DE10058903A1 - Light arrangement for vehicle has light unit providing luminous area extending laterally to vehicle along vehicle compartment - Google Patents

Abstract

The arrangement includes at least one light unit (3) forming a luminous area (L), which extends laterally to the vehicle (1) at least along a part of the vehicle compartment (2) in vehicle longitudinal direction. Preferably, the light unit is provided at the side of the vehicle. Independent claims are also included for a vehicle having a light arrangement and a method for illuminating vehicle surroundings.

Description

The invention relates to a lighting arrangement for a Motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such a lighting arrangement comprises lighting units ten, e.g. B. in the form of front headlights and in the form of Taillights used to illuminate the area around the force Vehicle serve to view one in a passenger compartment the vehicle occupants located during to improve a ride in the dark.

The main functions of the lighting arrangement are in detecting objects in the driving environment to facilitate a better orientation of the To allow the driver the visibility of the vehicle  improve itself and if necessary the vehicle type recognizable to make (night design). The two serve the first functions primarily to ensure the driver's view during a journey at dusk or in the dark fibers.

DE 196 02 622 C2 describes a headlight arrangement for a vehicle with a forward direction of the vehicle adjustable lighting range known, the vehicle position Detection means for detecting a driving position of the driving exhibits stuff in the lateral direction of a street, as well as tax medium to the distance of the vehicle position from a Road center line to calculate and the lighting area of the Headlight arrangement depending on the above Distance. The lighting area can thus be targeted the width of the street can be adjusted, with wider streets the lighting area is stronger towards the front extends to the side, especially to the streets midline. The certificate known from DE 196 02 622 C2 thrower arrangement thus enables illumination of the front the road section of the vehicle with a light variable width range.

The invention has for its object a lighting arrangement for a motor vehicle of the type mentioned to create a better illumination of a driving rail enables.

This object is achieved by creating a lighting arrangement with the features of the patent claim 1 solved.  

After that, at least one lighting unit is the lighting arrangement set up to form a lighting area and provided that viewed in the vehicle longitudinal direction tet, at least alongside the motor vehicle part of the passenger compartment extends.

The term "passenger compartment" is also intended to cover such cases include in which these are only for recording the vehicle leader (driver) is provided.

The solution according to the invention leads to an improved Illumination of the roadway without the glare oncoming traffic is increased because the traffic to Formation of the lateral lighting area provided lighting unit from the vehicle in essentially in lateral Can radiate direction, so that it does not immediately on the oncoming traffic is directed. simultaneously the side lighting area acts as a signal for across ongoing traffic, e.g. B. at crossroads.

The lighting arrangement according to the invention is suitable not only for passenger cars, but also for loads motor vehicles or buses.

The lighting area preferably extends laterally in addition to the motor vehicle at least along the part of the Passenger cell used to accommodate the driver (vehicle management rers) serves, i.e. against the longitudinal direction of the vehicle seeks up behind the A pillar of the motor vehicle.

It is particularly advantageous if the Illuminated area to the side of the motor vehicle along the entire vehicle body or even forward and / or extends beyond beyond.  

So the lighting area can extend to the front Illuminated area of the low beam of the motor vehicle he stretch to make a continuous transition between to reach these two lighting areas and so suddenly Che light / dark effects on the drivers of oncoming Vehicles passing through the glare area of the dipped beam to mitigate light.

Luminaire units to form a side lighting area ches next to the motor vehicle can be symmetrical on both Long sides of the motor vehicle, especially on the side Chen vehicle body.

The lighting units can be arranged, for example, at one of the following locations on a motor vehicle:

• - a front fender of the vehicle;
• - a sill or bumper of the vehicle;
• - a front vehicle door;
• - a rear vehicle door;
• - One of the pillars of the vehicle body, in particular the A, B, or C pillar, including a pillar garnish dung;
• - a rear fender of the vehicle;
• - the roof rail of the vehicle;
• - an exterior mirror of the vehicle;  
• - behind a window of the vehicle, or
• - A locking module of the vehicle.

The arrangement of the lamp is particularly preferred unit in a vehicle door, in particular in a rear door. From here, on the one hand, there is good illumination of the lateral environment next to the motor vehicle possible, and others also have sufficient installation space Available. The arrangement in a back door has the Advantage that the light emitted from there also at the same time facilitate getting into the vehicle through the front door tert because the area around the front door is illuminated (shadow-free illumination of the front entrance area Empire).

It can also be used to illuminate the side Lighting unit provided in the vicinity of the vehicle also in another lighting device of the motor vehicle, z. B. in a forward beaming headlight or Taillight can be integrated.

The lighting unit is preferably by a headlight fer formed, d. H. through an imaging system that is based on the reflection, projection or light guide principle (with suitable coupling and decoupling optics).

In addition, means for near-field illumination of a Area to the side of the passenger compartment, optionally by an imaging system (headlights) or by a non-imaging system (luminaire principle) can be realized.  

