Patent ID: 12202345

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. For purposes of clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify similar elements. As used herein, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” should be construed to mean a logical (A or B or C), using a non-exclusive logical OR. It should be understood that steps within a method may be executed in different order without altering the principles of the present disclosure.

Referring now toFIG.1A, a front and passenger side perspective view of a vehicle10is illustrated. The present system provides a display12that may be used in various locations of the vehicle10. The display12is illustrated in various locations of the vehicle10and may be used for not only vehicle functions but for decorative purposes as well. Different configurations of the display12are set forth below. Different display designs may be used in different locations depending on the design requirement. The display12may have a common architecture with the final display housing suited for the final use. In the present example, a grill logo14is an example of the display12affixed to a vehicle grill16. The grill logo14may be provided as original equipment or as an aftermarket product. Likewise, the other locations of the display12on a vehicle10can be OEM or aftermarket.

InFIG.1A, the display12may include fog or decorative lights18that are located on the bumper26or lower grill. The display12may include decorative lights20on the sides of the grill16, decorative displays22on the quarter panel, decorative displays24on the front of the bumper may be used. A functional display such as turn signal30may also be implemented. It should be noted that the intensity of the light output of the display bay varies depending on the application.

InFIG.1B, the rear portion of vehicle10is set forth. The displays12according to the present disclosure may be in various locations including all or a portion of the taillights31, a tailgate logo display32, a decorative display34on the side of the vehicle10.

InFIG.1C, a point-of-sale display unit50having displays12formed according to one of the examples set forth below is illustrated. A back panel52, front panel54or side panel56, or combinations thereof may be all have one or more displays thereon panel54and a side panel56.

Referring now toFIGS.2A, a 360° side emission LED210is illustrated. The side emission LED210emits light212from the side surfaces214. The side surfaces214are perpendicular to the circuit board when mounted as illustrated below. The top surface216does not emit light.

Referring now also toFIG.2B, a light output plot of the LED210is illustrated for various angles.

Referring now toFIGS.3A to3E, another example of a display310is illustrated in cross-section with a plurality of light sources such as light emitting diodes312, which may be the side emitting diode210illustrated above. Organic light emitting diodes may also be used as the light source. The light emitting diodes312are mounted on a circuit board314. The display310in this example has a non-addressable backlight construction. The first example is based on the interaction of indirect illumination from the LED312with a photon recycling cavity320. Transflective ink322is screen printed on a film324on the front side of the cavity320which is then thermoformed or overmolded on the inside surface of a first portion326A of a housing326. The film324may be thermally formed with a clear plastic or composite layer325through which a desired graphic opening328is shown and illuminated to be visible when viewing the graphic. The housing326includes a second portion326B that has side walls330. The LEDs312emit light332in various directs as illustrated by the enlarged exaggerated LED312. When a side emitting LED is used, light is not emitted from the top (surface opposite the circuit board) of the LED312like a typical LED. The circuit board314and the LEDs312mounted thereon create indirect radiation at the graphic opening328of the display310. The light from a side emitting LED is non-Lambertian radiation that emits from the light source and is directed inside a highly reflective housing326. The housing326forms the photon recycling cavity320which has the side walls330the inside surfaces of which reflect the emitted light from the LEDs312. The walls330may be formed of a light colored plastic such as white or painted with a light color or white paint. Alignment of the LEDs312with the desired graphic is not needed as would be needed with a direct lighting configuration. The LEDs312are therefore not directly aligned with the graphics as shown best inFIG.3D. Using misaligned LEDs312allows circuit board designers to space the LEDs312as necessary without regard to the optics or the display pattern. For a manufacturer, the same circuit board may be used to accommodate different designs of logos.

The photon recycling cavity320is used to scatter the light332therein. The light332exits after interacting with the ink pigments and spectrally shifts by engineering the composition of the ink322. The ink322may have RGB components. The spectral shift in one example was 2000K. The composition of the ink322defines the unique appearance of the signage. The ink322is printed on the clear film324. The printed film324is thermal formed and back injected with the layer325to provide structural strength as shown inFIG.3C.

Mounting flanges340may be integrally formed with the second portion326B of the housing326. InFIG.3B, four mounting flanges340are illustrated. However, various numbers of flanges340may be used depending on the overall design and position of the display relative to where it is mounted.

Referring now toFIG.3E, the daytime appearance is engineered based on the interaction of the daylight with the composition of the ink and the spectral shift from the ink is shown below for a backlighting situation. The light entering the photon recycling cavity receives and reflects outward. This allows the light generated by the LEDs312to add to the daylight so the illumination may still be visible in the daytime.

Referring now toFIG.3F-I, a similar example to that set forth inFIGS.3A-3Dis set forth. Common elements are not described further. In this example, the second portion326B has a pocket350that houses a second circuit board352that has various components such as a controller354, a power supply356and a network interface357. The power supply356may be a switch mode power supply or more specifically a Buck power supply as described below. The buck power supply is suitable because it is uniquely capable of powering up to 9Watts of power and operating between 9-16 Volts in the present example. This is suitable for automotive environments, in particular. A connector360may extend through the lower wall358of the pocket350.

In order to enable backlighting for different sizes of signature elements, branded logos and architectural lighting, the back-light (circuit board and LEDs312) in the photon recycling cavity320is powered on the daughter or the second board352packaged between the lower wall358of the second portion326B of the housing and the first circuit board314. The first circuit board314may be heat staked at the heat stakes370on to an internal heatsink372as shown inFIG.3I.

Referring now toFIG.3J, an alternate layout of the LEDs312on the circuit board314disposed in the second portion326B of the housing326is illustrated. The LEDs are disposed around the perimeter, which in this example, is a rectangle. Therefore, two rows380connected by two columns382are illustrated. In this example, no other LEDs are disposed between the two columns382and the two rows,380. In this manner no interference with graphics from many types of designs is present. This design may be referred to as generic since it may be used with multiple graphics. A custom first portion of the housing326with suitable graphics may be designed for a specific purpose while the generic second portion326B and circuit board314are used.

