Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100212819 | HIDDEN LAMP MANUFACTURE PROCESS - A method for making a vehicle interior panel including positioning a slipsheet on a film or fabric liner. The liner is placed on a substrate board. The liner and substrate board are formed into an interior panel. A cavity is formed by removing a portion of the substrate board from the interior panel adjacent to the slipsheet position. A lamp is positioned in the cavity. | 08-26-2010 |
20100214795 | Concealed Interior Lighting for Automobiles - 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. | 08-26-2010 |
20100214798 | AUTOMOTIVE INTERIOR HIDDEN SWITCHING - A vehicle interior panel having a substrate with a receiving slot. A support lens is disposed in the receiving slot and includes a light source. A sensor is operably connected to the light source and disposed proximate the support lens. A connector operably links the sensor to the light source through the support lens. A decorative layer extends over the support lens and the sensor. | 08-26-2010 |
20110228553 | LUMINOUS DECORATIVE VEHICLE TRIM INSERT - A luminous decorative vehicle trim insert having an opaque carrier structure. A reflective layer is disposed over the opaque carrier structure. A light pipe is adjacent the reflective layer and operably connected to a light source. An optic layer is disposed in the light pipe. A total internal reflection (TIR) protective layer is disposed over the light pipe. A diffusing layer is disposed over the TIR protective layer. A decorative transmitting layer is disposed over the diffusing layer. An optic layer creates a luminous effect in the trim insert visible only when the light source is activated. An environmental layer is disposed over the transmitting layer. | 09-22-2011 |
20110291474 | Vehicle Control System with Proximity Switch and Method Thereof - A control system for controlling a position of a window and method thereof are provided. The control system includes a cover at least partially adapted to have a trough, the cover having a interior side and an exterior side, and a first proximity sensor adjacent to the interior side that is configured to detect an object within the first portion of the trough. The control system further includes a second proximity sensor adjacent to the interior side that is configured to detect the object within the second portion of the trough, and a processor in communication with the sensors, and configured to communicate a control signal to the window as a function of the detection of the sensors, wherein the control signal is based upon a most recent detection of the sensors when both sensors are activated within a first time period. | 12-01-2011 |
20120043888 | Vehicle Interior Light Configured to Color Correct and Method Thereof - An interior light in a vehicle and method of compensating for a change of color of emitted light are provided. The interior light includes a circuit board configured to be attached to a roof support structure of the vehicle, an at least partially transparent material proximate to the circuit board and attached to the roof support structure, wherein the at least partially transparent material changes a perceived color and of light propagating there-through, and at least one light source electrically connected to the circuit board, such that the at least one light source is between the circuit board and the at least partially transparent material, wherein the at least one light source is configured to emit light that propagates through the at least partially transparent material, and further configured to compensate for the change of the color and the intensity of light propagating through the at least partially transparent material. | 02-23-2012 |
20120286661 | VEHICLE DOME AND READING LIGHT - A vehicle dome and reading light assembly for a vehicle includes a lighting device assembled to the interior of the vehicle and capable of generating plural light colors. A first switch is actuatable to cause the lighting device to generate a first color light and a first light intensity to serve as a dome lamp. A second switch is actuatable to cause the lighting device to generate a second color light at a second light intensity to serve as a map or reading lamp. | 11-15-2012 |
20120312676 | PROXIMITY SWITCH HAVING LEARNED SENSITIVITY AND METHOD THEREFOR - A vehicle proximity switch and method are provided having learned sensitivity control. The switch includes a proximity sensor, such as a capacitive sensor, installed in a vehicle and providing a sense activation field. Also included is sense control circuitry processing the activation field to sense user activation of the switch by comparing the activation field to a threshold. The switch further includes sensitivity control circuitry learning a user sensitivity based on user activation of a sensor and controlling the sensitivity of one or more proximity switches. | 12-13-2012 |
20120313648 | PROXIMITY SWITCH HAVING SENSITIVITY CONTROL AND METHOD THEREFOR - A vehicle proximity switch and method are provided having sensitivity control based on a user selected sensitivity input. The switch includes a proximity sensor such, as a capacitive sensor, installed in a vehicle and providing a sense activation field. The proximity switch also includes control circuitry for processing the sense activation field to sense user activation of the switch by comparing the sense activation field to a threshold. The proximity switch further includes a user sensitivity input for receiving a user selected sensitivity input. The control circuitry controls sensitivity of the comparison based on the user selected sensitivity input. | 12-13-2012 |
20130036529 | GLOVE HAVING CONDUCTIVE INK AND METHOD OF INTERACTING WITH PROXIMITY SENSOR - A glove is provided that includes a body configured to engage a hand and a plurality of finger sheaths configured to cover fingers of the hand. The glove also has an electrically conductive ink disposed at least at the tip of at least one of the finger sheaths to interact with a proximity sensor, such as a capacitive sensor. | 02-14-2013 |
