DE102020109841A1 - ARRANGEMENT AND VEHICLE - Google Patents

Abstract

An arrangement for a vehicle is disclosed. This has a vehicle component with a visible surface. The surface has a plurality of light emitting areas that are spaced from one another. Furthermore, according to one embodiment, the arrangement has a plurality of light sources, a respective decoupling surface of a respective light source of at least some of the light sources being assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. Furthermore, the arrangement has at least one image mask for at least one of the light-emitting areas. Alternatively, according to a further embodiment, the arrangement has an optical waveguide which has at least one coupling-in surface and a plurality of coupling-out surfaces, a respective coupling-out surface of at least part of the coupling-out surface of the optical waveguide being assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. A vehicle is also provided.

Description

The invention is based on an optical arrangement for a vehicle and a vehicle.

In the automotive sector, light design, such as a light design of light functions, for example of signal light functions, is becoming more and more important and elements on the vehicle are also increasingly being illuminated, i. H. provided with active lighting elements that were previously unlit.

In order to realize a light design of the light of previous lights, for example previous signal lights, in the automotive sector, reflectors, diffusers, diffusers, OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes), light guides or other refractive optical elements have mainly been used up to now.

In the case of electric vehicles, it is now possible, for example, to use certain areas of the vehicle that were previously unlit, such as an area of the radiator grille, i.e. an area between the front lights of the vehicle, over a large area or at least to a large extent for lighting, since there is no cooling function due to the inflow Wind through the grille is more necessary. For example, displays or other full-area lighting arrangements can be used for this purpose. However, this is not possible or to a lesser extent in vehicles with internal combustion engines, since a cooling effect should or must continue to be guaranteed by air flow through the radiator grille.

It is an object of the invention to create a simple and inexpensive optical arrangement in terms of device technology for illuminating a vehicle component for a vehicle, which has a high aesthetic appearance. Another object of the invention is to create a vehicle that has a vehicle component that is illuminated with a high aesthetic appeal.

The object with regard to the optical arrangement is achieved according to the features of claim 1 or according to the features of claim 5. Furthermore, the object with regard to the vehicle is achieved according to the features of claim 15.

Particularly advantageous configurations can be found in the dependent claims.

According to the invention, an arrangement for a vehicle according to a (first) independent embodiment is provided, the arrangement having a vehicle component, such as a fender or a radiator grille. The vehicle component has at least one visible surface. This can be perceptible to a viewer from inside the vehicle and / or when viewing the vehicle from the outside. The visible surface of the vehicle component has a plurality or a plurality of light-emitting regions, which in particular form a light pattern. A respective decoupling area of at least some of the decoupling areas or a respective decoupling area of all decoupling areas is each assigned to a light-emitting area, so that light can be emitted from the light-emitting area to which a decoupling area is assigned.

The arrangement described above makes it possible to illuminate a vehicle component that has a visible surface, in particular with any shape, for example with a lattice structure, and / or to emit light from the vehicle component. For example, it is possible to provide bumpers or fenders or decorative panels or A, B, C or D pillars or doors or trunk lids or bonnets (etc.) with light-emitting areas in order to illuminate the vehicle component with a high aesthetic appeal. The light guide, which has the plurality of coupling-out surfaces that are assigned to a respective light-emitting region, can be designed to be flexible. Thus, a vehicle component can also be illuminated which, for example, a radiator grille or a ventilation grille, is not designed over the entire surface, but has recesses, for example as air ducts. Another advantage is that the coupling-out surfaces of the light guide, which are each assigned to a light-emitting area, can be flexibly positioned on the vehicle component, depending on the application, so that a free design is possible.

In a further independent (second) embodiment, an arrangement has a vehicle component, such as, for example, a fender or a radiator grille or a bumper (etc.). The vehicle component has at least one visible surface. The visible surface of the vehicle component has a plurality or a plurality of light-emitting regions, which in particular form a light pattern. The arrangement has a plurality or a plurality of light sources, such as, for example, LEDs (light emitting diodes). A respective decoupling surface of a respective light source of at least some of the light sources or of all light sources are each assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. Thus, light can be emitted from the light emitting area. Furthermore, the arrangement has an image mask for one or at least some of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas. Alternatively, a plurality or plurality of image masks can be provided, with a respective image mask for a respective light-emitting region at least some of the light-emitting or all of the light-emitting regions can be provided.

One advantage of the above-described arrangement for a vehicle with the multiplicity or multiplicity of light sources is that the light sources, the coupling-out surfaces of which are assigned to a respective light-emitting region, can be flexibly arranged on the vehicle component. The light sources can, for example, be wired together (e.g. in certain chains) or separately (= individually) so that there is no restriction on positioning with regard to the energy supply. The light-emitting regions can be positioned on the visible surface of the vehicle component without restriction of their position, regardless of a shape of the vehicle component. In other words, the arrangement according to the second embodiment provides maximum flexibility with regard to the design and the number of light sources. In addition, lighting on, for example, comb-like or grid-like vehicle components, such as a radiator grille, can be implemented without any problems. Another advantage is that, due to the large number of light sources, a very low light output is sufficient for each light source to illuminate the vehicle component. Therefore, simple and inexpensive light sources can be used and, for example, because of the low power consumption of the light sources with a low light output, cooling can be dispensed with. This can save costs, weight and installation space. Compact, lightweight and inexpensive lighting of a vehicle component can thus be implemented. The image mask or the respective image mask makes it possible for a light image, in particular with information, to be emitted by the arrangement and to be individualized simply and inexpensively. For example, on the basis of the image mask or a respective image mask, at least one photo in the form of a character, for example a logo, in particular a brand logo, can be emitted.

