WO2019166095A1 - Combination of branch lightguide and led - Google Patents

Combination of branch lightguide and led Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019166095A1
WO2019166095A1 PCT/EP2018/055085 EP2018055085W WO2019166095A1 WO 2019166095 A1 WO2019166095 A1 WO 2019166095A1 EP 2018055085 W EP2018055085 W EP 2018055085W WO 2019166095 A1 WO2019166095 A1 WO 2019166095A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
lightguide
branches
light source
lamp assembly
led
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2018/055085
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jerome MAUDOUX
Yoshiharu Okabe
Original Assignee
Toyota Motor Europe
Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Toyota Motor Europe, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha filed Critical Toyota Motor Europe
Priority to PCT/EP2018/055085 priority Critical patent/WO2019166095A1/en
Publication of WO2019166095A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019166095A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0005—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type
    • G02B6/001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type the light being emitted along at least a portion of the lateral surface of the fibre
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/10—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source
    • F21S43/13—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source characterised by the type of light source
    • F21S43/14—Light emitting diodes [LED]
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/10—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source
    • F21S43/19—Attachment of light sources or lamp holders
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/236—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide
    • F21S43/237—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide rod-shaped
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/236—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide
    • F21S43/241—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide of complex shape
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/242—Light guides characterised by the emission area
    • F21S43/245—Light guides characterised by the emission area emitting light from one or more of its major surfaces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/247—Light guides with a single light source being coupled into the light guide
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being planar or of plate-like form
    • G02B6/0033—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide
    • G02B6/0035—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it
    • G02B6/0036—2-D arrangement of prisms, protrusions, indentations or roughened surfaces
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being planar or of plate-like form
    • G02B6/0033—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide
    • G02B6/0035—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it
    • G02B6/0038—Linear indentations or grooves, e.g. arc-shaped grooves or meandering grooves, extending over the full length or width of the light guide
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being planar or of plate-like form
    • G02B6/0033—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide
    • G02B6/0058—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide varying in density, size, shape or depth along the light guide
    • G02B6/0061—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide varying in density, size, shape or depth along the light guide to provide homogeneous light output intensity

Definitions

  • the present disclosure is related to a branched lightguide.
  • Lightguide technology used within headlamps and rear lamps can provide high impact designs that are inextricably associated with a particular manufacturer, elevating a potential consumer's ability to clearly recognize the brand of the vehicle.
  • the present inventors have identified a problem of wasteful maintenance costs with integrated LED lights and lightguide lamp assemblies because, typically, the entire assembly is replaced when the light source is defective. Additionally, the inventors have identified insufficient space in the lamp when combining a lightguide with a replaceable standardized light source.
  • the present disclosure provides a lightguide comprising at least two branches each having a first end and an opposing second end and comprising an optical step extending along a length thereof, each of the respective first ends of the branches being joined together to define a homogeneous surface.
  • the branches provide a compact design that allows for a cost effective solution for using a lightguide with a standardized light source and provides a homogeneous lit-on appearance of the lamp. Further, waste is reduced because the standardized light source can be replaceable, thus, eliminating the need to replace the entire lamp assembly if a light source is defective.
  • the homogeneous surface of the joined branches may be configured to be positioned proximate to a light source for receiving and guiding light through the respective branches,
  • This configuration promotes a homogeneous distribution of light that can be emitted from the lightguide when a light is applied.
  • the second ends of the respective branches may be positioned away from one another.
  • This configuration allows for a compact design and a homogeneous distribution of light along a length of a lamp assembly.
  • the light source may comprise a standardized LED light source.
  • the lightguide may comprise three or more branches joined together at their respective first ends to define a homogeneous surface.
  • This configuration allows for a compact design and a homogeneous distribution of light along multiple directions.
  • a lamp assembly may comprise the aforementioned lightguide and a light source.
  • the lamp assembly may further comprise a socket, wherein the light source is a socket, removably attached to a lamp.
  • the light source is replaceable which is more cost effective then replacing the entire lamp assembly.
  • the light source of the lamp assembly may comprise an LED.
  • LEDs generate a lower amount of heat compared to alternative lights, e.g., halogen bulbs, and lower the risk of the lightguide being damaged.
  • the lamp assembly may further comprise an outerlens having an inner surface, wherein each of the second ends of the respective branches are aligned substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the outerlens.
  • This configuration allows for a compact design and a homogeneous distribution of light along a length of a lamp assembly.
  • a vehicle may comprise the aforementioned lamp assembly.
  • FIG. 1 shows a cross-section of an exemplary lamp assembly including a lightguide therein
  • Fig. 2 shows the exemplary lightguide with a light source.
  • Fig. 1 shows a cross-section of a lamp assembly 10 positioned within the rear of a motor vehicle 1.
  • the lamp assembly 10 includes a housing 20 that may be removably attached to the vehicle 1. Any suitable attachment means may be used, including but not limited to, fasteners, adhesives, snap-fit, etc.
  • the housing may be composed of any suitable material or combination of materials, for example a polymer such as ABS.
  • the interior surface of the housing 22 may have a reflective coating.
  • the lamp assembly further includes an outerlens 30 that is joined to the housing 20.
  • the housing 20 and outerlens 30 may be joined by any suitable means, for example, by welding.
  • the outerlens 30 is positioned on an exterior of the vehicle body 1 such that it is visible to road users.
  • the outerlens 30 may be made of any suitable material, for example, PMMA, and is preferably transparent.
  • the outerlens 30 may be formed into any appropriate shape and may depend on the type of vehicle and any legal regulations that are applicable to the manufacture of automotive vehicles in a particular jurisdiction.
  • the lamp assembly may further include a fixing structure 34 that is disposed between the interior surfaces of the housing 22 and the outer lens 30.
  • the fixing structure 34 may be attached to the housing by fasteners or a snap fit; however, the fixing structure 34 may be integrated with the housing 20.
  • the fixing structure 34 is adapted to contact and fix a lightguide 50.
  • the lamp assembly 10 includes a standardized light source 40, e.g., LED.
  • the light source 40 may be adapted to be removably attached to the housing 20. This may be achieved by having the light source 40 be attached to the housing 20 by a screw fit, snap-fit, clips, or any other suitable means.
  • the light source 40 may include an LED 42, which may be positioned to face the exterior of the vehicle 1. Any suitable size, wattage, or lumens of the light source 40 may be used, for example, a light source 40 that complies with automotive manufacturing regulations.
  • the lamp assembly 10 further includes a lightguide 50.
  • the lightguide 50 has a first branch 50a and a second branch 50b.
  • the branches 50a, 50b are joined together at a first end to form a face or surface 52.
  • This surface 52 is homogeneous, meaning that it is formed as a monolithic structure.
  • the lightguide 50 may be composed of any suitable material to guide light, for example, PMMA.
  • the lightguide 50 may be made using an injection molding process. It may also be possible to fabricate the lightguide 50 using a milling process, for example.
  • the surface 52 may have any suitable shape, for example, circular, elliptical, etc.
  • the surface 52 may have an angle or may be textured.
  • the surface 52 of the lightguide 50 is configured to be positioned proximate to and facing the LED 42 of the light source 40.
  • the surface 52 of the lightguide 50 may be between 0.5mm to 2mm away from the LED 42.
  • the joined branches 50a, 50b may extend from the surface 52 to a junction 54, where each of the branches 50a, 50b may extend away from each other.
  • the distance between the surface 52 and junction 54 may be any suitable amount, for example, between 5 mm to 15mm.
  • Each of the branches 50a, 50b may have a respective second face 56a, 56b that is on a respective opposing end of the surface 52.
  • the branches 50a, 50b may have any suitable cross-sectional profile, for example, circular.
  • the branches 50a, 50b may be any suitable diameter, for example, 6-8mm.
  • Each of the optical steps 58a, 58b may be formed as a row of prisms adapted to direct light out of the lightguide 50.
  • the branches 50a, 50b may extend in any suitable direction. This is especially helpful in creating a signature appearance for the lamp when the vehicle 1 is in operation.
  • the branches 50a, 50b may be fixed to the fixing structure 34 by any suitable fixing means, for example, fasteners or a snap fit.
  • the branches 50a, 50b are disposed on the fixing structure 34 such that the second ends 56a, 56b of the branches 50a, 50b are aligned substantially perpendicular to a surface 34a of the fixing structure 34.
  • the overall design of the branched lightguide 50 depends on style and regulations. This also applies to the design of the optical step, which may depend on the location on the vehicle, style, and regulations. Further, the lightguide 50 disclosed herein was described with reference to a rear lamp, however this description is merely exemplary and the lightguide 50 can be used for any lamp and should not be construed as being restricted to a rear lamp.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)