Referring now toFIGS.4A-D, in a second example of a display410is set forth coupled to a controller448. The controller404may be referred to as a processor that has a memory406for controlling the operation of the segments of the display410. The memory406is a non-transitory computer medium that includes machine readable instructions that are executable by the processor or controller. The instructions include ways to control ordered illumination of the segments in a sequence. The sequential control may provide a desired effect such as forming script. As will be described below, the display may be designed to provide consistent brightness for each of the segments and thus a table408in the memory406may store scale factors as described in greater detail below. The display410is a dynamically illuminated display comprising piece-wise continuous segment channels412formed of photon recycling cavities414using electronically addressable radially light emitting constructs such as light emitting diodes or organic light emitting diodes.

The second example includes piecewise linear segment channels or segmented thin light source structural elements depicting a given graphic opening or simply graphic416. Each channel412consists of radially emitting illumination constructs where the radial emission uniformly fills the segment cavity with indirect light. The channels412and the cavities414are formed by a first side wall420A and a second side wall420. Between consecutive or adjacent segment channels412and cavities414are a shared end wall424. At the end of the graphic416, where no adjacent segment channel is disposed, an end wall426is positioned. The walls420,422,424and426forming the cavities414are highly reflective walls. The walls420,422,424and426may have reflective surfaces428that a painted with a reflective material or are formed of a reflective material such as composite material such as polycarbonate. As is best shown inFIG.4B, a monolithic structure429is molded from white opaque composite to form the walls420,422,424and426. Other structures such as bridges may also be molded from the opaque composite or plastic material. The overall size and shape of the monolithic structure may be just bigger than the overall channel size. However, the molded material may be large to extend fully within the display410such as to fill the rectangular size of the display ofFIG.4A. Further in a two shot injection molding process other optical components may be molded to the white opaque plastic such as couplers from clear plastic as described below.

A plurality of LEDS430is mounted to a first circuit board432. In some examples, 360-degree side emitting LEDS like those described in the first example may be used without an optic. A Lambertian LED, as illustrated, may also be used. The Lambertian LED emits light outward from the circuit board432. A segmented thin light source such as an organic light emitting diode or diodes may also be used. InFIG.4D, the height H of the wall (the distance from the circuit board432may vary to form a gap424A. That is, each cavity414or channel segment may have a certain amount of leakage of light to the adjacent cavity414, the amount of which is controlled the height H.

Referring now also toFIGS.4E and4F, the display410may be formed in a similar manner to that set forth above in the first examples. The display410may comprise a housing440having a first housing portion440A and a second housing portion440B is formed in a similar manner to that set forth above. The second housing portion440B may have a pocket442for receiving a second circuit board444. In any of the segmented channel examples, the housing440may be formed in a similar manner. The height H ofFIG.4Dmay thus be extended to vary the gap424A to the first housing portion440A. The configurations ofFIGS.4A-4Dmay also include optics as described below.

InFIGS.4E-4G, various examples of redirection elements for redirecting light to provide an indirect light path through the graphics416are set forth. The indirect light path eliminates bright spots so that an aesthetically pleasing display is provided. In a first example of a redirection element, an optic450is coupled to the circuit board432and is positioned to receive the output of the LED430and redirect the light430A away from the outward direction to have the benefits of indirect lighting. The light430A that may have been directed through the graphic416is completely redirected toward the side walls420,422(and the coating428, if any) of the channels412. In this example, the solid optic450may be a rotated shape. The optic450is a cylindrical solid and has a rotated angular upper surface450A that extends inward toward the circuit board432and the LED430. The angled surface450A is conical and through the principles of total internal reflects the light430A away from the longitudinal axis LA of the optic450. If the optic450is a rectangular solid (or cube), an inverted pyramid or cone redirects light laterally toward the side walls420,422and toward the end wall426or shared end wall424. In the present example, the upper surface is disposed at a 45 degrees angle to the longitudinal axis. The solid optic450has a recess452the LED430disposed therein near the circuit board432. The shape of the recess452may be spherical so that the light incident on the surface enters the optic normal to the surface to minimize reflection. A leg or legs454may be used to mount the optic450to the circuit board432while allowing air flow in between if the leg or legs are discontinuous around the perimeter of the optic450. The optic450, this example, is cylindrical and has an inverted cone opposite the LED430so that the light430A from the LED430reflects all around the cavity414. Each of the segmented channels412and the cavities414may be configured the same but with slightly different channel shapes to form the desired graphic. The longitudinal axis LA of the cylindrical optic is aligned with the LED430and the apex456of the cone. All of the light430A from the LEDS430is initially redirected away from the graphics416. The cavities414are photon recycling piece-wise continuous cavities that eventually emit the light430A from the graphic416after reflection from the walls420,422,424and426of the display410.

The second circuit board444has various components such as a controller354, a power supply356and the network interface357(as described above). Each illumination construct in the cavities414may be addressed electronically based on the network the dynamically illuminated signage belongs to. The networks could be Wi-Fi, ZigBee, a CAN of a vehicle, CAN-FD, Ethernet etc. The electronic controller354that interfaces the network through the network interface357and the power supply356to power the radial light emitting constructs are on the second circuit board444as shown below.

The graphic416may be formed as described above with transflective ink formed on a film and injected with thermal plastic. The cavity has side walls that are in the longitudinal direction of the segmented graphics.

The controller354may be used to control the sequence, the slope of the ramp up voltage and other characteristics of the graphics presentation of the display410. In script writing, for example, as the LED430of a first cavity414is powered up, the first cavity414takes some time to fill with light as power to the LED430is ramped up. A small amount of light eventually can leak through the gap424A between top of the shared end wall424and the first housing portion440A before proceeding to illuminate the next cavity414in the next segment of the sequence. This can be controlled by sizing the height H of the shared end wall426appropriately to allow no leakage or by providing a controlled amount of leakage. In some constructs, the gap424A may be minimized. Therefore, the illumination looks like a smooth script being written rather than choppy segments being turned on sequentially. That is, the height H of the shared end walls424is used to control the gap to provide a controllable transition from segment to segment. In many instances, the light bleeding through is minimized.

The dynamically addressable radial construct can be electronically accessed based on the scenarios, situation or the messages one wants to communicate. If the signage is the signature of an individual, it can be addressed based on the way the individual executes the signature. If the message is continuous the radially emitting constructs could be accessed accordingly. If the message is wanning, the LEDS can be accessed accordingly. Depending on the packaging constraints these structures could also contain Infrared, Red, Green, Blue, White and UV light sources or combinations thereof to change the effects of the message.