The arrangement according to the second embodiment can have at least one optical element. The at least one optical element can be connected downstream of a light source of the optical arrangement. It is also possible that a respective optical element is provided for at least some of the light sources or for all light sources. The respective optical element is preferably a respective light guide. In particular, the or a respective optical element can be arranged between at least one of the light sources and the at least one image mask. The light that is decoupled from a respective decoupling surface of the plurality of light sources can additionally be directed by the respective light guide. Furthermore, this is advantageous because the light guide or the respective light guide can have a suitable shape so that the image mask or the respective image mask can easily be attached to the light guide.

In one embodiment, the arrangement according to the first embodiment can have an image mask for at least some of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas. Additionally or alternatively, a plurality or multiplicity of image masks can also be provided, wherein a respective image mask can be provided for a respective light-emitting area at least for a part of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas. The at least one image mask can preferably be arranged on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces of the light guide.

The at least one image mask, which is described below, can be used on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces of the light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment or on the coupling-out surface of at least one of the light sources of the arrangement of the second embodiment and / or on the coupling-out surface of the or a respective optical element , the at least one of the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment, be arranged. Furthermore, the light guide of the arrangement of the first embodiment or one of the light sources of the arrangement of the second embodiment and / or the optical element of the arrangement of the second embodiment are referred to below as a component.

The at least one image mask of the arrangement according to the first or the second embodiment can, for example, be cap-shaped. That is to say, the image mask can be designed in the shape of a socket or a socket. In other words, the at least one image mask is designed as a hollow cylinder and has a base which closes one side of the hollow cylinder. This is advantageous since a respective cap-shaped image mask can simply be placed or slipped onto a respective decoupling surface and / or onto the component. In the bottom of the image mask, in particular, a, in particular continuous, cutout can be provided through which the light that is coupled out from the coupling-out surface can radiate. The recess can be shaped, for example, as a sign or logo. The light-emitting area to which the at least one image mask is assigned can thus emit this logo as a light image. The recess can, however, also be “only optically functional”, ie for example optically transparent (eg through 2K injection molding) although mechanically tight. It is also possible that the image mask does not have a continuous cutout, but at least one area with a comparatively lower material thickness through which light can shine. It is also possible that the image mask has at least two areas has different material thickness, through which light can shine through to different degrees, so that these areas appear differently bright for an observer. A character, for example a logo, can be formed by different material thicknesses of the image mask. It is also possible to perforate the image mask and thus to emit a symbol, in particular a brand logo, through the arrangement as a light image.

If a respective image mask is provided for a respective decoupling surface of the component, these can each be designed differently. It is also possible for at least some of the image masks to be of identical design.

If a common image mask is provided for at least some of the light-emitting areas, it can have, for example, a plurality or multiplicity of cap-shaped or socket-shaped or sleeve-shaped individual image masks and these can be connected, for example via one or more webs (e.g. also up to the grid) . This makes the image masks easy to handle.

The at least one image mask can be designed, for example, as a slide and / or as a gobo (graphical optical blackout). If the image mask or at least one of the respective image masks is designed as a slide, it may be possible for the light-emitting areas to emit light with different colors, gray levels and / or intensities. Through the at least one image mask, the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment can emit a light image that shows at least one symbol, such as a brand logo. The light image of the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment can thus be individualized, in particular also subsequently, by attaching the image mask and / or the respective image masks. For example, there may be the possibility that a customer, for example an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or vehicle manufacturer, or an end customer who purchases the vehicle, can configure the shape and color of the photo of the arrangement according to his own design requirements. In the tuning area, too, it is possible to easily customize the appearance of the vehicle by exchanging the image masks.

As described above, the image mask or a respective image mask can be arranged on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces. In one embodiment, a part of a region of the coupling-out surface that is not covered by the image mask can protrude through the cutout over the image mask and / or protrude into the cutout of the image mask. This has the advantage that the part that protrudes over the image mask is visible even when the light-emitting area is viewed from the side, and a 3-D effect can thus be generated. It is particularly advantageous if the part of the coupling-out surface protruding from the image mask has the same shape and size as the recess in the image mask. This embodiment is advantageous because the light image of the arrangement is visible not only when the visible surface is viewed almost from the front, but also when the visible surface of the vehicle component is viewed from the side. Furthermore, this opens up a variety of design options. It is also possible for the entire area that is not covered by the image mask to protrude beyond the image mask and / or at least partially protrude into the cutout. In other words, the area of the coupling-out surface that is not covered by the image mask breaks through the image mask at least partially.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the image mask or the respective image mask can be positively connected to at least one of the coupling-out surfaces or to the component, so that they can be connected, for example in the form of two puzzle pieces. In other words, as described above, the coupling-out surface can at least partially protrude over the at least one image mask or into the recess of the image mask and the recess of the image mask can be designed in such a way that it has a negative shape of the part of the coupling-out surface that extends over the image mask protrudes. This is advantageous because the at least one image mask can thus be fastened in a form-fitting manner simply by placing or pushing the image mask onto the coupling-out surface and no further fastening means are necessary. Furthermore, it is possible that the at least one image mask is designed in such a way that it forms a press fit or transition fit with the component. In other words, the image mask can have a slightly smaller inner diameter than the component, for example.

