U.S. patent number RE34,318 [Application Number 07/666,118] was granted by the patent office on 1993-07-20 for lighting systems employing optical fibers.
This patent grant is currently assigned to General Electric Company. Invention is credited to John M. Davenport, Richard L. Hansler.
United States Patent |
RE34,318 |
Davenport , et al. |
July 20, 1993 |
Lighting systems employing optical fibers
Abstract
A lighting system particularly suite for aerodynamically styled
automobiles and aircraft is disclosed. The lighting system emits
light from a strip arranged across a vehicle such as the
automobile. The lighting system may comprise various subsystems
finding application for the high and low beam frontal illumination
and rear illumination all of the automobile. Each of the subsystems
comprises a high intensity light source coupled to one end of each
of a plurality of light pipes or optical fibers with each having
their other end preferably positioned relative to a reflective
element and lens. The reflective elements are arranged relative to
a lens element to provide a prescribed illumination patterns. In
one embodiment the lenses are arranged relative to each other and
are located across a strip of the automobile to provide a composite
beam to serve the needs of the high and low beam illumination
patterns for the automobile.
Inventors: |
Davenport; John M. (Lyndhurst,
OH), Hansler; Richard L. (Pepper Pike, OH) |
Assignee: |
General Electric Company
(Schenectady, NY)
|
Family
ID: |
26821957 |
Appl.
No.: |
07/666,118 |
Filed: |
March 6, 1991 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
Reissue of: |
123844 |
Nov 23, 1987 |
04811172 |
Mar 7, 1989 |
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
362/511;
362/554 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60Q
1/0011 (20130101); G02B 6/0006 (20130101); F21S
43/251 (20180101); F21S 41/24 (20180101); F21S
43/247 (20180101); G02B 6/0008 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
B60Q
1/00 (20060101); F21V 8/00 (20060101); F21S
8/12 (20060101); F21S 8/10 (20060101); B60Q
001/00 () |
Field of
Search: |
;362/32,61,80 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Lazarus; Ira S.
Assistant Examiner: Heyman; L.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Hawranko; George E. Corwin; Stanley
C.
Claims
What we claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent of the
United States is:
1. A lighting subsystem for a vehicle comprising:
(a) a high intensity light source capable of being selectively
energized, said high intensity light source having a filament
disposed therein with a predetermined diameter; and
(b) a plurality of optical carrying devices each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to said light source so that the spacing
between the ends of the optical carrying devices fibers and the
filaments is approximately equal to said diameter of said filament,
said optical carrying devices each having their other end mountable
in the frontal area of said vehicle, said optical carrying devices
providing the frontal illumination pattern of said vehicle when
said light source is activated.
2. A lighting subsystem for a vehicle comprising:
(a) high intensity light source capable of being selectively
energized, said high intensity light source having a filament
disposed therein with a predetermined diameter; and
(b) a plurality of optical carrying devices each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to said light source so that the spacing
between the ends of the optical carrying devices and the filament
is approximately equal to said diameter of said filament, said
optical carrying devices each having their other end mountable
within the interior of said vehicle, said optical carrying devices
providing interior illumination for said vehicle when said light
source is activated.
3. A lighting subsystem according to claim 1 comprising:
(a) said high intensity light source capable of being selectively
energized;
(b) said plurality of optical carrying devices each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to said light source with the other end of
each said optical carrying devices predeterminedly positioned
relative to a respective reflective element;
(c) each of said respective reflective elements being respectively
arranged with a lens element capable of being mounted on a device;
and
(d) said lens elements each providing a prescribed illumination
pattern when said light source is activated.
4. A lighting system for an automobile comprising a first, a
second, a third, and a fourth lighting subsystem each according to
claim 3 and further comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) said second subsystem comprising a second high intensity light
source capable of being energized and coupled to one end of each of
a second plurality of optical fibers;
(c) said third subsystem comprising a third high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized along with said first
high intensity light source and coupled to one end of each of a
third plurality of optical fibers;
(d) said fourth subsystem comprising a fourth high intensity light
source capable of being energized along with said second light
source and coupled to one end of each of a fourth plurality of
optical fibers;
(e) a first plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to the other ends of said first and
third plurality of optical fibers;
(f) a second plurality of reflective elements predeterminendly and
respectively located relative to the other ends of said second and
fourth plurality of optical fibers;
(g) a first plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said first plurality of reflective
elements so as to provide a predetermined illumination pattern upon
the energization of either or both of said first and third light
sources, said first plurality of lens elements being mountable
across a portion of the frontal area of said automobile;
(h) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said second plurality of
reflective elements so as to provide a predetermined illumination
pattern upon the energization of either or both of said second and
forth light sources, said second plurality of lens elements being
mountable across another portion of said frontal area of said
automobile; and
(i) said first and second plurality of lens elements being
effective for providing the forward illumination for said
automobile upon the energization of either or all of said first,
second, third and fourth light sources.
5. A lighting system for an automobile comprising a first and a
second lighting subsystem each according to claim 3 and further
comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of at least one first optical fiber;
(b) said second lighting subsystem comprising a second high
intensity light source capable of being selectively energized and
coupled to one end of at least another optical fiber;
(c) at least one reflective element predeterminedly located
relative to the other end of said at least one optical fiber;
(d) a second reflective element predeterminedly located relative to
the other end of said at least another optical fiber;
(e) at least one lens element predeterminedly located relative to
aid at least one reflective element so as to provide a desired
illumination pattern upon the energization of the first light
source, said at least one lens being mountable at one side of the
rear section of an automobile;
(f) at least another lens element predeterminedly located relative
to said at lest another reflective element so as to provide a
predetermined illumination pattern upon the energization of the
second light source, said at least another lens element being
mountable at the other rear section of said automobile; and
(g) said at least one and said at least another lens elements being
effective for providing rearward illumination of said
automobile.