Referring now toFIGS.4H and4I, another example of a redirection element is illustrated. A bridge460may be placed over the top of the LED430so that the bridge460is between the LED430and the second portion440A of the housing440. The LED430is not in alignment with the graphic416so the light430A bounces from the walls420and422. Although a small portion of the LED430is illustrated, from the top-down view ofFIG.4I, the LED430(one of which is represented) is covered by the bridge460. The bridge460may be spaced apart from the LED430to allow sufficient space for thermal considerations. However little or no space may be left between the bottom of the bridge460and the LED430. The distance between the bottom of the bridge460and the top of the LED430may therefore vary. The bridge460has a width that is sized based on the LED characteristics to prevent direct light from leaving through the graphics416. That is, reflected/redirected light fills the cavity, when there is a scattering bridge in the piece-wise continuous photon recycling cavities414.

The bridge460may be integrally formed with the walls420,422alone or part of a monolithic structure419′ as illustrated inFIG.4I.

Another advantage of the scattering bridge is that a six pin RGB LEDs could be packaged underneath the scattering bridge, so that other features to the signage could be attributed such as charge state indication, pedestrian protection in the transportation sector, safe or unsafe use of an item, and ingress egress signage in the buildings.

Referring now toFIGS.4J and4K, another example of a redirection element a bridge460′ is set forth. The bridge460′ is integrally formed or molded with the walls420and422. In this example, the bottom surface462of the bridge460′ has a redirection wall464or walls extending therefrom. The redirection wall or walls464may be a conical surface or 3 to 6 surface pyramidal structure extending toward the LED from the bottom surface462of the bridge460′. The walls help the dispersion of light particularly with Lambertian distribution or top distribution LEDs.

Referring now toFIGS.4L and4M, an alternative redirection element fromFIGS.4H and4Iis set forth. The bridge460is opaque plastic that has a clear plastic coupler468such as polycarbonate disposed between the bottom surface462of the bridge460and a top surface430B of the LED430. The coupler468, in this example, is a rectangular solid such as a cube bridge460. This example is useful to redirect light from the LED so that neither the light nor the LED is in alignment with the graphic opening416. The formation of the coupler468may be performed with a two shot injection molding process where opaque material is used to form a monolithic structure including the walls420,422and bridge460in a first shot and in a second shot form the coupler468to the opaque material.

Referring now toFIGS.4N and4O, an alternative redirection element fromFIGS.4J and4Kis set forth. The bridge460′ is opaque plastic and has a clear plastic coupler470such as polycarbonate disposed between the bottom surface462of the bridge460′ and a top surface430B of the LED430. The coupler470, in this example, is a cylindrical solid having a conical wall472extending inward toward the LED430directly adjacent the wall464extending from the bottom462of the bridge460′. This example is useful to redirect light from the LED so that neither the light nor the LED430is in alignment with the graphic opening416. The formation of the coupler470may be performed with a two shot injection molding process where opaque material is used to form a monolithic structure including the walls420,422and bridge460′ in a first shot and in a second shot form the coupler470to the opaque material.

Referring now toFIGS.4P-4S, examples of a clear plastic couplers478made of a clear composite such as polycarbonate is set forth as a redirection element. The couplers478are disposed on the circuit board432and surround the LED430without using a bridge as set forth above. The coupler478, in this example, is a cylindrical solid having a first end having a conical wall480extending inward toward the LED430. A second end of the coupler478has a recess482that houses the LED430when assembled. The difference betweenFIGS.4Q-4Sis that the recess482has an upper surface484that is parallel to the circuit board432inFIG.4Q, concave as inFIG.4Ror convex as inFIG.4S. The shapes of the concave and convex surface may be spherical or conical sections depending on the angle and dispersion of the desired output. The angle486of the conical wall480may vary as well such as between 45-50 degrees. Various combinations may be used depending on design considerations. This example is useful to redirect light from the LED so that neither the light nor the LED430is in optical alignment with the graphic opening416.

Referring now toFIGS.4T and4U, a top view and side view of an alternate configuration of an optic488as a redirection element is set forth. The optic488is similar to that inFIGS.4P-Rand therefore the common elements are labeled the same. In this example, the recess482is relatively larger. Supports490space the optic488away from the circuit board432. The recess482in this example does not surround the LED430. In this example, the supports490and the optic488may be a monolithic structure itself or may be formed as a second shot of the monolithic structure (first shot) forming the supports490. The top of the optic488may be shaped as a conical surface480as described above with varying angles also described above. All the light from a top emitting LED is redirected laterally from the optic488so that the light must bounce before leaving the graphic opening.

Referring now toFIGS.5A and5B, local laser ablation may be used to form the graphic opening416in the first portion440A of the housing440. The first portion440A may be formed in many ways with many different layers as described above. For example, a clear plastic injected layer550may be used to protect a film layer552that has transreflective ink554applied thereon. The layers550through554may be applied to a substrate556. The substrate556may be completely coated with a coating558such as paint. To expose the substrate or a coating layer under the coating558, the coating558may be selectively removed to form the graphic416. Laser ablation is based on a line of site laser560using a laser beam562traveling above the painted or coating on the surface of the substrate556lifting the layer of coating558to show the substrate color for the graphic416that the laser is creating. In order to create the graphic416, the laser560is traveling on a programmable robotic head564following the pattern of the graphic416. A vacuum566is used to remove particles of the coating of the

This method using a single laser560is not conducive for very high-volume creation of laser ablated graphics, due to the time it takes. Hence, reflective material as aluminum may have multiple expanded lasers560attached thereto to align with each of the piece-wise segmented cavities570to fire all of the lasers simultaneously based on the power required to do laser ablation of a given coating or paint for a given segment as shown inFIG.5B. Each laser may therefore use a different amount of power. The power required is based on mW/area that needs to be impinging on the paint surface associated with the graphic segment.

