Computer Modeling of Illumination Systems for Automotive Displays

John F. Van Derlofske, David J. Lamb, Lloyd W. Hillman
1996 SAE Technical Paper Series   unpublished
Computer analysis is quickly becoming the most important tool in the design of thick waveguide illumination systems used in car radios and dashboards. Used correctly, computer modeling decreases waveguide design time and increases cost effectiveness. This paper presents examples of computer analysis. First, modeled sources such as tungsten filaments and miniature booted bulbs are presented. Computer simulation of thick optical waveguides illuminated with these sources will then demonstrate the
more » ... orrelation between experimental measurement and computer model output. Output coupling is also modeled and the results provide information about the amount, uniformity, and directionality of the output flux. All of this information is of the utmost importance to an illumination system designer.
doi:10.4271/960525 fatcat:bbqnn6l5ofeprcqc2mkbdwqsj4