DE102020107926A1 - Microlens projection module with beam end adapted to the divergence of illumination - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a projection device (4) of a micro-projection light module (2) of a motor vehicle headlight (101). The projection device (4) is used to image light from a light source (6) as a light distribution in front of the motor vehicle. It comprises entry optics (10) with several micro entry optics (12), exit optics (14) with several micro exit optics (16) and a shading screen (18) with several micro screen elements (20). Each micro entry optics (12) is assigned exactly one micro exit optics (16) and exactly one micro diaphragm element (20). The shading diaphragm (18) is arranged between the entrance optics (10) and the exit optics (14). The micro-diaphragm elements (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) are designed to avoid crosstalk between neighboring micro-entry optics (12) and micro-exit optics (16). It is proposed that the shape and dimensions of the micro-diaphragm elements (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) depending on a divergence (αi) of the micro-entry optics (12) assigned to the respective micro-diaphragm element (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) incident light (22) are formed.

Description

• - eine Eintrittsoptik, welche mehrere Mikro-Eintrittsoptiken aufweist, welche vorzugsweise in einem Array angeordnet sind,
• - eine Austrittsoptik, welche mehrere Mikro-Austrittsoptiken aufweist, welche vorzugsweise in einem Array angeordnet sind, und
• - eine Abschattungsblende, welche mehrere Mikro-Blendenelemente aufweist, welche vorzugsweise in einem Array angeordnet sind.

The invention describes a method for reducing stray light in a microlens projection module. To implement the method, a projection device of a micro-projection light module of a motor vehicle headlight is used, which is designed to image light from at least one light source assigned to the projection device in an area in front of a motor vehicle in the form of at least one resulting light distribution. The projection equipment includes:

• - an entry optics which has several micro entry optics, which are preferably arranged in an array,
• an exit optics which has a plurality of micro exit optics, which are preferably arranged in an array, and
• - A shading screen, which has several micro-screen elements, which are preferably arranged in an array.

Each micro-entry optics is assigned exactly one micro-exit optics, the micro-entry optics being designed and / or the micro-entry optics and the micro-exit optics arranged in relation to one another in such a way that almost all of the light exiting from a micro-entry optics only enters the associated micro-exit optics enters, and wherein the light preformed by the micro-entry optics is imaged by the micro-exit optics in an area in front of the motor vehicle as at least one resulting light distribution. The shading diaphragm is arranged between the entrance optics and the exit optics, each micro entrance optics being assigned exactly one micro diaphragm element of the shading diaphragm, and the micro diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm being designed in such a way that they cause crosstalk between neighboring micro entrance and exit optics and should shade the light directed from a micro-entry optic onto an adjacent micro-exit optic.

A microlens projection module for a headlight of a motor vehicle is, for example, from the patent DE 10 2016 112 617 B3 known. In the microlens projection module described there, collimated light is focused on a diaphragm array with a first microlens array. The light emerging through the diaphragms of the diaphragm array is imaged by a second microlens array on the roadway in front of the motor vehicle. The resulting light distribution is determined by the shape of the aperture and is created by superimposing the individual light distributions. Each lens from the first microlens array is assigned exactly one projection optics comprising a diaphragm of the diaphragm array and a corresponding lens from the second microlens array. The diaphragm array is arranged in an object-side focal plane of the projection lenses of the second microlens array.

In the known microlens array, images of different sizes are generated which illuminate different areas of the resulting light distribution. The different sizes of the images are achieved by different object-side focal lengths of the projection lenses of the second microlens array. A large distance between the diaphragms of the diaphragm array and the projection lenses of the second microlens array results in a small illuminated area (but high intensity) and a small distance (projection lens close to the diaphragms) results in a larger illuminated area (with low intensity).

Since there is no ideally collimated light in practice, the light hitting the entrance optics usually has a certain divergence, so that some scattered light always falls into neighboring lenses of the second microlens array and the resulting light distribution, in particular the formation of a sharp light-dark boundary impaired. The present invention is therefore based on the object of reducing the effects of stray light and, ideally, even preventing stray light from falling into adjacent lenses.

Microlens projection modules in similar configurations are also from WO 2015/058 227 A1 and the DE 10 2013 208 625 A1 known.

the EP 3 282 181 A1 describes a manufacturing method for a micro-projection lens module of the type mentioned, which has a second diaphragm array (a shading diaphragm) between a first diaphragm array (a light distribution diaphragm) and a second lens array (the exit optics). The described method is particularly concerned with precise positioning of the lens arrays (the entry and exit optics) and / or the diaphragm arrays (the shading diaphragm and / or the light distribution diaphragm) relative to one another. The second diaphragm array (the shading diaphragm) serves to avoid crosstalk between neighboring projection or micro-optics of the second lens array (the exit optics). The sizes of the diaphragms of the second diaphragm array (the shading diaphragm) or their light transmission opening are not variable. In addition, the focal lengths for all projection lenses of the second lens array (the exit optics) are the same and not variable. In the context of the production of the micro-projection lens module, it is proposed in this document that the second lens array (the exit optics) be implemented as a function of the position of the second diaphragm array (the shading diaphragm) to be arranged and fastened.

