RU2684998C2 - Backlight device and lighting system for vehicle (embodiments) - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: lighting.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to vehicle illumination systems. Illumination device for a vehicle comprises a surface on the lateral side of the vehicle and a light strip light source. Surface on lateral side of vehicle comprises first photoluminescent graphic image with first absorption range and second photoluminescent graphic image with second absorption range. Light strip light source, separately located on said lateral side of vehicle, is configured to emit first radiation with first wavelength. First wavelength is substantially matched with the first absorption band to generate a higher fluorescence level from the first photoluminescent graphic image than from the second photoluminescent graphic image.

EFFECT: higher quality of common and working illumination.

20 cl, 9 dwg

Description

Cross reference to related applications

[0001] This application is a partial continuation of application for US patent No. 14 / 452,893, filed August 6, 2014, and entitled "INTERIOR EXTERIOR MOVING DESIGNS", which is a partial continuation of application for US patent No. 14 / 301,635, filed June 11 2014 and entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE READING LAMP", which is a partial continuation of patent application US No. 14 / 156,869 filed January 16, 2014, entitled "VEHICLE DOME LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE", which is a partial continuation of the application on US patent 14 / 086,442, filed November 21, 2013, and entitled “VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH PHOTOLUMINISCENT STRUCTURE”. The above related applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

The technical field to which the invention relates.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to vehicle lighting systems, and more specifically to vehicle lighting systems using photoluminescent structures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The backlight emanating from photoluminescent materials provides a unique and attractive viewing experience. In this regard, it is required to include such photoluminescent materials in the vehicle sections to provide outdoor lighting and working lighting.

Summary of Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, an illumination device for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination device comprises a surface containing a first photoluminescent graphic image containing a first absorption band and a second photoluminescent graphic image containing a second absorption band. The illumination device further comprises at least one light source made with the possibility of emitting a first radiation with a first wavelength. The first wavelength is essentially aligned with the first absorption range for generating a higher level of fluorescence from the first photoluminescent graphic image than from the second photoluminescent graphic image. Thus, the illumination device is adapted to selectively illuminate the first photoluminescent graphic image and the second photoluminescent graphic image essentially independently.

The first photoluminescent graphic image may be configured to emit the first color of light, and the second photoluminescent graphic image may be configured to emit the second color of light.

At least one light source corresponds to the first light source and the second light source, and the first light source can be configured to emit the first radiation.

The second light source can be configured to emit a third radiation with a second wavelength, essentially consistent with the second absorption range.

The second photoluminescent graphic image can be made with the possibility of radiation of the fourth radiation in response to receiving the second radiation.

The backlight device may further comprise a controller associated with the first and second light sources, the controller being configured to selectively illuminate each of the first and second light sources.

The controller can be configured to control the first radiation and the third radiation so that a portion of the first photoluminescent portion is selectively highlighted substantially independently of the backlight of the second photoluminescent portion.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present invention, a lighting system for a vehicle is disclosed. The lighting system contains a panel corresponding to the surface of the vehicle, and at least one light source, configured to emit the first radiation. The coating is located on the surface near at least one light source. The coating contains at least one photoluminescent portion extending along the surface, with the first radiation directed towards the photoluminescent portion so that the photoluminescent portion radiates the second radiation.

The panel may correspond to a trim strip located on the vehicle panel.

According to one embodiment, the at least one photoluminescent portion corresponds to a first photoluminescent graphic image and a second photoluminescent graphic image.

According to another embodiment, the first photoluminescent graphic comprises a first absorption range, and the second photoluminescent graphic contains a second absorption range at least partially outside the first absorption range.

According to another embodiment, the at least one light source corresponds to a first light source configured to emit a first radiation and a second light source configured to emit a third radiation.

According to another embodiment, the first radiation is essentially aligned with the peak illumination of the first absorption range, and the second radiation is essentially matched with the peak illumination of the second absorption range.

The lighting system can be configured to selectively illuminate at least a portion of the first photoluminescent graphic image independently of the second photoluminescent graphic image.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present invention, a lighting system for a vehicle is disclosed. The lighting system contains a first light source, configured to emit the first radiation, and the first photoluminescent graphic image containing the first absorption band located on the surface. The backlight device further comprises a second photoluminescent graphic image comprising a second absorption band located on the surface. The first light source is directed at least to a portion of each of the first photoluminescent graphic image and the second photoluminescent graphic image. The light source is configured to excite the first photoluminescent graphic image to output the second radiation with a higher fluorescence than the second photoluminescent graphic image in response to the first radiation.

The lighting system further comprises a second light source, configured to output a third radiation, configured to excite a second photoluminescent graphic image to output a fourth radiation with greater fluorescence relative to the first photoluminescent graphic image in response to the second radiation.

The first light source may contain a first set of emitters configured to output the first radiation with a first wavelength, and the second light source may contain a second set of emitters configured to output the second radiation with a second wavelength different from the first wavelength.

The lighting system further comprises a controller configured to selectively activate each of the first set of emitters and the second set of emitters to selectively excite portions of the first photoluminescent graphic image and the second photoluminescent graphic image.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the first light source and the second light source are distributed along the surface of the vehicle and hidden by a trim panel.

The controller may be configured to selectively activate each of the first plurality of radiators and the second plurality of radiators to generate at least one of: a lighting pattern and a motion effect.

[0007] These and other aspects, objectives and features of the present invention will be understood and taken into account by a specialist in the field of technology in the study of the following description, claims and attached drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] In the drawings:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle comprising a lighting system configured to generate a motion effect;

[0010] FIG. 2A illustrates a photoluminescent structure made in the form of a coating;

[0011] FIG. 2B illustrates a photoluminescent structure made in the form of discrete particles;

[0012] FIG. 2C illustrates a plurality of photoluminescent structures made in the form of discrete particles and included in a separate structure;

[0013] Figure 3 illustrates a lighting system configured to convert a first light emission into a second light emission;

[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a lighting system configured to convert the first and second light emissions to the third and fourth light emissions, respectively;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a graphical representation showing a plurality of Stokes shifts corresponding to the conversion of the first and second light emissions into the third and fourth light emissions;

[0016] FIG. 6A is a detailed view of a first light emission made with the possibility of illuminating a first photoluminescent portion of a vehicle;

[0017] FIG. 6B is a detailed view of a second light emission configured to illuminate a second photoluminescent portion of the vehicle;

[0018] FIG. 6C is a detailed view of the first and second light emissions, made with the possibility of illuminating the first and second photoluminescent sections of the vehicle;

[0019] FIG. 7A is a detailed view of the first photoluminescent portion and the second photoluminescent portion, configured to illuminate the surface of the vehicle;

[0020] FIG. 7B is a detailed view of a first photoluminescent portion and a second photoluminescent portion, configured to illuminate the surface of the vehicle;

