DE102013215359B3 - Mechanically-free bend lighting module - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a light module (10) for a motor vehicle headlight, with a light source assembly (12), a primary optics (13) and a secondary optics (16). The light source assembly (12) has a row of juxtaposed semiconductor light sources (14.i) whose luminous flux can be controlled individually or in groups. The primary optics generates an intermediate light distribution and illuminates a light entrance surface of the secondary optics. The secondary optics has at least two facets (30, 32). Each facet has a cutting plane parallel to the optical axis with maximum refractive power and a cutting plane parallel thereto and parallel to the optical axis with a minimum refractive power. The cutting planes of maximum (minimum) power of the various facets are rotated around the optical axis by a first angle.

Description

The invention relates to a light module, according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such a light module has an optical system which has a light source assembly with a primary optic and a secondary optic having an optical axis, wherein the light source assembly has at least one row of n semiconductor light sources arranged side by side in a straight line on a circuit board whose luminous flux can be controlled individually or in groups and absteuerbar, and wherein the primary optics is adapted to generate from the light emanating from the light sources, an intermediate light distribution having a straight edge, and wherein the primary optics is adapted to illuminate a light entrance surface of the secondary optics.

Such a light module generates a pivotable light bundle of a rule-conforming headlight light distribution of a road vehicle, wherein a pivoting of the light beam by changing a power allocation to individual semiconductor light sources, which are arranged side by side in a matrix.

Such a light module is from the DE 10 2011 077 636 A1 known.

Also the DE 10 2009 021 046 A1 shows largely the features of the preamble except for the arrangement of the semiconductor light sources on a circuit board. The facet sections of the secondary optics embodied as lenses are directed with the focus on the intermediate light distribution. The facets are assigned to different primary optics.

The DE 20 2010 003 058 U1 shows an embodiment of a secondary optics facet reflector. The EP 2 237 080 A1 shows an embodiment of a secondary optics as a facet lens.

In the from the DE 10 2011 077 636 A1 known light module, each of the semiconductor light sources is arranged on a light entrance side of an optical element. The optical element is set up to refract the light bundle emanating from the semiconductor light source by refraction and internal total reflections in such a way that light emerging from the light exit surface of the optical element has a smaller opening angle than the light entering the respective optical element. The light exit surfaces of the optical elements are arranged in a matrix-like manner and adjacently in the light module, so that a coherent light exit surface results, which is composed of the light exit surfaces of the individual optical elements. The totality of the individual optical elements is also referred to here as primary optics.

On the contiguous light exit surface of this primary optics, an intermediate light distribution arises when the semiconductor light sources are switched on.

The light module has a secondary optics, which is arranged by their arrangement and their optical properties to image the intermediate light distribution in an apron of the light module, the apron is at a proper use of the light module as part of a motor vehicle headlight in front of the vehicle. In this way, the apron is illuminated with a light distribution, which consists of individual, adjacent pixels. Each pixel is the image of a light exit surface of a single optical element.

By controlling the power of the individually controllable semiconductor light sources, the spatial distribution of the light in the headlight apron can be adapted to the respective traffic conditions.

Illuminating the apron with such a light distribution is also called a light function. Examples of such light functions are low-beam light functions as well as high-beam and split-beam light functions, without this enumeration being to be understood as an exhaustive enumeration.

In the adaptive light function of the partial high beam, which is also referred to as glare-free high beam, has now established the division of the high beam into multiple light stripes, which are vertically aligned when used as intended. The control of the semiconductor light sources, one of which illuminates a strip, takes place, for example, by a control device which evaluates signals from sensors monitoring the apron. This evaluation allows, for example, a detection and localization of oncoming traffic. When oncoming traffic is detected, there is a reduction in the brightness of the light stripe in which the oncoming traffic was located.

Far more difficult is the task of realizing a dynamic cornering light function by superimposing a plurality of selectively generated light distributions. A dynamic curve light function is here understood to mean a light function in which the main emission direction of the light module follows the steering angle, so that the light beam is swiveled to the right in a right-hand curve and to the left in a left-hand curve.

All previously known proposals provide light distributions consisting of a multiplicity of square, diamond-shaped or triangular pixel-like individual light distributions. The individual light distributions are generated in predetermined patterns in order to give rise to a cumulative light distribution composed of the individual light distributions in a pixel-like manner.

In all these proposals, the number of pixels far exceeds the number of sensibly adjustable total light distributions. From the multitude of theoretically possible switch-on patterns of the light sources involved, only a few samples are suitable for generating a rule-conforming low beam. This undesirable many light sources are required to realize a dynamic cornering light function, so that these approaches are associated with corresponding economic disadvantages.

It is also disadvantageous that in the case of the known headlamps which have a plurality of rows of light sources arranged in a matrix, it is not readily possible to produce the usual 20 ° or 30 ° increases in the cut-off of an asymmetrical low-beam distribution. Achievable angles of rise are limited in the known headlamps to higher values, which are between 60 ° and 90 °. Such steep gradients of the cut-off line are uncomfortable for normal driving situations. The swinging movement of the cut-off line is very noticeable, especially when driving through bends, which is perceived as disturbing by the driver. In addition, the area of the light distribution, which lies asymmetrically above the horizon, has to be shifted very far to its own side of the road in order to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic, which undesirably reduces the range of the dipped beam in the middle of the road. For these reasons, working without mechanical pivoting devices cornering light function with the known matrix headlamps only with disproportionate technical complexity and functional limitations to realize.

Against this background, the object of the invention in the specification of a light module that realizes a working without mechanical adjustment dynamic Kurvenlichtfunktion with a significantly reduced cost of light sources and optics and the low beam cornering light distribution with a lying between 20 ° and 30 ° rise angle the light-dark boundary in the asymmetrical part of the low beam distribution allowed.

