Flexible substrate mounted solid-state light sources for exterior vehicular lighting
US6520669B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 19, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 18, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S362/80
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Exterior lighting assemblies for use on vehicles include a flexible substrate on which are mounted a plurality of solid-state light emitting devices. Preferably, light emitting diodes (LEDs) are used for the solid-state light emitting devices, although other types of devices can alternatively be employed. The light emitting devices are connected to flexible conductive traces provided on the flexible substrate and leads are provided to connect to the power supply on the vehicle so that electrical current can be selectively supplied to energize the light emitting devices. The flexible substrate is adapted to be mounted on the exterior surface of a vehicle, for example, as a tail lamp assembly, or as a headlamp. Light emitting devices that emit different colored light can be used to provide red light to indicate slowing of the vehicle due to braking, amber light for turn signal indication, and white light to illuminate the surface over which the vehicle is traveling. A flexible optically transparent cover protects the light emitting devices. Due to their flexibility, the light assemblies can be conformed around a curved exterior surface of a vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.