[0021] FIG. 8A is a side view of a vehicle containing an illumination system configured to illuminate the surface of the vehicle from a hidden light source;

[0022] FIG. 8B is a side view of a vehicle containing a lighting system showing a first photoluminescent graphic image highlighted by a first light source;

[0023] FIG. 8C is a side view of a vehicle containing a lighting system showing a second photoluminescent graphic image highlighted by a second light source;

[0024] FIG. 8D is a side view of a vehicle containing a lighting system showing a variety of photoluminescent graphic images illuminated by at least one light source; and

[0025] FIG. 9 is a side view of a vehicle comprising a lighting system showing a first photoluminescent graphic image and a second photoluminescent graphic image highlighted by a plurality of light sources in accordance with the disclosure.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0026] As indicated, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, which may be performed in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily detailed, and certain patterns may be exaggerated or minimized to show an overview of the functions. In this regard, the specific structural and functional details disclosed here should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a characteristic basis for the training of a specialist in the field of technology for the various applications of the present invention.

[0027] As used here, the expression “and / or” when used in a list of two or more elements means that any of the listed elements can be applied by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed elements can be applied. For example, if the composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition may contain only A; only b; C only; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in combination.

[0028] Expressions first, second, third, etc., which are used herein may provide notation with reference to the Shapes for clarity. For example, in some embodiments, the first portion and the second portion may be mentioned, and in some additional embodiments, only the second portion may be mentioned. Such designations may serve to demonstrate exemplary structures and compositions and should not be construed as indicating a specific number of elements or essential components of any particular embodiment of the present invention, unless otherwise clearly defined. These designations should therefore be regarded as providing clarity with reference to various possible embodiments of the present invention, which can be combined in various combinations and / or used separately for a clear reference to the various elements of the present invention.

[0029] The following disclosure describes a vehicle lighting system configured to illuminate a first photoluminescent portion of at least one vehicle panel having a first luminescence absorption range. The first light source is configured to emit a first light emission having a first wavelength corresponding to the first luminescence absorption range. The first photoluminescent portion is configured to emit a second radiation in response to receiving the first radiation. The second radiation has a second wavelength, which differs from the first wavelength in that the second wavelength is longer and more sharply visible to the human eye. In this configuration, the lighting system provides illumination of the first photoluminescent portion from the first light source.

[0030] In some embodiments, the lighting system further includes a second light source and a second photoluminescent portion having a second luminescence absorption range. The second light source is arranged to emit a third radiation having a third wavelength corresponding to the second photoluminescent portion. The second photoluminescent portion is configured to emit the fourth radiation in response to receiving the third radiation. The lighting system is configured to generate a perceived motion or animation effect by selectively highlighting the first light source and the second light source to generate the second and fourth radiation from the first and second photoluminescent portions, respectively.

[0031] The effect of motion or animation, which is discussed here, refers to the perceived visual effect, which may occur at least in part due to the duration of the motion phenomenon. For example, when the first and second light sources alternate the radiation of the first and third light emissions, the first and second photoluminescent areas can selectively highlight and emit the second and fourth light emissions. The illumination system is configured to generate a motion effect corresponding to the spatial mutual arrangement between the first and second photoluminescent portions by alternating between the output of the second and fourth light emissions. The effect of the movement can correspond to the blinking, oscillation and / or animated sequence, made with the possibility of generating a moving pattern and / or graphic image on the vehicle.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle 10 comprising a lighting system 12 configured to generate a motion effect. The lighting system 12 comprises at least one light source 14 configured to emit a first radiation 16 having a first wavelength. The lighting system 12 further comprises at least one photoluminescent portion 18 configured to emit a second radiation 20 having a second wavelength. The second radiation 20 causes the at least one photoluminescent portion 18 to have an external luminescence having a color corresponding to one or more wavelengths corresponding to the second wavelength. At least one photoluminescent portion 18 may contain at least one photoluminescent structure, which is excited in response to receiving the first radiation 16 and converts the first wavelength to a second wavelength for highlighting at least one photoluminescent portion 18.

[0033] At least one photoluminescent portion 18 may correspond to a plurality of photoluminescent portions. Similarly, at least one light source 14 may correspond to a plurality of light sources. In some embodiments, each of a plurality of light sources is configured to match each of the photoluminescent portions to illuminate the corresponding photoluminescent portion. For example, the first light source 22 may correspond to the first photoluminescent portion 24. The first light source 22 may be configured to emit the first radiation 16 so that the first photoluminescent portion 24 is excited and converts the first radiation 16 to a second radiation 20 having a second wavelength.

[0034] In some embodiments, the second light source 26 may be configured to emit the third radiation 28 corresponding to the second photoluminescent portion 30. The second light source 26 may correspond to one of the plurality of light sources shown in FIG. 1, as at least one light source 14. The second photoluminescent portion 30 may correspond to one of the plurality of photoluminescent portions shown in FIG. 1, as at least one photoluminescent portion 18. In some embodiments, the second photoluminescent portion 30 may be configured to have a shape or shape that complements the first photoluminescent portion 24, for example, shadow, shade and / or any shape configured generating a blur effect or motion offset from the first photoluminescent portion 24.

[0035] To generate a motion or tint effect, the second photoluminescent portion 30 is configured to excite and transform the third radiation 28 into a fourth radiation 32, which has a fourth wavelength. Thus, the present invention provides an illumination system 12 configured to selectively illuminate the first photoluminescent portion 24 and the second photoluminescent portion 30 to generate a motion animation effect. The second light source 26 and the second photoluminescent portion 30 can be located on the vehicle 10 like at least one light source 14 and at least one photoluminescent portion 18, respectively. Additional consideration of the plurality of light sources and photoluminescent plots is discussed here especially with reference to FIG. 6A-7B.

[0036] FIG. 2A-2C generally shows a photoluminescent structure 42 made in the form of a coating (for example, a film) capable of being deposited on a fixed part of a vehicle, a discrete particle capable of being embedded in a fixed part of a vehicle, and a multitude of discrete particles included in a separate structure capable of applied to the fixed part of the vehicle, respectively. The photoluminescent structure 42 may correspond to photoluminescent areas that are discussed here, for example, the first photoluminescent section 24 and the second photoluminescent section 30. At the most basic level, the photoluminescent structure 42 includes an energy conversion layer 44, which can be provided in a single layer or a multilayer structure which is shown by dotted lines in FIG. 2A and 2B.