20130076121 | PROXIMITY SWITCH HAVING LOCKOUT CONTROL FOR CONTROLLING MOVABLE PANEL - A vehicle proximity switch and method are provided having lockout control for controlling a movable panel on a vehicle. The switch includes a proximity sensor such, as a capacitive sensor, installed in a vehicle and providing a sense activation field. The proximity switch also includes control circuitry for processing the sense activation field to sense user activation of the switch and controls functionality when one or more lockout sensors are activated. | 03-28-2013 |
20130106346 | WIRELESS CHARGING SYSTEM HAVING SENSE SHUTDOWN AND METHOD THEREFOR | 05-02-2013 |
20130113397 | LAMP AND PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A lamp and proximity assembly is provided that includes a lens having a transparent window and a light source disposed to illuminate light through the transparent window of the lens. The lamp and proximity assembly further includes a proximity switch having one or more proximity sensors disposed near a perimeter of the transparent window of the lens and generating an activation field proximate to the transparent field of the lens to sense activation of the proximity switch to control activation of the light source. | 05-09-2013 |
20130113544 | PROXIMITY SWITCH HAVING WRONG TOUCH FEEDBACK - A proximity switch assembly and method are provided having wrong touch feedback. The switch includes a plurality of proximity switches each including proximity sensors providing a sense activation field. Control circuitry processes the activation field of each proximity switch to sense activation, detects an allowed activation of one of the proximity switches and further detects an attempted activation that is not allowed. The switch further includes an output coupled to a device to perform a function when an allowed activation is detected. The switch includes one or more user perceived feedback devices for generating user perceived feedback when an attempted activation that is not allowed is detected. | 05-09-2013 |
20130249682 | VEHICLE WIRELESS CHARGER SAFETY SYSTEM - A vehicular charging system is provided that includes a battery and a charger region. The system also includes a wireless charger for generating an electric charging signal in the charger region to charge the battery, and a plurality of sensors located to sense foreign objects and living beings in proximity to the charger region. The system further includes a controller for controlling the charger to at least reduce the charging signal when a foreign object or a living being is in proximity to the charger region. The controller may be configured to terminate the charging signal and/or activate an alarm element when a foreign object or a living being is in proximity to the charger region. | 09-26-2013 |
20130270896 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND ACTIVATION METHOD - A proximity switch assembly and method for detecting activation of a proximity switch assembly is provided. The assembly includes a plurality of proximity switches each having a proximity sensor providing a sense activation field and control circuitry processing the activation field of each proximity switch to sense activation. The control circuitry monitors the signal responsive to the activation field and determines a differential change in generated signal, and further generates an activation output when the differential signal exceeds a threshold. The control circuitry further distinguishes an activation from an exploration of the plurality of switches and may determine activation upon detection of a stable signal. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271157 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND ACTIVATION METHOD WITH EXPLORATION MODE - A proximity switch assembly and method for detecting activation of a proximity switch assembly is provided. The assembly includes a plurality of proximity switches each having a proximity sensor providing a sense activation field and control circuitry processing the activation field of each proximity switch to sense activation. The control circuitry monitors the signal responsive to the activation field and determines a differential change in generated signal, and further generates an activation output when the differential signal exceeds a threshold. The control circuitry further distinguishes an activation from an exploration of the plurality of switches and may determine activation upon detection of a stable signal. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271202 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND METHOD HAVING ADAPTIVE TIME DELAY - A proximity switch assembly and method for detecting activation of the proximity switch assembly is provided. The assembly includes a plurality of proximity switches each providing a sense activation field and control circuitry processing the activation field of each proximity switch to sense activation. The control circuitry monitors the signal responsive to the activation field, determines a rate of change in signal amplitude for each signal, and generates an adaptive time delay based on the control circuitry. The control circuitry further detects a peak amplitude of the signal and determines activation of the switch after expiration of the time delay following the peak amplitude detection. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271203 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF SENSING USER INPUT BASED ON SIGNAL RATE OF CHANGE - A proximity switch assembly and method for detecting activation of a proximity switch assembly is provided. The assembly includes a plurality of proximity switches each having a proximity sensor providing a sense activation field and control circuitry processing the activation field of each proximity switch to sense activation. The assembly and method detects a signal associated with each proximity switch, determines a rate of change of the signal associated with the first switch and a rate of change of the signal associated with a neighboring second switch and determines whether to activate the first switch based on at least one of the first rate of signal change and second rate of signal change. | 10-17-2013 |