The image mask can also be mechanically attached to the component. For example, it can be fixed using a clip mechanism. Furthermore, the image mask can also be glued to the component. Fastening in the form of a clip mechanism is advantageous because the image mask can thus be easily exchanged, for example in the event of a defect.

In addition, the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment can have at least one further element and / or at least one further respective element for at least some of the light-emitting regions. The element or the respective elements can, for example, be an optical element into which light emits at least from the one coupling-out surface Component decoupled. This is advantageous because the light that is coupled out at least from the one coupling-out surface can thus be shaped again. For example, the element or the respective element can be a diaphragm or a scattering geometry that scatters light that is coupled into it. Furthermore, the element or the respective element makes it possible to widen a viewing angle range of the light exiting from the at least one coupling-out surface that couples into the element or the respective element, so that the light that is emitted by the arrangement is emitted visible from a wider viewing angle. Additionally or alternatively, the element or the respective element can be, for example, a lens and / or a refractive optical element in order to influence the light that emerges from at least one of the coupling-out surfaces, so that a large number of lighting design options are possible. In the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment, the element of the image mask can be connected upstream or downstream.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the optical element and / or the image mask itself can be, for example, at least partially semitransparent and / or tinted. That is, the element and / or the image mask can be, for example, a diffusing screen and / or a lacquer and / or a perforated / structured lacquer, so that at least some of the light-emitting areas are optically connected upstream of the element in whole or in part, so that these are not visible to a viewer when they are not switched on, that is, they are "hidden" so that they are not visible at first glance. This means that the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment or the light guides of the arrangement according to the first embodiment are hidden and not visible and the light-emitting regions only become visible when the arrangement is switched on. In this way, another lighting design option can be created.

In order to generate further light effects, it is also possible that at least one of the coupling-out surfaces can be matted. This makes it possible for at least this coupling-out surface to emit diffuse light. For example, some of the coupling-out surfaces can emit light diffusely, while another part of the coupling-out surfaces does not emit light diffusely. This allows lighting design effects to be achieved.

Furthermore, a respective decoupling surface can have any geometric shape. The decoupling surface can be designed, for example, circular or rectangular or free-form. This is another way of customizing the lighting through the arrangement.

The vehicle component preferably has a comb-like or a lattice structure or a lattice pattern or is designed in the form of a lattice or as a lattice structure. For example, the vehicle component can be a radiator grille or a ventilation grille. The grid pattern or the grid shape that the vehicle component has can be, for example, a rectangular grid and / or a honeycomb grid and / or a triangular grid and / or a mixed shape thereof. In particular, the light-emitting areas can be arranged at intersection areas of lattice struts, in other words at lattice points, and / or on the lattice struts. The outer basic shape of the vehicle component is preferably also free-shaped.

Depending on the desired design, the light-emitting areas can be arranged freely, but in particular at intersection areas of lattice struts and / or lattice struts of the lattice-shaped vehicle component and / or of the vehicle component with a lattice pattern. In this case, the light-emitting regions can be arranged on the vehicle component, for example, on part of the visible area or distributed over the entire visible area. The arrangement of the light-emitting regions can, for example, be symmetrical or periodic or asymmetrical or aperiodic. There are therefore a wide variety of options for lighting the vehicle component through the arrangement.

The light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment and / or at least some of the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment is / are preferably integrated in the vehicle component. For example, the vehicle component can be produced by an injection molding process and the light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment or the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment can, for example, be encapsulated by a material, in particular a plastic, in the production process of the vehicle component. In particular, power supply lines, for example cables, which are configured, for example, for power supply and / or for controlling the light source and / or the light sources, can also be integrated into the vehicle component, in particular encapsulated. This is advantageous because it is easy and inexpensive to attach the light source or the light sources. Another advantage is that the light source (s) and / or the cable are thus easily protected from external influences, such as moisture and / or dirt, for example. The light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can also be at least partially integrated into the vehicle component. For example, the vehicle component with the light guide according to the arrangement of the first embodiment can be produced in a two-component injection molding process and thus it is possible to save costs and time in the production of the arrangement.

At least one control unit can preferably be provided which controls the light source for the light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment and / or at least some of the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment. The control unit can range from “supply only” to “supply plus LIN or CAN”, depending on its performance. In particular, the control unit can be connected to an app and / or another input device so that an end user and / or a vehicle manufacturer can control the arrangement. For example, it is possible that the light source (s) is dimmed, that the lighting intensity and / or color is changed and / or that the arrangement can be switched on and off. A non-volatile memory can be used to save different, also dynamic, personalized sequences and, if necessary, to assign different actions, such as ignition on, flashing, etc.

From at least one of the coupling-out surfaces of the at least one component of the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment, light can be partially and / or at least temporarily emitted with a different brightness and / or with a different color than from a further coupling-out surface. If the component is, for example, the light guide according to the first embodiment, it is possible for the arrangement to have at least two light sources which emit light with different colors. By coupling the light from the light sources via, for example, two different coupling surfaces, light with a different color can be emitted via at least one coupling surface, which is arranged closer to the first coupling surface, than via the at least one coupling surface of the light guide, which is closer to the other coupling surface is arranged. The arrangement of the second embodiment can for example have at least two different light sources which emit light with different colors and / or light with different brightness. This means that further design options can be created. If the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment has a plurality of light sources, then these can be, for example, RGB-LED (red-green-blue LED). For example, this makes it possible to create additional patterns. It is possible for several LEDs to be arranged in one housing. It is also possible for a respective LED to be arranged in a respective housing.