[0037] The energy conversion layer 44 may include one or more photoluminescent materials having energy converting elements selected from the phosphorescent and / or fluorescent material (s). Photoluminescent materials can be designed with the ability to convert the input electromagnetic radiation into the output electromagnetic radiation, generally having a longer wavelength and representing a color that is not characteristic of the input electromagnetic radiation. The difference in wavelength between the input and output electromagnetic radiation is called the Stokes shift and serves as the main mechanism for activating the energy conversion process corresponding to a change in the wavelength of light, often called a downconversion. In the various embodiments discussed here, each of the wavelengths of light (for example, the first wavelength, etc.) corresponds to the electromagnetic radiation used in the conversion process.

[0038] Each of the photoluminescent portions may comprise at least one photoluminescent structure 42 comprising an energy conversion layer (for example, a conversion layer 44). The energy conversion layer 44 can be prepared by distributing the photoluminescent material in the polymer matrix 50 to form a homogeneous mixture using a variety of methods. Such methods may include the steps of preparing the energy conversion layer 44 from the composition in a liquid carrier medium and applying the energy conversion layer 44 to the desired flat and / or non-planar substrate of the fixed vehicle part. The coating of the energy conversion layer 44 can be deposited on the fixed part of the vehicle by dyeing, screen printing, spraying, slit coating, dip coating, rolling coating and coating with a slat. Additionally, the energy conversion layer 44 may be prepared in ways that do not use a carrier fluid.

[0039] For example, a solid solution (homogeneous mixture in a dry state) of one or more photoluminescent materials may be incorporated into the polymer matrix 50 to provide an energy conversion layer 44. The polymer matrix 50 can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, extrusion molding, extrusion, hot molding, etc. In the examples where one or more energy conversion layers 44 are in the form of particles, single or multi-layer energy conversion layers 44 can be embedded in a fixed part or panel of a vehicle. When the energy conversion layer 44 includes a multilayer composition, each layer can be applied sequentially. Additionally, the layers can be prepared separately and then laminated or stamped together to form a solid layer. Layers can also be coextruded to prepare an integrated multi-layer energy conversion structure.

[0040] Returning to FIG. 2A and 2B, the photoluminescent structure 42 may optionally include at least one resistance layer 46 to protect the photoluminescent material contained within the energy conversion layer 44 from photolytic and thermal decomposition. Stability layer 46 can be made as a separate layer, optically bonded and glued to energy conversion layer 44. Stability layer 46 can also be combined with energy conversion layer 44. The photoluminescent structure 42 may also optionally include a protective layer 48, optically bonded and adhered to the stability layer 46, or any layer or coating to protect the photoluminescent structure 42 from physical and chemical damage caused by the environment.

[0041] The stability layer 46 and / or the protective layer 48 can be combined with the energy conversion layer 44 to form an integrated photoluminescent structure 42 by sequentially applying or printing each layer and / or by sequential lamination or stamping. Alternatively, several layers can be combined by sequential application, lamination or stamping to form a substructure. The substructure can then be laminated or stamped to form a combined photoluminescent structure 42. After formation, the photoluminescent structure 42 can be applied onto a selected fixed part or vehicle surface.

[0042] In some embodiments, the photoluminescent structure 42 may be incorporated into the fixed part of the vehicle in the form of one or more discrete multilayer particles, as shown in FIG. 2c. The photoluminescent structure 42 may also be provided in the form of one or more discrete multilayer particles distributed in a polymer composition, which is subsequently applied to a fixed part or vehicle panel as an adjacent structure. Additional information relating to the execution of the photoluminescent structures to be used in at least one photoluminescent vehicle center (tee-ka; -a; -a; -a; -a; -a; -e); -2014; Kingsley et al., Entitled “PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENIENTURIENTURIENTALY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENTENIURIENTALLY STABLE MENTILAYER EMISSION ”, filed on July 31, 2012, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0043] FIG. 3 generally shows an illumination system 12 according to a front-lit configuration 62 for converting the first radiation 16 from at least one light source 14 to a second radiation 20. The first radiation 16 contains the first wavelength λ ₁ and the second radiation 20 contains the second length λ ₂ the waves. The lighting system 12 may include a photoluminescent structure 42 made in the form of a coating and deposited on the substrate 64 of the fixed part 66 of the vehicle. The photoluminescent structure 42 may include an energy conversion layer 44 and in some embodiments may include a stability layer 46 and / or a protective layer 48. In response to the at least one light source 14 activated, the first radiation 16 is converted from the first length λ ₁ waves to the second radiation 20, having at least a second wavelength λ ₂ . The second radiation 20 may comprise a plurality of wavelengths adapted to emit essentially white light from the fixed part 66 of the vehicle.

[0044] In various embodiments, the lighting system 12 comprises at least one energy conversion layer 44 configured to convert the first radiation 16 with a first wavelength to a second radiation 20 having at least a second wavelength λ ₂ . At least one energy conversion layer 44 can be configured to generate a plurality of visible colors using at least one of the red light emitting photoluminescent material, the green light emitting the photoluminescent material and the blue light emitting photoluminescent material distributed in the polymer matrix 50. Emitting red , green and blue light photoluminescent materials can be combined to generate essentially white light for the second radiation 20. Additional tively emitting red, green and blue light photoluminescent materials may be used in a variety of combinations of proportions and for controlling the emission of the second color 20.

[0045] Each of the photoluminescent materials may vary in output intensity, output wavelength and peak absorption wavelengths based on a particular photochemical structure and combinations of photochemical structures used in the energy conversion layer 44. The intensity of the second radiation 20 can be changed by adjusting the wavelength of the first radiation. In addition to or alternatively photoluminescent materials emitting red, green and blue light, other photoluminescent materials can be used separately and in various combinations to generate the second radiation 20 of a wide variety of colors. Thus, the lighting system 12 can be configured to many applications to provide the desired color and lighting effect for the vehicle 10.

[0046] At least one light source 14 may relate to a plurality of light sources including the first light source 22 and the second light source 26. At least one light source 14 may also be referred to as an excitation source and is configured to emit at least a first radiation 16. At least one light source 14 may contain any form of a light source, for example, halogen lighting, fluorescent lighting, light-emitting diodes (LEDs ), organic LEDs (OLEDs), polymeric LEDs (PLEDs), solid-state lighting or any other form of lighting, designed to output the first radiation 16.

