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US20160193959A1 - Vehicle lamp assembly generating animated image and method - Google Patents

Vehicle lamp assembly generating animated image and method Download PDF

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Publication number
US20160193959A1
US20160193959A1 US15/072,661 US201615072661A US2016193959A1 US 20160193959 A1 US20160193959 A1 US 20160193959A1 US 201615072661 A US201615072661 A US 201615072661A US 2016193959 A1 US2016193959 A1 US 2016193959A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
light
vehicle
lamp assembly
projector device
projectors
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US15/072,661
Inventor
Ali Ammar
Cornel Lewis Gardner
Stuart C. Salter
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ford Global Technologies LLC
Original Assignee
Ford Global Technologies LLC
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 Ford Global Technologies LLC filed Critical Ford Global Technologies LLC
Priority to US15/072,661 priority Critical patent/US20160193959A1/en
Assigned to FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC reassignment FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AMMAR, ALI, GARDNER, CORNEL LEWIS, SALTER, STUART C.
Publication of US20160193959A1 publication Critical patent/US20160193959A1/en
Priority to US15/343,498 priority patent/US10040392B2/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R1/00—Optical viewing arrangements; Real-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles
    • B60R1/12—Mirror assemblies combined with other articles, e.g. clocks
    • B60R1/1207—Mirror assemblies combined with other articles, e.g. clocks with lamps; with turn indicators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/0017—Devices integrating an element dedicated to another function
    • B60Q1/0023—Devices integrating an element dedicated to another function the element being a sensor, e.g. distance sensor, camera
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/02—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments
    • B60Q1/24—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments for lighting other areas than only the way ahead
    • B60Q1/247—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments for lighting other areas than only the way ahead for illuminating the close surroundings of the vehicle, e.g. to facilitate entry or exit
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/2661—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic mounted on parts having other functions
    • B60Q1/2665—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic mounted on parts having other functions on rear-view mirrors
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/32—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating vehicle sides, e.g. clearance lights
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/32—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating vehicle sides, e.g. clearance lights
    • B60Q1/323—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating vehicle sides, e.g. clearance lights on or for doors
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/34—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction
    • B60Q1/38—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction using immovably-mounted light sources, e.g. fixed flashing lamps
    • B60Q1/381—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating change of drive direction using immovably-mounted light sources, e.g. fixed flashing lamps with several light sources activated in sequence, e.g. to create a sweep effect
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q3/00—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors
    • B60Q3/20—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors for lighting specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments; mounted on specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments
    • B60Q3/217—Doors, e.g. door sills; Steps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q3/00—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors
    • B60Q3/60—Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors characterised by optical aspects
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R1/00—Optical viewing arrangements; Real-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles
    • B60R1/12—Mirror assemblies combined with other articles, e.g. clocks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • G03B21/00—Projectors or projection-type viewers; Accessories therefor
    • G03B21/14—Details
    • G03B21/20—Lamp housings
    • G03B21/206—Control of light source other than position or intensity
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • G03B29/00—Combinations of cameras, projectors or photographic printing apparatus with non-photographic non-optical apparatus, e.g. clocks or weapons; Cameras having the shape of other objects
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
    • H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
    • H05B47/105—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters
    • H05B47/115—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters by determining the presence or movement of objects or living beings
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
    • H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
    • H05B47/105—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters
    • H05B47/115—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters by determining the presence or movement of objects or living beings
    • H05B47/13—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters by determining the presence or movement of objects or living beings by using passive infrared detectors
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
    • H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
    • H05B47/16—Controlling the light source by timing means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2400/00—Special features or arrangements of exterior signal lamps for vehicles
    • B60Q2400/40—Welcome lights, i.e. specific or existing exterior lamps to assist leaving or approaching the vehicle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2400/00—Special features or arrangements of exterior signal lamps for vehicles
    • B60Q2400/50—Projected symbol or information, e.g. onto the road or car body
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B20/00—Energy efficient lighting technologies, e.g. halogen lamps or gas discharge lamps
    • Y02B20/40—Control techniques providing energy savings, e.g. smart controller or presence detection

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to vehicle lighting, and more particularly relates to a vehicle puddle lamp assembly for providing an illuminated image on the ground surface adjacent to the vehicle.
