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Thermoplastic Reflector Design for Robust Optical Performance

Journal Article
2012-01-0266
ISSN: 1946-3995, e-ISSN: 1946-4002
Published April 16, 2012 by SAE International in United States
Thermoplastic Reflector Design for Robust Optical Performance
Sector:
Citation: Tankala, T., TK, P., p, A., Bloomfield, R. et al., "Thermoplastic Reflector Design for Robust Optical Performance," SAE Int. J. Passeng. Cars - Mech. Syst. 5(1):187-194, 2012, https://doi.org/10.4271/2012-01-0266.
Language: English

Abstract:

A headlamp reflector has many performance requirements. Principal among these is the need to deliver a compliant beam pattern while withstanding a severe heat environment. In serving this requirement, the reflector must reliably secure the light source (bulb filament) relative to the optical prescription (facets) of the reflector.
Traditionally, achieving this performance requirement has been challenging since the reflector elements which are designed to deliver stable and reliable optical performance, are the same elements which must also withstand thermal stresses and adjustment-related static stresses within the reflector. The integrity of these optical elements may also be limited by surface sink, especially in the bulb fastening and attachment locations.
The current work describes the design of a reflector bracket through which these forces can be minimized and accommodated while delivering robust optical performance. Improved Optical performance of the reflector is presented by comparing with a traditional reflector mounting approach.