[0047] Next in FIG. 4 shows an illumination system 12 in a configuration comprising a plurality of photoluminescent sections 80 including a first photoluminescent section 24 and a second photoluminescent section 30. The first photoluminescent section 24 is configured to emit the second radiation 20 in response to receiving the first radiation 16 from the first light source 22 . The second photoluminescent portion 30 is configured to emit the fourth radiation 32 in response to receiving the third radiation 28 from the second light source 26. Each of the plurality of photoluminescent areas 80 may be independently excited. For example, the second radiation 20 may be output with the fourth radiation inactive 32, and the fourth radiation 32 may be output with the second radiation inactive 20. This selective activation of each of the photoluminescent portions 80 may be performed using photoluminescent materials having non-overlapping absorption ranges.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first radiation 16 from the first light source 22 can be configured such that the first wavelength λ ₁ corresponds to the first absorption band of the first photoluminescent portion 24. The third radiation 28 from the second light source 26 can be made so that the third ₃ wave length λ corresponding to a second range of absorption of the second portion 30. The first photoluminescent absorption range can correspond to a range of light absorption of the radiation, which is substantially different from the second RANGES and absorption. In this configuration, the first light source 22 can selectively activate the first photoluminescent portion 24 using the first radiation 16 in the first absorption range, and the second light source 26 can selectively activate the second photoluminescent portion 30 using the third radiation 28 in the second absorption range.

[0049] Next in FIG. 5 shows an exemplary graphical representation 84 of converting the first radiation 16 into the second radiation 20 and the third radiation 28 into the fourth radiation 32. The independent axis 86 of the graph 84 shows the absorption range in nanometers, which corresponds to the wavelengths of light absorbed by the photoluminescent materials and the corresponding photoluminescent sections 24 and 30 The dependent axis 88 shows the percentage fluorescence of the photoluminescent radiation as a function of radiation absorption. Each of the radiations 20 and 32 from the photoluminescent portions 24 and 30 is configured to output light with one or more wavelengths corresponding to the specific photoluminescent materials implemented.

[0050] In this example, the graphical representation 84 shows the first absorption range 90 and the second absorption range 92 and each of the corresponding light emissions (for example, the second radiation 20 and the fourth radiation 32). The first absorption band 90 corresponds to longer wavelengths of light than the second absorption band 92. Thus, the first photoluminescent portion 24 can be illuminated independently of the second photoluminescent portion 30. The absorption bands and the resulting radiation can be performed with particular photoluminescent materials used in each of the photoluminescent patches 24 and 30. Different combinations of photoluminescent materials can provide a wide range of colors and combinations of wavelengths to generate a motion effect.

[0051] The expression "absorption range", which is used here, defines the range of wavelengths that excite the photoluminescent portion or structure and cause the photoluminescent material to be excited. In response to the excitation, the photoluminescent portion emits radiation having at least one wavelength of light that is at least partially outside the absorption range. In various embodiments, the absorption range of photoluminescent materials discussed herein may vary. Additionally, light emission in the form of emitted fluorescence can be selected based on the material properties of photoluminescent structures discussed here.

[0052] Next in FIG. 4 and 5 demonstrate an example of a specific combination of photoluminescent materials and light sources. The first absorption band 90 may correspond to a wavelength range of blue and / or close to ultraviolet light range having wavelengths of approximately 390-450 nm. The second absorption range 92 may correspond to a substantially non-overlapping wavelength range in the ultraviolet and / or blue light range having wavelengths of approximately 250-410 nm. The first radiation 16, configured to cause the first photoluminescent portion 24 to output the second radiation 20, approximately 525 nm, may be approximately 470 nm. The third radiation 28, configured to cause the second photoluminescent portion 30 to output the fourth radiation 32 of approximately 645 nm., May be approximately 370 nm. Thus, the second radiation 20 and the fourth radiation 32 can be selectively excited by each of the light sources 22, 26 to independently output light of essentially green color and light of essentially orange-red color, respectively.

[0053] In general, photoluminescent materials of the first photoluminescent portion 24 and the second photoluminescent portion 30 can be combined in various proportions, types, layers, etc. to generate a variety of colors for each of the luminescent radiations. Although specific materials and structures of photoluminescent materials are considered here, various materials can be used without deviating from the gist of the invention. In some embodiments, the first photoluminescent portion 24 is configured to have a first absorption range 90, substantially larger than the second absorption range 92. Additionally, the second wavelength λ _{2 of the} second radiation 20 can be configured to output a substantially shorter wavelength or range of wavelengths than the fourth wavelength λ _{4 of the} fourth radiation 32.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first photoluminescent portion 24 may contain an organic fluorescent dye configured to convert the first radiation 16 to the second radiation 20. For example, the first photoluminescent material may contain a photoluminescent structure of rylenes, xantenes, porphyrins, phthalocyanines, or other materials suitable for a particular Stokes shift determined by the absorption range and the fluorescence of the radiation. The first photoluminescent portion 24 and the corresponding material can be configured to have a shorter Stokes shift than the second photoluminescent portion. Thus, each of the photoluminescent portions 24 and 30 can be independently illuminated by light sources 22 and 26 for outputting different colors of light.

[0055] The second photoluminescent portion 30 may contain a photoluminescent structure 42 configured to generate a longer Stokes shift than the first photoluminescent portion 24. The second photoluminescent portion may contain an organic or inorganic material made with the ability to have a second absorption range 92 and the desired output length wave or color. In an exemplary embodiment, the photoluminescent structure 42 of the second photoluminescent portion 30 may consist of at least one inorganic luminescent material selected from the group of phosphors. The inorganic luminescent material may more specifically be from the group of cerium-doped garnets, such as yttrium-cerium alumina. This configuration can provide a longer second Stokes shift of the second photoluminescent portion 30 than a first Stokes shift of the first photoluminescent portion 24.

[0056] The first radiation 16 and the third radiation 28 from light sources having wavelengths in the blue spectral range and shorter wavelengths (ultraviolet wavelengths) are shown. Such wavelengths can be used as excitation sources for photoluminescent areas and provide virtually unperceivable sources of illumination due to these wavelengths, which have a limited sharpness of perception in the visible spectrum of the human eye. Using shorter wavelengths for excitation sources (for example, first radiation 16 and third radiation 28), illumination system 12 can create a visual effect of light emanating from photoluminescent areas 24 and 30. Additionally, in this configuration, light is emitted from a photoluminescent structure 42 (for example, the first photoluminescent portion 24, the second photoluminescent portion 30) from locations in vehicle 10, which may not be available or costly to add traditional sources light that requires electrical connections.