To solve the problem on which the present invention is based, a projection device of a micro-projection light module having the features of claim 1 is proposed. In particular, based on the projection device of the type mentioned above, it is proposed that the shape and dimensions of the micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm are designed as a function of a divergence of the light incident on the micro-entry optics assigned to the respective micro-diaphragm element of the shading diaphragm, so that each micro -Bidding element of the shading diaphragm allows the largest possible part of the light directed to the assigned micro-exit optics to pass unhindered and shades the largest possible part of the light directed onto an adjacent micro-exit optic.

According to the invention, scattered light is to be blocked as efficiently as possible with the shading diaphragm. The micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm each have a light transmission opening, the shape and dimensions of which are formed depending on the divergence of the light incident on the micro-entry optics assigned to the respective micro-diaphragm element of the shading diaphragm.

The shape and dimensions of the micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm or of their light transmission openings depend on the divergence with which the light strikes the micro-entry optics respectively assigned to the micro-diaphragm elements. It is particularly preferred if the dimensions of the light transmission openings of the micro diaphragm elements of the shading screen are small when the divergence of the incident light is large, and when the dimensions of the light transmission openings are large when there is little divergence. The dimensions of large light transmission openings preferably correspond to the diameters of the assigned micro exit optics of the second microlens array (the exit optics), so that almost no light is shaded for the corresponding micro exit optics.

The entry optics focus the approximately collimated light that strikes them as it passes through the micro entry optics in a focal plane of the entry optics. The focal plane of the entrance optics preferably has a flat surface extension, i.e. the focal lengths are the same for all micro entrance optics. However, it is also conceivable that the focal lengths of the micro entrance optics vary, so that, for example, a curved focal plane of the entrance optics can result. The micro light exit optics map the light from the object-side focal plane of the exit optics onto a roadway in front of the motor vehicle. It also applies to the focal plane of the exit optics that it preferably has a flat surface extension, i.e. the focal lengths are the same for all micro exit optics. Here too, however, it is conceivable that the focal lengths of the micro exit optics vary, so that, for example, a curved focal plane of the exit optics can result. The focal plane of the entrance optics preferably coincides with the object-side focal plane of the exit optics.

The projection device comprises a number of optics channels, preferably arranged in a matrix or array-like manner, each of which comprises a micro-entry optic, a micro-diaphragm element of the shading diaphragm and a micro-exit optic. The projection device is designed in such a way that each of the optical channels generates an individual light distribution. The individual light distributions of the optical channels are preferably all the same. The resulting light distribution results from superimposing the individual light distributions. The individual light distributions can be high beam distributions.

It is particularly preferred, however, if the projection device has a light distribution diaphragm which has a plurality of micro diaphragm elements which are preferably arranged in an array. The light distribution diaphragm is preferably arranged between the entrance optics and the shading diaphragm, preferably in the object-side focal plane of the exit optics. Each micro entry optics and / or each micro exit optics is assigned exactly one micro diaphragm element of the light distribution diaphragm. The micro light exit optics map the light from the object-side focal plane of the exit optics onto a roadway in front of the motor vehicle. If the light distribution diaphragm is arranged in the object-side focal plane, the micro light exit optics image the light that has passed through the light distribution diaphragm onto the roadway in front of the motor vehicle. The light distribution screen preferably has micro screen elements which are shaped in such a way that part of the light emitted by the respectively assigned micro entry optics, which is above a light-dark boundary, is shaded. In this way, individual light distributions can be implemented in the form of low beam distributions with a light-dark boundary, which overlap to form a resulting light distribution in the form of a shielded light distribution (e.g. low beam, fog light; partial high beam). The light-dark border can have an essentially horizontal or vertical course.

The shape and dimensions of the micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm are preferably different than the shading diaphragm. That is, the shape and dimensions are about the shading screen can vary from micro screen element to micro screen element. It is particularly preferred if the divergence of the light impinging on the entrance optics or the micro entrance optics are divided into several categories, each category comprising a specific divergence range of the light impinging on the micro entrance optics. Different shapes and / or dimensions of the micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm or their light transmission openings can be assigned to the various categories of the micro-entry optics. As a result, the design and manufacture of the shading screen can be implemented in a particularly simple and cost-effective manner.

The light-shading areas of the shading diaphragm can be designed to be completely opaque or partially transparent. A partially transparent shading screen can have first light-permeable areas and second completely light-impermeable areas distributed over the entire screen. However, it would also be conceivable that a partially transparent shading screen is designed to be equally partially transparent over the entire light-shading areas, so that part of the incident light is transmitted and another part is shaded (e.g. absorbed or reflected).

The shading diaphragm is preferably configured separately from the exit optics. It would be conceivable here for the micro-screen elements of the shading screen to be applied to a transparent carrier. The carrier can have a flat or a curved configuration. It is particularly preferred if the shading diaphragm is arranged as close as possible to the exit optics, preferably directly in front of a light entry surface of the exit optics. In this context it would be conceivable that the shading diaphragm is fastened directly to the light entry surface of the exit optics, for example by means of the carrier carrying the shading diaphragm. Alternatively, the shading screen can also be applied directly to the light entry surface of the exit optics, for example in the form of a vapor-deposited, sprayed-on or screen-printed opaque metal or lacquer layer. The exit optics can serve as a carrier for the shading diaphragm.

Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the shading diaphragm to be integrated or arranged in the exit optics. In this context, it would be conceivable that the shading screen is formed by being burned into the exit optics by a laser or electron beam or by opaque insert parts that were inserted into the exit optics at a desired position during manufacture.