20130271204 | PROXIMITY SWITCH HAVING DIFFERENTIAL CONTACT SURFACE - A proximity switch assembly and method for activating a proximity switch is provided. The assembly includes a proximity sensor generating a signal, and a contact surface proximate to the proximity sensor and having a differential elevation change feature. The proximity switch also includes control circuitry processing the signal to detect a differential increase in the activation signal indicative of a hard press on the contact surface. The control circuitry detects activation of the switch based on the differential increase exceeding a differential threshold. Activation can further be determined based on a stable signal. | 10-17-2013 |
20130307610 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY HAVING DYNAMIC TUNED THRESHOLD - A method of activating a proximity switch is provided. The method of activating the proximity switch includes the step of sensing a signal associated with a proximity sensor and sensing a dynamic parameter. The method also includes the step of tuning a threshold value based on the sensed dynamic parameter. The method further includes the step of activating the switch based on the signal and the threshold value. | 11-21-2013 |
20130321065 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY HAVING NON-SWITCH CONTACT AND METHOD - A proximity switch assembly includes first and second proximity switches comprising first and second proximity sensors and a tactile feature disposed between the first and second proximity switches. The assembly also includes controlling circuitry detecting an object on the tactile feature based on sensed signals from the first and second proximity sensors and preventing activation of the first and second switches when an object is detected on the tactile feature. The assembly further includes a resting pad having a third sensor, wherein the control circuitry detects an object with the first sensor and an object on the resting pad and determines activation of the first and second proximity switches based on the detected objects. | 12-05-2013 |
20130328616 | PROXIMITY SWITCH AND METHOD OF ADJUSTING SENSITIVITY THEREFOR - A vehicle proximity switch and method are provided having sensitivity control. The switch includes a proximity sensor, such as a capacitive sensor, installed in a vehicle and providing a sense activation field. Control circuitry processes the activation field to sense user activation of the switch by comparing the activation field to a threshold. The threshold is adjusted down when a substantially stable sensor signal is detected below the threshold for a minimum time period, and the threshold is adjusted up when a sensor signal greater than the threshold by a predetermined value is detected. | 12-12-2013 |
20130335997 | ILLUMINATED CHROMATIC VEHICLE EMBLEM - An illuminated vehicle emblem assembly is provided that includes a power source, a backing member, and a light-producing assembly coupled to the power source and supported by the backing member. The light-producing assembly may include an electroluminescent light source. The illuminated vehicle emblem assembly further includes a translucent base region over the light source, a chromatic layer over the translucent base region, and a translucent sealing structure configured to seal the backing member, the light producing assembly, and the chromatic layer. The illuminated vehicle emblem assembly exhibits a chrome- or mirror-like finish when viewed under ambient lighting conditions. Further, the illuminated vehicle emblem assembly possesses a glowing appearance when activated under low-light or night-time conditions. | 12-19-2013 |
20140056017 | TILT SWITCH AND LIGHTING ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE COMPARTMENT - A vehicle compartment has a housing defining a space and an access door pivotally coupled to the housing for pivoting between an open position and a closed position. Included is a light source for illuminating the space and a tilt switch provided on a circuit board coupled to the access door. The tilt switch is configured to have a first switch position when the access door is in the closed position and a second switch position when the access door is in the open position. The light source is activated when tilt switch is in the second switch position. The compartment may include a storage compartment, such as a glove box. The compartment may include an engine compartment. | 02-27-2014 |
20140069015 | PROXIMITY SWITCH BASED DOOR LATCH RELEASE - A vehicle door latch assembly includes a first proximity sensor on a first side of a door handle and a second proximity sensor on a second side of the door handle. The assembly also includes a latch operative to latch the door closed and to unlatch the door to allow the door to open. The assembly further includes control circuitry for activating the latch to unlatch the door based on an object such as an operator's hand sensed with both the first and second proximity sensors. | 03-13-2014 |
20140116869 | PROXIMITY SWITCH ASSEMBLY HAVING GROUND LAYER - A vehicle proximity switch assembly includes a ground layer, a first proximity switch provided on a first major side of the ground layer and a second proximity switch provided on an opposite second major side of the ground layer. The first proximity switch includes a first proximity sensor and a first dielectric layer for controlling movement of a window panel in a first direction. The second proximity switch includes a second proximity sensor and a second dielectric layer for controlling movement of the window panel in a second direction. | 05-01-2014 |
20140203770 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDICATING CHARGING STATUS DURING WIRELESS CHARGING - A wireless charging system comprising a wireless charger for charging a chargeable device in a charging region in a vehicle. The system includes a controller that detects a charging status of the chargeable device in the charging region and an indicator in proximity to or on the charging region for indicating the charging status by illuminating one or more light sources. | 07-24-2014 |
20140239710 | ILLUMINATING FLOOR MAT WITH WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER - An illuminable mat adapted for use in a variety of settings is provided. The illuminable mat includes an illuminable region and a light source that illuminates the illuminable region. The light source is powered by a receiver that is wirelessly supplied by a transmitter. | 08-28-2014 |
