Concealed interior lighting for automobiles
US8162519B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 2009 |
| Grant date | Apr 24, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60Q3/64
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A lighting arrangement for the interior of an automotive vehicle in which the light source, such as an LED, is recessed into the interior structure of the vehicle and covered with a layer of fabric. The light source is invisible when not in use, but shines through the fabric/foam layer when illuminated, and can be associated with a light transmitting member, such as a light bar and a light pipe. Such lighting arrangements can be disposed within the headliner to direct light where desired and for different functions, such as a map light or for area lighting. The lighting arrangement can be mounted in non-traditional locations, such as on vertically oriented pillars, visors, door panels, seat backs, seat fronts, and console sides. The light source is preferably one or more LEDs associated with a light transmitting medium to direct the discharge of light as desired within the automotive interior.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.