The lighting unit and the additional means for the near field Illumination can be done on the one hand by two separate lights sources are formed, which are preferably in a common men housing are summarized. The two light sources can be controlled separately or in parallel become. On the other hand, a single light source can also be used be provided both for illuminating the surroundings of the motor vehicle while driving serves as well as Near field light to facilitate entry into the force vehicle. According to Re Flexion principle in bi or multifocus or FF technology be constructed. An upper and / or a lower ensure rer reflector area for good near field illumination and the side areas for sufficient expansion and ge total range of the illuminated area. Such a system he calls for a relatively small depth, so that this System as a module if necessary in the space between the Door outer skin and the guide surface for an adjustable Window pane of the vehicle door can be integrated. At a particularly small available space can fiber optic technology can also be used, in Combination with suitable coupling and decoupling elements. These are for example between the outer skin and the guide surface for the window pane. The light-generating module itself can then be in another Area of the vehicle door, possibly even in the drying room of the Vehicle. Using light guides here the light to keep it free for the window pane deviating installation space.

Furthermore, the means for the near field can also be integrated illumination in the lighting unit the system according to Projection principle. When using the Optical fiber technology can also be added  Two parts of light are derived from the near-field function gene and in the area of the recessed grip of a door handle peln for orientation when opening the door in the dark to facilitate without a for the additional function additional light source would be needed.

The means for near-field illumination can in particular in Dependence on the actuation of an element of Locking device of the motor vehicle, for. B. the door lock ses or a door handle controllable, especially one and can be switched off. A subsequent one can also be used Afterglow for a certain period of time (e.g. after leaving the vehicle).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention Luminous unit coupled to a control device, with means of the lighting unit depending on the condition another functional group of the motor vehicle and / or the environment of the motor vehicle controllable, e.g. B. one and can be switched off. According to this embodiment of the inven The control is then carried out (e.g. switching on and off ten) the lighting unit not by the driver himself, son the lighting unit is rather automatically in such Situations on or off that are typically on Require switching the light unit on or off. On The criterion can be, for example, the speed of the motor vehicle, for example if the lighting unit in the extra-urban traffic when traveling overland with increased Speed (e.g. above 70 km / h) should. In addition to such a necessary condition for switching on the light unit for side illumination the environment of the motor vehicle can be a condition for example, to add to the vehicle Oncoming traffic is approaching. Such oncoming traffic can, for example  se using a apron radar signal or using a Ge backlight sensor signal (with a photo cell as detection facility) can be detected. In this case, the Luminaire unit for laterally illuminating the surroundings of the Motor vehicle always temporarily activated when it is in the Overland traffic at correspondingly high speeds an encounter traveling in the opposite direction Vehicles is coming.

The change in the steering angle over time (with which for example, have to make serpentine trips) could be a criterion for the control of the lighting unit his.

The intensity of the light emitted by the lighting unit Light can be a function of the ambient light to be controlled. Furthermore, a time-dependent control the lighting unit.

The control of the lighting unit can in addition to the on and Switch off and the (possibly continuous) change of Intensity of light especially the setting of the rich device and spatial location of the lighting area include, for. B. if the light unit is around the vehicle's longitudinal axis (x-axis) to adjust the light range and / or around the vertical Vehicle axis (z-axis) is pivotable, as well as the focus sation of light. The pivoting of the light unit can e.g. B. manually, motorized, piezoelectric or by means of Shape memory alloys (thermal) are made.

Switching the light unit on and off is preferred wise via a dimmer, with a relatively short switch-on process of approx. 500 to 1000 ms and a longer off switching process from 1 to 3 s, for example. The flat  The dimming curve should follow the eye during readaption support. The dimming itself can be done, for example a PWM signal.

The above-described embodiment of the invention has for the driver the advantage that by activating the Luminous unit in oncoming traffic strength in the driver's peripheral field of vision increased and thus the difference in brightness to the headlights is reduced away from oncoming traffic. This reduces a fixation on the headlights of the opposite turn and the associated glare to the driver.

For the drivers of oncoming vehicles there is Advantage that their orientation by the side beamed light is improved without causing a blen connected. In particular, the course of the road and the road boundary as well as at the edge of the road che Cyclists or pedestrians easier to perceive.

For the following traffic there is the advantage that through the side illumination of the road ahead the orientation of the vehicle is also improved and that the eye can scan a larger area is possible.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the lighting unit for Side illumination of the surroundings of the motor vehicle is activated when the driver turns the vehicle's turn signal pressed to change the direction of travel, e.g. B. on one Turn intersection. This will match de Road area better illuminated. Preferably always a light unit activated in the Direction in which the vehicle emits after actuation  direction of the turn signal ("left" or "right"). Finally, the illumination of the surrounding area of the vehicle also when threading onto a highway hen.

Both when threading on a highway and when Encounters in intercity traffic are preferred Light unit activated, the left in right-hand traffic Radiates side of the vehicle and when driving on the left right side of the vehicle. Generally applies to one Activation of the light unit due to oncoming traffic, that the illumination in particular towards the Oncoming traffic lane.

In the case of very high traffic volume, the side Illumination of the surroundings of the motor vehicles also a more homogeneous total light distribution achieved.

While in intercity traffic a continuous operation of the side Luminous units does not seem sensible, since the eye Absence of oncoming traffic as close as possible to the The light / dark boundary wanders as far away as possible should and the look through the additional side Illuminated area would be pulled closer to the near field inner city traffic is a permanent operation of the Lighting units can be advantageous.

