Engineering
Diode Dynamics maintains internal engineering capabilities to enable the development of modern automotive lamps, low-voltage luminaires, and power control systems.
With our automotive background, we carry out our planning and daily work using Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) methodology, and a focus on error-proofing and a gated release process, engaging our customer - internal or external - at every stage of the process for feedback, review, and approval.
Our software toolset includes Altium for printed circuit board (PCB) design, Solidworks for mechanical design and CFD, Lucidshape for optical design and simulation, and a variety of integrated development environments for firmware and programming on several microchip platforms.
To aid in a rapid development process, we maintain a full photometric lab to benchmark, validate, and test prototypes and finished products. This includes a 1m integrating sphere and spectroradiometer, to measure the luminous flux (lumens) and spectrum (color) of light sources. This also includes a light tunnel equipped with an Everfine goniometer, designed to measure and characterize the output, or beam patterns of lamps. This equipment is capable of measuring both visible and infrared light sources.
Additionally, Diode Dynamics maintains a fully-equipped electrical lab, including Schaffner automotive transient generators to validate products for electrical susceptibility.
For physical validation and certification to SAE standards, we also maintain a variety of tools to test products to SAE J575 and most OEM design validation plans (DVP). This includes an environmental chamber, a salt spray chamber, a water spray chamber, and a vibration table, in addition to a range of other equipment to ensure our products meet required compliance standards, and also stand the test of time on the road. With all of this equipment located in-house, we are able to collect rapid design feedback and results, without the need for lengthy external testing.
Due to the range of materials used in automotive lighting, we are capable of designing and utilizing a wide range of components. Over the years, we have commissioned or built completely new components to meet specific needs, and we are well-experienced in bringing these materials together to create cost-effective, high-performing lighting solutions.
- Standalone custom optics and reflectors
- Lamp housings and glue track designs
- Ultrasonic welding interfaces
- Printed circuit boards, including IMS / MPCB technologies
- Visible and infrared light sources
- Wire harnesses, including overmolding and OEM-fitment T-harness solutions
- Electrical terminal design
- O-rings and mechanical sealing features
- Aiming and alignment hardware and mechanisms
- Breather vent membranes
- Thermal transfer materials
- Hardware and fastener design
With the complex nature of modern automotive lighting, our team addresses a wide range of engineering challenges on a daily basis. Some of our unique technology experience includes:
- Custom optic design, including reflectors, TIRs, and "solid" toroid optics for DOT/SAE regulated patterns
- Light blade optics and light pipes
- Multi-function (amber/white) DRLs and turn signals
- Multicolor (RGBW) LEDs and control
- Light projection / light carpet (logo puddle lamps)
- Sequential and animated turn signals
- Welcome/Arrival animations
- Adjustment and aiming mechanisms
- User-programmable operating modes
- Heated lenses
- Thermal / electrical circuit protection
- Adaptive / cornering circuit control
- LIN/CAN-BUS data communication and vehicle integration
Our work often results in innovations, and as a result we have been awarded several patents, which we are pleased to leverage to meet customers needs.