Abstract

A lightguide comprising at least two branches each having a first end and an opposing second end and comprising an optical step extending along a length thereof, each of the respective first ends of the branches being joined together to define a homogeneous surface.

Description

COMBINATION OF BRANCH LIGHTGUIDE AND LED
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE [0001] The present disclosure is related to a branched lightguide.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] One of the elements tantamount to commercial success of a motor vehicle is the design. Consumers desire motor vehicles that have an unmistakable appearance, which demands meticulous attention to the lines and contours of the vehicle body, including the headlamps and rear lamps.
[0003] Lightguide technology used within headlamps and rear lamps can provide high impact designs that are inextricably associated with a particular manufacturer, elevating a potential consumer's ability to clearly recognize the brand of the vehicle.
[0004] It is common practice to directly couple a light source to the lightguide, which typically involves positioning the light source close to the entrance surface of the lightguide. As can be seen in US Patent Application number US 2016/0103269, which relates to an illumination lightguide, the light sources are positioned at the opposing ends of the lightguide.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] The present inventors have identified a problem of wasteful maintenance costs with integrated LED lights and lightguide lamp assemblies because, typically, the entire assembly is replaced when the light source is defective. Additionally, the inventors have identified insufficient space in the lamp when combining a lightguide with a replaceable standardized light source.
[0006] In order to solve these problems, the present disclosure provides a lightguide comprising at least two branches each having a first end and an opposing second end and comprising an optical step extending along a length thereof, each of the respective first ends of the branches being joined together to define a homogeneous surface. [0007] The branches provide a compact design that allows for a cost effective solution for using a lightguide with a standardized light source and provides a homogeneous lit-on appearance of the lamp. Further, waste is reduced because the standardized light source can be replaceable, thus, eliminating the need to replace the entire lamp assembly if a light source is defective.
[0008] In some aspects, the homogeneous surface of the joined branches may be configured to be positioned proximate to a light source for receiving and guiding light through the respective branches,
[0009] This configuration promotes a homogeneous distribution of light that can be emitted from the lightguide when a light is applied.
[0010] In some aspects, the second ends of the respective branches may be positioned away from one another.
[0011] This configuration allows for a compact design and a homogeneous distribution of light along a length of a lamp assembly.
[0012] In some aspects, the light source may comprise a standardized LED light source.
[0013] Having a replaceable standardized LED is more cost effective and requires less maintenance than headlamps and rear lamps that have integrated lightguides and LEDs where the entire lamp assembly would have to be replaced in case of a defective light source.
[0014] In aspects, the lightguide may comprise three or more branches joined together at their respective first ends to define a homogeneous surface.
[0015] This configuration allows for a compact design and a homogeneous distribution of light along multiple directions.
[0016] In aspects, a lamp assembly may comprise the aforementioned lightguide and a light source.
[0017] Including the lightguide with the light source allows for a low cost solution to replacing a defective light source.
[0018] In aspects, the lamp assembly may further comprise a socket, wherein the light source is a socket, removably attached to a lamp.
[0019] In this configuration, the light source is replaceable which is more cost effective then replacing the entire lamp assembly.
[0020] In aspects, the light source of the lamp assembly may comprise an LED. [0021] LEDs generate a lower amount of heat compared to alternative lights, e.g., halogen bulbs, and lower the risk of the lightguide being damaged.
[0022] In aspects, the lamp assembly may further comprise an outerlens having an inner surface, wherein each of the second ends of the respective branches are aligned substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the outerlens.
[0023] This configuration allows for a compact design and a homogeneous distribution of light along a length of a lamp assembly.