  • Puddle lamps have been employed to illuminate a beam of light onto the ground surface in an area adjacent to the vehicle door when the door is to be opened.
  • the puddle lamp thereby provides illumination to a driver or passenger of the vehicle to observe the area for approaching or stepping out of the vehicle, such as the existence of a puddle of water.
  • a vehicle lamp assembly includes a light projector device located on a vehicle and configured to illuminate different lighted image patterns on a surface adjacent to the vehicle, and a controller controlling the light projector device to sequentially illuminate the different lighted image patterns to generate an animated lighted image on the surface.
  • a method of generating an animated lighted image with a vehicle lamp assembly includes the steps of receiving a signal to activate a vehicle lamp, and controlling a light projector device to sequentially illuminate different light patterns on a surface adjacent to the vehicle to generate an animated lighted image.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an automotive vehicle employing a puddle lamp assembly in an exterior side view mirror of a vehicle, according to one embodiment
  • FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of section IA illustrating the exterior side view mirror with a plurality of light projectors employed by the lamp assembly;
  • FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of the lamp assembly illustrating the projection of a first lighted image with the first projector
  • FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of the lamp assembly illustrating the projection of a second lighted image with the second projector
  • FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of the lamp assembly illustrating the projection of a third lighted image with the third projector
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken through line III-III of FIG. 2 further illustrating the light projectors
  • FIGS. 4A-4C are images of three different lighted image patterns generated by the three light projectors, according to one embodiment
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram further illustrating the puddle lamp assembly
  • FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of controlling activation of the light projectors of the assembly, according to one embodiment.
  • FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine of adjusting intensity and/or activation time of the light projectors, according to another embodiment.
  • an automotive vehicle 10 is generally illustrated employing a vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 , according to one embodiment.
  • the vehicle 10 shown is one example of a passenger vehicle having a pair of exterior rearview mirrors 12 mounted on opposite lateral sides of the vehicle generally near the front side of the front passenger doors 16 , as is generally known in the art.
  • Passenger doors 16 each include a handle 18 with a latch mechanism to enable a user to engage and unlatch the latch mechanism to open the door for access to enter and exit the vehicle.
  • a remote key fob 22 is shown which may be operated by a user to activate various features including door lock and unlock functions.
  • the handle 18 is showing including a proximity sensor 20 , such as a capacitive sensor, for sensing the hand of the user in close proximity to the handle 18 .
  • the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is shown installed on an exterior rearward facing side view mirror 12 , generally in a position configured to project an animated lighted image onto the ground surface 14 adjacent to a passenger side door of the vehicle 10 .
  • the lamp assembly 30 includes a plurality of light projectors located on the vehicle shown in one embodiment installed in the lower housing of the mirror 12 .
  • three light projectors are configured in a linear array, each oriented to illuminate a different lighted image on the same general area of the ground surface 14 . While three light projectors are shown and described herein as part of the puddle lamp assembly, it should be appreciated that two or more light projectors may be employed in various configurations and orientations.
  • the light projectors may be located at different locations on the vehicle such as in the vehicle door handle, the door itself, a side fender, a bumper, a roof rail or other locations sufficient to project a lighted image onto the ground surface 14 .
  • the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is controlled by a controller to sequentially activate the plurality of light projectors consecutively one at a time such that a corresponding lighted image pattern is output from each projector and projected onto the ground surface 14 one at a time at a sufficiently rapid rate to generate an animated lighted image which has the appearance of a moving image.
  • an image of a mustang 42 A which may be a logo and may serve as a trademark is shown in three different lighted image patterns in which the legs of the mustang appear to move due to the sequential and rapid consecutive activations of the three light projectors. It should be appreciated that other images having different patterns, sizes, and light colors may be generated.
  • the puddle lamp assembly 30 may be activated in response to a user activating the door unlock switch on the key fob 22 when the user is within signal communication range of the vehicle 10 .