Another approach to using lasers may be using different optical fibers in the middle of the cavities (at the positions569) and the fibers could be bundled to form the input end for a high-powered laser. But the input to the fiber tip above the graphic may not be controlled. Hence, the distance of the fiber tip to the substrate and the angle of emission could be controlled to manage the power density hitting the substrate, via each piece-wise segment.

Referring now toFIG.6A, a system610for ablating layers from a substrate612is illustrated. The substrate612has one or more coating layers such as paint thereon. In this example, a first layer614is a layer of white paint that is translucent. A second layer616is disposed on the first layer614. The second layer614may be a paint or another type of coating and may be translucent or opaque. The substrate612may be coated fully by both layers614and616. To form a display, the second layer616is removed to expose the white layer614so that light positioned behind the substrate612may be transmitted therethrough. Various numbers of layers such as one layer of three or more layers may be used. Layers may be selectively removed as needed to achieve the desired effect.

Referring now also toFIG.6B, a guide618having a pattern620therethrough is set forth. That is, the guide618may be formed of a metal such as aluminum to reflect and not absorb laser light. The pattern620may be various shapes and correspond to the color to be displayed by the display.

Referring now also toFIGS.6C and6D, a laser source630is used to generate a laser beam632. The laser beam632is coupled into a plurality of optical fibers634. The plurality of optical fibers634may be bundled together to receive the laser beams632. The laser beam632is thus divided into the plurality of optical fibers634to form sub-beams640within each of the optical fibers634. The sub-beams640are emitted from the ends of each of the optical fibers634. The sub-beams640may cover the entire pattern620so that the simultaneous ablation of the layer616may take place simultaneously. As is illustrated best inFIG.6B, the sub-beams640may extend beyond the pattern620so that when placed adjacent to each other coverage of at least the openings of the pattern is covered by the sub-beams640. InFIG.6B, only a portion of the sub-beams640simultaneously generated are illustrated.

Referring back toFIG.6C, the laser source630has a controller650coupled thereto. The controller650is used to control the operation of the laser beam632such as the duration of the beam. The duration of the laser beam632is such to provide an amount of energy to the layer616to ablate or remove the layer at the position of the laser sub-beams640. Any overlap outside of the pattern620is blocked by the guide618so that only the areas of the coating within the pattern620are ablated or removed. The beam632may have an optic636that promotes the coupling of the laser beam into the optical fibers634.

The other end of the optical fibers may have an optic642that allows even distribution of the energy of the sub-beam640at the second end of the optical fibers634. An even distribution will allow even ablation across the entire sub-beam and the entire pattern620, no matter where in the pattern the sub-beam640is incident.

A vacuum source660may also be provided adjacent to the optical fiber634and the sub-beam640generated thereby. The vacuum source660may be used for removing the particles ablated from the first layer616.

In operation, the controller650is used to control the layer source630to generate the laser beam632. When the laser beam632is generated, the laser beam is coupled into the optical fibers634to form the sub-beams640which are sized to have a sufficient amount of energy to ablate or remove the layer616from the substrate612.

This design may also be used for various numbers of layers and sublayers. For example, the sublayers614may be different colors so that when the layer616is removed, the display may generate different colors. This may be suitable for displays in which, for example, the first letter of a display may be desired to be displayed in a different color.

The number of layers is illustrated as two inFIG.6A. However, more translucent layers may be provided. For example, an intermediate layer between the layer614and the layer616may also be provided. In some locations, the laser sub-beams640may be tuned to remove the intermediate layer between the layers614and616as well as the outer layer616. At other sub-beams, the layer616may be removed. When the controller650acts to form the beam632, the ablation may be referred to as a “flash” ablation because the ablation is performed at the same time with all the sub-beams. The controller650, the laser630, and a fixture652for holding the substrate may be part of an automated processing machine654.

In the following figures, alternate designs for displays are set forth. In the following, segmented spatial light modulators that use surface emissions for contrast enhancement are set forth. Segmented thin light sources (surface emitters) are used. The displays may be used for displays on vehicles as well as for disinfecting purposes when UV light sources are used.

Referring now toFIGS.7A and7B, a display710has a substrate712that may include an inside layer714that is made with transflective material as described above. On the opposite side of the substrate712, a first layer716is disposed on the substrate712. The first layer716may be a display color such as white. A second layer718is disposed on the first layer716and forms a background layer in a similar manner to that described above. The substrate712may be formed according to that illustrated inFIG.6. The substrate and the layers may be referred to as a substrate assembly720. The substrate assembly720may be coupled to a housing722. The substrate assembly720may be coupled in various ways to the housing722using fasteners, seals, adhesives, vibration welding and the like. The display710includes a backlight730. The backlight730may be a thin surface emitter that generates surface emissions. The backlight730generates light in the direction of the substrate712. The backlight730, in this example, may be continuously on. To control the display710, a shutter device732may be disposed between the backlight730and the substrate assembly720. The backlight730and the shutter device732may be selectively controlled by a controller740. The controller740may be a matrix controller that controls elements734of the shutter device732.

InFIG.7B, a plurality of elements734are illustrated that may be controlled by the controller740. The size of the elements734may vary. By controlling the elements734from an on state to off state or states therebetween, the amount of light through the graphic portion750may be controlled. That is, the controller740selectively controls the elements734. InFIG.7B, an arrow752illustrates that the elements may be controlled to form a script. That is, the elements734from the start of the arrow to the arrowhead may be controlled in a sequential fashion to allow the display710to be illuminated sequentially in a direction. In this example, the lower case “e”754is illuminated from a first end756to a second end758by sequentially controlling the elements734, which can have appropriate sizes size or pitches. Of course, the entire logo or display may be illuminated in various ways and in various sequences to form the desired display and the effect of the display.

In an automotive vehicle, the display710may perform differently under different conditions. For example, during charging of an electric vehicle, the display may slowly cycle from on to off and back to on again. For a turn signal, when the turn signal indicator is on and flashing, the display710may turn on sequentially in the direction of the turn signal. Of course, other effects may be performed. As mentioned above, the display710may be part of a logo on the front grill or on the front of the vehicle or the rear of the vehicle. On the rear of the vehicle, the display may act as an additional taillight or brake light in which layer716is red in color.

The controller740may control the elements734to gradually illuminate when forming the script pattern. That is, the elements734may gradually be changed from opaque to transparent in the sequence to allow a visually pleasing display to be formed.