This object is achieved with the features of claim 1. The subject matter of claim 1 differs from the known light module in that the secondary optics has at least two facets which are both focused on the intermediate light distribution, wherein each of the two facets has a sectional plane parallel to the optical axis with a maximum refractive power for the respective facet and a thereto vertical sectional plane parallel to the optical axis with a minimum refractive power for the respective facet, and wherein the sectional planes of maximum refractive power of the different facets are rotated by a first angle relative to each other about the optical axis and wherein the sectional planes of minimum refractive power of the different facets to each other around the optical axis Axis are twisted around the first angle.

Each facet generates its own light spot, which is limited by a cut-off line. The light-dark boundaries of the spots against each other are also rotated by the first angle. In the superimposition of the spots of the facets, therefore, forms a Abknickpunkt having cumulative light distribution. The angle of elevation can be set to any value when designing the secondary optics. In other words: The optical system of the light module is set up by the faceted realization of the secondary optics to a low beam spot with a partially horizontal light-dark boundary and a partially obliquely to the horizon on the horizon rising light-dark boundary and a to create as a point of intersection of these two cut-off lines resulting breakpoint.

The light module according to the invention produces many similar, strongly overlapping dipped-beam spotlight light distributions, which are shifted in each case at small angles with respect to one another when the light module is used as intended, the small angles lying in a horizontal plane. The low beam spot is moved by turning on and off or driving up and down (dimming) the brightness of individual low beam spotlight light distributions.

It is preferred that the secondary optics is a lens or a concave mirror reflector.

It is also preferred that the facets of the secondary optics are arranged to image a point of the intermediate light distribution on a screen standing in front of the light module, whose surface is perpendicular to the optical axis of the secondary optics, as a line, wherein the line generated by the one facet with that of line generated at the other facet includes the first angle and that a central semiconductor light source from the row of semiconductor light sources on the screen produces a spot with a break point at H = V = 0 point or just below, where H = V = 0 point Piercing point of the optical axis is determined by the screen.

It is also preferable that the central semiconductor light source is the semiconductor light source through which the optical axis 22 the secondary optics 16 passes through.

A further preferred refinement is characterized in that at least one of the facets is adapted to image a straight edge of the intermediate light distribution as a first light-dark boundary and at least one other of the facets is adapted to use the straight edge as a second light-dark boundary. Imagine dark boundary, where the two cut-off borders intersect each other and include the first angle.

It is also preferable that the optical axis crosses the line of the semiconductor light sources.

It is also preferable that the at least two facets are both adapted to focus on the centroid of the intermediate light distribution generated by the primary optics.

A further preferred refinement is characterized in that the number n of semiconductor light sources lying next to one another in a row is greater than or equal to 10, in particular greater than or equal to 15, and less than or equal to 40, in particular less than or equal to 30.

It is also preferred that the optics formed from the primary optics and the secondary optics is adapted to distribute the light from a semiconductor light source to an area which extends from the point of breakage in the horizontal direction by 6 ° to 10 ° to the opposite side of the traffic and is also in horizontal direction extends by 2 ° to 4 ° to the own lane side.

It is also preferred that the light module is set up such that a semiconductor light source located to the left of a first semiconductor light source and adjacent to the first semiconductor light source generates a spot with a breakpoint that is approximately 1 ° to 3 °, preferably 1 ° to 1.5 horizontally to the right offset to the Abknickpunkt the spot of the first semiconductor light source is located, and that the light module is adapted to a right of the first semiconductor light source and the first semiconductor light source adjacent semiconductor light source generates a spot with a Abknickpunkt, the about 1 ° to 3 °, preferably 1 ° to 1.5 horizontally offset to the left offset to the Abknickpunkt the spot of the first semiconductor light source.

A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the secondary optics has three facets.

An alternative preferred embodiment is characterized in that the secondary optics has five facets.

It is also preferred that each facet has a toric surface, wherein a toric surface is a curved, non-rotationally symmetric surface having different curvatures in differently oriented cutting planes, wherein in two mutually perpendicular sections a profile plane with a maximum curvature and a profile plane with a curvature minimum finds.

It is also preferable that the secondary optics is a lens and the toric surfaces lie on the light entry side of the lens facing the primary optics.

Furthermore, it is preferred that a first toric surface lies on the left side of the light entry surface, a second toric surface lies on the right side of the light entry surface, a third toric surface lies between the first toric surface and the second toric surface, the first toric surface a first, vertically extending profile with a minimum amount of convex curvature, and the first toric surface has a second, horizontally extending profile of maximum convex curvature perpendicular to the first profile, and wherein the second toric surface is a first, vertically extending Profile having a minimum amount of convex curvature and having a second, horizontally extending profile with absolute maximum concave curvature, which is perpendicular to the first, and wherein the third toric surface has a first profile with absolute minimal convex curvature, and a second profile with absolute maximum concave curvature that is perpendicular to the first profile. Further advantages will become apparent from the description and the accompanying figures.

It is understood that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below can be used not only in the particular combination given, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description. In each case, in schematic form:

1 an optical system of a first embodiment of a light module according to the invention;

2 a typical low beam distribution for right-hand traffic;

3 a perspective view of a three-faceted collecting lens;

4 different views of the lens from the 3 ;

5 a lens of another embodiment;

6 an embodiment of a light source assembly;

7 different views of elements of the light source assembly from the 6 ; and

8th an arrangement of a pair of an LED and a light of this LED collecting collection lens portion of a primary optics of the light module.

Like reference numerals refer to the same or at least functionally comparable elements in the figures.

1 shows an optical system of a first embodiment of a light module according to the invention 10 , The optical system consists of a light source assembly 12 with a primary optic 13 and one here as a lens 15 realized secondary optics 16 , The light source assembly 12 here has a single row of side by side in a row along a straight line on a circuit board 18 arranged semiconductor light sources 14.i with i = 1, 2, ..., n, where n is preferably a number between 10 and 40.