  • the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 Upon activation of the door unlock switch or button, the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is turned on to generate the animated lighted image, such as the running mustang.
  • the lamp assembly 30 may remain on for a predetermined time period, such as two minutes, and may be turned off prior to the predetermined time period when a user's hand is detected by the proximity sensor 20 in close proximity to or actuating the door handle 18 . Accordingly, the appearance of the moving lighted image provides an animated lighted image and serves as a puddle lamp to illuminate the ground surface 14 adjacent to the vehicle door to enable the user to approach and access the vehicle 10 and view the ground surface 14 proximate thereto.
  • the lamp assembly 30 is further illustrated having three light projectors 32 A- 32 C for generating three different lighted image patterns 42 A- 42 C.
  • the lamp assembly 30 includes first light projector 32 A, second light projector 32 B and third light projector 32 C, all shown arranged in a linear array and slightly angled relative to one another so as to provide light illumination onto the same general area on the ground surface 14 .
  • Each of the light projectors includes a housing 34 A- 34 C, a light source 36 A- 36 C, such as a light emitting diodes (LEDs), and an image filter 38 A- 38 C.
  • LEDs light emitting diodes
  • the image filters 38 A- 38 C are arranged within the light output windows of the corresponding light sources 36 A- 36 C, respectively, such that light output by the light sources 36 A- 36 C is illuminated onto and passes through the image filters 38 A- 38 C one at a time to provide the lighted image patterns 42 A- 42 C projecting onto the ground surface 14 .
  • the image filters 38 A- 38 C may include a light transparent film having either a positive or negative light transparent image.
  • the lamp assembly 30 is shown having a printed circuit board containing a controller having control circuitry including LED drive circuitry for controlling activation and deactivation of the light sources and hence the light projectors 32 A- 32 C.
  • the LEDs and filters generate a visible light such as white light or other color(s).
  • the first light projector 32 A is shown activated such that the first light source 36 A illuminates light onto first image filter 32 A to generate a first lighted image pattern 42 A on ground surface 14 .
  • the second light projector 32 B is shown activated such that the second light source 36 B illuminates light onto the second image filter 38 B to generate a second lighted image pattern 42 B on ground surface 14 .
  • the third light projector 32 C is shown activated such that third light source 36 C generates a beam of light onto the third image filter 38 C to generate a third lighted image pattern 42 C onto the ground surface 14 .
  • each light projector 32 A- 32 C are activated and deactivated one at a time in a successive sequence at a rapid rate to generate animated imaging.
  • each light projector may be turned on for an activation time period in the range of about 50 to 500 milliseconds, and more preferably 50 to 250 milliseconds, and then turned off and the next light projector turned on immediately so as to generate the appearance of a moving lighted image, such as an animated running mustang.
  • the activation time period could be extended up to 1.5 seconds, according to embodiments that generate a slower moving image.
  • the first, second and third lighted image patterns 42 A- 42 C are further shown in FIGS. 4A-4C , respectively. With a sufficiently fast successive activation and deactivation of the light projectors, the mustang appears to be running as the legs as viewed by a user appear to move.
  • the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is further illustrated having a controller 50 receiving various inputs and controlling each of the first, second and third projectors 32 A- 32 C, by applying signals to the light sources 36 A- 36 C.
  • the controller 50 may include a microprocessor 52 and memory 54 as illustrated, according to one embodiment. It should be appreciated that the controller 50 may include control circuitry such as analog and/or digital control circuitry.
  • Stored within memory 54 and executed by a microprocessor 52 is logic 100 for processing the various inputs and controlling each of the plurality of light projectors as described herein.
  • the inputs to the controller 50 may include a key fob door unlock signal 60 which may be made available from another controller, e.g., body control module, within the vehicle in communication with the key fob via wireless communication. Additionally, the controller 50 receives a distance to user signal 62 which is a distance that the user is detected from the vehicle. The distance to the user signal may be generated by computing distance between the vehicle and the key fob, according to one embodiment. Another controller such as a vehicle body control module may supply the distance to user signal. According to other embodiments, the distance to the user signal could be generated using other sensors, such as an ultrasonic proximity sensor. The controller 50 further receives a door unlatch sensor signal 64 . The door unlatch sensor signal may be a signal sensed by the proximity sensor in the door handle, or may be a signal detected by activation of a sensor on the key fob.
