Automotive Lighting Certificate Program

1. Are the field trips mandatory/part of the class?

Field trips are highly recommended, but not required.

2. Can we pick and choose modules or do we have to do all three?

The program is bundled, so to get the certificate you have to take all three and pass with 80% or better based on quizzes and attendance.  If you do well and can't make it to the field trip, you should still be OK. The field trips were added this year because they really brought a great deal of benefit to the participants and in turn to the program.

3. Are certain modules a prerequisite to the next module?

The modules are independent of one another.

4. Who should come to this program?

Newly hired engineers or those technically involved in technical application of product development.

5. Are discounts available?

Discounts (10% maximum) are available for OU Alumni or groups of 5 or more

Automotive lighting has been synonymous since the advent of the car.  Module 1 will introduce you to the history of the automotive lighting industry; where is has been and where it is going, followed by an introduction to terminology, components and units specific to the industry.  The module will quickly dive into lighting optics, design and vehicle interface.

Topics covered include:

• Forward Lighting history – from candles to Lasers.
• Styling - the importance of design and visual appeal.
• Lighting terminology – functions/components/units.
• Light Generation Sources
• Physical optics
• Optical design – fundamentals of Lens/Reflectors/Guides.
• CAD design – how lamps are digitally engineered
• Mechanical interface to vehicle

The importance of lighting to driving safety cannot be understated.  Exterior lighting needs to work every time a driver steps into a car without fail.  It is the lighting industry engineering experts’ responsibility to design and deliver a quality product that the public can trust.  This module will provide an introduction to the electronics/electrical design, sensor interface, thermal design that underlay the automotive lighting systems.

Topics covered include:

• Electrical & electronics Design
• Vehicle interface, CAN bus, outage
• Electromagnetic compatibility
• Sensor interface (ADB, AFS, Camera)
• Autonomous drive
• Thermal Design Considerations
• Structural considerations
• Testing & validation
• Moisture Management

Exterior lights are lovingly called the “jewelry of the car.” Not only are lights important to driving safety, but they identify styling and branding for automotive companies. Module 3 will dive into the important aspects of not only the project management/quality aspects of the manufacturing processes, but will provide the learner with the regulations, safety, intellectual properties, and branding that are fundamental to the industry. 

Topics covered include:

• Project life cycle management
• Regulations
• Safety
• Intellectual properties
• Injection molding & tooling
• Materials & Coating
• Electronic Manufacturing

Module 1: 4 weeks