The light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment preferably has a base light guide, which has at least one coupling surface, and a plurality of branch light guides. These each have at least one decoupling surface. The branch light guides preferably branch off from the basic light guide. For example, the light guide can be designed as a whole in the shape of a comb, wherein the prongs can be the branch light guides. That is to say, the branch light guides can each protrude from the basic light guide at a right angle in the same direction, that is to say parallel, at regular intervals from one another. It is also possible for the branch light guides to protrude from the base light guide at a right angle, but in different directions. For example, the branch light guides can have an angle of 5 °, 10 ° or also 20 ° to one another. In a further exemplary embodiment, it is also possible for the branch light guides to protrude from the base light guide in the form of branches. That is to say, the branch light guides can each protrude in any direction from the base light guide and the direction of projection can, for example, have an angle other than 90 ° to the extension direction of the base light guide. The branch light guides can, however, also branch off from one another. That is to say that at least one branch light guide can branch off from the base light guide and from this at least one further branch light guide can branch off.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can have a plurality of base light guides, each of which has a plurality of branch light guides. The basic light guides can be connected, for example, so that a grid-shaped basic light guide is produced, or the basic light guides can be arranged at a distance from one another, for example in series with a parallel distance. Furthermore, the arrangement can have a light source, the light of which is coupled into the plurality of base light guides through the coupling surface of a single base light guide and / or the arrangement can have a plurality of light sources, wherein, for example, a respective light source can be assigned to a respective base light guide. However, it is also possible that a light guide is assigned to a plurality of light sources and / or that a light source is assigned to a plurality of light guides.

It is also advantageous if the light guide of the arrangement of the first embodiment has at least one or a respective decoupling structure for a respective branch light guide of at least a part of the branch light guide. The coupling-out structure is preferably designed in such a way that at least part of the light in the base light guide can be coupled into at least one branch light guide. In particular, a decoupling structure is assigned to a respective branch light guide. The decoupling structure / s can / can be designed in such a way that the brightness of the light that is coupled out from a respective coupling-out surface is uniform. It is also possible that the brightness of the light that is coupled out from the coupling-out surfaces is different. For example, the brightness of the light from one light-emitting area to an adjacent further light-emitting area can be gradually less if the light-emitting areas are arranged in a row, for example. The configuration of the coupling-out structure can produce a large number of different effects. Furthermore, the respective outcoupling structure makes it possible to direct light in a targeted manner to the outcoupling surfaces.

The coupling-out structure can, for example, be designed in the manner of a prism. If the coupling-out structure is prism-like, the base light guide can have a respective prism-like coupling-out structure for a respective branch light guide. In particular, the prism-like coupling-out structure is a reflection prism which is introduced into the basic light guide as a recess or is applied to the basic light guide as an additional volume. The at least one prism-like coupling-out structure is preferably formed on the side of a longitudinal side of the base light guide which points away from the side from which the associated branch light guide protrudes. If it is designed as a recess, the coupling-out structure can penetrate at least part of the cross section of the basic light guide. In particular, light from the coupling-out structure that propagates in the basic light guide is at least partially coupled into the associated light guide through the coupling-out structure designed as an optical prism. One advantage of the prism-like coupling-out structure is that the prism shape and / or the prism size can be used to set the direction and the amount of the light coupled out by the prism, which is coupled into a respective associated branch light guide. It is also possible for the respective decoupling structures of the branch light guides to differ from one another. For example, these can have different designs in order to realize homogeneous lighting.

The coupling-out structure can also be introduced into the basic light guide with the aid of a laser. In other words, a surface can be created with the aid of a laser. The surface can, for example, be an internal engraving, which can be formed, for example, from gas bubbles. In other words, the area introduced by the laser is an area formed in the base light guide, which can be formed, for example, from gas bubbles, in particular air bubbles, which can be introduced into the material of the base light guide by the laser. Because of the material transition and the difference in refractive index between the base light guide and the gas present in the gas bubbles, the air bubbles scatter the light, for example diffusely, and couple the light into the branch light guide. The surface that is incorporated into the basic light guide can be incorporated in a completely free form or 3D geometry. Depending on the position and number and density of the air bubbles in the area, the proportion of the light coupled into the branch light guide can be adjusted. That is to say, there are various options for implementing the coupling-out structure or the respective coupling-out structure, the type of implementation being able to depend, for example, on an intended use of the arrangement. One advantage if the coupling-out structure is introduced by a laser is, for example, that it can be designed very individually, and that no cost-intensive tool changes are necessary for an adaptation. Various decoupling structures can be introduced by the laser.

Further decoupling structures (in particular when processing by a laser) can be, for example (not exclusive): spherical segments, free-form, irregular “roughening”. The spherical segments can be introduced into the basic light guide periodically, for example. Furthermore, decoupling structures, such as the spherical segments, can be introduced into the basic light guide by means of stamps or can be produced directly during the manufacture of the light guide, for example by injection molding.

Furthermore, it is possible, in particular with a laser, to roughen a prism surface of the prism-like coupling-out structure. In this way, the light reflected by the roughened prism surface can diffusely reflect and couple into the branch light guide.