6. A lighting system for an aircraft comprising a first, a second,
a third, and a fourth lighting subsystem each according to claim 3
and further comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) said second subsystem comprising a second high intensity light
source capable of being energized and coupled to one end of each of
a second plurality of optical fibers;
(c) said third subsystem comprising a third high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized along with said first
high intensity light source and coupled to one end of each of a
third plurality of optical fibers;
(d) said fourth subsystem comprising a fourth high intensity light
source capable of being energized along with said second light
source and coupled to one end of each of a fourth plurality of
optical fibers;
(e) a first plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to the other ends of said first and
third plurality of optical fibers;
(f) a second plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to the other ends of said second and
fourth plurality of optical fibers;
(g) a first plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said first plurality of reflective
elements so as to provide a predetermined illumination pattern upon
the energization of either or both of said first and third light
sources, said first plurality of lens elements being mountable
across a portion of the frontal area of an aircraft;
(d) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said second plurality of
reflective elements so as to provide a predetermined illumination
pattern upon the energization of either or both of said second and
fourth light sources, said second plurality of lens elements being
mountable across another portion of said frontal area of said
aircraft; and
(i) said first and second plurality of lens elements being
effective for providing the forward illumination of said aircraft
upon the energization of either or all of said first, second, third
and fourth light sources.
7. A lighting system for an aircraft comprising a first and a
second lighting subsystem each according to claim 3 and further
comprising;
said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light source
capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one end of
each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) said second lighting subsystem comprising a second high
intensity light source capable of being selectively energized and
coupled to one end of each of a second plurality of optical
fibers;
(c) a first plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly
located relative to the other end of said first plurality of
optical fibers;
(d) a second plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly
located relative to the other end of said second plurality of
optical fibers;
(e) a first plurality lens elements predeterminedly located
relative to said first plurality of reflective elements so as to
provide a desired illumination pattern upon the energization of the
first light source, said first plurality of lens elements being
mountable at one side of an aircraft;
(f) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly located
relative to said second plurality of reflective elements so as to
provide a predetermined illumination pattern upon the energization
of the second light source, said second plurality of lens elements
being mountable at the other side of said aircraft; and
(g) said first and second plurality of lens elements being
effective for providing the marker light illumination of said
aircraft.
8. A display lighting system comprising;
(a) a high intensity light source capable of being selectively
energized, said high intensity light source having a filament
disposed therein with a predetermined diameter; and
(b) plurality of optical carrying devices each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to said light source so that the spacing
between the ends of the optical carrying devices fibers and the
filament is approximately equal to said diameter of said filament,
said optical carrying devices each having one end predeterminedly
coupled to said light source with the other end of each said
optical carrying devices predeterminedly positioned relative to a
respective reflective element;
(c) each of said respective reflective elements being respectively
arranged with a lens element capable of being mounted on a device;
and
(d) said lens elements each providing a prescribed illumination
pattern when said light source is activated, said lens element
being further arranged relative to each other to provide
illumination for a desired sign configuration.
9. A lighting subsystem according to claim 1 comprising:
(a) said high intensity light source capable of being selectively
energized;
(b) said plurality of optical carrying devices each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to said light source with the other end of
each optically carrying device predeterminedly positioned relative
to respective lens elements capable of being mounted on a device;
and
(c) said lens elements each providing a prescribed illumination
pattern when said light source is activated.
10. A lighting system for an automobile comprising a first, a
second, a third, and a fourth lighting subsystem each according to
claim 9 and further comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) said second subsystem comprising a second high intensity light
source capable of being energized and coupled to one end of each of
a second plurality of optical fibers;
(c) said third subsystem comprising a third high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized along with said first
high intensity light source and coupled to one end of each of a
third of plurality of optical fibers;
(d) said fourth subsystem comprising a fourth high intensity light
source capable of being energized along with said second light
source and coupled to one end of each of a fourth plurality of
optical fibers;
(e) a first plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said first and third plurality of
optical fibers elements so as to provide a predetermined
illumination pattern upon the energization of either or both of
said first and third light sources, said first plurality of lens
elements being mountable across a portion of the frontal area of
said automobile;
(f) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said second and fourth plurality
of optical fibers so as to provide a predetermined illumination
pattern upon the energization of either or both of said second and
fourth light sources, said second plurality of lens elements being
mountable across another portion of said frontal area of said
automobile; and
(g) said first and second plurality of lens elements being
effective for providing the forward illumination for said
automobile upon the energization of either or all of said first,
second, third and fourth light sources.
11. A lighting system for an automobile comprising a first and a
second lighting subsystem each according to claim 9 and further
comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of at least one optical fiber;
(b) said second lighting subsystem comprising a second high
intensity light source capable of being selectively energized and
coupled to one end of at least another optical fiber;
(c) at least one lens element predeterminedly located relative to
said at least one optical fiber so as to provide a desired
illumination pattern upon the energization of the first light
source, said at least one lens element being mountable at one side
of the rear section of said automobile; and
(d) at least another lens element predeterminedly located relative
to said at leas another optical fiber so as to provide a
predetermined illumination pattern upon the energization of the
second light source, said at least another lens element being
mountable at the other rear section of said automobile; and
(e) said at least one and said at least another lens elements being
effective for providing the rearward illumination of said
automobile.
12. A lighting system for an aircraft comprising a first, a second,
a third, and a fourth lighting subsystem each according to claim 9
and further comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) said second subsystem comprising a second high intensity light
source capable of being energized and coupled to one end of each of
a second plurality of optical fibers;
(c) said third subsystem comprising a third high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized along with said firs
high intensity light source and coupled to one end of each of a
third of plurality of optical fibers;
(d) said fourth subsystem comprising a fourth high intensity light
source capable of being energized along with said second light
source and coupled to one end of each of a fourth plurality of
optical fibers;
(e) a first plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said first and third plurality of
optical fibers so as to provide a predetermined illumination
pattern upon the energization of either or both of said first and
third light sources, said first plurality of lens elements being
mountable across a portion of the frontal area of an aircraft;
(f) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said second and fourth plurality
of optical fibers so as to provide a predetermined illumination
pattern upon the energization of either or both of said second and
fourth light sources, said second plurality of lens elements being
mountable across another portion of said frontal area of said
aircraft; and
(g) said first and second plurality of lens elements being
effective for providing the forward illumination for said aircraft
upon the energization of either or all of said first, second, third
and fourth light sources.