It would be conceivable that the light distribution screen and the shading screen are designed as a common screen. The common diaphragm has micro-diaphragm elements, which are preferably arranged in a matrix or array-like manner, which fulfill both the function of the micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm and the micro-diaphragm elements of the light distribution diaphragm.

Preferably, however, the light distribution diaphragm is formed separately from the shading diaphragm and is arranged at a distance from the shading diaphragm. It would be conceivable here for the micro-diaphragm elements of the light distribution diaphragm to be applied to a transparent carrier. The carrier can have a flat or a curved configuration.

The micro-entry optics and the micro-exit optics can be designed as desired. For example, they can be designed as reflectors. However, it is particularly preferred if the micro-entry optics and / or the micro-exit optics are designed as lenses, so that the optics are designed as lens arrays.

The carrier that carries the shading screen or the light distribution screen can be made of a transparent plastic or glass. The entrance optics and / or the exit optics are preferably made of a transparent plastic or glass.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that at least some of the micro exit optics that are assigned to micro entry optics, on which light strikes with a large divergence, differ from the other micro exit optics that are assigned to micro entry optics the light strikes with a smaller divergence, are designed in such a way that a different imaging scale of the light emitted by the assigned micro-entry optics is achieved. At least some of the micro-exit optics that are assigned to a micro-entry optics, on which light strikes with a large divergence, are preferably designed in such a way that they achieve a larger imaging scale. As a result, the individual light distribution generated by an optics channel is enlarged so that it preferably has approximately the size of the remaining individual light distributions that are generated by other optics channels that have micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm with a larger passage opening.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that at least some of the micro exit optics are provided with a microstructure at least in some areas on their light entry side and / or their light exit side. By the microstructure can expand the individual light distribution generated by the corresponding optical channel and be softened at its edges, ie a gradient at the transition between an outer contour of the individual light distribution and the non-illuminated or less illuminated surrounding area becomes smaller. The gradient can be detected or measured on the basis of a vertical measuring screen arranged at a distance from the projection device in front of the motor vehicle.

It is particularly preferred if at least some of the micro-exit optics, which are assigned to a micro-entry optics, on which light strikes with a large divergence, are provided with a microstructure with a smaller structure size than the other micro-exit optics, the micro-entry optics are assigned to which light strikes with a smaller divergence. As a result, the individual light distribution generated by an optics channel is widened and enlarged so that it preferably has approximately the size of the remaining individual light distributions that are generated by other optics channels that have micro-diaphragm elements of the shading diaphragm with a larger passage opening.

The object on which the present invention is based is also proposed by a micro-projection light module of a motor vehicle headlight with the features of claim 18. In particular, a micro-projection light module is proposed which comprises at least one projection device according to the invention and at least one light source for feeding light into the projection device.

The light from a single light source can be collected by a suitable optical element, collimated and directed in the direction of the micro-entry optics of the projection device. The optical element can in particular be designed as a mirror reflector or a lens. It would also be conceivable for the optical element to be designed as a TIR (Total Internal Reflection) reflector made of a solid, transparent material. At least part of the light emitted by the light source is coupled into the TIR reflector via at least one entry surface, deflected in this at least partially by means of total reflection at the outer boundary surfaces of the TIR reflector and decoupled from the TIR reflector via at least one exit surface.

Alternatively, several light sources can also be provided, which are preferably arranged in the manner of a matrix or array. A separate light source is particularly preferably assigned to each optical channel of the projection device. The light sources can be arranged on a common carrier and electrically contacted via this. The carrier can have a flat or a curved shape. All light sources are preferably aligned in such a way that their optical axes run parallel to one another and congruent with the optical axes of the associated micro-entry optics. Each light source can be assigned an optical element which bundles and collimates the light emitted by the light source and directs it in the direction of the assigned micro-entry optics. The optical elements can each be designed in particular as a mirror reflector or a lens. It would also be conceivable that the optical elements are each designed as a TIR (Total Internal Reflection) reflector made of a solid, transparent material.

Finally, the object on which the present invention is based is also achieved by a motor vehicle headlight having the features of claim 19. In particular, it is proposed that the motor vehicle headlight has at least one projection device according to the invention and / or at least one micro-projection light module according to the invention.

• 1 ein aus dem Stand der Technik bekanntes Mikroprojektionsmodul in einer Seitenansicht;
• 2 eine aus dem Stand der Technik bekannte Projektionseinrichtung eines Projektionsmoduls nach 1 in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;
• 3 eine Simulation von beispielhaft eingezeichneten Lichtquellenbildern auf einem Optikelement des Projektionsmoduls nach 1 in einer Zwischenebene;
• 4 verschiedene Mikro-Blendenelemente einer Abschattungsblende eines erfindungsgemäßen Mikroprojektionsmoduls in einer Blendenebene;
• 5 ein erfindungsgemäßes Mikroprojektionsmodul in einer Seitenansicht;
• 6 einen Ausschnitt einer erfindungsgemäßen Projektionseinrichtung gemäß einer ersten bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Schnittansicht;
• 7 einen Ausschnitt einer erfindungsgemäßen Projektionseinrichtung gemäß einer zweiten bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Schnittansicht; und
• 8 einen erfindungsgemäßen Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer in einer schematischen Ansicht.

Further features and advantages of the present invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. The features described below and shown in the figures can also be essential to the invention individually. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the features can also be combined with one another in a different way than described below and shown in the various figures. Show it:

• 1 a microprojection module known from the prior art in a side view;
• 2 a projection device known from the prior art of a projection module according to 1 in a perspective view;
• 3 a simulation of exemplarily drawn light source images on an optical element of the projection module 1 in an intermediate level;
• 4th various micro-diaphragm elements of a shading diaphragm of a micro-projection module according to the invention in a diaphragm plane;
• 5 a microprojection module according to the invention in a side view;
• 6th a section of a projection device according to the invention according to a first preferred embodiment in a sectional view;
• 7th a section of a projection device according to the invention according to a second preferred embodiment in a sectional view; and
• 8th a motor vehicle headlight according to the invention in a schematic view.

In 1 a micro-projection light module known from the prior art is shown and denoted in its entirety by the reference number 2 designated. Such a light module 2 is for example from the EP 3 282 181 A1 known. The light module 2 is part of a motor vehicle headlight, as exemplified in 8th and is described below. The light module 2 comprises at least one projection device 4th and at least one light source 6th for feeding light into the projection device 4th . In the example shown there is exactly one light source 6th provided, the light of which is collected by an optical element (so-called collimation optics) 8, collimated and directed towards the projection device 4th is steered. In the example shown, the optical element is 8th designed as a mirror reflector. Of course, the optical element could 8th can also be designed differently, for example as a lens or as a TIR reflector. The projection device 4th serves to map light from the light source 6th in an area in front of a motor vehicle in the form of at least one resulting light distribution of the light module 2 .

The projection device 4th includes entrance optics 10 which has multiple micro entry optics 12th which are preferably arranged in an array (cf. 2 , 6th and 7th ), and an exit optic 14th which has multiple micro exit optics 16 which are preferably arranged in an array (cf. 6th and 7th ). Furthermore, the projection device comprises 4th a shading screen 18th , which has multiple micro-aperture elements 20th which are preferably arranged in an array (cf. 2 , 6th and 7th ).

Any micro entry optics 12th is exactly a micro exit optic 16 assigned. The micro entry optics 12th are designed in this way and / or the micro-entry optics 12th and the micro exit optics 16 arranged to each other in such a way that almost all of it consists of a micro-entry optic 12th outgoing light only into the assigned micro-exit optics 16 entry. The one from the micro-entry optics 12th preformed light is produced by the micro exit optics 16 imaged in an area in front of the motor vehicle as at least one resulting light distribution. One micro entry optic each 12th and the associated micro-exit optics 16 forms an optical channel. Each optical channel generates an individual light distribution. Each individual light distribution preferably covers the entire area of the resulting light distribution, has a relative intensity distribution corresponding to the resulting light distribution, but a lower intensity than the resulting light distribution. The individual light distributions are superimposed to form the resulting light distribution of the micro-projection light module 2 .

In the example the are micro entry optics 12th and the micro exit optics 16 designed as lenses. Therefore, the shown micro-projection light module 2 can also be referred to as a microlens projection module. Of course, it would also be conceivable to use individual or all of the micro-entry optics 12th and / or the micro exit optics 16 designed in a different way, for example. As reflectors.

The resulting light distribution of the micro-projection light module shown 2 is, for example, a high beam distribution. Alternatively, light entry surfaces and / or light exit surfaces of at least some of the micro-exit optics can also be used 16 be designed in such a way that the corresponding individual light distributions have a light-dark boundary or an increase (vertical light-dark boundary). In this case, the resulting light distribution can also be designed as a shielded light distribution (for example low beam, fog light or partial high beam), although the micro-projection light module 2 no light distribution screen between entrance optics 10 and exit optics 14th having.

The shading screen 18th is between the entrance optics 10 and the exit optics 14th arranged, each with micro-entry optics 2 exactly one micro-aperture element 20th the shading screen 18th assigned. The micro-aperture elements 20th the shading screen 18th are designed in such a way that they prevent crosstalk between neighboring micro-exit optics 16 or between adjacent optic channels and that of a micro-entry optic 12th on a neighboring micro exit optic 16 directed light should shade. A distance between the shading diaphragm 18th and the exit optics 14th is preferably at most 50% of a focal length of the exit optics 14th or the micro exit optics 16 .

One of the main problems with the known micro-projection light modules 2 is the scattered light. This is indeed due to the shading screen 18th somewhat reduced, but not always to a satisfactory degree. The scattered light is particularly problematic in the case of light distributions with a light-dark boundary. One cause of the scattered light is the residual divergence of the illuminating light 22nd that is on the entrance optics 10 meets. A parallel (collimated) beam for illumination can only be obtained with ideal point light sources with perfect optics. This is not the case in reality. In 1 are exemplary three partial beams 22a , 22b , 22c (each formed from two light beams) shown, which have a certain divergence α _a , α _b , α _c not equal to zero. In the example, the divergence α _{a is} the upper one Partial beam 22a small, with the divergence towards the center of the beam 22nd increases, and the divergence α _{b of} the central partial beam 22b is greatest. Then the divergence decreases again downwards, so that the divergence α _{c of} the lower partial beam 22c is smaller again. The shape and dimensions of the partial beams are preferred 22a , 22b , 22c or the distance between the optical element 8th and the entrance optics 10 chosen so that each one partial beam 22a , 22b , 22c a micro entry optic 12th illuminates. Every micro entry optic should 12th be illuminated as completely, homogeneously and uniformly as possible.