The semiconductor light sources are preferably light emitting diodes (LEDs), in particular SMD LEDs, wherein the abbreviation SMD stands for Surface Mounted Device. The board 18 is facing away from the light source line opposite side on a heat sink 20 attached, which in the operation of the semiconductor light sources 14.i In the chips of the LEDs resulting heat via a thermal contact of the semiconductor light sources with the board and a thermal contact of the board to the heat sink receives and releases into the environment.

The row of semiconductor light sources 14.i is in a proper use of the light module in a vehicle that is on a flat surface or drives, preferably parallel to the horizon. If in this application of a horizontal orientation, orientation or location is mentioned, this should always refer to the intended use as defined. This applies analogously to location information such as above or below.

The primary optics 13 exists in the in 1 illustrated Ausführungsbespiel from a series of converging lenses 13.j with j = 1, 2, ... m. The number m of the collecting lenses is at least as large as the number n of the semiconductor light sources.

Depending on a converging lens is arranged in the main emission of each semiconductor light source close to the semiconductor light source. A dense arrangement is here understood to mean an arrangement at a distance which is at most 1 to 2 and typically just under one millimeter, the light exit surfaces of the semiconductor light sources, however, not to touch the light entry surfaces of the collecting lenses.

The collecting lenses are preferably realized as subregions of a one-piece cohesively connected transparent base body, which simplifies the alignment of the collecting lens subregions relative to the semiconductor light sources and with each other and permits fast, accurate and reliable assembly.

Each individual collecting lens subarea preferably has a flat light entrance surface facing its semiconductor light source and a convex light exit surface, that of the secondary optics following in the beam path 16 is facing.

The secondary optics 16 has an optical axis 22 on and is arranged so that the optical axis 22 the row of semiconductor light sources 14.i crosses. The row direction of the horizontally arranged semiconductor light sources 14.i and the optical axis 22 tension an imaginary horizontal median plane 24 on.

An imaginary vertical median plane 26 is perpendicular to the horizontal mid-plane 26 in that it is the horizontal midplane along the optical axis 24 cuts. When the light module is used as intended, the optical axis penetrates 22 the so-called H = V = 0 degree point on a flat screen 28 which is located at a great distance from the light module in the light path of the light emanating from the light module and its surface normal parallel to the optical axis 22 is. On the horizontally lying H axis of this screen 28 will be angular deviations from the optical axis 22 applied in horizontal direction. On the vertically oriented V-axis of the screen will be angular deviations from the optical axis 22 in the vertical direction applied. The apex of the angle is in each case in the headlight, or in the light module 10 ,

In the embodiment shown in the 1 is shown, is the secondary optics 16 as a condensing lens 15 realized. In an alternative embodiment, the secondary optics is realized as a faceted concave mirror.

For all secondary lenses used in the subject of the application the following applies: The lens 15 has a center defined as the center of the largest sphere that can be thoughtfully accommodated in the lens. The optical axis 22 is such that it coincides with the straight line passing through the center of the lens and the point H = V = 0 in front of the vehicle when used and driven straight ahead in the direction of use.

The as a lens 16 realized secondary optics 18 is one at least two facets 30 . 32 comprising condenser lens. Every facet has one of the primary optics 13 facing light entry surface and a light exit surface. The facets 30 . 32 differ in the embodiment according to 1 by differently shaped light entry surfaces.

The light source side focal point of each of the facets 30 . 32 is preferably on the optical axis 22 , Each facet focuses preferably on the light exit surface of the primary optics 13 or one in the transparent main body of the primary optics 13 lying plane and not on the light exit surface of the light path in front of the primary optics 13 lying semiconductor light sources 14.i , In this plane, an intermediate light distribution of the light emitted by the light sources is formed. Unlike a conventional convex lens that has no facets, the lens is 15 of the light module according to the invention configured to generate from the primary light from the incident light a light distribution having at least two intersecting light-dark boundaries. The crossing point of the light-dark boundaries forms the turning point of an asymmetrical low-beam distribution.

The facets 30 . 32 They are characterized by the fact that each of the facets is at a great distance from the lens 15 in the light path behind the lens 15 (ie in the run-up to the light module) has lying focal line. A focal line is understood here to mean a line which results as the image of a point which is located on the light exit surface of the primary optics 13 lies.

The at least two facets 30 . 32 are preferably both adapted to the centroid of the light exit surface of the primary optics 13 to focus and this focal point 33 each image in a faceted individual focal line. The at least two facets 30 . 32 are also set up so that their focal points, which form the image of a point, intersect at a great distance.

A point is imaged as a line by optics if all the optical paths between the object-side point and the image-side focal line are equal in length. The optical paths are then the same length if, for each beam between the object point and the image line in the beam path, the products of the geometric path lengths traversed by light in the various media and the refractive indices of these media are constant in their sum for all beams , Here the media are the material of the lens as well as the surrounding air.

The s _{k are} the respective path lengths in the different media and the l _k are the refractive indices of the media. The optical system of the light module is set up in particular by the facets having realization of secondary optics to a low beam spot 34 with a partially horizontal light-dark border and a partially oblique to the horizon on the horizon rising light-dark border 37 and a breakpoint resulting as the intersection of these two cut-offs 38 to create.

2 shows a typical low beam distribution of a low beam spot 34 for right-hand traffic. This low-beam distribution is characterized by a bright area, the left of the vertical V a horizontally extending cut-off and to the right of the vertical V one with a positive slope angle, for example, 30 ° to the horizontal to the right rising light-dark boundary 37 has. The curved lines running below the cut-off lines are lines along which the brightness is constant. From line to line, the brightness decreases from the HV junction point to the outside.

In a preferred embodiment, the number n of adjacent LEDs in a row is greater than or equal to 10 and less than or equal to 40. More preferably, n is a number that is greater than or equal to 15 and less than or equal to 30. These values are not to be seen as sharp limits. In principle, the invention can also be realized with less than 10 light sources. However, then turns on a pivoting of the light beam aufsteuern and Absteuern the luminous flux of individual LEDs clearly noticeable, which could be perceived by the driver as disturbing. In principle, the invention is also with more than 40 LEDs realizable. However, then the cost advantages mentioned above, which the invention has in comparison to matrix LED headlights, are correspondingly lower.

The light module 10 is preferably set up to produce a low beam spot. For the fulfillment of a complete low-beam function, a supplementary light module is preferably present, which produces a broad basic light distribution, the bright area of which in any case does not lie above the horizon. These two light modules are pairwise preferred in a motor vehicle both right and left available. When the dipped beam is switched on, both light modules of one side are then operated together. The complete low-beam distribution results as a superposition of the broad basic light distribution with the low-beam spot.

Each LED of the low beam spot module 10 out 1 creates for itself a low beam spot with a light-dark boundary, which at least one Abknickpunkt 38 has, so that the own side of the road is further illuminated than the road side of oncoming traffic.

A central LED from the row of LEDs produces a spot with a break point in the H = V = 0 - point or just below. The central LED is for example the LED, through which the optical axis 22 the secondary optics 16 of the 1 passes through.

The from the primary optics 13 and secondary optics 16 formed optics is preferably adapted to distribute the light of the LED to an area extending from the Abknickpunkt in the horizontal direction by 6 ° to 10 ° to the oncoming traffic side and in also horizontal direction by 2 ° to 4 ° to the own lane side extends. This applies at least approximately for each spot of a single LED 14.i out of line. Smaller deviations of the horizontal angular width of the individual spots can result from the different distances of their main emission directions to the optical axis of the secondary optics and can be accepted.

A LED located to the left of the central LED and adjacent to the central LED produces a spot with a turn-off point which is offset approximately 1 ° to 3 °, preferably 1 ° to 1.5, horizontally to the right. The increase in the bright-dark limit of this spot is then in the bright area of the spotlight of the central LED and is therefore at best perceivable as a comparatively small brightness difference, but not as a pronounced cut-off line.

From this information a horizontal angular width of the spots of z. B. each about 12 ° at a distance of the Abknickpunkte their light-dark boundaries of 1 ° to 3 ° shows that the spots of adjacent LEDs overlap correspondingly wide; As a result, the brightnesses generated by the individual LEDs add up in the overlapping area. In order to produce a desired bright low-beam spot, at least two, but preferably two to six, in each case adjacent pairs in the row LEDs are operated together.

When driving through a right-hand bend, the spot is swiveled to the right and when driving through a left-hand bend, the spot is swiveled to the left. The sensor technology required for this and the generation of control signals is known, for example, from the control of mechanically pivotable light modules from series use, and therefore requires no further explanation here.

In the context of the present invention, panning of the spot based on such signals is accomplished by turning on and off LEDs, or more generally, by driving (zooming) in and out (decreasing) the luminous flux of LEDs. For example, the spot is generated by a number of r simultaneously driven LEDs, all in a row. When driving through a right-hand bend, one of these groups on the left-hand side is switched on or turned on. This LED generates a spot with a break point of the cut-off line that is 1 ° to 3 ° further to the right. As a result, the spot is swiveled to the right, as it were, electronically and without any mechanical pivoting movement, and is guided along the curve. With narrower curve radii, correspondingly more left neighboring LEDs are switched on or turned on step by step. In order not to increase the overall brightness of the spot and to prevent a possible Gegenverkehrsblendung in the curve, for each left of the original r switched on LEDs additionally controlled LED lying on the right edge of this group of LEDs LEDs are switched off or dimmed, wherein under one Dimming a Absteuern and thus reducing their luminous flux is to be understood.

The bending light-dark boundaries are generated in the invention by the secondary optics. 3 shows a perspective view of such realized here as a convergent lens secondary optics, which has three facets here. This secondary lens serving as a condensing lens 15 is set up and within the optical system of the light module 10 arranged so that it is focused on the light exit surfaces of the primary optics. In contrast to a simple, non-faceted projection lens, the faceted lens used according to the invention designs a light distribution at least two intersecting chiaroscuro borders 36 . 37 , where the crossing point of the light-dark boundaries is the break point 38 the Indian 2 shown low beam distribution 34 represents.

3 shows in particular a three-faceted lens 15 , Each lens facet has toric surfaces. In this case, a toric surface is generally understood to mean a curved, non-rotationally symmetrical surface which has different curvatures in differently oriented cutting planes, whereby a profile plane with a maximum curvature and a profile plane with a minimum curvature are found in two mutually perpendicular sections. This definition is expressly intended to include non-circular profiles whose curvature is therefore not constant over the arc length.

The toric surfaces are preferably on the light entrance side of the lens. A first toric surface 40 lies on the left side of the light entry surface. A second toric surface 42 lies on the right side of the light entry surface. A third toric surface 44 lies between the first toric surface 40 and the second toric surface 42 ,

In this application, a profile is understood to mean a space curve running in a plane. For each cutting plane parallel to the optical axis, each profile defines such a cutting plane. The first toric surface 40 has a first, vertically extending profile 40.1 with minimal curvature. This first profile is convexly curved. In addition, the first toric surface has a second, horizontally extending profile 40.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is also convexly curved. The first profile 40.1 and the second profile 40.2 are perpendicular to each other.