13. A lighting system for an aircraft comprising a first and a
second lighting subsystem each according to claim 9 and further
comprising;
(a) said first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) said second lighting subsystem comprising a second high
intensity light source capable of being selectively energized and
coupled to one end of each of a second plurality of optical
fibers;
(c) a first plurality lens elements predeterminedly located
relative to said first plurality of optical fibers so as to provide
a desired illumination pattern upon the energization of the first
light source, said first plurality of lens elements located at one
side of an aircraft;
(d) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly located
relative to said second plurality of optical fibers so as to
provide a predetermined illumination pattern upon the energization
of the second light source, said second plurality of lens elements
being mountable at the other side of said aircraft; and
(e) said first and second plurality of lens elements being
effective for providing the marker light illumination of said
aircraft.
14. A display sign lighting system comprising;
(a) a high intensity light source capable of being selectively
energized, said high intensity light source having a filament
disposed therein with a predetermined diameter; and
(b) a plurality of optical carrying devices each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to said light source so that the spacing
between the ends of the optical carrying devices fibers and the
filament is approximately equal to said diameter of said filament,
said optical carrying devices each having one end predeterminedly
coupled to said light source with the other end of each optically
carrying device predeterminedly positioned relative to respective
lens elements capable of being mounted on a device; and
(c) said lens elements each providing a prescribed illumination
pattern when said light source is activated, said lens elements
being further arranged relative to each other to provide
illumination for a desired sign configuration.
15. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 3 wherein said
plurality of optical carrying devices comprise optical fibers.
16. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 15 wherein said
plurality of optical fibers comprise thirty (30) optical fibers and
each have a diameter of about 1.5 mm.
17. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 16 wherein said
light source comprises an incandescent filament having a outer
diameter of 1.8 mm, a filament tube having a central portion of
about 4.0 mm, a light output of about 2000 lumens and a length to
diameter ratio of about 30 to about 4.
18. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 3 wherein said
high intensity light source is an incandescent filament tube.
19. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 17 wherein said
plurality of optical fibers are in direct contact with the
incandescent high intensity light source.
20. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 3 wherein said
lens elements are of a fresnel type lens having an F/number in the
range of about 0.6 to about 1.0.
21. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 3 wherein said
lenses are formed of a plastic material and arranged in a strip
that is conformable to the shape of the front end of an
automobile.
22. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 3 wherein the
central portion of said reflective elements are predeterminedly
positioned so that the end of the fiber optics are at a distance
from the lens equal to the focal length of their respective lens
elements.
23. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said
plurality of optical carrying devices comprise optical fibers.
24. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said
plurality of optical fibers consist of thirty (30) optical fibers
each have a diameter of about 1.5 mm.
25. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said
light source comprises an incandescent filament having an outer
diameter of 1.8 mm, a filament tube having an outer diameter of
about 4.0 mm, a light output of about 2000 lumens and a length to
diameter ratio of about 30 to about 4.
26. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said
high intensity light source is an incandescent filament tube.
27. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 23 wherein said
plurality of optical fibers are in direct contact with said high
intensity light source.
28. A lighting subsystem according to claim 26 wherein said light
source is remotely located from said fiber optics and its light
output is coupled to said optical fibers by means of an elliptical
reflector.
29. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said
lens elements are of a fresnel type lens having an F/number in the
range of about 0.6 to about 1.0.
30. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said
lenses are formed of a plastic material and arranged in a strip
that conforms to the shape of the front end of the vehicle.
31. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein the
central portion of said optical fibers are predeterminedly
positioned at the focal length of their respective lens
elements.
32. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 28 wherein said
light source is located and one of the focal points of said
elliptical reflector and the optical fibers are located at the
other focal point of said elliptical reflector. .[.33. A lighting
subsystem in accordance with claim 9 wherein said high intensity
light source is a high intensity discharge
lamp..]. 34. A lighting subsystem in accordance with claim 9
wherein said lens elements are of an aspheric type lens having an
F/number in the range of about 0.6 to about 1.0. .[.35. A lighting
subsystem in accordance with claim 3 wherein said high intensity
light source is a high intensity
discharge lamp..]. 36. A lighting subsystem in accordance with
claim 3 wherein said lens elements are of an aspheric type lens
having a F/number
in the range of about 0.6 to about 1.0. 37. A lighting system for a
vehicle comprising;
(a) a first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) a second subsystem comprising a second high intensity light
source capable of being energized and coupled to one end of each of
a second plurality of optical fibers;
(c) a third subsystem comprising a third high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized along with said first
high intensity light source and coupled to one end of each of a
third plurality of optical fibers;
(d) a fourth subsystem comprising a fourth high intensity light
source capable of being energized along with said second light
source and coupled to one end of each of a fourth plurality of
optical fibers.