The invention proposes a micro-projection light module 2 (or a microlens and diaphragm arrangement) in which the stray light problem can be reduced.

In particular, the invention proposes a micro-projection light module 2 in front of which the micro-aperture elements 20th the shading screen 18th on the divergence of the partial bundles of rays 22a , 22b , 22c of incident light 22nd are adjusted. The divergence of the illuminating beam 22nd in this case has the entry optics on the entry side 10 not everywhere, ie for all micro-entry optics 12th , the same values but there are areas 22b with greater divergence α _b and other range 22a , 22c with less divergence α _a , α _c .

The shading screen 18th is with its openings in such a way on the local divergence α _{i of} the beam 22nd adapted that for different divergence angles α _a , α _b , α _c of at least two partial beams 22a , 22b , 22c different apertures of the aperture 18th are provided. By adapting the aperture openings to the divergence α _{i of} the partial beams 22a , 22b , 22c can reduce stray light and crosstalk of the light to neighboring micro-exit optics 16 effectively prevented. At the same time, overall transmission efficiency is at most slightly reduced as a result. The present invention can effectively prevent scattered light while shading only as much light as is strictly necessary to prevent the scattered light.

An example of a micro-projection light module according to the invention 2 , which is designed here as a microlens projection module, is shown in 5 shown. Here is the shading screen 18th separate from the exit optics 14th designed. The micro-aperture elements 20th the shading screen 18th can on a transparent carrier 24 be upset. The carrier 24 can have a flat or a curved shape. It is particularly preferred if the shading screen 18th as close as possible to the exit optics 14th , preferably immediately in front of a light entry surface of the exit optics 14th , is arranged. In this context it would be conceivable that the shading diaphragm 18th , for example by means of the shading diaphragm 18th supporting beam 24 , directly on the light entry surface of the exit optics 14th is attached. Alternatively, the shading screen 18th also directly on the light entry surface of the exit optics 14th be applied, for example. In the form of a vapor-deposited, sprayed or screen-printed opaque metal or lacquer layer. The exit optics 14th as a carrier for the shading screen 18th to serve. The light-shading areas of the shading diaphragm 18th are preferably designed to completely shade the light.

In addition, the projection device 4th or the light module 2 a light distribution screen 26th have which several micro-aperture elements 28 which are preferably arranged in an array. The light distribution aperture 26th serves to vary the resulting light distribution and to shade certain areas of the light distribution, for example above a light-dark boundary. In this way, for example, a shielded light distribution (for example low beam, fog light, partial high beam or the like) can be generated. The light distribution aperture 26th is between the entrance optics 10 and the shading screen 18th , preferably in an object-side focal plane 30th the exit optics 14th , arranged. The focal plane 30th can have a flat or a curved course or a curved shape.

Preferably each is micro entry optics 12th exactly one micro-aperture element 28 the light distribution screen 26th assigned. The micro light exit optics 16 form the light from the object-side focal plane 30th the exit optics 14th on a lane in front of the motor vehicle. If - as in the present case - the light distribution diaphragm 26th in the object-side focal plane 30th is arranged, form the micro-light exit optics 16 through the micro-aperture elements 28 the light distribution screen 26th received light on the lane in front of the motor vehicle. The micro-aperture elements are preferably 28 the light distribution screen 26th Shaped in such a way that a part of the micro-entry optics assigned in each case 12th emitted light that is above a light-dark boundary is shaded. In this way, shielded individual light distributions with a light-dark boundary can be implemented, which result in a shielded light distribution of the light module 2 overlay. The light-dark border can have an essentially horizontal or vertical course.

In contrast to the example of 5 but it would also be conceivable that the shading diaphragm 18th and the light distribution aperture 26th realized as a single common panel element are. This would then be between the entrance optics 10 and the shading screen 18th , preferably in the object-side focal plane 30th the exit optics 14th , arranged. In the context of the present invention, the shape and dimensions of aperture openings could be 32 the micro diaphragm elements 28 the light distribution screen 26th in each case on the divergence of the correspondingly assigned micro-entry optics 12th incident partial light beam 22a , 22b , 22c be adapted (cf. 3 and 4th ).

The light source 6th can for example be designed as a normal LED, a high-current LED or a laser semiconductor light source (in particular a laser LED). The radiation 22nd the light source 6th comes with the optic element 8th , this in 5 is designed as a reflector, as possible parallelized (collimated) and in the direction of the light entry optics 10 radiated. The micro entry optics 12th the entrance optics 10 focus the radiation 22nd into the diaphragm plane 30th , in which the light distribution aperture 26th is located. The light exit optics 14th forms the aperture 26th and projects the light as the resulting light distribution (or the overlapping individual light distributions) onto the roadway in front of the motor vehicle. Each individual micro-entry optic is preferred 12th the entrance optics 10 a corresponding micro-aperture element 28 (or diaphragm segment) of the diaphragm 28 and a corresponding micro-exit optics 16 the exit optics 14th assigned. One micro entry optic each 12th , a micro-aperture element 20th the shading screen 18th , - if available - a micro-aperture element 28 and a micro exit optic 16 form an optics channel of the projection optics 4th or the light module 2 .

The optical element 8th creates a bundle of rays 22nd , this in 5 is shown schematically by six individual rays (arrows), with two rays forming a partial radiation beam 22a , 22b , 22c represent with a divergence α _a , α _b , α _c . In the plane of the light entry surface of the entry optics 10 (see. 3 ) meet in different areas 34a , 34b , 34c Bundle of rays 22a , 22b , 22c with different divergence α _a , α _b , α _c . In 3 is an example of a light chip image simulation of a parabolic reflector 8th shown in an intermediate level. The size of the boxes (corresponding to the light chip images) can also be used in this illustration as the divergence α _a , α _b , α _{c of} the beam bundles 22a , 22b , 22c in the respective area 34a , 34b , 34c be understood. The rectangular light chips are formed, for example, by a surface made of photoluminescent dye, for example phosphor or the like, which is excited by primary light from an LED or a laser to shine and emit secondary light. In this way, for example, blue or purple primary light from an LED or a laser can stimulate the surface to emit yellow secondary light, the blue and yellow light superimposing each other to form white light.

In 5 is up on the mezzanine level in the area 34a the divergence α _{a of} the beam 22a small, in the middle in the area 34b is the divergence α _{b of} the bundles 22b largest, and further down to the area 34c the divergence α _c decreases again. In reality there is no defined separation between the areas 34 but the transition between areas 34 or between bundles of rays 22nd with different divergence α _i is flowing or continuous. The area 34a is for example an area in the beam 22a of the divergence α _a and smaller. The area 34b is then an area in which the bundle of rays 22b the divergence α _b greater than α _a . The division into several areas 34 can be made arbitrarily according to the divergences α _i . The bundle of rays 22nd are from the entrance optics 10 into the diaphragm plane 30th bundled in which the light distribution screen is also located 26th is located. So there are areas 36 (see. 4th ) in the diaphragm plane 30th in which the radiation beam 22nd be bundled with different divergence α _i. Analogously corresponds to the area 36a the area in the diaphragm plane 30th into which the radiation beam 22a with the divergence α _a from the range 34a the chip-image simulation are bundled.

It is suggested in the area 36a one type of openings 32a in the aperture 26th to use which creates stray light critical areas of the resulting light distribution. In the case of a low beam distribution, this can be, for example, a horizontal light-dark boundary and / or an increase (or vertical light-dark boundary). Apertures are then found in this area 32a , where the light-dark border is exactly mapped. In the area 36b can then aperture openings 32b be arranged, which are changed, for example reduced in size, designed so that crosstalk between different, for example adjacent, optical channels due to the higher divergence α _{b of} the beam 22b is decreased. In the example of the 3 and 4th meets the aperture 26th thus both the function of the light distribution screen and the function of the shading screen.

The axes 38 correspond to the aperture in an illustration 26th through the exit optics 14th the -1% line of the light distribution in each case. The aperture openings 32a in the area 36a are accordingly exactly on the light-dark boundary of the individual light distributions, as are the aperture openings 32b in the area 36b , these being made smaller and thus a greater distance to the adjacent aperture openings 32 exhibit.

In one possible variation of the invention, the ranges depend 34 different divergence α _i from the design and implementation of the collimation optics 8th and see, for example, in the case of an optical element 8th in the form of a lens or an ancillary optics different than in the example shown. For example the area 34 rather circular in the case of a lens or TIR ancillary optics. Depending on the design of the TIR ancillary optics, there can also be a jump between the areas between the central lens area and the outer TIR area of the ancillary optics.

In another variation, the light source 6th have a large number of individual light sources, which are in front of the entrance optics 10 are preferably arranged distributed like a matrix or array. The individual light sources can be designed, for example, as normal LEDs, high-power LEDs or laser LEDs. Any micro-entry optics are preferred 12th or each optics channel has its own individual light source assigned to it, which sends a light bundle (possibly after bundling by bundling optics, e.g. 12th sends out.

It can also be useful in areas 36b with large divergence α _b , the respectively assigned micro-entry optics 12th and / or micro exit optics 16 the entry and exit optics 10 ; 14th also designed differently, so that the corresponding aperture openings 32b can be reproduced with a different reproduction scale than the aperture openings 32a in areas 36a with smaller divergence α _a . This allows the aperture 32b in the fields of 36b with greater divergence α _b z. B. be mapped larger.

It would also be conceivable that the micro exit optics 16 in the area 36b with an additional microstructure 42 (see. 7th ) with a smaller structure size than the microstructure 44 the micro exit optics 16 in the area 36b to soften the resulting light distribution in this area.

Furthermore, it is in the fields 36b possible with high divergence α _b , due to the greater distance between the diaphragm openings 32b Transitions between the micro exit optics that are easier to produce 16 to realize (eg flowing instead of sharp edges) with large apertures 32a otherwise would lead to increased scattered light.

In order to further reduce the scattered light, it can be advantageous to use the size of a complete optics channel consisting of micro-entry optics 12th , assigned aperture 32 the shading screen 18th and micro exit optics 16 in different areas 36 to choose different sizes. For example, the size of the optical channel could be in the range 36b with greater divergence α _b smaller than in the range 36a can be selected with a smaller divergence α _a . The efficiency would be reduced slightly in this case. However, this can be accepted for further reducing the scattered light under certain circumstances.