[0057] To achieve the various colors and combinations of photoluminescent materials described here, lighting system 12 can use any form of photoluminescent materials, such as phospholuminescent materials, organic and inorganic dyes, etc. For additional information regarding the manufacture and use of photoluminescent materials to achieve different emissions, refer to US Patent No. 8,207,511, Bortz et al., Entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT FIBERS, COMPOSITIONS AND FABRICS MADE THEREFROM", filed June 26, 2012; US patent No. entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT MARKINGS WITH FUNCTIONAL OVERLAYERS" filed August 21, 2012; US Patent No. 8,519,359 B2, Kingsley et al., entitled “PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION”, filed August 27, 2013 US Patent No. 8,664,624 B2, Kingsley et al., entitled “ILLUMINATION DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR GENERATING SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION”, filed March 4, 2014; US Patent Publication No. 2012/0183677, Agrawal et al., entitled “PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND NOVEL USES” filed July 19, 2012; US Patent Publication No. 2014/0065442 A1, Kingsley et al., entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT OBJECTS" filed March 6, 2014, and US Patent Publication No. 2014/0103258 A1, Agrawal et al., entitled "CHROMIC LUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS AND TEXTILES", filed on April 17, 2014, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0058] Next in FIG. 6A-6C show enlarged views of the first photoluminescent portion 24 and the second photoluminescent portion 30, showing a moving effect and / or a combination tint lighting in accordance with the present invention. As discussed here, the lighting system 12 is configured to selectively illuminate the first photoluminescent portion 24 by emitting the first radiation 16 from the first light source 22. The lighting system 12 is additionally configured to selectively illuminate the second photoluminescent portion 30 by emitting a third radiation 28 from the second light source 26. Each of the light sources 22 and 26 may be selectively activated by one or more lighting controllers configured to control the first and second light sources 22 and 26.

[0059] The light sources 22 and 26 may be activated in combination or periodically to generate a visual effect, for example, flickering, vibrations, animated movement, etc. When activated in combination, which is shown in FIG. 6C, the combination of the second radiation 20 and the fourth radiation 32 provides simultaneous output of the first color 100 of the light corresponding to the second wavelength λ ₂ and the second color 102 of the light corresponding to the fourth length λ _{4 of the} wave. As demonstrated in FIG. 5, each of the second wavelength λ ₂ and the fourth wavelength λ ₄ may correspond to one or more wavelengths combined to form the averaged or perceived color of light. Each of the first color 100 and the second color 102 may correspond to different perceived colors or shades of color that can be selectively output to generate a motion effect.

[0060] Next in FIG. 7A and 7B show enlarged views of the first photoluminescent portion 112 and the second photoluminescent portion 114, showing a fading or moving light effect that can be made to generate a plurality of light colors. In this example, each of the photoluminescent portions 112 and 114 may be similar to the first photoluminescent portion 24 and the second photoluminescent portion 30 so that the first photoluminescent portion is mainly illuminated in response to the first emission 16 from the first light source 22, and the second photoluminescent portion is mainly illuminated in response to the third radiation 28 from the second light source 26. In this configuration, the first light source 22 and the second light source 26 can be configured to generate a moving, fading, and / or pulsating light effect by controlling the intensity and focusing of the first light source 22 and the second light source 26.

[0061] Each of the photoluminescent portions 112 and 114, which are shown, form a selectively illuminated portion 116, which may correspond to a coating applied to the surface 118 of the vehicle 10, and / or at least one photoluminescent material distributed in the paint or coating applied on the surface 118. For clarity, the selectively highlighted portion 116 is shown as a simple trapezoidal outline, but the selectively highlighted portion 116 can match any shape, pattern, shade, and / whether a combination thereof. Additionally, the first photoluminescent portion 112 may correspond to the first outline or pattern, and the second photoluminescent portion 114 may correspond to the second outline or pattern, each of which has a different length and / or proportion. The first photoluminescent portion 112 may also partially or completely overlap the second photoluminescent portion 114 within the selectively illuminated portion 116.

[0062] As demonstrated in FIG. 7A and 7B, the first photoluminescent portion 112 is shown as the first pattern of lines extending diagonally down from the upper left border of the selectively illuminated portion 116 to the lower right border of the selectively highlighted portion 116. The second photoluminescent portion 114 is shown as a second pattern of lines extending diagonally from the lower left border of the selectively illuminated portion 116 to the upper right boundary of the selectively illuminated portion 116. For clarity, each of the photoluminescent portions 112 and 114 rodemonstrirovan like extending coextensive to the boundaries selectively highlighted area 116. However, each of photoluminescence plots can be applied to any surface portion 118 or any other surface of vehicle 10, where sources 22 and 26, light can be directed.

[0063] FIG. 7A, the second light source 26 is shown as a second set of lighting means 120. The lighting system 12 is configured to generate a second light gradient or a light pattern 122a emitted as a third radiation 28, which is demonstrated by the length of each arrow indicating the third radiation 28. In accordance with the light pattern 122a, the illuminated area 124a of the second photoluminescent portion 114 may be excited with the possibility of radiation of the fourth radiation 126. The first light source 22 contains the first set of lighting means 130 and is also adapted to generate a first light gradient or pictures of light emitted in the form of a first radiation 16, which is demonstrated by the length of each arrow indicating the first radiation 16. In accordance with the light pattern 132a, the illuminated region 134a of the first photoluminescent portion 112 is excited with the possibility of radiation of the second radiation 136. In this configuration, each sources 22 and 26 of light and their respective means 130 and 120 of illumination are made with the possibility of selective illumination of various pictures and sections of each of the photoluminescent portions 112 and 114.

[0064] FIG. 7B as an additional example, the illumination system 12 is configured to generate a first light gradient or a light pattern 132b emitted as a first radiation 16, which is demonstrated by the length of each arrow indicating the first radiation 16. In accordance with the light pattern 132b, the first photoluminescent region 134b section 112 is excited with the possibility of radiation of the second radiation 136. The second light source 26 contains a second set of lighting means 120 and is also configured to generate a second th gradient pattern 122b or the light beam radiated in the form of a third radiation 28. In accordance with the pattern of light illuminated region 122b 124b of the second photoluminescent portion 114 is excited, with a fourth light radiation 126.

[0065] Different radiation emissions and corresponding patterns emitted from the first set of lighting means 130 and the second set of lighting means 120 can be configured to highlight various extensions, areas and patterns of photoluminescent radiation from the surface 118. Photoluminescent radiation is selectively generated by each of the tools 130 and 120 illumination by exciting photoluminescent materials of the first photoluminescent portion 112 and the second photoluminescent portion 114. Different patterns of light from emitted from the photoluminescent areas 130 and 120, can be adjusted using the intensity of illumination and selective illumination of each means of illumination from the means 130 and 120 of illumination. In this configuration, the lighting system 12 is configured to generate various patterns of light and lighting effects on the surface 118 of the vehicle 10. In some embodiments, the lighting system 12 is configured to generate fading, moving, pulsing and various additional lighting patterns by selectively activating the second radiation 136 and a fourth radiation 126 in response to the activation of the first plurality of lighting means 130 and the second plurality of lighting means 120.