(e) a first plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to the other ends of said first and
third plurality of optical fibers;
(f) a second plurality of reflective elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to the other ends of said second and
fourth plurality of optical fibers;
(g) a first plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said first plurality of reflective
elements, said first and third plurality of optical fibers being
positioned relative to the center line of their respective lens
elements by an angle in the range of about three (3) to five (5)
degrees so as to provide a low beam illumination pattern upon the
energization of either or both of said first and third light
sources, said first plurality of lens elements being mountable
across a portion of the frontal area of said vehicle; and
(h) a second plurality of lens elements predeterminedly and
respectively located relative to said second plurality of
reflective elements, said second and fourth plurality of optical
fibers being positioned to correspond, in a perpendicular manner,
to the center line of their respective lens elements so as to
provide a high beam illumination pattern upon the energization of
either or both of said second and fourth light sources, said second
plurality of lens elements being mountable across
another portion of said frontal area of said vehicle. 38. A
lighting system according to claim 37 wherein said high intensity
light source is
an incandescent filament tube. 39. A lighting system according to
claim 37 wherein said high intensity light source is a high
intensity .[.light
source.]. .Iadd.discharge lamp.Iaddend.. 40. A lighting system for
a vehicle comprising;
(a) a first subsystem comprising a first high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized and coupled to one
end of each of a first plurality of optical fibers;
(b) a second subsystem comprising a second high intensity light
source capable of being energized and coupled to one end of each of
a second plurality of optical fibers;
(c) a third subsystem comprising a third high intensity light
source capable of being selectively energized along with said firs
high intensity light source and coupled to one end of each of a
third of plurality of optical fibers;
(d) a fourth subsystem comprising a fourth high intensity light
source capable of being energized along with said second light
source and coupled to one end of each of a fourth plurality of
optical fibers;
(e) a first plurality of lens elements related to said first and
third plurality of optical fibers, said first and third plurality
of optical fibers being positioned relative to the center line of
their respective lens element members by an angle in the range of
about three (3) to five (5) degrees so as to provide a low beam
illumination pattern upon the energization of either or both of
said first and third light sources, said first plurality of lens
elements being mountable across a portion of the frontal area of
said vehicle; and
(f) a second plurality of lens elements related to said second and
fourth plurality of optical fibers, said second and fourth
plurality of optical fibers being positioned to correspond, in a
perpendicular manner, to the center line of their respective lens
element so as to provide a high beam illumination pattern upon the
energization of either or both of said second and fourth light
sources, said second plurality of lens elements being mountable
across another portion of said frontal area of said
vehicle. 41. A lighting system according to claim 40 wherein said
high
intensity light source is an incandescent filament tube. 42. A
lighting system according to claim 40 wherein said high intensity
light source is a high intensity .[.light source.]. .Iadd.discharge
lamp.Iaddend..
.Iadd. A lighting system for a vehicle comprising:
(a) a high intensity light capable of being selectably energized,
said high intensity light source being a discharge lamp and having
a discharge arc formed therein;
(b) a plurality of optical carrying devices each having an input
end disposed in proximate relation to said discharge arc such that
light output from said discharge arc is efficiently coupled to said
input ends of each of said plurality of optical carrying devices,
said optical carrying devices each having their respective other
ends mountable in the frontal area of the vehicle, said optical
carrying devices providing the frontal illumination pattern of the
vehicle when said light source is activated;
(c) wherein said input ends said plurality of optical carrying
devices are combined in a manner so as to result in a cross
sectional area of a predetermined dimension; and,
(d) a reflector member in which light from said high intensity
discharge lamp is reflected into a pattern across substantially all
of said cross-sectional area formed by said combined input ends of
said plurality
of optical carrying devices. .Iaddend. .Iadd.44. A vehicle lighting
system as set forth in claim 43 wherein said pattern of light
reflected across substantially all of said cross-sectional area is
applied substantially uniformly across said cross sectional area
such that each of said input ends receives substantially the same
intensity of light input thereto. .Iaddend.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a lighting system. and more
particularly, to a lighting system comprised of subsystems each
utilizing a high brightness light source which is coupled to fiber
optics so as to emit a desired illumination pattern form an optical
strip arranged across a vehicle such as an automobile, truck, bus,
van, tractor or aircraft.
It is well known that fiber optics may be used efficiently to carry
or conduct the output of a light source to various locations
without encountering any substantial transmission losses thereof.
The light conducted by the optical fibers is confined or condensed
to the relatively small dimensions of the fibers themselves and may
find various related space restrictive applications in automobiles
and aircraft or other vehicles concerned with aerodynamic styling
and efficiency.
For example, automotive styling must take into account the amount
of frontal area necessary to provide the forward illumination needs
for the automobile and provide means to reduce that area, and in
particular, the height so as to satisfy aerodynamic considerations.
Similarly, it is desired that the exposed area of the automobile
necessary to provide its rearward illumination, such as stop and
tail license plate and back up illumination, be reduced so as to
accommodate aerodynamic styling. Further, it is desired that the
side illumination of a vehicle such as said markers be adapted to
aerodynamic styling considerations. Still further, the interior
lighting for a vehicle such as glove compartment and interior
lights should be considered for styling and efficiency
implications. The use of fiber optics that conduct light within
small confines are adaptable to these aerodynamic considerations.
Further, fiber optics are advantageously adaptable to provide the
overall illumination needs of the vehicle.
One such aerodynamic consideration is to provide forward
illumination by light generated at a remote location coupled by
fiber optics and emitted from a relatively small optical strip
arranged across the frontal area of the automobile. One of the
major areas of concern in efficiently utilizing optical fibers is
the coupling of a sufficient amount of energy from a light source
into these optical fibers to serve the needs of the automobile,
aircraft, or other vehicle in which the fibers are employed. The
coupling of such energy is dependent upon the intensity of the
light source, the size of the optical fibers, and the distance
between them. Each of these parameters has certain limitations that
hinder the employment of optical fibers for optical systems for
vehicles, automobiles or aircraft. For example, forward
illumination emitted from an optical strip spread across an
automobile may require such an intensity light source that has
relatively large dimensions, compared to conventional headlamps,
that prevents it from being conveniently housed on an automobile.
