an," mean "at least
one," and should not be limited to "only one" unless explicitly
indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, reference to "a
component" includes embodiments having two or more such components
unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
[0088] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure
without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover such
modifications and variations provided they come within the scope of
the appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *