Light assembly, method for reducing light loss, vehicle design element and rear view device

A system comprising a lighting assembly for a vehicle design element, comprising:

• at least one light pipe;
• at least one light source disposed at least partially within an interior of the system, the at least one light source being configured to emit light based on at least receiving electrical power from an electrical power source, and the at least one light source being arranged adjacent to and directed towards the at least one light pipe;
• a lens substantially enclosing the interior, the at least one light pipe, and the at least one light source, the lens having an inner surface, an outer surface disposed opposite the inner surface and a continuous transparent or translucent coating on the outer surface for providing a hidden until lit appearance, wherein with the at least one light source receiving electrical power from the electrical power source, the continuous transparent or translucent coating is at least partially permeable to at least some light which is emitted by the at least one light source and passed through the lens;
• at least one reflector configured to increase the efficiency with which the light is guided through the at least one light pipe and
• at least one mask, configured to provide a pattern of illumination for the system, located between the at least one light pipe and the lens and arranged on an opposite side of the at least one light pipe compared to the reflector,
• wherein a plurality of small contact areas are provided on at least one of an outside or inside of one or more of the at least one light pipe, the at least one mask, or at least one reflector in order to contain light within the at least one light pipe.