20140240999 | ILLUMINATED CHROMATIC EMBLEM ASSEMBLY WITH MICRO LEDS - An illuminated emblem assembly is provided that includes a power source, a backing member, and a light-producing assembly coupled to the power source and supported by the backing member. The light-producing assembly includes a plurality of light-emitting diode sources. The light-producing assembly may also include a plurality of micro-sized, dispersed light-emitting diode sources. The illuminated emblem assembly further includes a translucent base region over the light sources, a chromatic layer over the translucent base region and a UV-stable translucent sealing structure over the chromatic layer that seals the backing member, the light producing assembly, and the chromatic layer. The sealing structure may be UV-stable and/or include a design feature. The illuminated emblem assembly exhibits a chrome- or mirror-like finish when viewed under ambient lighting conditions. Further, the illuminated emblem assembly possesses a glowing appearance when activated under low light or nighttime conditions. | 08-28-2014 |
20140247614 | ILLUMINATED CHROMATIC EMBLEM ASSEMBLY - An emblem assembly is provided that includes a power source, a backing member, and a light-producing assembly coupled to the power source and supported by the backing member. The light-producing assembly may include an electroluminescent light source. The emblem assembly further includes a chromatic layer over the light-producing assembly that comprises and emblem shape, and a translucent sealing structure over the chromatic layer that seals the backing member, the light-producing assembly, and the chromatic layer. The emblem assembly exhibits a chrome- or mirror-like finish when viewed under ambient lighting conditions. Further, the emblem assembly possesses a glowing appearance when activated under low light or nighttime conditions. | 09-04-2014 |
20140265377 | RETRACTABLE STRIKER COVER ASSEMBLY FOR VEHICLE - A retractable cover assembly is provided for a vehicle to cover a latching component such as the striker of a trunk door. The assembly includes a retractable cover and a support structure for supporting the cover at a position to cover the striker. The assembly further includes an arrangement for actuating the cover between an open position exposing the striker and a closed position covering the striker. A first light source may illuminate the cover and a second light source may illuminate an interior of the vehicle when the cover is in the closed position. | 09-18-2014 |
20140320823 | VEHICLE PUDDLE LAMP ASSEMBLY GENERATING ANIMATED IMAGE AND METHOD - 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. | 10-30-2014 |
20150035308 | STORAGE ASSEMBLY FOR VEHICLE CENTER CONSOLE - A storage assembly for positioning between vehicle seats, includes an enclosable compartment that has opposing longitudinal sidewalls and opposing lateral sidewalls that are connected to the opposing longitudinal sidewalls to define an interior volume. A plurality of retention features are spaced along an upper edge of the opposing longitudinal sidewalls and the opposing lateral sidewalls. A hanging storage module has a rigid panel suspended in the interior volume and a pair of support elements protrudes horizontally from opposing ends of the rigid panel to removably engage a corresponding pair of the plurality of retention features on a select one of the opposing longitudinal sidewalls and the opposing longitudinal sidewalls. The rigid panel has a side portion configured to vertically hold at least one object. | 02-05-2015 |
20150077227 | PROXIMITY SWITCH BASED DOOR LATCH RELEASE - A vehicle door latch assembly includes a first proximity sensor on a first side of a door handle and a second proximity sensor on a second side of the door handle. The assembly also includes a latch operative to latch the door closed and to unlatch the door to allow the door to open. The assembly further includes control circuitry for activating the latch to unlatch the door based on an object such as an operator's hand sensed with both the first and second proximity sensors. | 03-19-2015 |
20150085519 | OPTICAL GRADE LIGHT PIPE - A light guide system includes a light pipe and a carrier member. An outwardly extending attachment flange is disposed on an outer surface of the carrier member. In assembly, the outwardly extending attachment flange is adapted to provide an attachment feature for securing the light guide system to surrounding commodities. The outwardly extending attachment flange is disposed along a length of the carrier member to ensure uniform access to the outwardly extending attachment flange and uniform securement of the light guide system to a material substrate. | 03-26-2015 |
20150138793 | SUN VISOR WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE - A vehicle lighting system is provided. The system includes a sun visor having a visor body movable between a stored position and a use position. A photoluminescent structure is coupled to a surface of the visor body and a light source is coupled to a headliner and oriented to excite the photoluminescent structure when the visor body is in the use position. A switch is included for activating the light source in response to a signal change. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138794 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT PUDDLE LAMP - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a photoluminescent portion disposed on a downward facing portion of the vehicle and a light source located proximate the downward facing portion. The light source is configured to emit light at a first wavelength directed toward the photoluminescent portion. In response to receiving the light at the first wavelength, the photoluminescent portion is configured to convert the first wavelength to at least a second wavelength, longer than the first wavelength, to illuminate a surface beneath the vehicle. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138795 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT ENGINE COMPARTMENT LIGHTING - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a photoluminescent portion disposed on an internal surface of a closure of a vehicle compartment. The illumination apparatus further includes a light source located proximate the closure. The light source is configured to emit light at a first wavelength directed toward the photoluminescent portion. The photoluminescent portion is configured to convert the first wavelength to at least a second wavelength, longer than the first wavelength, to illuminate the compartment. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138796 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE BADGE - An emblem illumination assembly for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination assembly comprises an external cover defining a profile shape and an optic device proximate the external cover. The optic device further includes an interior surface. A light source is located proximate the interior surface and is configured to emit a first emission into the optic device. The optic device comprises a photoluminescent material disposed between the light source and the external cover, wherein the photoluminescent material is configured to convert the first emission to emit a second emission. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138798 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT CUPHOLDER ILLUMINATION - An apparatus for illuminating a vehicle cupholder is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a cavity formed by a console. The cavity is configured to receive a container and has a base portion. The base portion comprises a light-transmissive portion configured to transmit electromagnetic energy. A light source is configured to emit a first emission proximate the light-transmissive portion. The apparatus further comprises a photoluminescent portion proximate the light-transmissive portion. The photoluminescent portion is configured to be excited in response to the first emission to generate a second emission configured to illuminate the cavity. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138800 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT SCUFF PLATE AND GRAB HANDLE - A lighting system for a vehicle is provided. The system includes at least one light source configured to output a first light at a first wavelength. The system also includes a first photoluminescent material coupled to a first doorway structure, wherein the first photoluminescent material is configured to convert the first light into a second light characterized by a second wavelength. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138804 | VEHICLE LIGHT SYSTEM WITH ILLUMINATING WHEEL ASSEMBLY - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a photoluminescent portion disposed on a surface of a first component of a vehicle wheel assembly. The illumination apparatus further includes a light source located proximate the first component. The light source is configured to emit light at a first wavelength directed toward the photoluminescent portion. The photoluminescent portion is configured to convert the first wavelength to at least a second wavelength to illuminate the wheel assembly. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138806 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT CARGO AREA ILLUMINATION - A vehicle illumination apparatus is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a storage compartment forming an interior cavity disposed in a cargo area and a cover. The cover comprises a handle configured to facilitate access to the storage compartment from a closed position to an open position. The illumination apparatus further comprises at least one photoluminescent portion disposed proximate the storage compartment configured to illuminate at least a portion of the handle in the closed position. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138807 | LUMINESCENT GRILLE BAR ASSEMBLY - A vehicle grille assembly is provided herein. The grille assembly includes a plurality of grille bars, each including a housing having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of each grille bar illuminates in a first color and the second portion of at least one grille bar illuminates in a second color that is visually distinct from the first color. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138811 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT FUEL FILLER DOOR - A vehicle illumination apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an access panel configured to conceal an access region of a fueling receptacle. A light source is disposed proximate the access region and is in communication with a controller. The illumination apparatus further comprises at least one photoluminescent portion disposed proximate the access region and configured to illuminate at least a portion of the access region. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138813 | VEHICLE SUN VISOR PROVIDING LUMINESCENT LIGHTING - A sun visor is provided herein. The sun visor includes a visor body and a lid coupled to the visor body. The lid is moveable between a closed and an open position. A photoluminescent structure is coupled to the lid and a light source is configured to emit light based on the position of the lid. The photoluminescent structure luminesces in response to excitation by light emitted from the light source. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138818 | DOOR ILLUMINATION AND WARNING SYSTEM - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a closure frame configured to engage an opening formed by a body of the vehicle. A light source is disposed proximate an edge of the closure frame such that an emission of light from the light source is projected through a gap between the closure frame and the body. The emission is projected through the gap in response to the closure frame being arranged in an ajar position. | 05-21-2015 |
20150138819 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE PANEL - A vehicle illumination apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least one aperture disposed in a panel of the vehicle. A light source is disposed proximate the aperture and configured to emit a first emission having a first wavelength. A first photoluminescent portion is disposed proximate the panel substantially within the aperture and configured to emit a second emission having a second wavelength in response to receiving the first emission. | 05-21-2015 |