[0066] As discussed herein, the first photoluminescent portion 112 and the second photoluminescent portion 114 may correspond to the first color and the second color, respectively. Each of the photoluminescent portions 112 and 114 may also be configured to have a first absorption range 90 and a second absorption range 92, which are discussed with reference to FIG. 5. In general, the first absorption range and the second absorption range may correspond to substantially different ranges or partially overlapping wavelength ranges of the light emitted from the first light source 22 and the second light source 26. In an example in which the first and second absorption ranges correspond to substantially different wavelengths of light, the first photoluminescent portion 112 and the second photoluminescent portion 124 can be excited independently by their respective light sources 22 and 26. In an example in which the first absorption range and the second absorption range are partially overlapping, the first photoluminescent portion 112 and the second photoluminescent portion 124 may be excited in part by each of the light sources 22 and 26 to change the intensity and generate the mixing effect of the first photoluminescent portion 112 114

[0067] For example, the first light source 22 may highlight the first photoluminescent portion 112 with an efficiency of approximately 90 percent and also highlight the second photoluminescent 114 portion with an efficiency of approximately 40 percent. The effectiveness of each of the light sources 22 and 26 for illuminating the photoluminescent portions 112 and 114 can be adjusted by selecting light sources that emit the required wavelengths of light. The required wavelengths of light can correspond to different parts of the absorption range of a particular photoluminescent material or a combination of photoluminescent materials. In this configuration, the first light source 22 can be configured to mix the first color emitted from the first photoluminescent portion 112, with the second color emitted from the second photoluminescent portion 114. Similarly, the second light source 26 can be made to mix the second color emitted from the second photoluminescent portion 114, with the first color emitted from the first photoluminescent portion 112. By varying the intensities from each of the means of illumination from a plurality of cp dstv 130 and 120 of the light illumination system configured to generate a plurality of light colors, patterns of light, motion effects, and combinations thereof.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first photoluminescent portion 112 may further be configured to emit a plurality of colors of light from the first plurality of color portions 140. For example, the first photoluminescent portion 112 may include a first color portion 142, a second color portion 144, and a third color portion 146 Each of the color sections 142, 144, 146 may be configured to be excited with different levels of efficiency in response to the first emission 16 from the first light source 22. Additionally, the second photoluminescent portion 114 may be configured to emit a plurality of colors of light from the second plurality of color portions 150. The second photoluminescent portion 114 may comprise a fourth color portion 152, a fifth color portion 154, and a sixth color portion 156. Each of the color portions 152, 154, 156 may be configured to be excited with different levels of efficiency in response to the second radiation 28 from the second light source 26.

[0069] Although the colored areas 142, 144, 146, 152, 154, and 156 are shown in the form of overlapping areas of the first photoluminescent section 112 and the second photoluminescent section 114, each of the colored areas can be applied to separate and / or partially overlapping surface areas 118. Thus Thus, the lighting system 12 provides illumination of various pictures, colors, patterns, lighting effects and motion effects. The lighting system 12 is configured to control the intensity of each color section 142, 144, 146, 152, 154 and 156 with different levels and intensities to control each of the lighting means from the plurality of lighting means 130, 120. As demonstrated by the various examples and configurations described herein, the lighting system provides a flexible lighting system configured to provide a variety of lighting effects. The lighting system 12 also has the added advantage of being able to generate various lighting effects while maintaining a low implementation cost.

[0070] Next in FIG. 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D, the lighting system 178 may be configured to illuminate the surface 180 of the vehicle 182. The lighting system 178 may embody various features and elements discussed with reference to the lighting system 12. In this regard, similar reference numbers may be used to describe the various elements of the lighting system 178. The lighting system 178 may be configured to highlight the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186. Each of the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 may be configured to selectively illuminate in response to receiving radiation from at least one light source 188 . The lighting system 178 may also be configured to interact with ambient lighting conditions (daylight, nighttime artificial lighting, etc.) to provide various visual effects displayed by selectively highlighting the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186.

[0071] The term “graphic image” as used herein may refer to any form of letter, logo, marking, outline, and any other form of pattern. In this regard, each of the first graphic image, second graphic image, and any other graphic images, designs, logos, and / or letters may be interchanged, combined and / or mixed to achieve the desired appearance of the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186. For example, the first graphic image 184 is shown as a logo or a group of letters, and the second graphic image is shown as an outline. However, in various embodiments, the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 may correspond to any combination of letters, designs, logos, shapes and / or markings located on the surface of the vehicle.

[0072] At least one light source 188 may be located on the surface 180 of the vehicle 182, and in some embodiments may be hidden behind a trim panel or strip 190. In this configuration, the lighting system 12 may be configured to project light from at least one light source 188, which may cause the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 to be illuminated. In some embodiments, at least one light source 188 may comprise the first light source 22 and the second light source 26. Each of the first light source 22 and the second light source 26 can be made in an array of radiators extending longitudinally along the surface 180 of the vehicle 182. Like the lighting system 12, the first light source 22 can be configured to emit the first radiation 16 and the second light source 26 can be made with the possibility of radiation of the third radiation 28. For clarity, the first source of light 22 is indicated only by the reference position 22 in FIG. 8B and 9, and the second light source 26 is indicated only by reference numeral 26 in FIG. 8C and 9. The corresponding reference numerals for the first radiation 16 and the second radiation 28 may also be indicated in FIG. 8B and 9 and FIG. 8C and 9, respectively.

[0073] FIG. 8A shows the lighting system 178 in the first state 190, corresponding to the first light source 22 and the second light source 26. As illustrated, FIG. 8A may exhibit the appearance of surface 180 under day or night lighting conditions. A surface 180 of a vehicle 182 is shown having a modeled or textured appearance in the form of a mask 192 corresponding to a region that can be highlighted by at least one light source 188. The surface 180 may also correspond to the area of the vehicle 182, in which the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 may be included. In some embodiments, the surface 180 may be painted and / or coated with enamel and / or paint adapted to provide a textured exterior species 192.

[0074] In some embodiments, execution of the mask 192 may serve to attenuate and conceal the radiation of light corresponding to the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186, resulting from the conditions of ambient lighting. For example, the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 may contain at least one photoluminescent material that may be excited in response to receiving at least one wavelength of light from an ambient light source, such as the sun. As a result, the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 may be at least partially visible with the inactive first light source 22 and the second light source 26. By applying the mask 192 to the surface 180, the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 can be substantially hidden even when exposed to ambient lighting conditions. In such embodiments, the first light source 22 and the second light source 26 may correspond to high power light sources, such as high power LEDs, configured to emit sufficient light energy to illuminate the first graphic 184 and / or the second graphic 186 when the vehicle 182 is exposed ambient lighting conditions.

[0075] In some embodiments, the mask 192, including a modeled or textured appearance, may be applied to the entire vehicle 182 to provide a substantially uniform colored appearance. Similarly, vehicle paint 182 can be textured like a mask 192. Mask 192 can also be designed to look like a paint shade, such as a racing strip. Thus, the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 can be hidden by a plurality of patterns when the surface 180 is exposed to ambient light conditions.