Referring now toFIG.7C, a modification to the display710is illustrated as display710′. In this example, the backlight730and the shutter device732have been removed and replaced by a pixelated backlight770. The pixelated backlight770may have a plurality of elements772that are controlled by the controller740in a similar manner to that described above. However, in this example, each element772may be turned on or off or be illuminated in between to allow the display to display according to a particular design.

In operation,FIGS.7C and7Dhave the elements772individually controlled to form the desired display or the effect desired. The control may be controlled in a similar manner to that described above inFIGS.7A-7Bin that motion or script can be controlled. The elements772may be of different pitches to allow the resolution of the display to be changed. A matrix driver may be disposed within the controller to individually control the various elements.

Referring now toFIG.8A, one example of a multi-portion display810is set forth. In this example, the first portion812is a central logo that may be positioned on a grille or rear portion of a vehicle. A first side portion814and a second side portion816, in this example, are turn signal indicators. The first portion812may be continually illuminated. When the turn signal indicator is illuminated, LEDs may be sequentially illuminated along the arrows820depending on which direction has been selected. Sequential illumination may extend from the first portion812to either the second portion814or the third portion816. Arrows822are optional features that may or may not be used depending on the desired design considerations.

Referring now toFIG.9, a circuit board assembly910is illustrated. The circuit board assembly910has the light sources430disposed thereon and the light sources430with radial light emitting constructs are on the top of the circuit board432with piece-wise addressability control optics. The optic may have heat sinking capability. The electronics controller912on the second circuit board444addresses radially emitting constructs based on mathematical profiles such as gaussians, step functions, piece-wise time stepped function etc. Emission modulation of these radially emitting elements is accessed based on different intensities that define segment intensity levels that enable total output intensity levels from the addressable illuminated graphic.

Referring now toFIG.10, a method of controlling light output of a multi-segment display such as that illustrated inFIGS.4A-4Uis set forth. In this example, the variations set forth inFIGS.4A-4Umay be implemented. However, the general features are set forth. In step1010, a scale factor for each segment is determined at the controller404. The scale factor may be determined experimentally and form the scale factor table408in the memory406that is used to scale the light output of each segment provides the same brightness. Providing a uniform display is important in many designs. Therefore, providing uniform brightness at all of the segments is aesthetically pleasing. The determination of uniform brightness may be performed using the histogram illustrated inFIG.10B. A minimum brightness line1011is determined from the segment with the lowest output. In this example, segment number16has the lowest output as indicated by the line1011. The light output of the other segments is illustrated and therefore must be reduced to prevent the segment from being greater than the brightness of the minimum segment. The table408is formed to provide a scale factor for each of the segments. The segment size and position may vary and therefore the amount of light output per segment may vary as well. Prior to a final design, the scale factor for each segment may be determined and the current or pulse width duty cycle may be reduced to allow the light output of the segment to remain at the line1011.

In step1012, the wall height H, such as that illustrated inFIG.4D, may be determined. The higher the wall height, the less leakage from one segment to adjacent segments is performed. However, a lower wall height allows more leakage to occur. Designers may experiment with the height of the wall to allow a smooth transition. This is especially important where a continuous sequential illumination is to be provided. It may be desirable to not have a wall height H to the top of the display because a dark spot may result as the illumination is occurring. It has been found that some leakage between segments is desirable. In step1014, the light output of the first assembly according to a first function may be performed. In some examples, the light output may transition from off (zero) to 100%. However, it has been found that following another function, such as a gaussian function, illustrated inFIG.10Cmay be performed. InFIG.10C, four examples of a gaussian functions are set forth. As noted, the curves for each of the gaussian functions1015A-1015D provide different outputs between zero and 100% duty cycle. The curve1015B and the times thereof will be described in greater detail inFIG.10D. InFIG.10D, the first segment is illustrated as SEG_N. The various times T1, T2, T3and T4are set forth. At time T0, the light source such as LED1016A, in a first segment1018A, is in the off state. The LEDs may be various types of light sources including OLEDs. Light starts to emanate from the LED1016A at time T1and increases at time T2and T3. At time T3, light begins to travel through the gap1021and at time T4, more light enters the second segment SEG_N+1. At time T5, light continues to enter the second segment SEG_N+1 while the second LED1016B begins illuminating.

Referring back toFIG.10A, the light being communicated in step1020to the second segment is performed. In step1022, the light from the first LED1016may be limited as mentioned above by a scale factor that limits the current or the duty cycle. In step1024, the light output increases at the second or subsequent LED according to a function. The function may be the same function or a different function as that used in the first segment. At times T6, T7and T8, the light eventually begins to leak into the third segment SEG_N+2 at times T7and T8. After time T8the third LED1016C is controlled. The full light output may be achieved at time T8but may be scaled according to the scale factor in step1026. The process repeats until the last segment1028. When the last segment is not reached, steps1024and1026are repeated. When the last segment has been reached, the process ends in step1030.

Referring now toFIG.10E, the chart sets forth the leakage for different segments. Segment1generates a certain amount of light output which transmits to segment2and segment3. The light output of segment2transmits back to segment1and segment3and so on.

Referring now toFIG.10F, a plot of the light output is illustrated at1050. The raw light output is illustrated at1052and the light output at1054illustrates a more uniform light output that is corrected by the scale factor from the table.

In one example, a connector920has a connector shroud922molded so the connection system is sealed. In one example, the sealed assembly may use a Gortex® patch to prevent water condensation inside the display assembly. In one example, the design uses laser welding technology to seal housing. Vibration welding is also a viable solution.

Referring now toFIG.11A, a front perspective view of a vehicle1110is illustrated. In this example, the vehicle1110includes a door1112which may be used to cover an engine compartment or a front trunk (frunk). The vehicle1110has a display1114that includes a first portion1116and a second portion1118. The first portion1116includes a plurality of display elements1120. The display elements1120are illuminated elements and are constructed as elongated narrow elements in the present example. The display elements1120may each be formed of a single channel with a single light source in each channel. However, segmented channels like those inFIGS.4A-4Umay also be used. However, various styles, shapes, areas and colors of the elements1120may be implemented. As well, the sequence and timing within each segment of each element1120may be controlled to achieve the desired visual and optical effect.