  • the controller 50 processes the inputs and activates the lamp assembly 30 when the key fob door unlock signal 60 is received by turning the plurality of light projectors sequentially on and off one at a time.
  • the controller 50 may activate the lamp assembly 30 in response to other signals such as a door unlock signal generated by a door mounted switch or a door open signal, according to other embodiments.
  • the lamp assembly 30 may be turned off when a predetermined time period expires or when a user is detected opening a vehicle door via the door unlatch sensor signal 64 according to one embodiment.
  • the controller 30 may further determine a distance from the vehicle to a user and may control intensity and/or time of activation for each of the light projectors, according to other embodiments.
  • Method 100 begins at step 102 and proceeds to decision step 104 to determine if the key fob door unlock button has been activated and, if not, returns. If the key fob door unlock button has been activated, method 100 proceeds to step 106 to turn on the first LED 1 to intensity Z, then proceeds to step 108 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds, before proceeding to step 110 to turn off the first LED 1 . Accordingly, a first cycle of the first projector turning on and off is complete.
  • method 100 proceeds to step 112 to turn on the second LED 2 to an intensity Z, and then proceeds to step 114 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds, before turning off the second LED 2 at step 116 .
  • step 114 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds, before turning off the second LED 2 at step 116 .
  • the second light projector has been turned on and off for a complete cycle.
  • method 100 proceeds to step 118 to turn on the third LED 3 to an intensity Z, and then proceeds to step 120 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds before turning off the third LED 3 at step 122 .
  • a cycle of the third projector turning on and off is complete.
  • method 100 proceeds to decision step 124 to determine if a timer has timed out since the key fob unlock was activated and, if so, ends at step 128 . If the timer has not timed out, method 100 proceeds to decision step 126 to determine if the door handle sensor has been actuated and, if so, ends at step 128 . If the door handle sensor has not been actuated, method 100 returns to step 104 to repeat the successive activations and deactivations of the plurality of light projectors.
  • a method 150 for adjusting the intensity Z and/or activation time X of the light projectors of method 100 begins at step 152 and proceeds to step 154 to detect a distance to the user.
  • the distance may be detected by computing the distance between the vehicle and the key fob, according to one embodiment.
  • proximity sensors such as an ultrasonic sensor may be employed to detect a distance to a user.
  • method 150 proceeds to step 156 to adjust intensity Z and/or activation time X of the light projectors based on the distance to the user, before returning at step 158 .
  • the intensity of the lighted image pattern generated by each light projector may be increased and/or the speed at which the projector images are changed and the image appears to be moving may be increased.
  • the intensity can thereby increase or decrease as the customer approaches or moves away from the vehicle. For example, if the customer is within fifty (50) feet of the vehicle, the image projectors may be turned on and activated at ten percent (10%) intensity and may ramp up to fifty percent (50%) intensity as the user moves to within a distance of twelve (12) feet of the vehicle, and then ramp to one hundred percent (100%) of the intensity as the user reaches a distance of five (5) feet from the vehicle.
  • the X activation time may be changed to make the image appear to move at a faster or slower rate.
  • the X activation time period may be shortened (decreased) to make the image to appear to move faster as the user approaches the vehicle and may be extended (increased) as the user moves further away from the vehicle, according to one example.
  • the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 advantageously provides light illumination in a region to the side of the vehicle door to allow enhanced access lighting.
  • the lamp assembly 30 generates an animated image which gives the appearance of a moving lighted image on the ground surface adjacent to the vehicle to provide an aesthetically pleasing light illumination.