Further, the illumination must be of a prescribed amount and
distribution to satisfy the forward and glare considerations of the
automobile which may not be feasible by having the light emitted
from a strip arranged across a vehicle, automobile or aircraft. It
is desired that these limitations be reduced or even eliminated and
that a lighting system be provided that has efficient coupling
between the optical fibers and the light source, and further that
illumination be provided that meets and exceeds the needs of the
vehicle, automobile or aircraft.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide
means for efficient coupling between the fiber optics and light
source of a lighting system.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
lighting system employing optical fibers that provides desired
illumination patterns of efficient amount and of prescribed
patterns to meet and exceed the needs of the vehicle, automobile
and aircraft.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a lighting system particularly
suited to the aerodynamic considerations of vehicles, including
automobiles, aircraft and the like to allow design flexibility and
to provide an overall lighting system for the vehicle.
The lighting system includes subsystem each comprising a high
intensity light source capable of being selectively energized and a
plurality of optical carrying devices, preferably optical fibers,
with each having one end predeterminedly coupled to the light
source and the other end of each of the optical fibers preferably
predeterminedly positioned in close proximity to respective
reflective elements. Each of the reflective elements are
respectively arranged with alens element capable of being mounted
on an external surface of a device. The lens elements each provide
a prescribed illumination pattern when the light source is
activated.
In another embodiment of the subsystem, the optical fibers are
routed directly to their respective lens elements thereby
eliminating the need of the reflective elements. In either
embodiment the optical fibers are predeterminedly positioned at the
focal length of their respective lens elements.
One embodiment of the lighting system includes two subsystems each
having a high intensity light source respectively coupled to one
end of a first and second plurality of optical fibers. The other
end of the first and second plurality of optical fibers are
arranged so that one optical fiber form the first high intensity
source is arranged with one optical fiber from the other high
intensity source and both are positioned in close proximity to a
reflective element. The reflective elements related to the first
and second plurality of fibers are arranged relative to a first
plurality of lens elements mounted across the frontal area of an
automobile. The plurality of reflective elements are arranged
relative to the optical fibers so as to direct the light from each
of the high intensity sources into the lens elements so that upon
the selective activation of either or both of the high intensity
sources, the lens elements respectively provide the forward low and
high beam illumination patterns for the automobile. In another
embodiment of the lighting system, two subsystems develop the low
and high beam illumination without the need of reflective
elements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the present
invention related to a lighting system that provides the forward
illumination of a vehicle.
FIG. 2 illustrates the placement of a plurality of fiber optics
relative to the filament of a relatively small high intensity light
source.
FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the parameters related to the
transmission of the light output from a portion of the high
intensity light source to one of the optical lenses illustrated in
FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 illustrates the directing and combining of the illumination
from a first and a second high intensity light source by a
reflective element into one of the optical lenses shown in FIG.
1.
FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a lighting system that
provides the forward illumination of a vehicle utilizing a high
intensity light source coupled to a plurality of optical fibers by
means of a ellipsoidal reflector.
FIG. 6 illustrates the directing and combining of the illumination
from a first and a second high intensity light source, without the
use of a reflective element, into one of the optical lenses of FIG.
1.
FIG. 7 illustrates the ellipsoidal reflector focusing of the light
rays emitted from a high intensity source into the plurality of
optical fibers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the drawing, FIG. 1 illustrates a subsystem 10 related
to the overall lighting system of the present invention. The
subsystem 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 for one embodiment of the
present invention provides the forward illumination that is
particularly suited for aerodynamically styled vehicles such as
automobiles or aircrafts. The subsystem 10, along with other
subsystems of the lighting system of the present invention,
includes a high intensity light source 12 capable of being
selectively energized, and a plurality of optical carrying devices
such as optical fibers 14.sub.1...14.sub.N, each having one end
predeterminedly coupled to the light source 12 with the other end
of the optical fibers of the embodiment of FIG. 1 preferably
predeterminedly positioned in close proximity to respective
reflective elements 16.sub.1 . . . 16.sub.N. The reflective
elements 16.sub.1 . . . 16.sub.N are preferably provided to be
advantageously positioned relative to fiber optics 14.sub.1 . . .
14.sub.N so as to reduce or even eliminate any bending of fiber
optics 14.sub.1 . . . 14.sub.N that may adversely effect the light
carrying capabilities of the fiber optics 14.sub.1 . . . 14.sub.N.
The use of reflective elements 16.sub.1 . . . 16.sub.N provide more
flexibility relative to the routing of the fiber optic elements
14.sub.1 . . . 14.sub.N within the confines of the vehicle,
automobile and aircraft.
Each of the respective reflective elements 16.sub.1...16.sub.N
respectively direct light rays 18.sub.1... 18.sub.N into lens
elements 20.sub.1...20.sub.N which are capable of being mounted on
the frontal area of a vehicle such as an automobile or air craft.
The lens elements 20.sub.1...20.sub.N have a circular shape when
viewed from the front (not shown) and provide, as will be
described, prescribed illumination patterns when the light source
12 is selectively activated.
The high intensity light source illustrated in FIG. 1 is a
tubular-like device having an incandescent filament 12.sub.A that
may be selectively energized by an external source by way of
terminals 12.sub.B and 12.sub.C. The plurality of optical fibers
14.sub.1...14.sub.15 each have one of their ends coupled to one
side of the high intensity source 12, whereas, the optical fibers
14.sub.16...14.sub.N each have one of their ends coupled to the
other side of the high intensity light source 12. The other ends of
the optical fibers 14.sub.1...14.sub.N,upon the activation of light
source 12, each emit light that respectively impinges onto
reflective element 16.sub.1...16.sub.N.
FIG. 1 shows an arrangement comprising thirty (30) of each of the
optical fibers 14, reflective elements 16, and the lens elements
20. The lens elements 20 are positioned in a contoured manner
across the left side of the frontal area (not shown) of a vehicle
such as an automobile and up to the centerline 22 of the
automobile. The automobile has a complementary arrangement of the
subsystem 10 shown in FIG. 1 on the other side of the centerline 22
so that predetermined light patterns, to be described, are emitted
from a relatively small optical strip exposed on and across the
majority of the frontal surface of the automobile. The light
developed by the subsystem 10 of FIG. 1 serves as the low beam
illumination of an aerodynamically styled automobile.