The second toric surface 42 has a first, vertically extending profile 42.1 with minimal curvature. This profile is convex curved. In addition, the second has toric surface 42 a second, horizontal profile 42.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is concavely curved. The first profile 42.1 and the second profile 42.2 are perpendicular to each other.

The third toric surface 44 has a first profile 44.1 with minimal curvature. This profile is convex curved. In addition, the third points toric surface 44 a second profile 44.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is concavely curved. The first profile 44.1 and the second profile 44.2 are perpendicular to each other. The first profile 44.1 the third toric surface 44 closes with the first profile 40.1 the first toric surface 40 and the first profile 42.1 the second toric surface 42 an angle that is the desired slope angle of the cut-off line in the break point 38 the asymmetrical low beam distribution 34 equivalent. The same angle closes the second profile 44.2 the third toric surface 44 also with the second profile 40.2 the first toric surface 40 and the second profile 42.2 the second toric surface 42 one. These are in the embodiment of 2 each 30 °.

The volumes of the lens facets bounded by the toric surfaces have different imaging properties and thus produce the differently inclined regions and light-dark boundaries 36 . 37 the in 2 illustrated light distribution. In the present case, the two outer lens facets produce, of which the left of the first toric surface 40 is bounded, and of which the other of the second toric surface 42 is limited, the horizontal cut-off line 36 , The central lens facet extending from the third toric surface 44 is limited creates the highlighting the 30 ° rise light-dark boundary 37 , 4 shows in 4a a plan view of the light entrance surface of the faceted lens 15 from the 3 , 4b shows a side view of the lens 15 , and 4c shows a section through the lens 15 which, in a sectional plane lying horizontally when used as intended, extends along the line AA 4a he follows. All facets have different profile curvatures at different angles of intersection.

The sectional planes of maximum and minimum curvature are perpendicular to each other within a facet. At the subject of 4b the curvature of the more vertically oriented profiles visible there as the right edges is comparatively small. At the subject of 4c the curvatures of the profiles of the first toric surface and the second toric surface visible there as lower edges are comparatively large. The curvatures of the 4c are compared with the curvatures in 4b maximum. This can be generalized so that the cutting planes of maximum curvature and minimum curvature of a facet in the lens are perpendicular to each other.

The position of the profile planes of the curvature extremes depends on the position of the light-dark boundaries generated thereby. Facets which generate differently inclined light-dark boundaries have at the same angle around the optical axis against each other twisted profile planes of maximum or minimum curvature. In the example shown, this is 30 degrees. The drawn 30 degree angle is in 4a between the level 44.2 maximum profile curvature of the middle, third facet 44 and the plane 42.2 maximum profile curvature of the right, second facet 42 ,

5 shows a lens 15 a further embodiment. The correspond in the 5 shown views of the respective viewing direction forth in the 4 represented views.

5a shows a plan view of the light entrance surface of the faceted lens. 5b shows a side view and 5c shows a section in a horizontal plane of use when used properly along the line BB 5a he follows. All facets have different profile curvatures at different angles of intersection.

The Lens 15 of the embodiment of the 5 is different from the ones in the 3 and 4 illustrated lenses 15 by having five instead of three different facets. Each facet is bounded on its primary optics facing light entrance side of a toric surface.

A first toric surface 46 lies on the left side of the light entry surface. A second toric surface 48 lies on the right side of the light entry surface. An imaginary horizontal section, along the line BB in the 5a lies, divides the lens into an upper part and a lower part.

In the upper part is a third toric surface between the first toric surface 46 and a fourth toric 52 Area. The fourth toric surface 52 lies there between the third toric surface 50 and the second toric surface 48 ,

In the lower part is a fifth toric surface 54 between the first toric surface 46 and the third toric surface 50 , The third toric surface 50 lies there between the fifth toric surface 54 and the second toric surface 48 ,

The first toric surface 46 has a first, vertically extending profile 46.1 with minimal curvature. This first profile is convexly curved. In addition, the first toric surface has a second, horizontally extending profile 46.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is also convexly curved. The first profile and the second profile are perpendicular to each other.

The second toric surface 48 has a first, vertically extending profile 48.1 with minimal curvature. This profile is convex curved. In addition, the second has toric surface 48 a second, horizontal profile 48.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is concavely curved. The first profile and the second profile are perpendicular to each other.

The third toric surface 50 has a first profile 50.1 with minimal curvature. This profile is convex curved. In addition, the third points toric surface 50 a second profile 50.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is concavely curved. The first profile and the second profile are perpendicular to each other. The first profile 50.1 the third toric surface 50 closes with the first profile 46.1 the first toric surface 46 and the first profile 48.1 the second toric surface 48 an angle, the desired slope angle in a break point 38 the asymmetrical low beam distribution 34 equivalent. The same angle closes the second profile 50.2 the third toric surface 50 also with the second profile 46.2 the first toric surface 46 and the second profile 48.2 the second toric surface 48 one. These are in the embodiment of 5 each 30 °. The 30 ° angle is a first angle in the sense of the claims.

The fourth toric surface 52 and the fifth toric surface 54 each has a first profile 52.1 , respectively. 54.1 with minimal curvature. This profile is convex curved. In addition, the fourth indicates toric surface 52 and the fifth toric surface 54 each a second profile 52.2 , respectively. 54.2 with magnitude maximum curvature on. This second profile is concavely curved. The first profile 52.1 , respectively. 54.1 and the second profile 52.2 , respectively. 54.2 a toric surface 52 , respectively. 54 are perpendicular to each other.

The first profile 52.1 the fourth toric surface 52 and the first profile 54.1 the fifth toric surface 54 closes each with the first profile 46.1 the first toric surface 46 and the first profile 48.1 the second toric surface 48 an angle, the desired slope angle in a break point 38 the asymmetrical low beam distribution 34 equivalent. The same angle closes the second profile 52.2 . 54.2 the fourth toric surface 54 and the fifth toric surface 54 also with the second profile 46.2 the first toric surface 46 and the second profile 48.2 the second toric surface 48 one. These are in the embodiment of 5 each - 8 °.