As in 5 shown, the scattered light is through a separate shading screen 18th reduced as close as possible to the light entry surface of the exit optics 14th is arranged. The shading screen is preferred 18th directly at the exit optics 14th (see. 7th ) or even in the exit optics 14th (see. 6th ) arranged. In doing so, the light is incident on critical areas of the exit optics 14th , for example between the individual micro-exit optics 16 , prevented. The shading screen 18th is then according to the invention with different sizes of the openings according to the divergence 32 Mistake. This aperture 18th creates a channel separation between the individual micro-entry optics 12th the entrance optics 10 . Is shown in the 6th and 7th a section through three optical channels each. On the left an optical channel is shown, the one with bundles of rays 22a is illuminated with a small divergence α _a. Correspondingly large openings are assigned to this 32a in the aperture 18th . The optics channel next to it is made with bundles of rays 22b illuminated with greater divergence α _b , and the openings 32b in the aperture 18th are accordingly made smaller.

The effect of greater divergence α _{b is shown} by two exemplary beam paths 22b the beam 22nd . A partial beam occurs in the middle 22b with large divergence α _b on the micro-entry optics 12th and shines through the light distribution screen 26th on the exit optics 14th . Due to the divergence α _b , rays could come from the micro-entry optics 12th are not sufficiently focused and hit the adjacent channel of the exit optics 14th and thereby generate scattered light. These rays are through the shading diaphragm adapted according to the invention 18th blocked. If the divergence α _{a of} the partial beam is low 22a can this aperture 18th be smaller, or the openings 32 in the aperture 18th greater.

Right is in the 6th and 7th the same fact presented, only here as one of a point 40 outgoing divergent bundle of rays 22b . A divergent bundle of rays 22b In this representation, it is composed of many divergent bundles of rays, so that from an arbitrarily viewed point of the bundle of rays 22b even a partial beam with the corresponding divergence emanates. In the illustration on the right there is such a point 40 a point of incidence of the rays 22b on the micro exit optics 12th .

In 8th is an inventive headlight for motor vehicles in its entirety with the reference number 101 designated. The headlight 101 includes a housing 102 , which is preferably made of plastic. In one light exit direction 103 has the headlight housing 102 a light exit opening through a transparent cover plate 104 is locked. The cover panel 104 is made of colorless plastic or glass. The disc 104 can be designed as a so-called clear pane without optically effective profiles. Alternatively, the disc 104 be provided at least in some areas with optically effective profiles (for example cylindrical lenses or prisms) which cause the light passing through to be scattered, preferably in the horizontal direction.

Inside the headlight housing 102 are two light modules in the example shown 105 , 106 arranged. The light modules 105 , 106 are fixed or relative to the housing 102 movably arranged. Through a relative movement of the light modules 105 , 106 to the housing 102 A dynamic cornering light function can be implemented in the horizontal direction. When the light modules move 105 , 106 Headlight range control can be implemented around a horizontal axis, that is, in the vertical direction. Of course, in the headlight housing 102 also more or less than the two light modules shown 105 , 106 be provided. At least one of the light modules 105 , 106 is as a micro-projection light module according to the invention 2 educated.

On the outside of the headlight housing 102 is a control device 107 in a control unit housing 108 arranged. Of course, the control unit can 107 also at any other point on the lighting device 101 be arranged. In particular, for each of the light modules 105 , 106 a separate control device can be provided, the control devices being an integral part of the light modules 105 , 106 could be. Of course, the control unit can 107 also away from the lighting device 101 , for example. Be arranged in the engine compartment of the motor vehicle. The control unit 107 serves to control and / or regulate the light modules 105 , 106 or of subcomponents of the light modules 105 , 106 , such as from light sources of the light modules 105 , 106 or actuators for horizontal and / or vertical adjustment of the light modules 105 , 106 . The control of the light modules 105 , 106 or the subcomponents by the control unit 107 takes place via connecting lines 110 , in the 8th are shown only symbolically by a dashed line. Over the lines 110 can also supply the light modules 105 , 106 done with electrical energy. The lines 110 are from inside the lighting device 101 through an opening in the headlight housing 102 in the control unit housing 108 and there to the circuit of the control unit 107 connected. If control devices are an integral part of the light modules 105 , 106 are provided, the lines 110 and the opening in the headlamp housing 102 omitted. The control unit 107 comprises a plug element 109 for connecting a connection cable to a higher-level control unit (eg in the form of a so-called body controller unit) and / or an energy source (eg in the form of the vehicle battery).

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 102016112617 B3 [0003]
• WO 2015/058227 A1 [0006]
• DE 102013208625 A1 [0006]
• EP 3282181 A1 [0007, 0030]

Claims (19)