[0024] In aspects, a vehicle may comprise the aforementioned lamp assembly.
[0025] Including the lamp assembly with a motor vehicle allows for a low cost solution to replacing a burnt out lamp. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] Fig. 1 shows a cross-section of an exemplary lamp assembly including a lightguide therein; and
[0027] Fig. 2 shows the exemplary lightguide with a light source.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
[0029] Fig. 1 shows a cross-section of a lamp assembly 10 positioned within the rear of a motor vehicle 1. The lamp assembly 10 includes a housing 20 that may be removably attached to the vehicle 1. Any suitable attachment means may be used, including but not limited to, fasteners, adhesives, snap-fit, etc. The housing may be composed of any suitable material or combination of materials, for example a polymer such as ABS. The interior surface of the housing 22 may have a reflective coating.
[0030] The lamp assembly further includes an outerlens 30 that is joined to the housing 20. The housing 20 and outerlens 30 may be joined by any suitable means, for example, by welding. The outerlens 30 is positioned on an exterior of the vehicle body 1 such that it is visible to road users. The outerlens 30 may be made of any suitable material, for example, PMMA, and is preferably transparent. The outerlens 30 may be formed into any appropriate shape and may depend on the type of vehicle and any legal regulations that are applicable to the manufacture of automotive vehicles in a particular jurisdiction.
[0031] The lamp assembly may further include a fixing structure 34 that is disposed between the interior surfaces of the housing 22 and the outer lens 30. The fixing structure 34 may be attached to the housing by fasteners or a snap fit; however, the fixing structure 34 may be integrated with the housing 20. The fixing structure 34 is adapted to contact and fix a lightguide 50.
[0032] The lamp assembly 10 includes a standardized light source 40, e.g., LED. The light source 40 may be adapted to be removably attached to the housing 20. This may be achieved by having the light source 40 be attached to the housing 20 by a screw fit, snap-fit, clips, or any other suitable means. The light source 40 may include an LED 42, which may be positioned to face the exterior of the vehicle 1. Any suitable size, wattage, or lumens of the light source 40 may be used, for example, a light source 40 that complies with automotive manufacturing regulations.
[0033] Turning to Fig. 2, the lamp assembly 10 further includes a lightguide 50. The lightguide 50 has a first branch 50a and a second branch 50b. The branches 50a, 50b are joined together at a first end to form a face or surface 52. This surface 52 is homogeneous, meaning that it is formed as a monolithic structure. The lightguide 50 may be composed of any suitable material to guide light, for example, PMMA. The lightguide 50 may be made using an injection molding process. It may also be possible to fabricate the lightguide 50 using a milling process, for example.
[0034] The surface 52 may have any suitable shape, for example, circular, elliptical, etc. The surface 52 may have an angle or may be textured. The surface 52 of the lightguide 50 is configured to be positioned proximate to and facing the LED 42 of the light source 40. For example, the surface 52 of the lightguide 50 may be between 0.5mm to 2mm away from the LED 42. [0035] The joined branches 50a, 50b may extend from the surface 52 to a junction 54, where each of the branches 50a, 50b may extend away from each other. The distance between the surface 52 and junction 54 may be any suitable amount, for example, between 5 mm to 15mm.
[0036] Each of the branches 50a, 50b may have a respective second face 56a, 56b that is on a respective opposing end of the surface 52. The branches 50a, 50b may have any suitable cross-sectional profile, for example, circular. The branches 50a, 50b may be any suitable diameter, for example, 6-8mm.
[0037] Formed along at least a portion of each of the branches 50a,
50b is a respective optical step 58a, 58b. Each of the optical steps 58a, 58b may be formed as a row of prisms adapted to direct light out of the lightguide 50.
[0038] The combination of the homogeneous surface 52 and the branches 50a, 50b having optical steps 58a, 58b results in a homogeneous distribution of light emanating from the optical steps 58a, 58b of the lightguide 50 when light is applied to the surface 52.
[0039] The branches 50a, 50b may extend in any suitable direction. This is especially helpful in creating a signature appearance for the lamp when the vehicle 1 is in operation.