The development of such low beam illumination may be described with
reference to FIG. 2 showing a portion of the coupling of the high
intensity incandescent light source 12 to a plurality of optical
fibers. The high intensity light source 12 is preferably of a
quartz material and consists of a quartz tubular member having a
relatively small overall length of about 30 mm. a neck portion with
a diameter of about 3 mm, and a central portion with an outer
diameter of about 4 mm. The filament 12.sub.A of light source has
an outer diameter dimension 12.sub.D of about 1.8 mm. The central
portion of the filament 12.sub.A is spaced from the outer walls of
the light source 12 by an amount 12.sub.E having a value of about
1.6 mm. The light source 12 has a relatively large length to
diameter ratio such as 30 to 4. The light source 12, having
relatively small dimensions, upon its selective activation by the
automotive switching system, yields a high intensity light output
of about 2000 lumens.
The optical fibers shown in FIG. 2 have a diameter of about 1.5 mm
and are preferably formed of a high temperature material such as
quartz or glass to allow the fibers to be brought into close
proximity with and even directly contacting the relatively hot
operating high intensity light source 12 as shown in FIG. 2. The
fibers of 1.5 mm diameter are arranged in line almost touching each
other and almost touching the light source while extending about 25
mm along each side of the light source. The other end of each of
the optical fibers, such as the other end of fiber 14.sub.1, shown
in FIG. 3, are predeterminately positioned relative to a reflective
member, such as 16.sub.1 related to fiber 14.sub.1. The reflective
members, such as 16.sub.1, may have an aluminized reflective
surface and dimensions of 4.times.8 mm.
FIG. 3 shows a portion of slice, in the vertical plane, of the
filament 12.sub.A related to optical fiber 14.sub.1 looking down
into the high intensity light source 12. The previously discussed
dimensions 12.sub.D and 12.sub.E of source 12 are respectively
shown in FIG. 3 as diameter D.sub.2 and focal length Fl.sub.2. The
angle at which the light rays emitted by the filament 12 enter the
optical fiber 14, in the vertical direction is shown as .theta..
Considering the previously given dimensions (12.sub.D =1.8 mm and
12.sub.E =1.6 mm) yields an angle .theta. of about 54.degree. but
this angle .theta. may be of an amount form about 40.degree. to
about 60.degree. . It is preferred that the optical fiber
14.sub.1...14.sub.N be positioned relative to the filament having a
predetermined diameter so that the spacing between the optical
fibers and the mid-portion of the filament is approximately equal
to the predetermined diameter of the filament. This angle .theta.
is also that of the light rays exiting the optic fiber 14.sub.1 and
impinging the reflective element 16.sub.1. Further the angle
.theta. is also the angle which defines the cone of light 18.sub.1
directed to the related lens element 20.sub.1.
The angle .theta. is also representative of the f/number of the
lens element 20.sub.1 which may be expressed by the relationship:
where fl.sub.1 is the focal length of the lens element 20.sub.1,
and D.sub.1 is the diameter of the lens element 20.sub.1.
The lens 20.sub.1, has a focal length fl, preferably in the range
of 15 to 30 mm. The lens element 20.sub.1 may be an aspheric lens
which corrects for spherical aberration. Such an aspheric lens is
particularly suited for small f/number such as 0.06 to 1. The lens
20.sub.1 may also be a fresnel type particularly suited for small
f/numbers applications. Both the aspheric and fresnel lenses may be
molded from plastic and are preferably formed in one continuous
strip of thirty (30) with each of such lenses having a length and a
width of about one (1) inch. For the embodiment of FIG. 1, the
composite strip of lenses 20.sub.1...20.sub.N is molded such that
it conforms to the shape of the front end of an automobile or an
airplane and the lenses are oriented so as to direct the light in a
forward direction. The composite strip of lenses may also have on
its outer surface a clear flat plastic which conforms to the outer
metal surfaces and may provide a window through which light emitted
by the subsystem of FIG. 1 passes.
The coupling of the light from the high intensity light source 12
to the plurality of optical fibers 14.sub.1...14.sub.N is dependent
upon the size or lumen output of the light source, the size of the
fiber, and the distance between the fiber and the light source. For
a small spherical light source and optical fiber, the coupled light
will vary as the square of the distance between the source and the
fibers. For the incandescent light source 12 having a large length
to diameter ratio, the amount of light collected by the fibers
essentially varies inversely as the first power of the distance
between the source and the fibers. Accordingly, the closer the
fibers can be brought to the filament of the light source the more
light that will be collected by the fibers themselves. This is
achieved by the present invention in which the fibers are
preferably brought into direct contact with the outer walls of the
light source as shown in FIG. 2.
The angle .theta. at which the light rays enter the optical fibers
14.sub.1...14.sub.N, previously discussed, is about 60.degree.
total angle in the vertical direction. This same angle is preserved
in the light emitted by the fibers and essentially all such light
is collected by the lens and collimated thereby. In the horizontal
plane the fiber receives light from the whole length of the
filament. This light is lost when it emerges from the fibers since
it will not strike the reflective elements 16.sub.1...16.sub.N and
therefore is not directed to the lenses 20.sub.1...20.sub.N but
rather is absorbed in baffles positioned between the lenses
20.sub.1...20.sub.N.
The beam of light developed by the practice of this invention and
which emerges from the lenses, as to be further discussed with
regard to FIG. 4, is from about 3.degree. to about 6.degree. total
angle depending on the diameter of the fiber and the focal length
of the lens. For the arrangement shown in FIG. 3 that produces a
beam in the form of a circle of 3.4.degree., the planar reflective
element 16 is disposed as close as possible to the fiber optics and
is tilted at an angle such as to center the image of the end of the
fiber on the axis of the lens is at a distance equal to the focal
length fl.sub.2 of the lens.
For the embodiment disclosed with regard to FIG. 3, the amount of
light collected by each of the optical fibers is about 15 lumens.