Projection device (4) of a micro-projection light module (2) of a motor vehicle headlight (101), the projection device (4) for imaging light from at least one light source (6) assigned to the projection device (4) in an area in front of a motor vehicle in the form of at least one resulting Light distribution is formed, the projection device (4) comprising: - an entry optics (10), which has several micro-entry optics (12), which are preferably arranged in an array, - exit optics (14), which have several micro-exit optics ( 16), which are preferably arranged in an array, and - a shading screen (18), which has several micro-screen elements (20), which are preferably arranged in an array, with each micro-entry optics (12) exactly one micro- Exit optics (16) is assigned, the micro-entry optics (12) formed in this way and / or the micro-entry optics (12) and the micro exit optics (16) are arranged to one another in such a way that almost all of the light exiting from a micro entry optics (12) only enters the associated micro exit optics (16), and that preformed by the micro entry optics (12) Light from the micro exit optics (16) is imaged in an area in front of the motor vehicle as at least one resulting light distribution, and wherein the shading screen (18) is arranged between the entry optics (10) and the exit optics (14), each micro entry optics (12) exactly one micro-diaphragm element (20) is assigned to the shading diaphragm (18), and the micro-diaphragm elements (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) are designed in such a way that they prevent crosstalk between neighboring micro-entry optics (12) and Avoid micro-exit optics (16) and shade the light directed from a micro-entry optics (12) onto an adjacent micro-exit optics (16) shows that the shape and dimensions of the micro-diaphragm elements (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) as a function of a divergence (α _i ) of the micro-entry optics (12) assigned to the respective micro-diaphragm element (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) impinging light (22) are formed so that each micro-diaphragm element (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) allows the largest possible part of the light directed to the associated micro-exit optics (16) to pass unhindered and the largest possible part of it to an adjacent one Shades of the micro-exit optics (16) directed light. Projection device (4) after Claim 1 , characterized in that the shape and dimensions of the micro-screen elements (20) of the shading screen (18) are different over the shading screen (18). Projection device (4) after Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the micro-screen elements (20) of the shading screen (18) each have a light passage opening (32), the shape and dimensions of which depend on a divergence (α _i ) of the on the respective micro-screen element (20 ) the shading diaphragm (18) associated with micro-entry optics (12) of incident light (22) are formed. Projection device (4) after Claim 3 , characterized in that the light transmission openings (32) of the micro-diaphragm elements (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) are made smaller when the divergence (α _i ) of the on the respective micro-diaphragm element (20) of the shading diaphragm (18 ) associated micro-entry optics (12) of incident light (22) is larger and / or that the light transmission openings (32) of the micro-diaphragm elements (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) are larger when the divergence (α _i ) of the the light (22) incident on the respective micro-diaphragm element (20) of the shading diaphragm (18) associated with the micro-entry optics (12) is smaller. Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shading screen (18) is arranged as close as possible to the exit optics (14), preferably directly in front of a light entry surface of the exit optics (14). Projection device (4) according to one of the Claims 1 until 4th , characterized in that the shading diaphragm (18) is arranged in the exit optics (14). Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projection device (4) has a light distribution screen (26) which has several micro-screen elements (28), which are preferably arranged in an array, the light distribution screen (26) is arranged between the entrance optics (10) and the shading diaphragm (18), preferably in an object-side focal plane (30) of the exit optics (14), and each micro entrance optics (12) has exactly one micro diaphragm element (28) of the light distribution diaphragm ( 26) is assigned. Projection device (4) after Claim 7 , characterized in that the light distribution diaphragm (26) is formed separately from the shading diaphragm (18) and is arranged at a distance from the shading diaphragm (18). Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a distance between the shading diaphragm (18) and the exit optics (14) is at most 50% of a focal length of the exit optics (14) or the micro exit optics (16). Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the micro-entry optics (12) and / or the micro-exit optics (16) are designed as lenses. Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the entry optics (10) and / or the exit optics (14) are made of transparent plastic or glass. Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least some of the micro exit optics (16) which are assigned to a micro entry optics (12) impinge on the light (22b) with a large divergence (α _b ) , unlike the other micro-exit optics (16), which are assigned to micro-entry optics (12) on which light (22a; 22c _{) strikes with a smaller divergence (α a} ; α _c ), are designed in such a way that another Imaging scale of the light emitted by the assigned micro-entry optics (12) is achieved. Projection device (4) after Claim 12 , characterized in that at least some of the micro-exit optics (16), which are assigned to a micro-entry optics (12), on which the light (22b _{) strikes with a large divergence (α b} ), are designed in such a way that they have a larger divergence Achieve reproduction scale. Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least some of the micro-exit optics (16) are provided with a microstructure (42; 44) at least in some areas on their light entry side and / or their light exit side. Projection device (4) after Claim 14 , characterized in that at least some of the micro-exit optics (16), which are assigned to a micro-entry optics (12), _{impinges on the light (22b) with a large divergence (α b} ), with a microstructure (42) with a are provided with a smaller structure size than the other micro-exit optics (16), which are assigned to micro-entry optics (12), on which light (22a; 22c) strikes _{with a smaller divergence (α a} ; α _c). Projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the micro-screen elements (20; 28) of the shading screen (18) and / or the light distribution screen (26) are formed as an opaque metal layer or lacquer layer vapor-deposited on at least one transparent carrier , or that the micro-screen elements (20; 28) of the shading screen (18) and / or the light distribution screen (26) by means of screen printing or metallic vapor deposition of a transparent carrier or by burning into a transparent carrier and / or into the exit optics (14) a laser or electron beam are formed, or that the micro-diaphragm elements (20; 28) of the shading diaphragm (18) and / or the light distribution diaphragm (26) are formed by insert parts that during the production of a transparent carrier and / or the exit optics ( 14) have been inserted in the desired position. Projection device (4) after Claim 16 , characterized in that the transparent carrier is made of plastic or glass. Micro-projection light module (2) of a motor vehicle headlight (101), the micro-projection light module (2) comprising at least one projection device (4) according to one of the preceding claims and at least one light source (6) for feeding light into the projection device (4). Motor vehicle headlight (101) comprising at least one projection device (4) according to one of the Claims 1 until 17th and / or at least one micro-projection light module (2) according to Claim 18 .

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