At least one light source can be assigned to the light guide according to the first embodiment. However, it is also possible that the light from at least two light sources can be coupled into the light guide through a respective and / or a common coupling surface. If the light sources have a common coupling-in surface, it is advantageous if this is so large that a large part of the light from the light sources can preferably be coupled into the coupling-in surface.

If at least two light sources are provided, the light of which is coupled into a common coupling-in surface, then these can be arranged in a common housing. It is also possible for the light sources to have a respective housing. The light sources can be controlled differently, for example, so that, for example, different patterns can arise depending on whether the light source is switched on or off.

It is also possible, for example, for a light source to be arranged directly at at least one branch light guide in order to generate further light patterns. For example, light from a light source can be coupled directly into a coupling-out structure. The light from the light source can preferably be coupled in on a side of the base light guide which points away from the side from which the branch light guide protrudes.

The number of branch light guides can be arbitrary. Furthermore, both the shape of the basic light guide and / or the shape of the respective branch light guide can be freely selected. In this way, at least one branch light guide can have a cross section that differs from another branch light guide. Furthermore, a cross section that changes in a longitudinal direction of the branch light guide or the base light guide is possible. For example, the base light guide and / or the branch light guide can have a round cross-section, in particular with a flattening on one side, and / or an elliptical cross-section or a rectangular cross-section and / or a square cross-section and / or a “keyhole-shaped” cross-section. The “keyhole-shaped” cross section preferably has two sections, a first section being rectangular or square or trapezoidal and a further second section being round. However, other polygons or free forms are also conceivable as cross-sections.

Furthermore, the arrangement of the first embodiment can have a collimator for coupling the light from the light source (s) into the light guide and / or the light guide can have different and / or one optically active surface (s) through which the light from the light source (s) effectively can be coupled into the light guide. The design of the coupling surface can be dependent on the application of the arrangement.

The light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment can for example be cabled through a network-like structure and / or individually cabled, that is, each light source has its own power supply, which extends from a power source to the respective light source, and / or is cabled in rows be. The wiring of the light sources can each be adapted to the shape of the vehicle component, so that the wiring is not visible, for example, and can be easily integrated into the vehicle component.

The arrangement according to the first or second embodiment preferably fulfills a signal light function of a vehicle on which it can be arranged. A turn signal function and / or a brake light function and / or a taillight function and / or a daytime running light function and / or a position light function and / or a rear fog light function and / or a combination of the above and other functions is / are preferably provided as the signal light function (s). This is advantageous because, in addition to a design effect, a function, for example the position light function, can be fulfilled.

In particular, in an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment, the vehicle component can be produced at least partially from, in particular thermally conductive, plastic, for example ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer). If the vehicle component is made of plastic, it is particularly advantageous if it is manufactured by injection molding, since the light source (s) and / or the cabling can thus be easily integrated into the vehicle component during the casting process. However, it is also possible that the vehicle component is at least partially made of glass or PC (polycarbonate) or PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) or GRP (glass fiber reinforced plastic) or metal, for example chrome, or wood or carbon.

The vehicle component is preferably a body component or part of an interior trim of a vehicle. The vehicle component is preferably a radiator grille, in particular a radiator grille of a vehicle with an internal combustion engine.

The light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment or the at least one light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can each be a light-emitting diode (LED), and / or as an organic LED (OLED), and / or as a laser diode and / or as a lamp working according to a Laser Activated Remote Phosphor (LARP) principle, and / or as a halogen lamp, and / or as a gas discharge lamp (High Intensity Discharge (HID)), and / or in connection with a digital light processing (DLP) -principle working projector. A respective light source of the arrangement according to the second embodiment or the light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can be a matrix LED, i.e. a single component which has several emitting surfaces that can be individually controlled. This can be an RGB LED, but also a pixellated white light source with e.g. 320 pixels. A large number of alternatives are thus available as a light source for the lighting device according to the invention.

Furthermore, a vehicle with the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment is provided. The vehicle can be an aircraft or a waterborne vehicle or a be land-based vehicle. The land vehicle can be a motor vehicle or a rail vehicle or a bicycle. The vehicle is particularly preferably a truck or a passenger car or a motorcycle. The vehicle can also be designed as a non-autonomous or partially autonomous or autonomous vehicle.

An arrangement for a vehicle is provided. This has a vehicle component with a visible surface. The surface has a plurality of light emitting areas that are spaced from one another. Furthermore, according to a first embodiment, the arrangement has an optical waveguide which has at least one simple surface and a plurality of coupling-out surfaces, a respective coupling-out surface of at least part of the coupling-out surface of the optical waveguide being assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. Alternatively, according to a second embodiment, the arrangement has a plurality of light sources, a respective decoupling surface of a respective light source of at least some of the light sources being assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. A vehicle is also provided.

• 1 eine Draufsicht einer Anordnung gemäß einer ersten oder zweiten Ausführungsform,
• 2 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Lichtleiters der Anordnung gemäß der ersten Ausführungsform,
• 3 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Lichtleiters gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel,
• 4a eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Auskoppelstruktur des Lichtleiters,
• 4b eine perspektivische halbtransparente Ansicht einer Auskoppelstruktur gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel des Lichtleiters,
• 5a eine Explosionsdarstellung der Anordnung gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform,
• 5b eine Anordnung der 5a in zusammengebautem Zustand,
• 6 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Lichtleiters gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel mit einer Bildmaske, und
• 7 ein Lichtbild, das von einer Anordnung gemäß der ersten oder zweiten Ausführungsform emittiert ist.

In the following, the invention is to be explained in more detail on the basis of exemplary embodiments. The figures show:

• 1 a plan view of an arrangement according to a first or second embodiment,
• 2 a perspective view of a light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment,
• 3 a perspective view of a light guide according to a further embodiment,
• 4a a perspective view of a coupling-out structure of the light guide,
• 4b a perspective semitransparent view of a coupling-out structure according to a further embodiment of the light guide,
• 5a an exploded view of the arrangement according to the second embodiment,
• 5b an arrangement of 5a in assembled condition,
• 6th a perspective view of a light guide according to a further embodiment with an image mask, and
• 7th a light image emitted from an arrangement according to the first or second embodiment.

1 shows an arrangement 1 according to the first or the second embodiment, which is applied to a vehicle 2 is arranged, which is indicated here by a dashed line. The order 1 has a vehicle component 4th on, which in this embodiment is a grille. The vehicle component 4th has a surface that is visible to a viewer 6th when looking at the vehicle 2 is visible from the outside.

The vehicle component 4th has a lattice structure. The vehicle component 4th has a recess in the middle 8th for, for example, a brand logo and / or any other symbol. Lattice struts 10 that extend in a first direction are attached to the curve of the recess 8th customized. That is, these are curved so that lattice struts 10 that are near the recess 8th are, these partially enclose and are arcuate. The further away from the recess 8th respective lattice struts 10 are arranged, the less curved they are. Lattice struts 12th that are perpendicular to the lattice struts 10 extend, are approximately parallel to each other and aligned straight. The lattice struts preferably extend 10 approximately in the vertical direction and the lattice struts 12th roughly in the horizontal direction. From the lattice struts 10 , 12th For reasons of clarity, only one lattice strut is provided with a reference number.

Where the lattice struts are 10 , 12th each crossing are intersection areas 14th provided, on each of which a light-emitting area 16 is arranged. For reasons of clarity, there is only one intersection area at a time 14th and a light emitting area 16 provided with a respective reference number.

The light-emitting areas shown here 16 can each be assigned a respective decoupling surface of a light guide, which is not shown here, and / or a respective light source, which is also not shown here.

2 shows a light guide 18th the one basic light guide 20th and, in this example three, branch fibers 22nd Has. The basic light guide 20th is cylindrical, in particular with a circular cross section, and extends in a straight direction. The branch light guides 22nd are also each cylindrical, in particular with a circular cross-section, and extend from the base light guide 20th away in a common direction at a regular distance from each other. The branch light guides 22nd extend at a 90 ° angle from the base light guide 20th path. They are arranged at a parallel distance from one another.

The basic light guide 20th has a coupling surface 24 on, into which the light from a light source, which is not shown here, can be coupled. The coupling area 24 is on one of the bases of the cylindrical basic light guide 20th arranged. In addition, the basic light guide has 20th another coupling surface 26th , which is arranged on the other base. Therefore the coupling area would be 26th to close (eg also as a mirror to "recycle" the light) or to use as a decoupling surface.

The branch light guides 22nd each have a respective decoupling surface 28 which are arranged in this embodiment in a common plane and each on a base of the respective cylindrical branch light guide 22nd is arranged. In this embodiment the branch light guides are 22nd uniformly trained. However, there is also the possibility that the branch light guides 22nd For example, they protrude in different directions and / or are designed differently in their shape and / or protrude differently from the base light guide.

In 3 is another embodiment of a light guide 30th shown. This has a grid-shaped base light guide 32 on, at respective intersection areas 34 of the grid-shaped basic light guide 32 respective branch light guides 36 are formed in the same direction perpendicular to the base light guide 32 cantilever. The lattice structure of the basic light guide 32 is square and symmetrical. That is, the basic light guide 32 has several, here five, lattice struts which are arranged parallel to one another and extend at a regular distance from one another in an X direction. Several, here five, more lattice struts, extend perpendicular to the other lattice struts. In addition, they are regularly spaced from one another in a Y direction and are arranged parallel to one another. A respective grid strut of the basic light guide 32 is, as in the embodiment in 2 , cylindrical, in particular with a circular cross-section. That is to say, a respective lattice strut of the lattice-shaped basic light guide 32 has a round cross-section. The branch light guides 36 are like the branch light guides 22nd the 2 educated. That is to say, these collar in the shape of a cylinder from the basic light guide 32 at the intersection areas.

At a respective end of a respective lattice strut of the lattice-shaped base light guide 32 can each have a coupling surface 38 be arranged, but there is only one coupling surface here 38 provided with a reference number. It is also possible that only some of the ends of the grating struts and / or only one end of a grating strut of the basic light guide have a respective coupling-in surface 36 is. The branch light guides 36 have a respective decoupling surface at the end 40 on. For reasons of clarity, it is only a decoupling area 40 provided with a reference number.

In this embodiment according to 3 is the light guide 30th designed in such a way that a brightness of the respective decoupling surfaces 40 outcoupled light, gradually decreases in the Y-direction and is constant in the X-direction.

4a shows part of a basic light guide, for example the basic light guide 20th the 2 , and a branch light pipe, such as the branch light pipe 22nd the 2 . The basic light guide 20th has a round cross-sectional shape with a flattened side, the flattened side being a longitudinal side, that of the side from which the branch light guide 22nd decouples, points away. In the basic light guide 20th is a decoupling structure 41 formed in the flattened side. This is advantageous because it results in the coupling-out structure 41 can be easily introduced.

The decoupling structure 41 is a prism-like or wedge-shaped or ramp-shaped recess, which is designed as an optical prism or reflection prism. The coupling-out structure is in the basic light guide 20th formed on one long side, that of the side from which the branch light guide 22nd protrudes, points away. The decoupling structure 41 has at least one prism surface from which the light emitted via the coupling surface 24 , which is not shown here, is at least partially reflected, so that this is at least partially reflected in the branch light guide 22nd coupled. For this purpose, this prism surface extends from the flattened side of the basic light guide 20th into the basic light guide 20th in the direction of the branch light guide 22nd . The decoupling structure 41 is designed in particular in such a way that light that enters the coupling surface 24 coupled, partially strikes the prism surface. Therefore, the coupling-out structure 41 in particular only part of the cross section of the basic light guide 20th push through. That is, the decoupling structure 41 makes it possible for light to come from the base light guide 20th into the branch light guide 22nd can be coupled. Depending on the configuration of the decoupling structure 41 , that is, how far the prism face in the direction of the branch light guide 22nd cantilevered and what angle the prism surface to the flattened side of the basic light guide 20th has, a different amount of light can enter the branch light guide 22nd couple.

4b also shows the basic light guide 20th , from which the branch light guide 22nd protrudes. The basic light guide 20th In this exemplary embodiment, it has a coupling-out structure 42 on. The coupling-out structure has a surface 46 on from which the light enters the base light guide 20th is partially reflected. The area 46 extends from one side of the base light guide 20th from the long side from which the branch light guide 22nd protrudes, points away, in the direction of the branch light guide 22nd . The area 46 is generated, in particular by a laser. The area can 46 for example as an internal engraving in the basic light guide 20th be introduced. The internal engraving can, for example, be formed from a multiplicity of gas bubbles and thus form a scattering center. Because of the material transition and the difference in refractive index between the base light guide and the gas bubbles, light can be reflected from them. That is, light that hits the surface 46 is reflected diffusely from this and into the branch light guide 22nd coupled. The area 46 does not extend through the entire cross section of the basic light guide 20th to the branch light guide 22nd so that not all of the light is on the surface 46 hits.

5a shows a light source 50 that are part of the arrangement 1 is that in 1 is shown. The light source 50 is in this embodiment an LED on a circuit board 54 . The light source 50 has a coupling-out surface 56 on which one of the light emitting areas 16 , in the 1 shown is assigned. The light that comes out of the decoupling surface 56 emitted, couples in this embodiment in a light guide 58 one that is an optical element. The light guide 58 is cylindrical and extends straight and perpendicular to the coupling-out surface 56 the light source 50 . The light that enters the cylindrical light guide 58 coupled, is through this to a decoupling surface 60 of the light guide 58 guided. The light that comes out of the decoupling surface 60 coupled out, can be in an element that is particularly optically active and in this case a diffuser 62 is to couple. The cylindrical diffuser 62 has a circular cross-sectional area and has the same diameter as the cylindrical light guide 58 and is on the decoupling surface 60 arranged. The diffuser and the light guide 58 are arranged coaxially to one another.

Furthermore, the 5a an image mask 64 , which is designed as a cap in this embodiment, arranged. That is, the image mask 64 is hollow-cylindrical with a base and can be used via the light guide 58 and the diffuser 62 set or plugged in. In the image mask 64 is a recess 66 provided through which the light exits. The recess 66 is in the bottom of the image mask 64 educated. In other words, it is the image mask 64 Lid-shaped, the recess in a lid base 66 is provided.

In 5b is a further embodiment in contrast to 5a an image mask 67 shown. As in 1 indicated are a plurality of light emitting areas 16 preferably on the visible surface 6th , in the 1 is shown, arranged side by side. Any light emitting area 16 can be a light source 50 be assigned. To a montage of the image mask 67 the image mask can make it easier and faster 67 have a plurality of caps, these being designed like the image mask 64 the 5a . The caps are connected by webs so that they have a predetermined and suitable spacing for easy attachment to the light guides 58 that are arranged next to each other to be attached or to hold the light guides (if e.g. the grating 4th respectively. 14th already the caps 67 contains or the caps 67 Part of the component 4th are) . In 5b is just a source of light 50 with a light guide 58 shown for simplicity.

In 6th is another embodiment of a light guide 68 shown, the one basic light guide 70 and a branch light guide 72 Has. The basic light guide 70 , which has an essentially cylindrical basic shape with a circular cross-section, is on its from the branch light guide 72 pioneering long side flattened. The branch light guide 72 is cylindrical. A decoupling surface 74 of the branch light guide 72 exhibits a survey 76 on, which is star-shaped in this embodiment. There is also an image mask 78 provided that like the image mask 66 the 5a is trained. That is, the image mask 78 also has a recess 80 on. This is designed in a star shape. The image mask 78 , which is designed in the shape of a cap, can over the coupling-out surface 74 of the light guide 72 set or plugged in and the star-shaped elevation 76 then cantilevers through the star-shaped recess 80 via the image mask 78 the end.