The first portion1116, in this example, has a logo portion1126disposed therein. The logo portion1126may be formed by one of the methods illustrated above. However, rather than being a standalone element, the logo1116may be incorporated into the larger structures such as the front fascia1124of the vehicle1110. The first portion1116is a forward facing portion of the front fascia1124. An upward facing portion or second portion1118faces upward. Front and upward directions are relative to the vehicle1110.

Referring now toFIG.1B, a rear fascia1130having a first portion1132and a second portion1134is set forth. In this example, the first portion1132and the second portion1134may have elements1136disposed thereon. The elements1136disposed on the second portion1134may face in an upward direction. The first portion1132may have a logo portion1138and a sensor portion1140. The logo portions1126,1138of the front and rear displays may not be identical in that different logos may be displayed. Likewise, the sensor areas1128and1140may house different types of sensors.

The elements1136may be arranged and shaped in various geometries as mentioned above relative to the elements1120. The elements1120,1136may be sequentially controlled and/or color controlled in various sequences and colors to indicate various functions and/or aesthetics.

Referring now also toFIG.11C, a cross-sectional view of the front fascia1124is illustrated. However, those skilled in the art will recognize the rear fascia1130may be configured in a similar manner. The display elements or logo portion1120,1126,1134, and1138may all be controlled by a controller area network1150. The controller area network1150may be part of the vehicle and interact with various components of the vehicle1110. Ultimately, the controller area network1150may generate control signals to control the operation of each of the elements1120and the displays1126and1138. The controller area network1150may generate signals so that the individual light sources within the individual elements may be controlled as mentioned in detail above.

In this example, the elements1120on the second portion1118may have optical elements1152that are used to disperse the light from the elements1120in the second portion1118. The elements1120,1136may be part of the welcome sequence when a user is approaching the vehicle, when the vehicle is charging and used as an indicator of charging or full, or used as a warning such as brake indicator or a collision warning. In front of the vehicle, the element1120may be used as a collision warning that is visible by the vehicle operator when looking forward and over the door1112. The optical elements1152direct light in various directions including rearward toward the vehicle operator in a driving position.

Referring now also toFIG.11D, a controller1160that may be part of the vehicle control system1110is coupled to the controller area network1150as illustrated. The controller1160may have a microprocessor1162coupled to a memory1164. The memory1164is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including machine-readable instructions that are executable by the processor1162to perform various functions. The various functions will be described in greater detail below. The controller1160has a plurality of circuits that generate a detection signal used to ultimately generate a control signal. The circuits may include a collision detector circuit1160A that uses condition signals from one or more sensors to detect that the vehicle may be in an impending collision. The collision detector circuit1160A may also determine the relative distance to a parked vehicle when entering or leaving a parking spot. A proximity sensor1170A generates a condition signal corresponding to the proximity of a remote keyless1180relative to the vehicle. The remote keyless device1180may be a handheld key or a phone as a key device. The condition signal corresponds to the remote keyless device1180being within a certain range of the vehicle. In response to the remote keyless device condition signal, a startup sequence may be performed at the display.

The controller1160may also have charge detector1160B that is coupled to an electric charger1181and generate a condition signal corresponding to being coupled to (or not coupled to) to a battery charger1181.

A lock detector1160D may be coupled to a lock actuator1182and is used for detecting whether the doors are locked and unlocked by generating a locked or unlocked condition signal.

A startup detector1160E detects whether the vehicle is being started and generates a startup condition signal.

A brake detector1160F is coupled to a brake actuator1184to detect whether the brakes are being actuated. A condition signal generated by the brake detector indicated whether or not the brakes are being activated.

Each of the detector circuits1160A-1160F generate detection signals from the condition signals that are used by a light controller1186to generate control signals control the display1114and the elements thereof.

In one example, the collision detector1160A may control the elements1120on the second portion1118to illuminate to make the driver aware that a collision is impending. It is common for a collision warning system to operate a speaker1188and generate a visual warning that is projected on the windshield. In this example, the collision detector1160A illuminates the elements1120and together with the optical elements1152allows the driver to visually receive a warning of an impending collision. That is, the collision detector1160A generates a collision signal that is communicated to the light controller1186and using the control area network controls one or more elements of the display1114.

The charge detector1160B generates a charge detection signal that generates a charge control signal that is communicated to the light controller to control one or more of the elements1120-1136based upon the vehicle being connected and charging. The charge detector1160B may generate a charging signal or a charging complete signal that indicates that the battery is full. A different type of display such as the elements illuminating faster or slower or at a different color may be performed. Both front elements1120and/or the rear elements1136may be controlled in the same or a different manner.

The proximity detector1160C may generate a proximity detection signal that corresponds to the distance of the remote keyless device1180. Based upon the proximity signal, the light controller1186may generate a light sequence to welcome a vehicle operator to the vehicle. The operating sequence may be a sequential illumination of the front elements1120or the rear elements1136.

The startup detector1160E generates a startup detection signal that corresponds to when the vehicle is started. The detection of a key in a tumbler or the pressing of a button in a keyless ignition system may be detected and communicated to the light controller1186. The light controller1186may generate a series or sequence of light controls when the startup detector generates a startup signal. The brake detector1160F may generate a brake signal that corresponds to the brake pedal being activated. The brake signal is communicated to the light controller1186that may generate a redundant display by controlling one of the elements1136. That is, one or more elements1136may generate a brake signal indicator. A pedestrian detector1160G may also determine whether a collision is impending with a pedestrian based on one or more of the sensors such as the camera1170, lidar1172, radar,1174or the ultrasonic sensor1176or combinations thereof.

Referring now toFIGS.11D and11E, an alternate configuration to that illustrated above with respect toFIG.11Cis set forth. In this example, the light controller1186′ may be disposed in a pocket1190as part of the display1114. The pocket1190may be adjacent to the logo display1126such as behind or to the side thereof. Controller1186′ may perform the same functions as light controller1186and additional functions. However, in this example, the controller area network1150communicates a detection signal corresponding to the detection of a condition through the controller area network1150from the controller1160. In this manner the controller1186′ is a control node controlled by the controller1160through the CAN1150The light controller1186′ operates the logo display1126or the light elements1120in a sequence or pattern to obtain the desired effect based on a detection signal received through the CAN1150.