Switching off the lighting unit can either be time-controlled at a certain time after switching on take place, which is also advantageous for near-field illumination or depending on certain control signals, the z. B. from the steering angle of the steering device of the vehicle depend (Is the turning process finished?) or also from  the respective position of oncoming traffic (hat oncoming traffic completely pas the vehicle degrees?).

The for illuminating the surroundings of the motor vehicle from the side provided lighting units can for example the lateral outer skin of the vehicle body or also on an internal structural component of the motor vehicle, such as B. a support plate for a door module attached be, the lighting unit in the latter case for example, by opening the vehicle accordingly radiates the body through the outside.

The light exit surface of the lighting unit can be decorated with ornaments style elements or other components that make up the shape the side body of the vehicle, combined to ensure an attractive design.

It is also conceivable to pass through the light exit surface Cover flaps, slats or the like and thus To protect against dirt or scratching at the same time. Such a cover would activate the light function opened automatically. With one in the length of the vehicle towards movable flap that works from front to back the effect of a fan-shaped Achieve fading of the laterally radiating light.

In another variant, the lighting unit can be swiveled stored on the vehicle and is activated when the Light function at a certain angle, for example Swiveled 180 ° so that the light exit surface after shows outside. Can on the back of the light unit  then design elements can be provided when switched off Point the lighting outside and adhere optimally to that Customize exterior vehicle design.

In a preferred development of the invention, the at least light unit to form a side Illuminated area set up in which a predetermined lighting feature, such as. B. the color or the Intensity of the emitted light, in at least two different forms exist, the two versions of the lighting feature for one Observers can be recognized separately. Every light unit can include one or more light sources.

By combining two characteristic lighting technologies sher characteristics should be achieved that an observer the appropriate lighting as from a side body belt section identified. This is supposed to Confusion with the front or rear lighting of one Motor vehicle are excluded. This is supposed to Misunderstandings about the current direction of movement of the Avoid vehicle, especially after dark identifi by the color of the corresponding lighting can be distinguished (e.g. white light for oncoming and red light for moving vehicles as well as yellow Light for turning vehicles or as side markings / rich ment displays for trucks, these Seitenmar However, cations do not illuminate the surroundings of the Vehicle).

The lighting feature, which is to be combined in two different forms, can be selected from the group of the following lighting features:

• - color of light,
• - intensity of light,
• - beam angle of light,
• - temporal course of the light,
• - size of the light exit surfaces of the lighting unit,
• - Shape of the light exit surfaces of the lighting unit.

For example, the light emitted from the side can consist of two Partial lighting areas of different colors or under different light intensity exist. Alternatively or the side lighting area can be supplemented by two Light exit areas of characteristic different Size or characteristic different shape (e.g. round on the one hand and angular on the other) are emitted. The partial lighting areas can be spatially side by side, formed overlapping or overlapping his.

Furthermore, two lighting units or two light sources a lighting unit that forms a lateral Luminous area are provided in a defined Distance from each other and in a defined position to each other the (e.g. at different heights with respect to the vertical len vehicle axis / z-axis) can be arranged, these Arrangement for an observer who is facing the lateral che vehicle body looks, is perceptible and this hereby the corresponding lighting area as a side Chen illuminated area identified.  

It can also be used to form a side lighting area ches provided lighting unit when opening the door or at give a characteristic flashing signal to an accident, which is based on the signal of the vehicle turning pointing blinker differs. Here is particular again the superposition of two signals is advantageous.

A method of illuminating the surroundings of a motor vehicle stuff, especially with the Vorrich described tion can be carried out by the characteristics of Characterized claim 29.

Here, the control signals on the basis of which the lateral Chen lighting units are actuated, not automatically be generated. Additionally or alternatively also manually switching on the lighting units, e.g. B. at Serpentine journeys or when parking.

Further features and advantages of the invention are in the following description of an embodiment become clear from the figures.

Show it:

Figure 1 is a side view of a motor vehicle with two side light units arranged on the front door.

FIG. 2 shows a cross section through the front door of the motor vehicle from FIG. 1 in the region of a side light unit;

Figure 3 is a motor vehicle when driving on a road having a Leuchtein standardized for generating a seitli chen light range.

Fig. 4 is a motor vehicle when turning, the dung a light emitting unit for Bil a lateral light ches preparation comprising;

FIG. 5a the waveform of Steuersigna len control means for turning on and off a Leuch teinheit in dependence on the speed of a motor driving zeugs;

Figure 5b is a diagram of the intensity of the uniform light emitted by a dimmable light Leuchtein in function of time.

Figure 6a is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a light unit in the form of a headlamp for generating a lateral light-emitting region.

FIG. 6b is a light-emitting unit for lighting Nahfeldaus immediately adjacent to the motor vehicle;

7a is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a light unit in the form of a headlamp for generating a lateral light-emitting region.

FIG. 7b shows a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a headlamp for generating a lateral light-emitting region;

Fig. 8a is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a headlamp for generating a lateral light-emitting region;

FIG. 8b shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a headlamp for generating a lateral light-emitting region;

9 is a cross sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a headlamp for generating a lateral light-emitting region.