In 7th an example of a light image is given which can be emitted by an arrangement, for example the light guide 30th the 3 having, with decoupling surfaces 40 the branch light guide 36 in this example with one image mask each 64 that are in the 5a and 5b are shown, are provided to emit the respective star-shaped light images.

List of reference symbols

1

arrangement

2

vehicle

4th

Vehicle component

6th

Visible area

8th

Recess

10 12

Lattice strut

14th

Intersection area

16

Light emitting area

18, 30, 68

Light guide

20, 32, 70

Basic light guide

22, 36, 72

Branch light guide

24, 26, 38

Coupling surface

28, 40, 56, 74

Decoupling surface

34

Intersection area

41, 42

Decoupling structure

44, 46

Surfaces

50

Light source

54

Circuit board

58

Light guide

60

Coupling side

62

Diffuser

64, 67, 78

Image mask

66, 80

Recess

76

Elevation

Claims (15)

Arrangement for a vehicle (2), wherein this has a vehicle component (4) with a visible surface (6), the visible surface (6) having a plurality of light-emitting regions (16) which are spaced from one another, the vehicle component ( 4) has a plurality of light sources (50), a respective decoupling surface (56) of a respective light source (50) of at least some of the light sources (50) being assigned to one of the light-emitting areas (16) in order to capture light from the light-emitting area ( 16), characterized in that the arrangement has an image mask (64, 67) for at least some of the light-emitting areas (16) and / or a respective image mask (64, 67) for a respective light-emitting area (16) of at least one Part of the light-emitting areas (16) in order to shield at least part of the light that is coupled out from a respective light-emitting area (16). Arrangement according to Claim 1 , this having at least one optical element (58) which is connected downstream of the coupling-out surface (56) of at least one of the light sources (50). Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the at least one image mask (64, 67) is arranged on the coupling-out surface (56) of at least one of the light sources (50) or the at least one image mask (64, 67) is arranged on at least one coupling-out surface (60) of the at least one optical element (58 ) and the image mask (64, 67) has at least one recess (66), at least part of the coupling-out surface (56, 60) protruding at least partially into the recess (66) and / or over the recess (66) the image mask (64, 67) at least partially protrudes. Arrangement according to Claim 2 or 3 , wherein the at least one image mask (64, 67) form-fit with at least the coupling-out surface (56) of at least one of the light sources (50) and / or with the coupling-out surface (60) of the at least one optical element (58) and / or with at least one of the Light sources (50) and / or is connected to the optical element (58). Arrangement for a vehicle (2), wherein this has a vehicle component (4) with a visible surface (6), the visible surface (6) having a plurality of light-emitting regions (16) which are spaced from one another, the arrangement ( 1) has at least one light guide (18, 30, 68) which has at least one coupling surface (28, 26, 38) for light from at least one light source and a plurality of coupling surfaces (28, 40, 74), characterized in that a the respective decoupling surface (28, 40, 74) of at least some of the decoupling surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18, 30, 68) is assigned to one of the light-emitting areas (16) in order to capture light from the light-emitting area (16) to emit. Arrangement according to Claim 5 , wherein this has an image mask (78) for at least a part of the light-emitting areas (16) and / or a respective image mask (78) for a respective light-emitting area (16) of at least a part of the light-emitting areas (16) to at least one Part of the light that is coupled out from a respective light-emitting area (16) to be shielded. Arrangement according to Claim 6 , wherein the at least one image mask (78) is arranged on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18, 30, 68) and the at least one image mask (78) has at least one recess (80), at least a part of the coupling-out surface (28, 40, 74) at least partially projects into the recess (80) and / or at least partially protrudes from the image mask (78) via the recess (80). Arrangement according to Claim 6 or 7th , wherein the at least one image mask (78) is positively connected to at least one of the coupling-out surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18, 30, 68) and / or to the light guide (18, 30, 68). Arrangement according to one of the Claims 5 until 8th , wherein the light guide (18, 30, 68) has a base light guide (20, 32, 70) which has at least one coupling surface (28, 26, 38), and a plurality of branch light guides (22, 36, 72) which have a respective decoupling surface (28, 40, 74), the Branch light guides (22, 36, 72) branch off from the base light guide (20, 32, 70). Arrangement according to Claim 9 wherein the light guide (18, 30, 68) has at least one or a respective decoupling structure (41, 42) for one or for a respective branch light guide (22, 36, 72) at least a part of the branch light guides (22, 36, 72), wherein the decoupling structure (41, 42) is designed such that at least part of the light in the base light guide (20, 32, 70) in at least one or a respective branch light guide (22, 36, 72) of the part of the branch light guide (22, 36 , 72) can be coupled. Arrangement according to one of the Claims 1 until 10 wherein the vehicle component (4) has a comb structure or lattice structure, the light-emitting areas (16) being arranged at intersection areas (14) of lattice struts (10, 12) and / or on comb struts or the lattice struts (10, 12). Arrangement according to one of the Claims 1 until 11 , wherein at least one of the light sources (50) is integrated into the vehicle component (4). Arrangement according to one of the Claims 1 until 12th , wherein the vehicle component (4) is a radiator grille or other ventilation grille on the vehicle. Arrangement according to one of the Claims 1 until 4th or 6th until 13th , wherein the at least one image mask (64, 67, 78) is part of the vehicle component (4). Vehicle with the arrangement (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 14th .

Images