The sensors1170-1178may communicate sensor signals directly to the controller1186′ rather than through the CAN1150as illustrated inFIG.11D. A decision may be made as to whether to pass the sensor signals to the CAN1150. That is, the light controller1186′ may determine whether the sensor signal is for a local function or a network function. In other words, the light controller1186′ may form a subnetwork with the CAN acting as the main network. That is, should a sensor signal be used to activate or control one of the elements1120and that is the only function needed for that sensor signal, the controller1186′ does not need to pass the signal to the CAN1150.

InFIG.11F, the light controller1186′ may include some of all of the detector circuits1160A and1160F. In this example, the collision detector1160A, a proximity detector1160C and the pedestrian detector1160G are illustrated in the light controller1186′ forming the sub-network1192. In this example, when the function, such as generating a warning display using the elements1120is to be performed, the light controller1186′ can choose to perform the sub-network function without communicating the signal through the CAN1150to reduce the control burden within the CAN1150. A warning to a p

Referring now toFIG.12A, a method for operating the display is set forth. In step1210, a condition signal is generated at one of the sensors which includes the camera1170, a lidar sensor1172, the radar1174, the ultrasonic sensor1176, the proximity sensor1178, the lock actuator1182and the brake actuator1184.

In step1212, the condition signal is communicated to the controller1160through the controller area network1150. In particular, the various detector circuits1160A-1160F are used to generate detection signals corresponding to a detection based on the condition signals. In step1214, the detection signals are communicated to the light controller1186. The light controller1186, in step1216, generates a control signal that is communicated through the controller area network to control the elements1120,1136and even the logo areas1126and1138. That is, in step1218, the elements of the display are controlled according to the control signal.

Referring now toFIG.12B, a second method for operating the display is set forth that corresponds toFIG.11F. In step1230, a condition signal is generated at one of the sensors which includes the camera1170, a lidar sensor1172, the radar1174, the ultrasonic sensor1176, the proximity sensor1178, the lock actuator1182and the brake actuator1184.

In step1232, the condition signal is communicated to the controller1186′ In particular, the various detector circuits1160A-1160F may be within or associated with the light controller1186′ are used to generate detection signals corresponding to a detection based on the condition signals.

In step1234, the detection signals are used to determine whether the functions correspond to a sub-network function. In step1238, when the detection signal or signals correspond exclusively to a sub-network function in step1234, the function is performed in the sub-network by generating a control signal and the detection signal is not communicated to the controller1160through the CAN1150. That is, in step1238, the elements of the display1114are controlled according to a control signal.

In step1238, the detection signals are communicated to the controller1260through the controller area network1150to perform various functions or make certain determinations in the vehicle when the detection signals are not exclusive to the sub-network.

Referring now toFIG.13, an example of a display control circuit for driving the display is set forth. In this example, a voltage protection circuit1310receives power and ground from elsewhere in the vehicle through a power terminal1310A and a ground terminal1310B. The protection circuit1310provides both over voltage and under voltage protection. That is, the protection circuit1310protects the voltage to the display control circuit1300from operating an above maximum circuit operating condition and below a negative voltage condition.

The output of the voltage protection circuit1310is a voltage signal that is provided to an electromagnetic capability (EMC) filter circuit1320. The EMC filter circuit1320prevents conducted noise from exiting through the power terminal1310A and the ground terminal1310B. The filtered voltage signal from the EMC filter circuit1310is provided to a DC/DC converter1322. The DC/DC converter1322generates a VBIAS signal that is provided to a first LED driver circuit1324and a second LED driver circuit1326. The VBIAS signal is a dynamic LED bias control signal that is communicated to both of the LED driver circuits1324,1326to ensure all LEDs, such as the LEDs1330coupled to the LED driver circuit1324and the LEDs1332coupled to the LED driver circuit1326, have the correct voltage.

The LED driver circuit1326generates a dynamic LED bias control signal that is communicated to the LED driver circuit1324. The LED driver circuit1324, in turn, communicates a dynamic LED bias control signal to the DC/DC converter1322. The bias control signal is used to adjust the LED voltage VBIAS to minimize the power consumption and heat generated by the LED driver circuits1324,1326and the LEDs1330,1332. The LEDs1330,1332may be part of the emblem or logo display1334cvillustrated above.

The EMC filter1320also provides the filter voltage to a regulator such as a voltage control circuit1338such as a DC/DC converter or a linear regulator. The regulator1338provides regulated voltage, such as 3.3 volts, in this example, so that the microcontroller1342has a stable proper voltage for operation. A high current application for the circuit1338is chosen to allow the microcontroller1340to run for a period of time after the power is removed to perform housekeeping functions such as EEPROM emulator using FLASH.

A communication interface1342communicates with the communication area network1150illustrated above. The communication area network1150provides and receives signals from the communication interface1342. Communication signals1342A are provided to and from the microcontroller1340. Status signals1342B are provided from the communication interface to the microcontroller1340. The microcontroller1340has a memory1344associated therewith. The memory1344is a non-transitory computer-readable medium including machine-readable instructions that are executable by the processor. The machine-readable instructions include instructions for operating the LEDs1330and1332in a way desirable by the vehicle designers. The microcontroller1340is in communication with a first remote LED communication interface1346.

It should be noted that although the CAN1150is illustrated, various types of communications methods or systems, such as FD-CAN, UART, I2C, SPI, Ethernet and more ways of communications may be provided.

The first remote LED communication interface1346communicates control signals to an LED driver1350and1352. The communication interface1346allows the sequencing and operation of the LEDs1354,1356associated with the respective LED driver circuits1350,1352.

A DC/DC converter1350generates a DC/DC converter signal (VBIAS) to the LED driver circuits1350,1352so that a regulated voltage is provided to each of the driver circuits1350,1352. A dynamic bias control signal (DBC) is communicated from the LED driver1350to the LED driver1352. The LED driver1352generates a dynamic bias control signal (DBC) which is communicated to the DC/DC converter1358. The dynamic bias control signal (DBC) is used by the DC/DC converter1350to allow the LED voltage to be adjusted to minimize power consumption and the heat generated by the LEDs1354,1356and the driver circuits1350,1352. The voltage for the DC/DC converter1358may be provided from the EMC filter1320.