Fig. 10 having a motor vehicle when driving on a road, the uniform a Leuchtein for generating a seitli chen luminous region which consists of two light-emitting regions of different color;

Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a lighting unit, which is used to emit a lateral lighting area with two partial lighting areas un different colors;

Fig. 12 shows a cross section through a driving tool door with a lighting unit according to Fig. 11;

FIG. 13 is schematic representation of a second embodiment of a lighting unit which serves un terschiedlicher colors for generating a lateral light-emitting region with two partial luminous regions;

FIGS. 14a-14c different combinations of characteristic signals which are intended to contribute to the identifiability of a lateral lighting area;

Fig. 15 shows a further combination of characteristic signals which are intended to contribute to the identifiability of a lateral light area.

In Figs. 1 and 2, a motor vehicle 1 is illustrated for generating a forward light emitting section and tail lights having 9 side at each longitudinal side two light-emitting units in the form of spotlights 3 adjacent headlights 8, for generating a laterally adjacent to the motor vehicle 1 luminous area serve. Of this motor vehicle 1 , only the one long side 10 of the vehicle body series can be seen in the side view according to FIG. 1; the other long side is designed in a corresponding manner.

The two lighting units 3 are in the vehicle longitudinal direction x spaced from each other in a receptacle 21 of a door module carrier 20 which is covered towards the vehicle interior by a door interior panel 29 . Such a door module carrier 20 is typically pre-assembled with functional groups of the vehicle door, such as. B. a window lifter, a door lock and in this case two headlights 3 as a completely prefabricated door module on the inner skin of a vehicle door, for example attached to a door inner panel. In Fig. 2 of these functional groups in addition to a headlight 3 , a driver 25 of a window lifter with an attached, height-adjustable window pane 26 is shown. This Fen ster disc 26 is coupled via the driver 25 with the Hebemecha mechanism of a window lifter, not shown in Fig. 2, with which the window pane can be raised and lowered bar. In its upper end position, the window pane with the upper pane edge is located in an upper sealing area 15 a of the vehicle door 15 .

Based on Fig. 2 it is clear that the measures provided for the formation of a lateral light-emitting region headlamp 3 between the door module 20 and the window pane are net angeord 26, namely above the upper end 15a of the door outer skin in the region of the window pane 26 so that the headlights 3 can radiate through the window pane 26 to the outside.

The side headlights 3 can also be provided at other positions of the side vehicle body 10 , for. B. directly next to the front headlight 8 , in the area of a front fender 17 , on the outer skin of the front vehicle door 15 or the rear vehicle door 16 , on the rear fender 18 , immediately next to a rear lamp te 9 , on the A-, the B- or the C-pillar 11 , 12 or 13 and in the area of the roof frame 14 of the motor vehicle.

However, the arrangement on one of the vehicle doors 15 , 16 (either on the outer door panel or on an inner structural element of the respective vehicle door, such as the door module carrier 20 ) is particularly preferred, the arrangement on the rear vehicle door 16 also having the additional advantage that from there the entrance area of the front vehicle door 15 can also be illuminated without shadows. In general, when the headlights 3 are arranged on the vehicle doors 15 , 16, a favorable, additional near-field illumination of the area next to the vehicle doors 15 , 16 is possible (even when the doors are closed), provided that the side headlights 3 are set up and provided for additional illumination of the near field.

The from the side of the vehicle 1 arranged headlights far 3 generated lighting area can extend along the entire length of the passenger compartment 2 in the vehicle longitudinal direction x between the A-pillar 11 and the C-pillar 13 and beyond it along the entire length of the vehicle 1 ,

In Fig. 3, a vehicle 1 with a driving guest cell 2 is shown as an example when driving on a roadway F of a country road S, the front headlights 8 of which produce a lighting area A of the low beam in the forward direction, which extends laterally beyond the center line M of the road road S as well extends to the oncoming lane G.

This motor vehicle 1 also has on the two longitudinal sides 10 , 10 'of the vehicle body in the region of the rear door 16 each have a lighting unit 3 for generating a lighting area lying laterally next to the motor vehicle 1 . At the same time, with the aforementioned lighting units 3 , near-field illumination with particularly high brightness can also be generated directly next to the passenger compartment 2 of the vehicle.

The by the headlight function of the lighting units 3 he witnessed lateral lighting area L extends in the vehicle longitudinal direction x along the entire length of the vehicle 1 and forward and backward beyond, with an overlap with the lighting area A of the low beam in the forward direction.

In the state shown in FIG. 3, in which the motor vehicle 1 encounters an oncoming vehicle on a country road S, of which only the illuminated area E of the low beam can be seen in FIG. 3, only produces the light on the left side of the vehicle 1 arranged lighting unit 3 a lateral lighting area L, which extends along the opposite lane G on the left side of the motor vehicle 1 .

This leads to a more uniform illumination of the opposite lane, which is advantageous both for the driver of the vehicle 1 equipped with the side headlights 3 and for the driver of the oncoming vehicle, as has already been explained above.

The lighting unit 3 provided for generating the left-hand lighting area L can, for example, have been switched on after the oncoming vehicle or its forward-facing lighting area E has approached the vehicle 1 up to a certain distance. The oncoming vehicle itself can be detected by means of a radar signal from vehicle 1 ; the illuminated area E of the oncoming vehicle by means of a light-sensitive detector of the vehicle 1 , for example a photo cell.