[0076] Although mask 192 is described as being used to attenuate and / or hide the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 when exposed to ambient light conditions, in some embodiments, the mask 192 may not be used. The luminance of the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 in response to ambient lighting conditions may strongly depend on the combination of paint colors of the vehicle 182, the concentration and / or intensity of the photoluminescent material used in the graphic images 184 and 186, and one or more colors photoluminescent materials used in graphic images 184 and 186. For example, sunlight can cause each of the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 is illuminated by applying excitation radiation like the first and / or third radiation 16 and 28. However, if the concentration and / or intensity of photoluminescent materials used to generate radiation from the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 are limited, the wide spectrum of solar of light can partially or completely blur and / or hide any essentially visible evidence that the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186 illuminate ivayutsya. In this regard, the mask 192 may be used in some embodiments, and may be undesirable in others.

[0077] Next in FIG. 8B, 8C and 8D, lighting system 178 is illustrated in a second state 194, a third state 196, and a fourth state 198, respectively. The resulting exemplary appearance of the surface 180, which is shown in FIG. 8B, 8C, and 8D may correspond to an ambient lighting condition that does not include the first wavelength and the third wavelength corresponding to the first radiation 16 and the third radiation 28. That is, the lighting condition may not correspond to one or more excitation emissions made excitation of photoluminescent materials corresponding to the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image 186. For example, the ambient lighting condition may correspond to the night lighting condition or artificial lighting, such as the condition of the vehicle interior lighting.

[0078] Additionally, FIG. 8B, 8C and 8D depict mask 192 in a less distinct and lighter texture. This image of the mask 192 may provide an exemplary illustration of an embodiment of the lighting system 178 in which the mask 192 is applied. The less distinct and lighter texture of the mask 192 can serve to demonstrate that during the artificial and night lighting conditions the contrast between the mask 192 and other surfaces of the vehicle 182 may be less distinct. At this point, it may also be recalled that the mask 192 may not be included in some embodiments of the lighting system 178 and / or mixed to match the appearance of other surfaces of the vehicle 182.

[0079] FIG. 8B shows an illumination system 178 having a first light source 22 activated so that the first radiation 16 is radiated towards the surface 180 from the corresponding first array of emitters 202. The second light source 26 may be inactive in this configuration. In response to receiving the first radiation 16, the first photoluminescent portion 204, corresponding to the first graphic image 184, can be excited and radiate a second radiation 206. In this configuration, the first photoluminescent portion 204 of the first graphic image 184 can be illuminated to a substantially higher level of backlight or brightness than the second graphic image 186. A higher level of illumination of the first graphic image 184 relative to the second graphic image 186 in response to receiving the first radiation tions 16 may occur due to the photoluminescent first portion 204 having a first range of 90 absorption.

[0080] FIG. 8C, an illumination system 178 is shown having a second light source 26 activated so that the third radiation 28 is radiated towards the surface 180 from the corresponding second array of emitters 208. The first light source 22 may be inactive in this configuration. In response to receiving the third radiation 28, the second photoluminescent portion 210, corresponding to the second graphic image 186, can be excited and radiate the fourth radiation 212. In response to receiving the third radiation 28, the second photoluminescent portion 210 of the second graphic image 186 can be highlighted to a substantially higher level of illumination than the first graphic image 184. In this regard, the lighting system 178 may be configured to selectively illuminate the first photoluminescent portion 204 in essence independently of the second photoluminescent portion 210.

[0081] As discussed herein, the first photoluminescent portion 204 and the second photoluminescent portion 210 may correspond to the first color and the second color, respectively. Each of the photoluminescent portions 204 and 210 may also be configured to have a first absorption range 90 and a second absorption range 92, which are discussed with reference to FIG. 5. In general, the first absorption range and the second absorption range may correspond to substantially different ranges or partially overlapping wavelength ranges of light emitted from the first light source 22 and the second light source 26, respectively. In an example in which the first and second absorption bands correspond to substantially different light wavelengths, the first photoluminescent portion 204 and the second photoluminescent portion 210 can be excited independently by their respective light sources 22 and 26.

[0082] In an example in which the first absorption range and the second absorption range are partially overlapping, the first photoluminescent portion 204 and the second photoluminescent portion 210 may be excited in part by each of the light sources 22 and 26. For example, the first wavelength of the first radiation 16 may cause the second photoluminescent portion 210 to be illuminated with a lower intensity or brightness than the third wavelength of the third radiation 28. Similarly, the third wavelength of the third radiation 28 may cause the first photoluminescent portion 204 to be highlighted with a lower intensity brightness than the first wavelength of the first radiation 16. In this configuration, each of the sources 22 and 26 of the light can be configured to partially illuminate each of otolyuminestsentnyh portions 204 and 210 with different backlight intensities for each of the graphic images 184 and 186 in various combinations.

[0083] FIG. 8D, an illumination system 178 is shown having both the first and second illuminant sources 22 and 26 activated. In this configuration, both the first radiation 16 and the third radiation 28 may be radiated towards the surface 180. In response to receiving these radiation 16 and 28 of the excitation, both photoluminescent portions 204 and 210 can be excited and emit the second radiation 206 and the fourth radiation 212, respectively. Thus, the lighting system 178 may be configured to selectively illuminate both the first photoluminescent portion 204 and the second photoluminescent portion 210.

[0084] In some embodiments, the lighting system 178 may be configured to selectively illuminate each light emitter from the first array of emitters 202 and / or the second array of emitters 208. FIG. 9 shows an illumination device 178 illuminating a portion of the first graphic image 184 by selectively activating the first set of emitters 222 from the first array of emitters 202 corresponding to the first light source 22. The portion of the second graphic image 186 can also be highlighted by selectively activating the second set of emitters 224 from the second array of emitters 208, corresponding to the second light source 26. In this configuration, the lighting device 178 may be configured to create a variety of visual effects by highlighting various combinations of emitters to highlight portions of the first graphic image 184 and / or the second graphic image 186.

[0085] As described herein, a set of emitters (eg, 222 and 224) may correspond to one or more adjacent or non-adjacent emitters from each of the emitters 202 and 208. Some examples of visual effects that may be generated by the lighting system 178 may include sequential or arbitrary activation of each of the emitters from each of the arrays of emitters 202 and 208, gating one or more emitters and / or flickering of different sets of emitters. Additionally, each emitter can vary in intensity to change the intensity of the first radiation 22 and / or the third radiation 28. Thus, the illumination device 178 can be configured to generate a mixing effect of the second radiation 206 and the fourth radiation 212 from the first photoluminescent portion 204 and the second photoluminescent portion 210 respectively.