The fourth facet, the primary optic side of the fourth toric surface 52 is bounded, and the fifth facet, the primary optic side of the fifth toric surface 54 is limited, together create a cut-off, which intersects the horizontal cut-off line and the right of the break point with an angle of 30 ° rising light-dark boundary in the turn-off and rises to the left with a slope of 8 °. The facets which each produce a cut-off line are preferably symmetrical with respect to the areas of their toric light entry surfaces and with respect to their position symmetrical to the vertical center plane 26 arranged. As a result, the kink point 34 the light distribution which adjusts in advance 38 in H = V = 0 point.

The through the toric surfaces 46 . 48 . 50 . 52 . 54 limited lens facets have different imaging properties and thus produce differently inclined areas and light-dark boundaries of the light distribution. In the present case, the two outer lens facets produce, of which the left of the first toric surface 46 is bounded and of which the other of the second toric surface 48 is limited, the horizontal cut-off line. The central lens facet extending from the third toric surface 50 is limited creates the highlighting the 30 ° rise light-dark boundary.

The sectional planes of maximum and minimum curvature are perpendicular to each other within a facet, or within a toric surface.

The position of the profile planes of the curvature extremes depends on the position of the light-dark boundaries generated thereby. Facets that produce differently inclined light-dark boundaries have at the same angle against each other twisted profile levels maximum or minimum curvature.

The drawn 30 ° angle is in 5a between the level 50.1 minimal profile curvature of the middle, third facet 50 and the plane 46.1 minimal profile curvature of the left, first facet 46 and also the right, second facet 48 ,

An indicated 8 ° angle is in 5a between the level 52.1 minimal profile curvature of the fourth facet 52 and the plane 46.1 minimal profile curvature of the left, first facet 46 and also the right, second facet 48 , Analog is a marked 8 ° angle in 5a between the level 54.1 minimal profile curvature of the fifth facet 54 and the plane 46.1 minimal profile curvature of the left, first facet 46 and also the right, second facet 48 ,

The five facets produce three different light-dark boundaries in the light distribution. Corresponding to the drawn angles, these are a horizontally running light-dark boundary for the 0 degree angle, a light-dark boundary tilted by -8 degrees with respect to the horizontal light-dark boundary and one tilted by +30 degrees with respect to the horizontal light-dark boundary. The resulting low-beam light distribution thus additionally has a light-dark boundary increasing by 8 degrees to the left from the H = V = 0 degree point, so that the left between the H = 0 degrees and H = -8 degrees extending slope area is illuminated by the -8 degree facet. However, the illumination of this area is comparatively weak because the area of this facet is smaller compared to the areas of the other facets.

A common ground between the objects of 2 and 3 on the one hand and the subject of the 4 on the other hand, the facets of an angular direction are largely symmetrical with respect to their surface area and position, with respect to the vertical median plane 26 are arranged.

6 shows an embodiment of a light source assembly 12 , which the already mentioned board 18 with mounted on semiconductor light sources in the form of SMD LEDs 14.i , an integrally realized, Sammellinsenteilbereiche 13.j having primary optic 13 and the heat sink 20 having. One with the board 18 connected plug element 56 serves for electrical contacting of the board and for electrical connection to a power supply and control. The semiconductor light sources preferably have a rectangular or square and planar light exit surface with an edge length of 0.3 mm up to about 2 mm. They are preferably arranged directly adjacent to one another in a straight line. Each semiconductor light source has a light exit surface. In front of each light exit surface in each case a converging lens of the primary optics is arranged.

7 shows different views of the board 18 with the light sources and the primary optics 13 , 7b shows a perspective view of the assembly from the board 18 with the plug element 56 and primary optics 13 which obscure the associated LEDs. 7a shows a first section through this assembly, which runs in the direction of the series arrangement. 7d shows a second section through this assembly, which extends transversely to the array and 7c shows a plan view and a position of said first cut and second cut.

Each SMD LED is assigned to each one collecting lens subarea as LED-individual primary optics, which is the light 60 collects this LED and directed to the secondary optics in the beam path.

The collection lens subregions are here as partitions of an integral transparent base body adjoining each other without spacing primary optics 13 realized. The integral body preferably consists of an organic or inorganic glass.

The secondary optics and the individual collecting lens subareas are dimensioned and arranged so that the light entrance surface of the secondary optics is illuminated as far as possible and that at the same time, however, as little light as possible gets past the light entry surface of the secondary optics. Each collecting lens subregion preferably has a flat light entry surface and a convex light exit surface. The collection lens subarea serving as LED-individual primary optics 13.j is in relation to the LED assigned to it 14.i arranged so that the optical axis 58 of the collection lens portion through the center of the LED 14.i runs and that the main emission direction of each LED on the optical axis 58 its associated Sammellinsenteilbereichs 13.j lies. The center points of the light exit surfaces of the collection lens subareas serving as LED-individual primary optics and the centers of the light exit surfaces of the LEDs have equal spacings T. The series arrangement of these collection lens subregions 13j therefore has the same pitch as the row arrangement of the LEDs 14i , The as primary optics 13 serving transparent body has a bridge shape, which on the board 18 spanned and over the board electrically contacted LEDs spanned. The bridge has lateral supports 62 on, with whom they are on the board 18 is attached. As shown in the figures, the LED-individual collective lens subregions and their one uniquely associated light sources are arranged in a row. This is the preferred embodiment.