FIG. 5 a shows a control signal S as a function of the speed v of the vehicle 1 ( FIG. 3), which is used to control the side lighting unit 3 of the vehicle 1 . Depending on the speed v of the vehicle 1, this signal S assumes the values "0" or "1". In the present exemplary embodiment, the side lighting unit 3 of the vehicle 1 should only be able to be activated when the control signal S has the value "1", with an additional condition that an oncoming vehicle has been detected by means of a suitable detector of the vehicle 1 ,

Referring to FIG. 5a, the speed dependence of the signal S at an acceleration of the vehicle (in Fig. 5a by a solid line) other than at a negative acceleration (Geschwindigkeitsver ringerung) of the vehicle (in Fig. Represented by a gestrichel th line 5a ). With a speed increase or at least constant speed, the signal S always assumes the value "1" when the speed v of the vehicle 1 is between 70 km / h and 110 km / h; with decreasing speed whenever this is between 90 km / h and 50 km / h. The signal S as a function of the speed v thus has a kind of hysteresis.

The speeds are chosen so that the Si gnal S then the value. "1" assumes when the vehicle is moved at a speed that is appropriate for country roads (Via land transport) is typical.

Fig. 5b shows the intensity of teinheiten from the lateral Leuch 3 of the motor vehicle 1 (Fig. 3) the light produced as a function of time t and d, respectively as a function of the distance of an oncoming vehicle.

If the oncoming vehicle has approached the vehicle 1 up to 150 m, then the side light unit 3 is activated, the switching on taking place over a period of about one second. This means that the intensity of the light which forms the lateral lighting area L does not reach its maximum value until about one second after the lateral lighting unit 3 has been switched on. This light intensity remains constant until the two vehicles meet, ie are at a distance of "0 m". At this moment the switching off of the side lighting unit 3 begins, the switching off of the lighting unit taking place over a period of several seconds and z. B. is only completed after more than 12 s. This prevents the driver from suddenly changing the lighting conditions (driving through a light / dark zone).

The over a certain period of time and switching off the lighting unit by means of dimming also the advantage that there is a clear demarcation to the Turning off a turn signal is created.

In Fig. 3, a light area N is also indicated next to the driving tool 1 , which is used for near-field illumination. This near-field illumination is usually not required during the journey and is preferably activated whenever the locking system of the vehicle is activated, for example by means of a remote control, by means of a key or by means of an actuating handle of a door, around the entry and exit area of the vehicle to illuminate better for passengers entering or leaving the vehicle.

Fig. 4, the vehicle 1 is a line S in inner-city traffic in the region of the mouth of a cross street Q, in which the driver of the vehicle 1 wants to turn right, for which the turn signal of the vehicle 1 is operated in a corresponding manner when driving. In this case, the right side light unit 3 of the vehicle 1 is automatically activated to generate a side light area L when the turn signal is actuated when it is a journey in the dark (which can be determined by a suitable sensor).

Immediately before the turn, this illuminates in particular the lateral surroundings to the right of the vehicle 1 and thus also the passenger compartment 2 , as a result of which cyclists R and pedestrians P can be better recognized. During the subsequent turn itself, the lateral lighting area L, which runs next to the right long side 10 'of the vehicle body, is used in particular to illuminate the cross street Q into which the vehicle 1 is turning.

Also in Fig. 4 it can be seen that the lateral light area L extends forward to the light area A of the low beam generated by the main headlights 8 of the motor vehicle 1 , so that sharp light / dark transitions are prevented in this area.

In contrast to the known corner lights, which can also be activated when blinking, the lateral lighting units 3 provided according to the invention not only provide an area obliquely in front of the vehicle 1 , but also an area directly next to the vehicle 1 and in particular next to it Passenger cell 2 illuminated. The light is emitted from the lighting units 3 preferably at such a height (directed towards the floor) that pedestrians P, cyclists R and cross traffic are not dazzled thereby.

It is also advantageous if the lighting units 3 emit in a color that differs from the colors of other lights of a motor vehicle (front headlights, rear lights, turn signals).

In Fig. 6a, a first embodiment of a headlamp is shown, which can serve as a lighting unit for the lateral illumination of an area next to a motor vehicle.

The headlight 4 is arranged in a housing 40 which is fastened by means of suitable fastening elements 46 and with the interposition of sealing elements 47 to a door module carrier 20 of a vehicle door, the headlight 4 being arranged in an opening 22 of the door module carrier 20 and the fastening in the region of the lateral edge 23 of this opening.

Since the door module carrier 20 is usually part of the partition for separating the wet area of the vehicle door from the drying area of the vehicle, te 47 is ensured by the Dichtelemen that through the opening 22 provided for the headlights 4 in the door module support 22 no moisture penetrate into the drying area can.

Within the housing 40 , a light source 41 and a reflector 42 are arranged, which has a holder 42 a (base) for the light source 41 . The light emitted by the light source 41 and reflected by the reflector 42 is emitted through an opening in the outer skin of the side vehicle body 10 , this opening being closed by means of a transparent pane 45 .

The lighting unit 4 shown in FIG. 6 a can be preassembled together with further functional groups of a vehicle door on the door module carrier 20 .

Fig. 6b shows a body on the outer skin of the lateral vehicle 10 is mounted and covered by a trim strip 19 light emitting unit 80 for near-field illumination. This consists of an LED array 81 which radiates to the outside through a diffuser 85 provided in the decorative strip 19 . Such a light unit 80 for near field illumination can be arranged directly next to the headlight 4 shown in FIG. 6a and operated, for example, with the same control unit as this headlight 4 .