  • the puddle lamp assembly 30 may be employed on opposite lateral sides of the vehicle as well as other locations on the vehicle to provide light illumination and a lighted animated image.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)

Abstract

A vehicle puddle lamp assembly is provided and includes a plurality of light projectors located on a vehicle and configured to illuminate different lighted image patterns on a ground surface adjacent to the vehicle. The vehicle puddle lamp assembly also includes a controller for sequentially activating the plurality of light projectors to generate an animated lighted image on the ground surface.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/871,065, filed on Apr. 26, 2013, entitled “VEHICLE PUDDLE LAMP ASSEMBLY GENERATING ANIMATED IMAGE AND METHOD.” The aforementioned related application is hereby incorporated by reference.
    • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention generally relates to vehicle lighting, and more particularly relates to a vehicle puddle lamp assembly for providing an illuminated image on the ground surface adjacent to the vehicle.
    • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • Automotive vehicles are increasingly employing lighting devices such as puddle lamps for enhanced lighting applications. Puddle lamps have been employed to illuminate a beam of light onto the ground surface in an area adjacent to the vehicle door when the door is to be opened. The puddle lamp thereby provides illumination to a driver or passenger of the vehicle to observe the area for approaching or stepping out of the vehicle, such as the existence of a puddle of water.
    • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • According to one aspect of the present invention, a vehicle lamp assembly is provided. The vehicle lamp assembly includes a light projector device located on a vehicle and configured to illuminate different lighted image patterns on a surface adjacent to the vehicle, and a controller controlling the light projector device to sequentially illuminate the different lighted image patterns to generate an animated lighted image on the surface.
  • According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of generating an animated lighted image with a vehicle lamp assembly is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving a signal to activate a vehicle lamp, and controlling a light projector device to sequentially illuminate different light patterns on a surface adjacent to the vehicle to generate an animated lighted image.
  • These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • In the drawings:
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an automotive vehicle employing a puddle lamp assembly in an exterior side view mirror of a vehicle, according to one embodiment;
  • FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of section IA illustrating the exterior side view mirror with a plurality of light projectors employed by the lamp assembly;
  • FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of the lamp assembly illustrating the projection of a first lighted image with the first projector;
  • FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of the lamp assembly illustrating the projection of a second lighted image with the second projector;
  • FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of the lamp assembly illustrating the projection of a third lighted image with the third projector;
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken through line III-III of FIG. 2 further illustrating the light projectors;
  • FIGS. 4A-4C are images of three different lighted image patterns generated by the three light projectors, according to one embodiment;
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram further illustrating the puddle lamp assembly;
  • FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of controlling activation of the light projectors of the assembly, according to one embodiment; and
  • FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine of adjusting intensity and/or activation time of the light projectors, according to another embodiment.
    •  DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to a detailed design; some schematics may be exaggerated or minimized to show function overview. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
  • Referring to FIGS. 1 and 1A, an automotive vehicle 10 is generally illustrated employing a vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30, according to one embodiment. The vehicle 10 shown is one example of a passenger vehicle having a pair of exterior rearview mirrors 12 mounted on opposite lateral sides of the vehicle generally near the front side of the front passenger doors 16, as is generally known in the art. Passenger doors 16 each include a handle 18 with a latch mechanism to enable a user to engage and unlatch the latch mechanism to open the door for access to enter and exit the vehicle. A remote key fob 22 is shown which may be operated by a user to activate various features including door lock and unlock functions. The handle 18 is showing including a proximity sensor 20, such as a capacitive sensor, for sensing the hand of the user in close proximity to the handle 18.
  • The vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is shown installed on an exterior rearward facing side view mirror 12, generally in a position configured to project an animated lighted image onto the ground surface 14 adjacent to a passenger side door of the vehicle 10. The lamp assembly 30 includes a plurality of light projectors located on the vehicle shown in one embodiment installed in the lower housing of the mirror 12. In the embodiment shown, three light projectors are configured in a linear array, each oriented to illuminate a different lighted image on the same general area of the ground surface 14. While three light projectors are shown and described herein as part of the puddle lamp assembly, it should be appreciated that two or more light projectors may be employed in various configurations and orientations. It should further be appreciated that the light projectors may be located at different locations on the vehicle such as in the vehicle door handle, the door itself, a side fender, a bumper, a roof rail or other locations sufficient to project a lighted image onto the ground surface 14.