[0086] For example, the first light source 22 may be activated with a first intensity, which may be approximately 50% of the total first intensity. In response, the first photoluminescent portion 204 may highlight the first graphic image 184 with approximately 50% of the maximum intensity of the second radiation 206. Additionally, the second light source 26 may be activated with a second intensity, which may be approximately 10% of the total second intensity. In response, the second photoluminescent portion 210 may highlight the second graphic image 186 with approximately 10% of the maximum intensity of the fourth radiation 212. Thus, the lighting system 178 may be configured to highlight the first graphic image 184 and the second graphic image with different intensities to adjust, mix and / or projecting lighting in the form of a second radiation 206 and / or fourth radiation 212 in various combinations. The lighting device can be configured to adjust the intensity of each emitter of the light source 22 and 26 by changing the magnitude and / or the voltage / current fill factor supplied to the light sources 22 and 26 or to each individual emitter from the first and second arrays of emitters 202 and 208. Thus, the lighting system 178 may be configured to adjust the brightness or intensity of the level of light emitted as the first radiation 16 and the third radiation 28.

[0087] In some embodiments, the lighting system 178 may additionally be configured to selectively activate the light source 22 and 26 to highlight the first graphic image and / or the second graphic image with different intensities, patterns and sequences in response to at least one transport state. facilities. The lighting controller of the lighting system may be coupled to the vehicle control module so that the lighting controller can control the light sources 22 and 26 in response to signals received from the vehicle control module identifying the state of the vehicle. The lighting controller may comprise one or more circuits and / or processors configured to control the light sources 22 and 26 in response to receiving signals from the vehicle controller, configured to determine the state of the vehicle 182.

[0088] For example, the lighting controller may be configured to control the intensity or level of illumination of light sources 22 and 26 in response to outdoor lighting conditions, presence detection, or any form of touch interface. The lighting controller can also selectively activate light sources 22 and 26 in response to an ignition event, actuation of blocking, unlocking, shifting, actuation of emergency brakes, vehicle speed, braking, turn signal, etc. In some embodiments, the lighting system 178 may also be configured to selectively illuminate the light sources 22 and 26 in response to detecting the presence or approach of a vehicle key or key fob and / or a signal from a remote keyless entry device.

[0089] The present invention discloses an illumination system 178 configured to output light from a plurality of photoluminescent portions that may correspond to different symbols and / or graphic images on the surface of a vehicle. Various embodiments provide a plurality of photoluminescent materials that can be selectively activated with the ability to generate various lighting effects in response to the activation of multiple light sources. The system 178 provides various advantages, including the generation of visual effects to improve the appearance of the vehicle, an increase in value, and provides various safety benefits by improving visibility.

[0090] It should be understood that changes and transformations of the aforementioned construction can be made without deviating from the ideas of the present invention, and it should be further understood that such ideas are intended to cover the following further claims, except when this formula explicitly states its claims otherwise.

Claims (29)

1. A lighting device for a vehicle comprising: a surface on the side of the vehicle containing a first photoluminescent graphic image with a first absorption range and a second photoluminescent graphic image with a second absorption range; and at least one light source of a light band, separately located on said side of the vehicle, capable of emitting a first radiation with a first wavelength, the first wavelength being essentially aligned with the first absorption range for generating a higher level of fluorescence from the first photoluminescent graphic image than from the second photoluminescent graphic image. 2. The illumination device according to claim 1, wherein the first photoluminescent graphic image is configured to emit light of a first color, and the second photoluminescent graphic image is configured to emit light of a second color. 3. The illumination device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one light source corresponds to a first light source and a second light source, wherein the first light source is configured to emit a first radiation. 4. The illumination device according to claim 3, wherein the second light source is configured to emit a third radiation with a second wavelength substantially consistent with the second absorption range. 5. The illumination device according to claim 3, wherein the second photoluminescent graphic image is configured to emit a fourth radiation in response to receiving the second radiation. 6. The lighting device according to claim 3, further comprising: a controller associated with the first and second light sources, the controller being configured to selectively ignite each of the first and second light sources. 7. The illumination device according to claim 6, wherein the controller is configured to control the first radiation and the third radiation so that a portion of the first photoluminescent graphic image is selectively highlighted essentially independently of the backlight of the second photoluminescent graphic image. 8. A vehicle lighting system comprising: the panel corresponding to the side surface of the vehicle; a light strip made with the possibility of emitting the first radiation; and the coating is separately located on the surface near the light band, and the coating contains at least one photoluminescent portion extending along this surface, with the first radiation directed to the photoluminescent portion, so that the photoluminescent portion emits a second radiation. 9. The lighting system according to claim 8, in which the panel corresponds to the trim strip located on the vehicle panel. 10. The lighting system according to claim 8, wherein said at least one photoluminescent portion corresponds to a first photoluminescent graphic image and a second photoluminescent graphic image. 11. The lighting system of claim 10, wherein the first photoluminescent graphic image has a first absorption range, and the second photoluminescent graphic image has a second absorption range at least partially outside the first absorption range. 12. The lighting system according to claim 11, wherein the light bar comprises a first light source configured to emit a first radiation, and a second light source configured to emit a third radiation. 13. The lighting system according to claim 12, wherein the first radiation is substantially matched to the peak luminance of the first absorption range, and the second radiation is substantially matched to the peak luminance of the second absorption range. 14. The lighting system according to claim 13, wherein the lighting system is configured to selectively illuminate at least a portion of the first photoluminescent graphic image independently of the second photoluminescent graphic image. 15. A lighting system for a vehicle comprising: the first light source of the light band, configured to emit the first radiation; the first photoluminescent graphic image with the first absorption range, located separately from the light band on the side surface of the vehicle; and a second photoluminescent graphic image with a second absorption range located on said surface, the first light source directed to at least a portion of each of the photoluminescent graphic images and configured to excite the first photoluminescent graphic image to output a second radiation with greater fluorescence than the second photoluminescent graphic image, in response to the first radiation. 16. The lighting system according to claim 15, further comprising a second light source configured to output a third radiation configured to excite a second photoluminescent graphic image to output a fourth radiation with greater fluorescence relative to the first photoluminescent graphic image in response to the second radiation. 17. The lighting system according to claim 16, wherein the first light source comprises a first set of emitters configured to output the first radiation with a first wavelength, and the second light source contains a second set of emitters configured to output the second radiation with a second wavelength, different from the first wavelength. 18. The lighting system according to claim 17, further comprising a controller configured to selectively activate each of the first plurality of emitters and the second plurality of emitters to selectively excite portions of the first photoluminescent graphic image and the second photoluminescent graphic image. 19. The lighting system according to claim 18, wherein the first light source and the second light source are distributed along said vehicle surface and are hidden by the trim panel. 20. The lighting system according to claim 18, wherein the controller is configured to selectively activate each of the first plurality of emitters and the second plurality of emitters to create at least one of a lighting pattern and a motion effect.

Images