Considering that there are thirty (30) optical fibers associated
with the light source 12 as shown in FIG. 1, the amount of lumen
output developed by the present invention is 30.times.15=450 lumens
which when coupled with the light from the unit on the other side
having the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, provides the low beam
illumination needs of an automobile.
The size of the beam produced by the focus of light emitted by
optics that intercepts the respective reflective element and which
impinges onto and is transmitted by the lens should also take into
account the parameters of the lens itself. The size of the beam
produced by a lens having a focal length of 25 mm developed from a
fiber optical having a diameter of 1.5 mm is =1.5/25 which is equal
to 0.06 radians which may be expressed as 3.4 degrees. Each of the
fiber optics lens combinations (14.sub.1...14.sub.N, and
20.sub.1...20.sub.N) produces a uniform circle of light with a well
defined edge where the angle between the edges is 3.4.degree.. For
a lens 20 having a focal length of 20 mm formed from the light
emitted from 1.5 mm fiber, the angle produced is 4.3.degree.. This
is still an acceptable small angle for the automotive application.
The desired light pattern emitted from the plurality of lenses 20
is produced by overlapping the light circles produced by the
plurality of lenses. Because of the sharply defined light circle of
each lens, the overall light pattern has a minimum glare factor and
since there is virtually no uncontrolled light, the forward
illumination of the automobile is particularly suited for low beam
applications for driving in fog, rain or snow.
To provide for both the low and the high beam illumination of an
automobile, two high intensity lamps and two sets of a plurality of
optic fibers may be used and may be described with reference to
FIG. 4 shows fiber optic 14.sub.1, also indicated as A, related to
the first light source 12 and fiber optics 28.sub.1, also indicated
as B, which is one of a plurality of fiber optics each having one
of their ends coupled to a second light source (not shown) in a
manner as described with regard to FIGS. 2 and 3 related to fiber
optics 14.sub.1...14.sub.N. Each of the fiber optics A and B are
positioned in close proximity to each other and at angles .alpha.
and .gamma., respectively, relative to the center line of the lens,
20.sub.1. Reflective element 30 is a 90.degree. prism molded from
plastic in which total internal reflection occurs to deflect the
light.
The fiber optics A is positioned at the angle relative to the
centerline which is approximately 3-5.degree.. The fiber optic B is
positioned on the optical axis. The light rays emitted by fiber
optic A which impinge and are reflected and directed by element 30
to lens 20.sub.1 are indicated as A, whereas, similar rays related
to fiber optic B are indicated as B. The light rays A shown being
transmitted by lens 20.sub.1 are parallel to each other, and
similarly, the light rays B transmitted by lens 20.sub.1 are
parallel to each other. The fiber optic B is positioned on-axis,
that is .gamma.=90.degree., relative to lens 20.sub.1. The fiber
optic A is positioned off-axis about 3.degree. to 5.degree. so as
to provide light transmitted from lens 20.sub.1 shifted to the left
and above the light rays B. The light rays B provide the low beam
illumination of the automobile, whereas, light rays A provide the
high beam illumination of the automobile.
The operation of the arrangement shown in FIG. 4 produces a proper
light beam pattern for both the high and low illumination of the
automobile. The centers of the two patterns respectively produced
by each high intensity light sources related to the two plurality
of optical fibers 14.sub.1...14.sub.N and 28.sub.1...28.sub.N are
limited approximately to a separation of about 3.degree. to about
5.degree. if the ends of the fibers are placed next to each other
relative to the respective reflective elements. Because the two
beams are developed from separate light sources both beams upon the
proper selection of the automotive switching system may be used
separately or together to provide the high beam frontal
illumination for vehicles, automotives and aircraft under
consideration. If desired, light filtering, for example, between
the reflective element and the lens, may be provided so as to
develop some color, such as yellow, in the high beam illumination
which finds adaptation in some countries such as France. This light
filtering may also be used for the low beam applications.
A second embodiment of the present invention of a lighting
subsystem 40 is shown in FIG. 5 as having a plurality of lens
20.sub.1...20.sub.N arranged in a contoured manner on each side of
the automobile in a manner as described with regard to FIG. 1. The
subsystem 40 of FIG. 5 is different from that of subsystem 10 of
FIG. 1 in that it is devoid of reflective elements allowing the
light output 18.sub.1...18.sub.N from fiber optics
14.sub.1...14.sub.N and 28.sub.1...28.sub.N to be respectively
routed directly to lens elements 20.sub.1...20.sub.N. Further, the
light coupled to the fiber optics 14.sub.1...14.sub.N related to
the low beam illumination, is generated by a first high intensity
light source 42 arranged in one embodiment at one focue of an
elliptical reflector 44 in a manner as to be described with regard
to FIG. 7. The light coupled to the fiber optics
28.sub.1...28.sub.N, related to the high beam illumination, is
generated by a second high intensity light source (not shown) in a
manner similar to that of elliptical reflector 44. The manner in
which light emitted by fiber optics 14.sub.1...14.sub.N and
28.sub.1...28.sub.N is combined and collimated by lens elements
20.sub.1... 20.sub.N may be described with regard to FIG. 6.
In a manner similar to FIG. 4, FIG. 6 shows the fiber optics
14.sub.1 and 28.sub.1 positioned along and at a distance equal to
the focal length fl.sub.2 of the lens 20.sub.1. FIG. 6 also shows
the central portion of the fiber optics 28.sub.1 (B), related to
the high beam illumination, arranged on-axis of lens element
20.sub.1, whereas, the central portion of the fiber optics 14.sub.1
(A) is arranged off-axis of lens element 20.sub.1 by an angle
having the typical value of about 3.degree. to about 5.degree..