  • The vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is controlled by a controller to sequentially activate the plurality of light projectors consecutively one at a time such that a corresponding lighted image pattern is output from each projector and projected onto the ground surface 14 one at a time at a sufficiently rapid rate to generate an animated lighted image which has the appearance of a moving image. In the specific example shown and described herein, an image of a mustang 42A which may be a logo and may serve as a trademark is shown in three different lighted image patterns in which the legs of the mustang appear to move due to the sequential and rapid consecutive activations of the three light projectors. It should be appreciated that other images having different patterns, sizes, and light colors may be generated.
  • The puddle lamp assembly 30 may be activated in response to a user activating the door unlock switch on the key fob 22 when the user is within signal communication range of the vehicle 10. Upon activation of the door unlock switch or button, the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is turned on to generate the animated lighted image, such as the running mustang. The lamp assembly 30 may remain on for a predetermined time period, such as two minutes, and may be turned off prior to the predetermined time period when a user's hand is detected by the proximity sensor 20 in close proximity to or actuating the door handle 18. Accordingly, the appearance of the moving lighted image provides an animated lighted image and serves as a puddle lamp to illuminate the ground surface 14 adjacent to the vehicle door to enable the user to approach and access the vehicle 10 and view the ground surface 14 proximate thereto.
  • Referring to FIGS. 2A-4C, the lamp assembly 30 is further illustrated having three light projectors 32A-32C for generating three different lighted image patterns 42A-42C. The lamp assembly 30 includes first light projector 32A, second light projector 32B and third light projector 32C, all shown arranged in a linear array and slightly angled relative to one another so as to provide light illumination onto the same general area on the ground surface 14. Each of the light projectors includes a housing 34A-34C, a light source 36A-36C, such as a light emitting diodes (LEDs), and an image filter 38A-38C. The image filters 38A-38C are arranged within the light output windows of the corresponding light sources 36A-36C, respectively, such that light output by the light sources 36A-36C is illuminated onto and passes through the image filters 38A-38C one at a time to provide the lighted image patterns 42A-42C projecting onto the ground surface 14. The image filters 38A-38C may include a light transparent film having either a positive or negative light transparent image. Additionally, the lamp assembly 30 is shown having a printed circuit board containing a controller having control circuitry including LED drive circuitry for controlling activation and deactivation of the light sources and hence the light projectors 32A-32C. The LEDs and filters generate a visible light such as white light or other color(s).
  • In FIG. 2A, the first light projector 32A is shown activated such that the first light source 36A illuminates light onto first image filter 32A to generate a first lighted image pattern 42A on ground surface 14. In FIG. 2B, the second light projector 32B is shown activated such that the second light source 36B illuminates light onto the second image filter 38B to generate a second lighted image pattern 42B on ground surface 14. In FIG. 2C, the third light projector 32C is shown activated such that third light source 36C generates a beam of light onto the third image filter 38C to generate a third lighted image pattern 42C onto the ground surface 14. It should be appreciated that the light projectors 32A-32C are activated and deactivated one at a time in a successive sequence at a rapid rate to generate animated imaging. In doing so, each light projector may be turned on for an activation time period in the range of about 50 to 500 milliseconds, and more preferably 50 to 250 milliseconds, and then turned off and the next light projector turned on immediately so as to generate the appearance of a moving lighted image, such as an animated running mustang. The activation time period could be extended up to 1.5 seconds, according to embodiments that generate a slower moving image. The first, second and third lighted image patterns 42A-42C are further shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, respectively. With a sufficiently fast successive activation and deactivation of the light projectors, the mustang appears to be running as the legs as viewed by a user appear to move.