In other exemplary embodiments, the LED-individual collective lens subregions and the light sources each uniquely assigned to them are arranged in multiple rows. Then the individual rows of light sources are parallel to each other. The LED-individual collecting lens sub-areas are equal to each other and their light exit surfaces adjoin one another without spacing. One longitudinal side of the row arrangement is imaged by the subsequent secondary optics as a cut-off line. On this longitudinal side, the collecting lens subregions preferably have a straight boundary surface. This preferably forms an internally totally reflecting mirror surface and thereby generates a sharply delimited intermediate light distribution, which facilitates the generation of sharp light-dark boundaries in advance of the light module. Alternatively or additionally, a further embodiment provides that the light emission on this longitudinal side is limited by a separate diaphragm edge.

7a shows in particular the focal plane 64 the secondary optics, which lies in a plane with the intermediate light distribution which occurs when the primary optics are switched on. The intermediate light distribution is preferably in the region of the lens body and thus in the interior of the transparent primary optics in the case of the primary optics implemented by converging lenses or collecting lens subregions.

7b shows a perspective view of the assembly from the board 18 with the plug element serving for electrical contacting 56 and primary optics 13 which the underneath and on the board 18 arranged LEDs obscured. 7a shows the first section through this assembly, which runs in the direction of the series arrangement. 7d shows the second section through this assembly, which is transverse to the array, and 7c shows a plan view of this assembly and a location of said sections. The first cut is the cut AA and the second cut is the cut BB.

Each LED light source 14.i is uniquely a collection lens subarea 13.j assigned. The focal point 33 The secondary optics is preferably in the centroid of the light exit surface of the primary optics 27 , comparisons 7c , In addition, the collection lens subareas 13j equal to each other and their light exit surfaces adjoin one another without spacing.

8th shows an arrangement of a pair of one of a plurality of semiconductor light sources in the form of an LED chip 14 and a light 60 This chip collecting collection part of the area 13.j the primary optics 13 , A division of primary optics 13 is denoted by T. The pitch T corresponds to the width of the individual collecting lens subregions 13.j and the distance of the centers of adjacent LED chips 14.i , With B _LED is an edge length of the LED chip 14.j designated. A virtual LED chip is included 14.i ' designated. The edge length of the virtual LED chip 14.i ' is labeled with B ' _LED . An object-side focal point of the collection lens portion 13.j is at F and a major point of the collection lens portion 13.j is denoted by H. The principal point H of a lens is an intersection of a principal plane of the lens with the optical axis 58 Are defined. The secondary optics 16 of the light module according to the invention 10 is preferably at a major point H of one of the collection lens portions 13.j , preferably to the main point H of the near an optical axis 22 of the light module 10 lying Sammellinsenteilbereichs 13.j focused. Reference f denotes the focal length of the collective lens portion 13.j , and S _F denotes a sectional width of the collecting lens portion 13.j , A distance between the LED chip 14.i and the light entrance surface of the collection lens portion 13.j is at S ₁ , and a distance between the virtual chip image 14.i ' and the light entrance surface of the collection lens portion 13.j is designated S ₂ .

0,1 mm ≤ S₁ ≤ 2 mm 1 × B_LED ≤ T ≤ 4 × B_LED The LED chip 14.i lies between the collection lens part area 13.j and its object-side focal point F. The LED chip 14.i becomes through the collection lens portion area 13.j so magnified that the (upright) virtual image 14.i ' of the chip (in the light exit direction in front of the object-side lens focal point F) is approximately the same size as the collecting lens portion 13.j , ie B ' _LED ≈ T. Approximately the following relationships apply to the specified quantities:

0.1 mm ≤ S ₁ ≤ 2 mm 1 × B _LED ≤ T ≤ 4 × B _LED

The collection lens subareas 13.j the primary optics 13 do not serve to create real intermediate images of the light sources 14.i but merely form an illuminated surface on the light exit side of the collecting lens subregions 13.j , The light sources 14.i are so between the light-striding surfaces of the collecting lens portions 13.j and the object-side foci F of the collection lens portions 13.j arranged the edges of the light sources 14.i on geometric connections from the focal points F to the lens edges. The radiating surfaces of the light sources 14.i are perpendicular to the optical axes of the collecting lens portions 13.j arranged. This results in a very uniform illumination of Sammellinsenteilbereiche 13.j , and on the light exit surfaces of the collection lens portions 13.j or just below the light exit surfaces results in a particularly homogeneous light distribution, the so-called. Intermediate light distribution.

From these intermediate light distributions, the secondary optics generate the light distribution which occurs in advance of the light module on the road. However, this light distribution is not an angle-accurate picture of the intermediate light distribution. The light distribution which arises on the road or on a screen in front of the vehicle has, in particular as a consequence of the faceted secondary optics, light-dark boundaries extending at different angles to the horizontal, which is not the case with the intermediate light distribution.

The optical axes of the individual collection lens subareas 13j the primary optics 13 all run in one plane, preferably they are parallel to each other. The optical axis 22 The secondary optics is on the side, the primary optics 13 facing, parallel to the axis of at least one of the collecting lens portions 13.j , In particular, the LEDs are arranged between their respective collecting lens part region and its focal point in such a way that a gap-free intermediate light distribution arises, which is composed of the virtual images of the light exit surfaces of the individual chips. It should be noted that the light exits from the LED first in air and only then incident on the associated collection lens portion. This is a difference from the prior art, in which LEDs are used with transparent potting compounds, wherein the potting possibly develops a lens effect.

Up to here exemplary embodiments have been explained which have collecting lenses as primary optics and a faceted lens as secondary optics. Other embodiments are characterized in that the primary optics used is an array of light guides which have conically widening cross sections to the light exit, which are oriented perpendicular to the main propagation direction of the light in the light guides and thus perpendicular to the respective optical axis and which are rectangular, in particular are square. The light exit surfaces of the individual light guides line up seamlessly and limit the luminous surface with sharp, straight edges. Each LED is assigned one light guide one-unique.