Fig. 7a shows an embodiment of a side headlamp 5 , the housing 50 via suitable fastening means 56 directly on the outer skin (z. B. the outer door panel) of the side vehicle body 10 BEFE Stigt. The attachment points are covered by a trim 19 .

Within the housing 50 , a light source 51 is arranged in the form of a halogen lamp with a base and sealing ring, which is supplied with electricity via an electrical feed line 53 and which is assigned a coating on the inside of the housing 50 as a reflector 52 . Since the spotlights 5 is fer immediately behind the lateral vehicle body 10 in the wet cell of the vehicle, the spotlights fer 5 as gene even in headlights of Kraftfahrzeu is known, with a sealing ring 50 b by means of a ver provided for the base 50 a splashproof ,

The headlamp 5 radiates through an opening in the outer skin of the side vehicle body 10 through to the outside, which opening is covered by a ste with the Zierlei 19 flush lens 55 . From the end plate 55 is in the area of its angled En 55 a attached via an adhesive joint to the housing 50 of the headlamp 5 . The lens 55 can be used at the same time for targeted influencing of the light cone.

Fig. 7b shows a modification of the embodiment of Fig. 7a, here the reflector 52 as a separate from the hous se 50 of the headlamp 5 is designed and runs from the light source 51, a cable 53 to a provided on the housing 50 connector 53 a , At the rear, the housing 50 is splash-proof by means of a cover cap pe 50 c.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 8 a, the housing 60 of a headlight 6 is connected to the outer skin of the side vehicle body 10 in the region of a vehicle via suitable fastening means 66 covered by a decorative strip 19 . The housing 60 of the headlamp 6 has here at its rear end a hollow cylindrical extension 60 a, through which a connecting cable 63 is guided to the light source 61 of the headlamp 6 . At the extension 60 a adjoins an elastic cuff 24 , which is fastened in an opening of a door module carrier 20 .

The housing 60 of the headlamp 6 is connected in a floating manner to the door module carrier 20 via the extension 60 a and the elastic sealing collar 24 , the interior of the headlamp 6 surrounded by the housing 60 becoming part of the drying compartment of the vehicle, since the extension 60 a and the elastic sealing sleeve 24 is a direct connection to the drying room T left of the Türmo module carrier 20 . This applies despite the arrangement of the headlamp 6 in the wet room N of the vehicle door. As a result, the wiring of the light source 60 and their interchangeability from the inside of the vehicle are facilitated.

The housing 60 is to form a reflector 62 verse on its inside with a reflective layer hen, and the headlight 6 is forwardly covered by by a closure plate 65, which the is 65 a connected to the housing 60 at angled En and flush with the trim 19 completes.

, The embodiment shown in FIG. 8b differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8a in that the hollow cylindrical extension is provided b a of the housing 60 of the headlamp 6 with locking elements 60 60 here, on which the housing is attached to the door module carrier 20 60 wherein the hollow cylindrical extension 60 a protrudes through an opening in the door module carrier 20 . To ensure wet / dry room separation, additional sealing elements 67 are provided. The sealing elements 67 in the form of rubber buffers also serve to decouple the housing 60 from the door module carrier 20 and thus to dampen vibrations, with which a quieter light distribution can be achieved.

According to Fig. 8b is also to compensate for tolerances between the trim 19 and the closure plate 65 disposed a elasti-specific decoration panel 19 a, so the closure plate 65 mounted floatingly.

In Fig. 9, an embodiment of a side headlight 7 is shown, which has a pivotally mounted housing 70 , the pivot axis A of the housing coinciding with the focal point of the light source 71 of the headlight 7 .

The light source 71 is assigned a reflector 72 and a front pane 75 which serves as a light exit surface and forms a component of the housing 70 . On the opposite side of the light exit surface, the housing 70 is provided with a panel 76 which is stylistically adapted to the side door body 10 . In the non-activated state of the headlight 7 , this cover 76 points in the direction of the outside space AR outside the vehicle and is flush with the body 10 .

If the headlight 7 is switched on, it automatically pivots in a direction of rotation D about its pivot axis A, namely by an angle of 180 °, until the windshield 75 opposite the connector 76 points towards the outside. Through this windshield 75 , the light generated by the light source 71 and reflected by the reflector 72 can then be emitted into the outside space AR. The blind 76 is in this state of the headlights 7 in the interior IR of the vehicle.

As an alternative to the automatic swiveling would also be a manual or a manually triggered, power-operated (e.g. electromotive) pivoting of the headlamp conceivable.

In order to prevent the ingress of dirt when pivoting the headlamp 7 , the side vehicle body series 10 in the area of the headlamp 7 inwardly directed recesses 10 a.

In all embodiments, the side Light units (side headlights) in a simple way ver from a door control unit with electrical current be worried. Such a door control device can, for example wise on a door module carrier or another element be fastened to the vehicle door and is formed by control electronics, which evaluate the control signals, due to which the side light units on and switched off or controlled in another.