  • Referring to FIG. 5, the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is further illustrated having a controller 50 receiving various inputs and controlling each of the first, second and third projectors 32A-32C, by applying signals to the light sources 36A-36C. The controller 50 may include a microprocessor 52 and memory 54 as illustrated, according to one embodiment. It should be appreciated that the controller 50 may include control circuitry such as analog and/or digital control circuitry. Stored within memory 54 and executed by a microprocessor 52 is logic 100 for processing the various inputs and controlling each of the plurality of light projectors as described herein. The inputs to the controller 50 may include a key fob door unlock signal 60 which may be made available from another controller, e.g., body control module, within the vehicle in communication with the key fob via wireless communication. Additionally, the controller 50 receives a distance to user signal 62 which is a distance that the user is detected from the vehicle. The distance to the user signal may be generated by computing distance between the vehicle and the key fob, according to one embodiment. Another controller such as a vehicle body control module may supply the distance to user signal. According to other embodiments, the distance to the user signal could be generated using other sensors, such as an ultrasonic proximity sensor. The controller 50 further receives a door unlatch sensor signal 64. The door unlatch sensor signal may be a signal sensed by the proximity sensor in the door handle, or may be a signal detected by activation of a sensor on the key fob.
  • The controller 50 processes the inputs and activates the lamp assembly 30 when the key fob door unlock signal 60 is received by turning the plurality of light projectors sequentially on and off one at a time. The controller 50 may activate the lamp assembly 30 in response to other signals such as a door unlock signal generated by a door mounted switch or a door open signal, according to other embodiments. The lamp assembly 30 may be turned off when a predetermined time period expires or when a user is detected opening a vehicle door via the door unlatch sensor signal 64 according to one embodiment. The controller 30 may further determine a distance from the vehicle to a user and may control intensity and/or time of activation for each of the light projectors, according to other embodiments.
  • Referring to FIG. 6, the logic or method 100 of activating the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 is illustrated, according to one embodiment. Method 100 begins at step 102 and proceeds to decision step 104 to determine if the key fob door unlock button has been activated and, if not, returns. If the key fob door unlock button has been activated, method 100 proceeds to step 106 to turn on the first LED 1 to intensity Z, then proceeds to step 108 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds, before proceeding to step 110 to turn off the first LED 1. Accordingly, a first cycle of the first projector turning on and off is complete. Next, method 100 proceeds to step 112 to turn on the second LED 2 to an intensity Z, and then proceeds to step 114 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds, before turning off the second LED 2 at step 116. Thus, the second light projector has been turned on and off for a complete cycle. Next, method 100 proceeds to step 118 to turn on the third LED 3 to an intensity Z, and then proceeds to step 120 to wait for an activation time period of X milliseconds before turning off the third LED 3 at step 122. At this point, a cycle of the third projector turning on and off is complete. Following successive sequential activations and deactivations of each of the first and second and third light projectors, method 100 proceeds to decision step 124 to determine if a timer has timed out since the key fob unlock was activated and, if so, ends at step 128. If the timer has not timed out, method 100 proceeds to decision step 126 to determine if the door handle sensor has been actuated and, if so, ends at step 128. If the door handle sensor has not been actuated, method 100 returns to step 104 to repeat the successive activations and deactivations of the plurality of light projectors.
  • Referring to FIG. 7, a method 150 for adjusting the intensity Z and/or activation time X of the light projectors of method 100 is provided, according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, method 150 begins at step 152 and proceeds to step 154 to detect a distance to the user. The distance may be detected by computing the distance between the vehicle and the key fob, according to one embodiment. According to other embodiments, proximity sensors, such as an ultrasonic sensor may be employed to detect a distance to a user. Based on the detected distance, method 150 proceeds to step 156 to adjust intensity Z and/or activation time X of the light projectors based on the distance to the user, before returning at step 158. Accordingly, as the user approaches the vehicle, the intensity of the lighted image pattern generated by each light projector may be increased and/or the speed at which the projector images are changed and the image appears to be moving may be increased. The intensity can thereby increase or decrease as the customer approaches or moves away from the vehicle. For example, if the customer is within fifty (50) feet of the vehicle, the image projectors may be turned on and activated at ten percent (10%) intensity and may ramp up to fifty percent (50%) intensity as the user moves to within a distance of twelve (12) feet of the vehicle, and then ramp to one hundred percent (100%) of the intensity as the user reaches a distance of five (5) feet from the vehicle. The X activation time may be changed to make the image appear to move at a faster or slower rate. The X activation time period may be shortened (decreased) to make the image to appear to move faster as the user approaches the vehicle and may be extended (increased) as the user moves further away from the vehicle, according to one example.
