Design Proposal

Problem Overview-

Currently, there is no safe way to illuminate the interior of a car. The light sources that are implemented as of now create hazardous glares on the windshields that make it hard for the driver to see. This puts all the people in the car, as well as bystanders and other drivers at risk. The glare is created because the current light sources in cars are dense bulbs that must emit a lot of light to illuminate the interior of the car. The excessive brightness coming from the light source tends to reflect off of the windshield or rear view mirror of the car and impairs the driver’s vision.

Design Constraints-

When proposing new glare limiting lighting sources for cars, several factors need to be considered. Power is a limited resource in an automobile. The light source that will be applied needs to run efficiently so the battery can still produce enough energy to power the rest of the car. Also the surface area inside the car will limit the type of light source used as well as the amount of light that can be installed. The light source that will be installed will need to fit in the car without getting in the way or infringing upon the comfort of the driver/passengers. When wiring the new light source, wiring could also be a constraint in the design. A constraint that would really hinder the design process is the lack of a vehicle to install the product in. The light source needs to be wired to the cars battery, and the wiring must be hidden to ensure the interior cosmetics remain the same. Also, any exposed wire will not pass inspection in many states. Another aspect to consider is where the new light source will be positioned. If there are not enough materials to complete the design, it is possible that the design will not be completed to its fullest extent. If this is the case, design sketches and possible installment procedures will still be proposed. 

Pre-Existing Solutions-

At this time, the amount of research that has been completed does not indicate that there are any exact pre-existing solutions to the problem being analyzed. With more extensive research, it is a possibility that a pre-existing solution could be found.

Design Goal-

The design goal is to integrate LEC CeeLite panels into a vehicle to provide a glare-free, safe way to illuminate the interior of a car at night while driving. Because the current system is dangerously bright, the goal is to add a new lighting system with a less intense light using the LEC panels. The way in which the lighting system will serve the passengers has not been solidified as of yet, but will be within the next few days.

Project Deliverables-

An extensive procedure on how to integrate this light source into a vehicle will be provided, along with visual aids to assist. If a car is obtainable, the system will be installed for showcasing of the design.

Project Schedule-

Week 4- Begin testing the LEC lights in the dark room, and assess the intensity of the lights. Continue to research. 

Week 5- Begin actual design process, formulating the tangible product.

Week 6- Have a prototype/design initialized to serve as a building block for improvement.

Week 7- Continue to improve/change the design as necessary.

Week 8- If on track with scheduling and goals, begin to bring together the design information, drawings, visual aids, etc. Prepare for presentation, if ready.

Week 9- Finalize any minor adjustments as needed. Prepare for presentation.

Week 10- Present the final design, its uses, the failures/successes that have been experienced.

Projected Budget-

Most of the materials that will be needed for this project will be provided. Any items that need to be bought will be added to the list as necessary. If someone wanted to purchase the materials needed for this project, the cost would run about $1,100. This would include the wiring, a switch (with a dimmer), and the Cee-Lite Products needed. 

            Provided Items list:

·         AB105-3- 24”x2” Indoor LEC Panel

·         AB100-P- 11”x8” Indoor LEC Panel

·         AB300-L- 17”x11” Indoor LEC Panel

·         INV-FL700-AB- Power Strip/Inverter