In-Vehicle Ambient Lighting Just Got a Lot Easier for LED Module Makers…

One of the hottest topics in vehicle interior design right now is ambient lighting.  To enhance the driving experience, manufacturers are fitting cars with a network of LEDs to subtly illuminate the interior for that cool, after-hours look.

However, up to now, lighting modules have had to be programmed during the assembly process. Not only does this irrevocably ‘fix’ the modules’ colors, it also means complex and costly logistics for manufacturers.

Photo courtesy of Hella

Well, NXP now makes the lives of LED module makers a lot simpler! Today, we’ve announced the introduction of a new in-vehicle ambient lighting ASSP (application-specific standard product) with unique node position detection technology. This solution enables LED modules to be individually programmed AFTER being installed in the car.

It’s a true differentiator for car manufacturers, as consumers love to choose their own colours for a new car!

A LIN switch is the secret behind all this, allowing identical part numbers for all LED modules.  Besides cost savings, the UJA1018 saves space! It integrates a LIN transceiver, a LIN switch for Node Position Detection, a voltage regulator for microcontroller, and drivers for a 3-color LED all in one HVSON package.

This video illustrates how the innovation works: