Inconspicuous light sources particularly for vehicular applications
US5816681A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 2, 1995 |
| Grant date | Oct 6, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S362/80
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A lighting assembly includes an on/off source of light and an optical diffuser characterized in that it receives light from the source and emits it in a desired viewing direction, but with underlying surfaces being at least diffusely visible therethrough. Thus, in an automotive or other vehicular application, the surface may be a body panel, the color of which may be visibly evident through the diffuser panel, thereby enhancing desired aerodynamic/styling characteristics. The source of light preferably comprises one or more semiconductor devices such as light-emitting diodes, and the optical diffuser is holographically recorded and provide high transmission and low backscatter to shape the emitted light in addition to its redirection in accordance with a desired beam profile or cross section.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.