  • Accordingly, the vehicle puddle lamp assembly 30 advantageously provides light illumination in a region to the side of the vehicle door to allow enhanced access lighting. The lamp assembly 30 generates an animated image which gives the appearance of a moving lighted image on the ground surface adjacent to the vehicle to provide an aesthetically pleasing light illumination. It should be appreciated that the puddle lamp assembly 30 may be employed on opposite lateral sides of the vehicle as well as other locations on the vehicle to provide light illumination and a lighted animated image.
  • It is to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structure without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:
1. A vehicle lamp assembly comprising:
a light projector device located on a vehicle and configured to illuminate different lighted image patterns on a surface adjacent to the vehicle; and
a controller controlling the light projector device to sequentially illuminate the different lighted image patterns to generate an animated lighted image on the surface.
2. The lamp assembly of claim 1, wherein the light projector device comprises a plurality of light projectors and the controller sequentially activates the plurality of light projectors.
3. The lamp assembly of claim 2, wherein the controller turns the plurality of light projectors on and off one projector at a time.
4. The lamp assembly of claim 3, wherein the controller turns one of the light projectors on for a time period in the range of 50 to 500 milliseconds.
5. The lamp assembly of claim 2, wherein the plurality of light projectors comprises first, second and third projectors, each comprising a light source and a filter operatively coupled to the light source for generating the image pattern.
6. The lamp assembly of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of light projectors comprises a light source and a filter comprising an image pattern located in front of the light source.
7. The lamp assembly of claim 1, wherein the light projector device is located in a vehicle exterior side view mirror for generating lighted image patterns on a ground surface adjacent to a vehicle door.
8. The lamp assembly of claim 1, wherein the controller activates the light projector device in response to a control signal and further deactivates the light projector device when an occupant is sensed opening a door of the vehicle.
9. The lamp assembly of claim 1 further comprising a proximity sensor for sensing distance of an occupant relative to the vehicle, wherein the controller further controls intensity of the light illuminated by the light projector device based on the sensed distance.
10. The lamp assembly of claim 1 further comprising a proximity sensor for sensing distance of an occupant relative to the vehicle, wherein the controller further controls a speed at which the animated image changes based on the sensed distance.
11. A method of generating an animated lighted image with a vehicle lamp assembly, comprising:
receiving a signal to activate a vehicle lamp; and
controlling a light projector device to sequentially illuminate different light patterns on a surface adjacent to the vehicle to generate an animated lighted image.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising the step of sensing an occupant in contact with the vehicle and deactivating the light projector device when the occupant is sensed.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of controlling the light projector device comprises turning a plurality of light projectors on and off one projector at a time.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of controlling the light projector device comprises turning one of the light projectors on for a time period in the range of 50 to 500 milliseconds.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein the light projector device comprises first, second, and third light projectors, each comprising a light source and a filter operatively coupled to the light source for generating the image pattern.
16. The method of claim 11, wherein the light projector device is located on a vehicle exterior side view mirror for generating lighted image patterns on a ground surface adjacent to a vehicle door.
17. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of receiving a signal comprises receiving a vehicle door open signal generated by a key fob.
18. The method of claim 11 further comprising the step of determining a distance of an occupant relative to the vehicle.
19. The method of claim 18 further comprising the step of controlling intensity of light illuminated by the light projector device based on the sensed distance.
20. The method of claim 18 further comprising the step of adjusting speed at which the animated image changes based on the sensed distance.
US15/072,661 2013-04-26 2016-03-17 Vehicle lamp assembly generating animated image and method Abandoned US20160193959A1 (en)

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US9321395B2 (en) 2016-04-26
RU143731U1 (en) 2014-07-27

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