20150145668 | VEHICLE WHEEL ASSEMBLY ILLUMINATION LAMP - A vehicle tire pressure indicator and tire illumination assembly is provided. The assembly includes a light source located on the body of a vehicle near the wheel well and oriented to direct light onto a wheel assembly having a tire. A tire pressure indicator detects air inflation pressure of the tire. The light source illuminates the wheel assembly with a desired color to indicate a tire pressure status based on the detected tire pressure. In addition, the light source may be illuminated to provide puddle lamp and area lighting and turn signal indication. | 05-28-2015 |
20150147466 | METHOD FOR DEPOSITING PHOTOLUMINESCENT MATERIAL - A method of depositing a photoluminescent material into a surface of the polymeric material is disclosed. The method comprises dissolving the photoluminescent material in water to create a solution. The temperature of the solution is then controlled at a predetermined temperature. The surface is contacted by the solution at the predetermined temperature for a predetermined time, thereby infusing the surface with the photoluminescent material. Following the predetermined time, the solution is removed from the surface by rinsing the surface with water. | 05-28-2015 |
20150154896 | ILLUMINATING PRISMATIC BADGE FOR A VEHICLE - A badge mounted on a vehicle is provided herein. The badge includes a housing having a viewable portion. A light source is disposed inside the housing and is configured to direct light toward the viewable portion. Light emitted from the light source illuminates in a plurality of colors which may create a prismatic appearance. | 06-04-2015 |
20150175060 | LUMINESCENT VEHICLE MOLDING - A molding of a vehicle is provided herein. The molding includes a cover panel portion mounted to a body panel of the vehicle. A carrier is disposed between the cover panel portion and the body panel, the carrier having an exposed portion configured to luminesce in response to light excitation. At least one light source is disposed inside the carrier and is configured to emit light for exciting the exposed portion. | 06-25-2015 |
20150197180 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE STEP LAMP - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a photoluminescent portion disposed on a step portion and a first light source. The first light source is configured to excite the photoluminescent portion in a back-lit configuration. The illumination apparatus further comprises a lighting controller in communication with the first light source. The lighting controller is configured to activate the first light source to illuminate the photoluminescent portion by exciting a photoluminescent material by emitting a first wavelength of light. In response to receiving the first wavelength, the photoluminescent material is configured to become excited to illuminate at least a portion of the step portion. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197181 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE GRAPHICS - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a trim portion affixed to a surface comprising a first photoluminescent portion and at least one light source. The light source may be configured to emit a first emission at a first wavelength. The first emission may be configured to excite the first photoluminescent portion in a back-lit configuration. The trim portion is configured to mask the first photoluminescent portion from external light sources to prevent excitation of the first photoluminescent portion in the presence of external light sources. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197186 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT LOGO FOR VEHICLE TRIM AND FABRIC - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises at least on fabric portion comprising a first photoluminescent portion having a first luminescent absorption range. The illumination apparatus further comprises a second photoluminescent portion having a second luminescent absorption range. A light source is configured to emit a first emission at a first wavelength directed toward the fabric portion, wherein the first wavelength is within the first absorption range and significantly outside the second absorption range. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197187 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE GRAPHICS - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a surface comprising a first photoluminescent graphic comprising a first absorption range and a second photoluminescent graphic comprising a second absorption range. The illumination apparatus further comprises at least one light source configured to emit a first emission at a first wavelength. The first wavelength is substantially aligned with the first absorption range to generate a higher level of fluorescence from the photoluminescent first graphic than the second photoluminescent graphic. In this way, the illumination apparatus is operable to selectively illuminate the first photoluminescent graphic and the second photoluminescent graphic substantially independently. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197189 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT BIN LAMP - An illuminated vehicle storage apparatus is disclosed. The storage apparatus comprises a bin rotatably connected to a console and configured to be oriented in an open position and a closed position. The storage apparatus further includes a light source configured to emit a first emission disposed in the console. A photoluminescent portion is disposed proximate the bin such that the first emission is directed toward the photoluminescent portion when the bin is oriented in the open position to illuminate the photoluminescent portion. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197190 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT DEVICE HOLDER - An illuminated device storage apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The storage apparatus comprises a console forming an elongated opening leading to a cavity. At least one support member extends along the elongated opening and is configured to engage a device. The storage apparatus further comprises a light source disposed proximate the cavity and configured to emit a first emission of light upward to illuminate the at least one support member. | 07-16-2015 |