Further, the light rays shown in FIG. 6 transmitted from fiber
optics 14.sub.1 and collimated by lens 20.sub.1 are indicated by A
and are parallel to each other. Similarly, the light rays
transmitted from fiber optics 28.sub.1 and collimated by lens
20.sub.1 are indicated by B and are parallel to each other. The
operation of the arrangement of FIG. 6 develops separately or
together light beam patterns that are separated from each other by
an angle limited approximately to a value of about 3.4.degree. so
as to provide the low and high beam illumination for the vehicle,
automobile or aircraft employing this invention in a similar manner
as described with regard to FIG. 4.
The arrangement of the first high intensity light source 42
positioned at one focus of elliptical reflector 44 related to one
embodiment of the present invention and coupled to fiber optics
14.sub.1...14.sub.N along with the second high intensity light
source (not shown) coupled to fiber optics 28.sub.1...28.sub.N may
be described with reference to FIG. 7. The exposed faces of the
plurality of fibers 14.sub.1...14.sub.N and also the faces of the
fibers 28.sub.1...28.sub.N (not shown) are arranged at the second
focus of the elliptical reflector 44. The high intensity light
source 42 may be of an incandescent type previously discussed with
regard to light source 12 or it may be a discharge lamp comprised
of spaced apart electrodes and having a metallic or metal halide
ingredient along with a gaseous fill. The discharge lamp 42
preferably has a light output of 2000 lumens. The discharge lamp 42
is preferably of a miniature type such as described in U.S. Pat.
No. 4,161,672, assigned to the same assignee as the present
invention, incorporated herein by reference and to which reference
may be made for further details of its operation. The elliptical
reflector 44 is preferably of a type described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,021,659, assigned to the same assignee as the present invention,
incorporated herein by reference and to which reference may be made
for further details of its operation.
In the operation of the arrangement of FIG. 7, the placement of the
central portion of the light source 42 at one focal point 48 of
reflector 44 and the bundle of optical fibers at the other focal
point of reflector 44, causes the vast majority of the light rays,
such as rays 52 and 54, emitted by light source 42 to be
intercepted and reflected by reflector 44 so as to enter the
exposed faces of the plurality of optical fiber 14.sub.1...14.sub.N
at the desired angle .theta. of about 54.degree. having a range of
about 40.degree. to about 60.degree. previously discussed with
regard to FIG. 3. The operation of the arrangement of FIG. 6 is
advantageous in that it eliminates the need of bringing the optical
fibers into close proximity with the light source 42, while at the
same time, providse sufficient couplling from the light source 42
to the optical fibers so as to provide the desired low beam and
high beam illumination for the automobile or aircraft in a manner
as described with regard to FIGS. 4 and 6. The ability of locating
light source 42 remotely from the fiber optics 14.sub.1...14.sub.N
also allows flexibility in locating and routing of the fiber optics
within the housing, such as the automobile or aircraft, so as to
minimize or eliminate any bending of the fiber optics
14.sub.1...N.sub.N and thereby eliminating the need of reflective
elements 16.sub.1...16.sub.N described with regard to FIG. 1.
It should now be appreciated that the arrangements of the
embodiments of FIGS. 5 and 1 provide for subsystems 40 and 10,
respectively, that are particularly suited for aerodynamically
styled vehicles, automobiles or aircraft. The practice of the
present invention provides a means of coupling a sufficient amount
of light from the light source to the optical fibers so as to
provide for the overall illumination needs of the aerodynamically
styled vehicles, automobiles and aircraft. The illumination
provided by the practice of the present invention more than
satisfies the low and the high beam needs of the aerodynamically
styled automobile.
One or more of the subsystems 40 or 10 may be interconnected to
comprise the overall lighting system for various applications
finding applicability for the aerodynamically designed, vehicle,
automobile and aircraft. In such a lighting system the high
intensity light source of the subsystem may be energized to serve
the illumination needs for any particular application. The lens of
the subsystem may be located and directed to emit light in a
desired beam pattern and at a particular level of intensity. For
example, the subsystem of the present invention may be employed to
provide for the rearward illumination of a vehicle, such as stop
and tail light, license plate, and back up applications. For such
usage, the light source is selectively activated by the automotive
switching subsystem and the lens members are appropriately mounted
on the desired rear portions of the automobile. For the rearward
illumination, only one optical fiber for each light source is
necessary to conduct the light to the appropriate lens element. The
subsystem of the present invention may also find application to
serve the needs of the interior of a vehicle such as the interior
and glove compartment illumination. Similarly, the practice of the
present invention provides for lighting for other vehicle or
aircraft needs, such as side illumination of a vehicle of landing
lights and marker lights, in thin winged planes. Further, the
practice of the present invention may also provide the desired
illumination for sign lighting and other lighting applications.
The practice of the present invention may provide for all of the
illumination needs of vehicles, automobiles or aircraft. The
invention contemplates that one or more high intensity light
sources may be appropriately housed within the vehicle, automobile
or aircraft and its light output distributed throughout by means of
fiber optic elements to the appropriately positioned lens elements.
The activation of the one or more high intensity light sources
along with the lens element may be accomplished by appropriate
switching means of the vehicle, automobile or aircraft in which the
invention finds application.
Although the previous description related to FIG. 1 was discussed
as having a reflective element for directing the light from an
optical fiber into the lens elements situated on a housing, it
should be recognized that the practice of the present inventioon
contemplates that the optical fiber discussed with regard to FIG. 1
could be routed directly to the lens element and thereby eliminate
the need of the reflective elements shown in FIG. 1. Further, it
should be recognized that the optical fiber could be routed
directly to an appropriate housing and eliminate the need of both
the reflective and lens elements.
It should now be appreciated that the practice of the present
invention provides a means of producing controlled light patterns
initiated from one or more high intensity light sources which are
effectively coupled to one end of a plurality of optical fibers
that can either be brought into close proximity to the light source
or the fibers may be located remotely from the light source by
means such as a focussing elliptical reflector. The other ends of
the fibers then serve as a secondary light source for the optical
systems having other means to combine and collimate the light rays
of the light source into one or more desired light patterns to
serve the needs of the aerodynamically designed vehicles,
automobiles or aircrafts.
* * * * *