FIG. 10 shows a motor vehicle 1 when driving on a road S corresponding to the illustration in FIG. 3, a side lighting region L with two partial lighting regions L1, L2 being generated here by a lighting unit 103 of the motor vehicle 1 . The two partial lighting areas L1, L2 differ in color and are arranged one behind the other in the vehicle longitudinal direction or driving direction x of the motor vehicle 1 with an intersection area L12.

The front lateral partial lighting area L2 adjoins the lighting area A of the low beam and forms an overlap zone LA with this. This front lateral partial lighting area L2 is preferably formed by white light. The rear, side, partial lighting area L1 in the direction of travel preferably consists of yellow light and preferably extends to a lighting area that can be generated by the rear lights 9 of the motor vehicle 1 .

Due to the characteristic combination of two side Partial lighting areas L1, L2 to a lateral light rich L is intended to easily identify the lateral  Luminous area L and in particular its distinction from the front light or the rear lights of a motor vehicle be made possible.

FIG. 11 is 103 net angeord for producing a two-color lateral luminous area in a rub strip 16 a a rear vehicle door 16, a light unit, wherein the rub strip 16 is a partially transparent by two discs 135 and 136 is interrupted. A light source 131 and an associated reflector 132 are arranged behind these translucent panes. The reflector 132 is preferably designed as a paraboloid or FF reflector with a divergent beam path.

Of the two side cover plates 135 , 136 , one (front cover plate 135 ) is formed to form a white illuminated area and the other (rear cover plate 136 ) to form a yellow illuminated area. The rear lens 136 is combined with a suitable color filter to form a yellow light area. At the transition between the side end plates 135 , 136 to the crash bar 16 a, a reflector 134 (cat's eye) is also provided.

FIG. 12 shows a cross section through a vehicle door corresponding to FIG. 2, to which reference is made with regard to the explanation of the individual door elements. 11 as explained with reference to Fig - - a light-emitting unit 103 is provided for the formation of a two-part light-emitting areas of light-emitting side portion in a rub strip 16 a of the vehicle door 16 is.. The Leuchtein integral 103 is controlled by means of a on a door module carrier 20 associated door control unit 27, which is a electrically coupled via electrical specific connection lines 27 to the lighting unit 103, wherein the Verbindungsleitun are not led 27 a by the door module carrier 20 by means of a sealing grommet 28th This is to ensure the separation into a wet room N and a dry room T of the vehicle door.

FIG. 13 shows a modification of the exemplary embodiment from FIG. 11, with the lighting unit 104 provided for producing a two-colored lateral lighting area consisting of two separate light modules (headlights 104 a, 104 b), each with its own light source 141 and its own lens 145 or 146 is assigned. The one, front cover plate 145 is used to produce a white partial light area and the other, rear cover plate 146 to produce a yellow side partial light area.

As the side light unit 104 is in the embodiment according to Fig. 11 also in a Rammschutzlei ste 16 a of the vehicle door 16 is integrated, wherein at the transition between the rub strip 16 a and the light-emitting unit 104, a forward reflector and a backward court Teter reflector 144 provided are.

The two headlights or light modules 140 a, 140 b are coordinated such that in a transition zone (see same Fig. 10) there is a uniform color transition from white to yellow. The optical axes O of the two light modules preferably run at an angle in order to achieve optimal, homogeneous illumination of the side of the vehicle.

Two separate light modules in the form of light units 3 arranged side by side are also shown in FIG. 1. These two lighting units 3 can also be used to generate a characteristic side light, e.g. B. based on lighting features or by a defined arrangement of the lighting units 3 to each other, serve.

FIGS. 14a to 14c show different Signalfor men, the two to form the lateral part luminous regions may be used.

According to FIG. 14a, the two lateral partial light regions L1, L2 have an identical signal curve (corresponding to the signal curve already explained with reference to FIG. 5b). The intensity of the light runs along a curve with a comparatively steep slope when the light is switched on and a considerably flatter drop when the light is switched off. Such matched intensity profiles of the two partial lighting areas L1, L2 can be used without further ado in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS . 10 to 13.

According to FIG. 14b, on the other hand, only one partial light range L1 has a conventional intensity curve - corresponding to FIG. 5b -, while the other side partial light range L2 generates a flashing signal, which, however, is characteristic of the signal shown in dashed lines for comparison the turn signal indicating the turn makes a difference. In Fig. 14b Two different variants for the flashing signal of the second lateral part of light L2 region are shown.

FIG. 14c shows an example of a combination of more than two lateral partial lighting areas L1, L2, L3, L4, some partial lighting areas L2, L3, L4 generating flashing light.

The intensity curves shown in FIGS . 14b and 14c can be generated, for example, by the control device which controls the corresponding lighting unit (door control unit) when the vehicle comes to a standstill due to a breakdown or an accident or when a vehicle door is opened in the dark. This leads to a special signal effect.

FIG. 15 describes the course of a lighting area over time, which consists of the partial lighting areas L1, L2 and L3. These partial lighting areas L1, L2 and L3 are each periodically activated one after the other, the second partial lighting area L2 being activated before the first partial lighting area L1 is deactivated; the third partial lighting range L3 is activated before the second partial lighting range L2 is deactivated; and the first partial lighting range L1 is activated again before the third partial lighting range L3 is deactivated. The light cone is thus always passed from one partial lighting area to the next partial lighting area.