20150197191 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT VEHICLE CONSOLE - A vehicle illumination apparatus is disclosed. The vehicle illumination apparatus comprises a console rotatably connected to a portion of a seat. The console is operable to rotate from a first position to a second position. A light source is disposed proximate the console and configured to emit a first emission of light. The illumination apparatus further comprises at least one light guide configured to direct the first emission to a first photoluminescent portion disposed on the console when the console is oriented in the first position. | 07-16-2015 |
20150217681 | ILLUMINATING DECAL FOR A VEHICLE - A decal for a vehicle is provided herein. The decal includes a plurality of light sources and a photoluminescent structure configured to luminesce in response to excitation by at least a portion of the light sources. A decorative layer has a pattern that is at least partially illuminated by the photoluminescent structure when the photoluminescent structure is in luminescent state is provided. | 08-06-2015 |
20150217683 | ILLUMINATED INSTRUMENT PANEL STORAGE COMPARTMENT - An illuminated storage assembly disposed within a vehicle is provided herein. The illuminated storage assembly includes a housing defining a storage compartment laterally extending into an instrument panel. A cover is operably coupled to the housing to support the cover between open and closed positions. A light source is disposed within the illuminated storage assembly and is configured to illuminate a feature of the illuminated storage assembly based on the position of the cover. | 08-06-2015 |
20150251595 | VEHICLE SUNSHADE ASSEMBLY - A sunshade assembly for a vehicle is provided herein. The sunshade assembly includes a housing and a light-producing assembly coupled to the housing. The housing includes a plurality of light sources and a photoluminescent structure configured to be excited by light emitted from the plurality of light sources such that at least a portion of the housing exhibits a luminescent appearance. | 09-10-2015 |
20150251596 | LUMINESCENT SEATING ASSEMBLY - A lighting system for a vehicle headrest is provided herein. The lighting system includes a support attached to a headrest on a first end and removably coupled to a seatback on the opposing end. A light source is disposed on the headrest. A first photoluminescent structure is disposed within the system and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source. The light source may comprise a plurality of printed LEDs employing a thin configuration. | 09-10-2015 |
20150251597 | ILLUMINATED VEHICLE COMPARTMENT - An illuminated engine compartment disposed within a vehicle is provided herein. The illuminated engine compartment includes a light-producing assembly. A first luminescent portion is disposed on the light-producing assembly and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light-producing assembly. A second luminescent portion is disposed on a feature within the vehicle engine compartment and is configured to luminesce in response to light emitted from the light-producing assembly. | 09-10-2015 |
20150266417 | ILLUMINATED SEATBELT ASSEMBLY - A lighting system for a vehicle seatbelt assembly is provided herein. The lighting system includes a first seatbelt component configured to couple to a second seatbelt component. A light source is disposed on the first seatbelt component. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on the second component and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source. | 09-24-2015 |
20150274067 | DOME LIGHT ASSEMBLY - A dome light assembly for a vehicle is provided herein. The dome light assembly includes a headliner having a trough and a light-producing assembly arranged as a strip configured to be received in the trough. The light-producing assembly includes a plurality of light sources and a photoluminescent structure configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the plurality of light sources. | 10-01-2015 |
20150283943 | INTERIOR AMBIENT AND TASK LIGHT BARS - A light bar is provided and includes an elongated carrier having a surface extending along the carrier. Capacitive sensors are spaced along the carrier and positioned below the surface. Light sources are included for illuminating the surface, each associated with at least one capacitive sensor and positioned proximate thereto. A controller is included for detecting capacitive changes in the capacitive sensors, wherein when the controller detects a capacitive change in a capacitive sensor, the controller alters an illumination state of a light source associated therewith. | 10-08-2015 |
20150291086 | PHOTOLUMINESCENT STEP HANDLE - A vehicle illumination apparatus is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a retractable handle having a proximal end portion in connection with a tailgate. The retractable handle forms an internal passage therethrough from the proximal end portion to a distal end portion of the retractable handle. A light source is disposed proximate the proximal end portion and configured to emit a first emission through the internal passage. At least one light emitting portion is disposed along a length of the retractable handle and configured to output light derived from the first emission to an outside environment. | 10-15-2015 |
20150298607 | VEHICLE LIGHTING APPARATUS WITH MULTIZONE PROXIMITY CONTROL - A vehicle lighting system is disclosed. The lighting system comprises a group of light sources having a plurality of portions. Each of the portions has a proximity sensor configured to communicate a signal to control a portion of the plurality of portions. A controller is in communication with the light sources and the proximity sensors. The controller is operable to selectively activate a first portion of the grouping of light sources in response to a first proximity detection, and activate the plurality of portions in response to a second proximity detection. | 10-22-2015 |