[0040] The branches 50a, 50b may be fixed to the fixing structure 34 by any suitable fixing means, for example, fasteners or a snap fit. The branches 50a, 50b are disposed on the fixing structure 34 such that the second ends 56a, 56b of the branches 50a, 50b are aligned substantially perpendicular to a surface 34a of the fixing structure 34.
[0041] The overall design of the branched lightguide 50, for example, the overall width and height, depends on style and regulations. This also applies to the design of the optical step, which may depend on the location on the vehicle, style, and regulations. Further, the lightguide 50 disclosed herein was described with reference to a rear lamp, however this description is merely exemplary and the lightguide 50 can be used for any lamp and should not be construed as being restricted to a rear lamp.
[0042] Throughout the description, including the claims, the term "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one" unless otherwise stated. In addition, any range set forth in the description, including the claims should be understood as including its end value(s) unless otherwise stated. Specific values for described elements should be understood to be within accepted manufacturing or industry tolerances known to one of skill in the art, and any use of the terms "substantially" and/or "approximately" and/or "generally" should be understood to mean falling within such accepted tolerances.
[0043] Although the present disclosure herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present disclosure.
[0044] It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A lightguide comprising:
at least two branches each having a first end and an opposing second end and comprising an optical step extending along a length thereof, each of the respective first ends of the branches being joined together to define a homogeneous surface.
2. The lightguide of claim 1, wherein the homogeneous surface of the joined branches is configured to be positioned proximate to a light source for receiving and guiding light through the respective branches.
3. The lightguide of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second ends of the respective branches are positioned away from one another.
4. The lightguide of any one of claims 2-3, wherein the light source comprises a standardized LED light source.
5. The lightguide of any one of the preceding claims further
comprising three or more branches joined together at their respective first ends to define a homogeneous surface.
6. A lamp assembly comprising:
the lightguide of any one of claims 1-5; and
a light source.
7. The lamp assembly of claim 6 further comprising a socket, wherein the light source is a socket, removably attached to a lamp.
8. The lamp assembly of any one of claims 6-7, wherein the light source comprises an LED.
9. The lamp assembly of any one of claims 6-8, further comprising an outerlens having an inner surface, wherein each of the second ends of the respective branches are aligned substantially perpendicular to a surface of a fixing structure.
10. A vehicle comprising: the lamp assembly of any one of claims 6-9.
PCT/EP2018/055085 2018-03-01 2018-03-01 Combination of branch lightguide and led WO2019166095A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2018/055085 WO2019166095A1 (en) 2018-03-01 2018-03-01 Combination of branch lightguide and led

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2018/055085 WO2019166095A1 (en) 2018-03-01 2018-03-01 Combination of branch lightguide and led

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2019166095A1 true WO2019166095A1 (en) 2019-09-06

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9039260B2 (en) * 2011-11-08 2015-05-26 Zizala Lichtsysteme Gmbh Lightguide element
US20160103269A1 (en) 2014-10-10 2016-04-14 Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Illumination light guide
US20160347234A1 (en) * 2015-05-27 2016-12-01 Valeo Vision Belgique Lighting device, notably for motor vehicles, and lighting and/or signalling module including such a device
US20180017224A1 (en) * 2016-07-12 2018-01-18 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Vehicle lamp assembly with rear-lit oled

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9039260B2 (en) * 2011-11-08 2015-05-26 Zizala Lichtsysteme Gmbh Lightguide element
US20160103269A1 (en) 2014-10-10 2016-04-14 Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Illumination light guide
US20160347234A1 (en) * 2015-05-27 2016-12-01 Valeo Vision Belgique Lighting device, notably for motor vehicles, and lighting and/or signalling module including such a device
US20180017224A1 (en) * 2016-07-12 2018-01-18 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Vehicle lamp assembly with rear-lit oled

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