The individual partial lighting areas can, for example spatially close together (overlapping each other) his. The fact that the transfer of the light cone between the individual partial lighting areas in such a way is carried out that the following partial lighting range acti fourth, before the previous one has been deactivated, are irritating changes in the Brightness largely avoided.

Claims (29)

1. Lighting arrangement for a motor vehicle with lighting units for illuminating the surroundings of the motor vehicle in order to improve the view of a vehicle occupant located in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle at least while driving, characterized in that at least one lighting unit ( 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 103 , 104 ) is provided and set up to form a lighting area (L) which, viewed in the vehicle longitudinal direction (x), extends laterally next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ) at least along part of the passenger compartment ( 2 ). 2. Lighting arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the lighting area (L) extends laterally next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ) at least along the part of the passenger compartment ( 2 ) which serves to accommodate the driver. 3. Lighting arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the lighting area (L) extends laterally next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ) along the entire Fahrgastzel le ( 2 ). 4. Lighting arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that the lighting area (L) extends laterally next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ) along the entire lateral vehicle body ( 10 , 10 '). 5. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the Leuchtbe rich (L) in the vehicle longitudinal direction (x) to the front up to the illuminated area (A) of the low beam of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) extends. 6. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the light bulb range (L) in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (x) to behind that extends rear end of the vehicle body. 7. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on both longitudinal sides of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) in each case at least one lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is provided to form a lighting area (L), which is in the vehicle length Direction (x) viewed from the side next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ) extends. 8. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) on the side vehicle body rie ( 10 , 10 ') is arranged. 9. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) to form a lighting area (L) which extends in the vehicle longitudinal direction (x) viewed laterally next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ), at least one of the following locations of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) is provided:

• - on a front fender ( 17 ) of the vehicle,
• - on a sill or a shock absorber of the vehicle,
• - on a front vehicle door ( 15 ),
• - on a rear vehicle door ( 16 ),
• - on one of the pillars ( 11 , 12 , 13 ) of the vehicle body, in particular the A, B or C pillar,
• - on a rear fender ( 18 ) of the vehicle,
• - on the roof rail ( 14 ) of the vehicle,
• - on an outside mirror of the vehicle,
• - behind a window ( 26 ) of the vehicle,
• - on part of the locking device of the vehicle.

10. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit is integrated in another lighting device ( 8 , 9 ) of the motor vehicle, in particular in a forward beam the headlight or a taillight. 11. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is gebil det by a headlight. 12. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that means ( 80 ) for near-field illumination of an area immediately next to the passenger compartment ( 2 ) are provided. 13. Lighting arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that the means ( 80 ) for near-field illumination depending on the actuation of an element of the locking device of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) is controllable. 14. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is coupled to a control device by means of which the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) depending on the state of another Functional group of the motor vehicle and / or the environment of the motor vehicle is controllable. 15. Lighting arrangement according to claim 14, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is controllable in dependence on the driving speed and / or the speed change of the motor vehicle. 16. Lighting arrangement according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that means for detecting the surroundings of the motor vehicle, in particular oncoming motor vehicles, are provided and that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is controllable depending on the output signals of the detection means , 17. Lighting arrangement according to claim 15 and 16, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is controllable as a function of both the driving speed and / or the speed change of the motor vehicle and the output signals of the detection means. 18. Lighting arrangement according to one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is controllable as a function of the actuation of a flashing device and / or the steering angle of the motor vehicle. 19. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3-7 , 103 , 104 ) is dimmable to flatten the switch-on and switch-off edges. 20. Lighting arrangement according to claim 19, characterized shows that this switch-on edge is steeper than the switch-off edge. 21. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 5 ) on the outer skin ( 10 , 10 ') of the vehicle body series is attached. 22. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 3 , 4 , 6 , 7 ) on an internal structural part ( 20 ) of the motor vehicle, for. B. ger a door module carrier is attached. 23. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that means for selectively covering or releasing the light exit surface of the lighting unit ( 3-7 ) are provided. 24. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit ( 7 ) is pivotally mounted. 25. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one lighting unit ( 103 , 104 ) is set up to form a lateral light-emitting area (L), with a predetermined, lighting feature, such as. B. the color or the intensity of the light, is available in at least two different forms, and the two forms of the lighting feature for each observer are separately recognizable. 26. Lighting arrangement according to claim 25, characterized in that the lighting feature is selected from the group of the following lighting features:

• 1. color of light,
• 2. intensity of light,
• 3. beam angle of light,
• 4. time course of the light,
• 5. size of light exit surfaces of the lighting unit,
• 6. Form of light exit surfaces of the lighting unit.

27. Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two Lichtquel len ( 104 a, 104 b) at least one lighting unit ( 3 , 104 ) to form the lateral lighting area (L) are seen before, which at a defined distance from each other and are arranged in a defined position relative to one another on the side vehicle body. 28. Motor vehicle with a passenger compartment for reception at least one vehicle occupant and with lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims. 29. A method for illuminating the surroundings of a motor vehicle in order to improve the view of a vehicle occupant in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle during the journey, with a lighting arrangement seen on the vehicle, characterized in that at least one lighting unit ( 3-7 ) in Depending on the speed of control signals to form a luminous area (L) is controlled, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (x) viewed laterally next to the motor vehicle ( 1 ) at least along part of the passenger cell ( 2 ).