20150306940 | VEHICLE HYPERTHERMIA AVOIDANCE - A vehicle is provided that includes a passenger compartment, one or more movable body panels to expose the passenger compartment to an outside environment, and a motion sensor located in the passenger compartment. The vehicle also includes a temperature sensor located in the passenger compartment, and a controller operable to open the one or more movable body panels when the vehicle is turned off, movement is detected within the passenger compartment prior to opening any door of the vehicle, and temperature in the passenger compartment exceeds a temperature threshold. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306963 | VEHICULAR CHARGING AND PROTECTION SYSTEMS - A charging system for a vehicle. The charging system includes an on-board battery, a charger region and a wireless receiver for generating a charging signal in the charger region to charge a battery. The system also includes a plurality of sensors located to sense living beings and foreign objects in proximity to the charger region. The system further includes a controller for filtering transient conditions and terminating the charging signal when a being or a foreign object is near the charger region. | 10-29-2015 |
20150307020 | ILLUMINATED EXTERIOR STRIP - A lighting system for a vehicle panel is provided herein. The lighting system includes an outer panel mated to an inner panel. An aperture is disposed in the outer panel. A light-producing assembly is arranged as a strip and includes a plurality of light sources. A photoluminescent structure is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the plurality of light sources. A retention feature is coupled to the light-producing assembly and insertable through the aperture for disposing the light-producing assembly on the outer panel. | 10-29-2015 |
20150319815 | ESD PROTECTION FOR DYNAMIC LIGHTING - A lighting assembly including a circuit is disclosed. The circuit is configured to be disposed in a panel defining a cavity forming an opening. The circuit includes a light source in communication with a controller and an exposed conductive portion conductively connected to an isolation terminal. The exposed conductive portion is oriented proximate the opening and provides a path for an electrical discharge to protect the light source from the electrical discharge. | 11-05-2015 |
20150343944 | PRINTED LED TRIM PANEL LAMP - An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a circuit disposed on a trim panel. The illumination apparatus comprises at least one light source formed by plurality of LEDs in a semiconductor ink. The illumination apparatus further comprises at least one proximity sensor disposed proximate a surface of the trim panel and configured to selectively activate the at least one circuit. The trim panel is configured to receive at least one edge of a window of the vehicle. | 12-03-2015 |
20150375677 | ILLUMINATED STEERING ASSEMBLY - A lighting system for a vehicle steering assembly is provided herein. The lighting system includes a steering wheel having a central hub and a rim connected to the hub through a spoke. A light source is disposed on the rim. A first photoluminescent structure is disposed on the steering wheel and configured to luminesce in response to excitation by at least a portion of the light source. In some embodiments, the light source may implement a thin design, thereby helping to fit the light source into small package spaces of the vehicle where traditional light sources may not be practicable. | 12-31-2015 |
20160001700 | VEHICLE HAVING INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTING ON TAILGATE - A vehicle is provided that includes a cabin defining a cargo space, and a tailgate operable between a substantially open position and a substantially closed position. The tailgate defines a license plate area on an exterior surface thereof. An illumination system is positioned within the tailgate, such that the illumination system illuminates at least one of the cargo space and the license plate area when the tailgate is in the closed position and illuminates a ground area behind the vehicle when the tailgate is in the open position. | 01-07-2016 |
20160031367 | ILLUMINATED SEATBELT ASSEMBLY - An illuminated vehicle seatbelt assembly is provided herein. The vehicle seatbelt assembly includes a buckle having a housing and a latch mechanism. A light source is disposed within the housing. A light guide directs light from the light source to a top portion of the housing. A first photoluminescent structure is disposed within the buckle and is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source. | 02-04-2016 |
20160052447 | AMBIENT FUNCTIONAL LIGHTING OF A SEAT - A vehicle seating assembly includes a seat having a base including peripheral side ledges disposed on first and second sides of the seat. A seat cushion is disposed on the base and includes first and second independent thigh supports that extend forwardly over the base and define a forward ledge. A seatback is operably coupled to the seat and includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion includes a seatback cushion and a seatback support. A peripheral seatback cavity is located on first and second sides of the lower portion between the seatback cushion and the seatback support. At least one light source is disposed proximate the peripheral side ledges, the forward ledge, and the peripheral seatback cavity. | 02-25-2016 |
20160068100 | SUN VISOR WITH PHOTOLUMINESCENT STRUCTURE - A vehicle lighting system is provided. The system includes a sun visor having a visor body movable between a stored position and a use position. A photoluminescent structure is coupled to a surface of the visor body and a light source is coupled to a headliner and oriented to excite the photoluminescent structure when the visor body is in the use position. A switch is included for activating the light source in response to a signal change. | 03-10-2016 |
20160075275 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTE ACTIVATION OF VEHICLE LIGHTING - A lighting system for a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises a controller in communication with at least one light source and an occupancy sensor. The controller is configured to control an activation emission output from the light source configured to charge a persistent luminescent portion. The controller is further configured to detect an occupancy of the vehicle and charge the luminescent portion by periodically outputting the activation emission. The controller determines the periodicity of the output based on the occupancy. | 03-17-2016 |