The microcontroller1340may also be coupled to sensors1350. The sensors1350may be one or more of the sensors described above such as the camera sensor1170, the LIDAR sensor1172, the radar sensor1174and the ultrasonic sensor1176. As mentioned above, the microcontroller1340may control the LED drivers1324,1326,1350and1352to illuminate in a controlled way according to the conditions sensed by the sensors1350. Control examples are provided above.

As mentioned above, power may be provided from an external source through the power terminal1310A and the ground terminal1310B. However, the display control circuit1300may also be coupled to a solar panel1351and/or a battery1353. The solar panel1351may be used to charge the battery1353so that the operation of the LEDs1330,1332,1354and1356may be performed without the external power. The solar panel1351may be used to maintain the battery1353at a charged level. The output of the battery1353and/or the solar panel1351may be coupled to the voltage protection circuit1310which, in turn, provides filtered power to the rest of the circuit through the EMC filter1320.

The LEDs1330and1332may be part of an emblem or logo display1334. Of course, other functions may be provided for the LEDs1330,1332.

The LEDs1354,1356may perform various display functions. One or more of the LEDs1330,1332,1354,1356may perform various other types of functions in a vehicle such as turn signals, high beams, low beams, fog lights, marker lights, decorative display lights and other lighting functions.

It should be noted that the sub-network described above may be formed by the controller1340, the communication interface1346, the communication interface1348, the converter1358and the LED drivers1350-1352as well as the LEDs1354and1356.

Referring now toFIG.14, another example of a display14is illustrated. The display1410may have a functional portions1410A and aesthetic portions1410B. The functional portion1410A and the aesthetic portion1410B may be integrally formed into the single display1410. The aesthetic portion1410B has an emblem or logo display1410and light elements1412. The display control circuit1300may be coupled behind the display14. The display control circuit1300may include the sensors1350and the other portions of the circuit1310-1352. The display control circuit1300may also include the solar panels1351. However, the solar panels1351are illustrated as separate components inFIG.14.

The functional portions14A may have various functional LEDs including high beams1420, low beams1422, brake lights1424, fog lights1426, marker lights1428and turn signals1430. Although the functional portions14A are illustrated as completely separate, the various lights1420-1430may be incorporated into the aesthetic portion14B. One or more of the LEDs1330,1332,1354and1356may be used to form the functional elements1420-1430.

Should the display1410be a rear display, the high beams1420and the low beams1422may be replaced by a brake lights1432.

It should be noted thatFIGS.12A and12Bmay be used to operate the examples set forth inFIG.13. That is condition signals may be generated at the sensors1350and the controller1340may act as the light controller that is used for controlling the elements. Likewise, inFIG.12B, condition signals may be generated from the sensors1350and the controller1340may determine whether or not to communicate the signals back through the controller area network1150. The sub-network function described in step1236may be performed by controlling the LED drivers and the LEDs within the control circuit1300under the control of the controller1340.

Referring now toFIG.15, a method of controlling the circuit ofFIG.13is set forth. In step1510, a first control signal is generated at the controller1340of the display control circuit which is located at the display. As mentioned above, a pocket or other device may be used to secure the control circuit to the display. In step1512, a first LED driver is controlled from the controller for controlling the first LEDs based on the first control signal.

In step1514, a second control signal is generated at the controller of the display. The second control signal is communicated to a communication interface near the controller1340. Ultimately, the first communication interface communicates with a second communication interface that is located near the LEDs and the LED drivers for the second group of LEDs. In step1520, the second control signals communicated to a second LED driver that controls the second LEDs based on the second control signal. In step1522, a dynamic control signal is generated at the first LED driver and is communicated to the first DC/DC converter. In step1524, power is controlled at the DC/DC converter based on the first dynamic control signal. By providing the dynamic biased control signal, the amount of power to the LEDs is controlled to ensure that all of the LEDs have the correct voltage for operation. This is important in a display that uses multiple LEDs because the amount of light output from the LEDs should be consistent throughout the display.

In step1526, a second dynamic control signal is communicated from the second LED driver to a second DC/DC converted. In step1528, the power to the second DC/DC converter is controlled based on the second dynamic control signal.

The present system provides a benefit of creating the interaction of the ink and light via a transflective surface. The transflective surface that transmits and reflects light giving both a daytime and nighttime appearance. The ink interacts with light and creates spectral modifications. In one example, the ink may be screen printed. Control is implemented to drive the LEDs to enable the visual interface. In a vehicle setting the visual interface may change. For example, in an electric vehicle plugged into a charger, the visual interface may blink slowly or change color or both while charging. Then, when the battery is charged, the visual appearance may change to a second visual interface. For example, a steady green light may indicate the battery being charged. The use of the daughter board is used for control and strategy to mitigate RF emission. RF emission can take place using EMC filtering on the daughter board. The daughter board is between the LED circuit board and the back side of the housing (away from the direction of illumination). EMC issues may be further reduced by making the back housing from metal or metal particles injected into the plastic. The PB board having the LEDS thereon may be formed of or have a layer of metal. When combined with a metal rear housing, the PCB and the rear housing form a Faraday cage around the controller reducing EM emissions therefrom. This may reduce the requirement for other EM filtering. For the animation, the illumination of the inks via piecewise segmented illuminated elements is controlled and may also be user controllable. The LED driver and the channel architecture are set up along with the Gaussian function to create segment to segment transitions in illumination. There is an optothermal nature of the animation optics with segment-to-segment transitions. When implemented in a vehicle, software enabling direct drive from the vehicle may be used. RGB enhancements via photon recycling channels with a transflective ink structure may be used. FNV4 LRM as a non-FMVSS illumination strategy and 2D free for curve with Photon recycling channels may be used. Interaction of the PWM signal light mixing interactions with the structure to eliminate visual flicker. Uniform luminance in the channels enabling uniform interaction of light with the ink pigments.

The foregoing description of the examples has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention. Individual elements or features of a particular example are generally not limited to that particular example, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected example, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.