The light entry surface of each light guide is preferably flat and is parallel in front of the LED chip. The light guides are arranged as the associated light sources in a row, so that the light exit surfaces are in turn limited by at least one straight line. The light exit surface is preferably convex. The light guide array is preferably made of one of the abovementioned transparent materials, that is to say in particular of an organic or an inorganic glass. The light guide array is preferably manufactured as a one-piece base body, which has the light guides as light-conducting subregions.

A further embodiment provides as primary optics an arrangement of concave mirror reflectors. The concave reflectors, for example, have the shape of a truncated pyramid, which widens towards the light exit. Again, it is true that each LED is assigned exactly one such Reflektorein-unique.

For all three embodiments of the primary optics array as an array of reflector subregions, condenser lens subregions and light guide subregions, the sum of the light exit surfaces of the respective subregions forms the coherently connected intermediate light distribution.

As secondary optics comes as an alternative to the faceted lens, a faceted hollow reflector in question.

Claims (15)

Light module ( 10 ) for a motor vehicle headlight, with an optical system comprising a light source assembly ( 12 ) with a primary optic ( 13 ) and one an optical axis ( 22 ) secondary optics ( 16 ), wherein the light source assembly ( 12 ) at least one row of n next to each other in a straight line on a board ( 18 ) arranged semiconductor light sources ( 14.i with i = 1, 2,..., n,), the luminous flux of which can be activated and deactivated individually or in groups, the primary optics being adapted to generate an intermediate light distribution having a straight edge from the light emanating from the light sources , and illuminate a light entrance surface of the secondary optics, characterized in that the secondary optics at least two facets ( 30 . 32 ), both of which are focused on the intermediate light distribution, wherein each of the two facets has a cutting plane parallel to the optical axis with maximum refractive power for the respective facet and a cutting plane parallel thereto and parallel to the optical axis with a minimum refractive power for the respective facet, and wherein the cutting planes of maximum power of the different facets are twisted by a first angle about the optical axis, and wherein the cutting planes of minimum power of the various facets are rotated around the optical axis by the first angle. Light module ( 10 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the secondary optics are a lens ( 15 ) or a concave mirror reflector. Light module ( 10 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the facets of the secondary optics are adapted to image a point of the intermediate light distribution on a standing in front of the light module screen whose surface is perpendicular to the optical axis of the secondary optics, as a line, wherein the one of Facet generated line with the line produced by the other facet includes the first angle and that a central semiconductor light source from the row of semiconductor light sources on the screen generates a spot with a break point at the H = V = 0 point or just below, where the H = V = 0 - point is defined as the penetration point of the optical axis through the screen. Light module ( 10 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the central semiconductor light source is the semiconductor light source through which the optical axis ( 22 ) of secondary optics ( 16 ) passes through. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the facets is adapted to image a straight edge of the intermediate light distribution as a first cut-off and at least one other of the facets is adapted to the straight edge as a second bright To represent dark boundary, with the two cut-off borders intersect each other and include the first angle. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical axis ( 22 ) the row of semiconductor light sources ( 14.i ) crosses. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two facets are both adapted to the centroid of the primary optics ( 13 ) to focus generated intermediate light distribution. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the number n of the semiconductor light sources lying next to one another in a row is greater than or equal to 10, in particular greater than or equal to 15, and less than or equal to 40, in particular less than or equal to 30. Light module ( 10 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the primary optics ( 13 ) and secondary optics ( 16 ) formed optics is arranged to distribute the light of a semiconductor light source to an area extending from the Abknickpunkt in the horizontal direction by 6 ° to 10 ° to the oncoming traffic side and in also horizontal direction by 2 ° to 4 ° to the own lane side extends. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the light module is adapted to a left of a first semiconductor light source and the first semiconductor light source adjacent semiconductor light source generates a spot with a Abknickpunkt, about 1 ° to 3 °, preferably 1 ° to 1.5 horizontally offset to the right of the Abknickpunkt the spot of the first semiconductor light source, and that the light module is adapted to that a right of the first semiconductor light source and the first semiconductor light source adjacent semiconductor light source generates a spot with a Abknickpunkt, the about 1 ° to 3 °, preferably 1 ° to 1.5 horizontally offset to the left of the Abknickpunkt of the spot of the first semiconductor light source. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the secondary optics has three facets. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the secondary optics has five facets. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each facet has a toric surface, wherein a toric surface is a curved, non-rotationally symmetric surface having different curvatures in differently oriented cutting planes, wherein in two mutually perpendicular sections a profile plane with a maximum of curvature and a profile plane with a minimum of curvature finds. Light module ( 10 ) according to claim 13, characterized in that the secondary optics is a lens and the toric surfaces lie on the primary optics facing light entrance side of the lens. Light module ( 10 ) according to one of claims 13 or 14, characterized in that a first toric surface ( 40 ) is located on the left side of the light entry surface, a second toric surface ( 42 ) is located on the right side of the light entry surface, a third toric surface ( 44 ) between the first toric surface ( 40 ) and the second toric surface ( 42 ), the first toric surface ( 40 ) a first, vertically extending profile ( 40.1 ) having a minimum amount of convex curvature, and the first toric surface having a second, horizontally extending profile ( 40.2 ) having an absolute maximum convex curvature perpendicular to the first profile ( 40.1 ), and wherein the second toric surface ( 42 ) a first, vertically extending profile ( 42.1 ) with a minimum amount of convex curvature and a second, horizontally extending profile ( 42.2 ) with maximum concave curvature perpendicular to the first ( 42.1 ), and wherein the third toric surface ( 44 ) a first profile ( 44.1 ) having a minimum amount of convex curvature, and a second profile ( 44.2 ) having the maximum concave curvature which is perpendicular to the first profile ( 44.1 ) stands.

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