EP0485818B1 - Headlight - Google Patents

Headlight Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0485818B1
EP0485818B1 EP91118675A EP91118675A EP0485818B1 EP 0485818 B1 EP0485818 B1 EP 0485818B1 EP 91118675 A EP91118675 A EP 91118675A EP 91118675 A EP91118675 A EP 91118675A EP 0485818 B1 EP0485818 B1 EP 0485818B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
light
headlight
light source
headlight according
lens
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP91118675A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0485818A1 (en
Inventor
Edwin Schwaller
Diego Bally
Walter Zürcher
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Bisy Bike-Systems Industrielle Fertigung Von Fahrr
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Vereinigte Drahtwerke AG
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/26—Refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters not provided in groups F21S43/235 - F21S43/255
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/20—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S41/28—Cover glass

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a headlamp with a light source arranged in the headlamp axis, with a reflector and with a diffuser arranged in front of the light source, and in particular with a headlamp for relatively weak light sources, such as are present in bicycle lighting systems.
  • the invention also relates to the use of such a headlight as a bicycle lamp.
  • the light generated can be used in an optimal manner. As small a part of it as possible should be lost as stray light.
  • the light of the first origin can be deflected relatively well in the desired direction by the diffusing lens optics in order to generate a corresponding light cone. With the light coming directly from the light source onto the lens, the problem arises that the beam path has to be deflected relatively strongly, for which purpose a collecting lens must be provided on the lens.
  • the converging lens is intended to capture the largest possible solid angle of the directly emitted light, without, however, taking up too large an area of the lens.
  • it has already been proposed to cement a relatively thick converging lens on the inside of the lens, which bundles the direct light from the light source. This solution is, however, complex in terms of production technology.
  • US-A-1 571 139 shows the possibility of placing a converging lens as close as possible in front of the lamp and thus to improve the light output.
  • the light cone emerging from the lamp has a very large aperture, since the diffuser is largely designed as a diffuser. Therefore a large part of the light intensity is lost.
  • Fresnel lenses are used in the lamps according to DE-A-3 317 519, DE-A-1 472 525 and GB-A-120 581. This improves the light output.
  • lamps of this type there is a light spot on the street, the intensity of which rapidly decreases with increasing distance from the lamp.
  • the converging lens structure which is preferably designed as a Fresnel lens, does not require a significant local thickening of the lens, which could not be controlled during manufacture.
  • the diffusing screen thus formed can therefore be efficiently produced in a conventional manner as a one-piece molded part made of plastic or glass.
  • the stray light which is still reduced, is advantageously used to produce a laterally visible, illuminated zone on the headlamp, for which purpose a transparent ring is formed on the periphery of the lens through which false light radially emerges.
  • the headlight has a light source 1, which is preferably is designed as a halogen lamp.
  • the light source is shown in point form in FIG. 1, but is actually designed as a spiral.
  • the light source is arranged in the focal point of a parabolically or elliptically shaped reflector 2.
  • the light rays striking the reflector 2 from the light source are therefore reflected approximately parallel to the headlight axis 3 and thus strike a diffusing screen 4.
  • the diffusing screen 4 is formed from a translucent material, for example a transparent plastic such as PMMA. Their shape essentially determines the beam path of the headlamp.
  • the lens 4 is divided into different zones.
  • a central zone 5 is provided for deflecting the light coming directly from the light source 1.
  • the outer peripheral zones 6, 7, 8 are divided into an upper zone 6, a central zone 7 and a lower zone 8 (cf. FIG. 2) and serve to deflect the light reflected in parallel by the reflector 2.
  • the lens 4 is curved toward the light source 1. This means that the central zone 5 is close to the light source 1 and thus detects a relatively large solid angle of the directly emitted light from the light source.
  • the light incident on the lens at this solid angle is collected by means of a converging lens structure to form a light bundle 10 which is emitted essentially in the direction of the headlight axis 3.
  • the converging lens structure in the central zone 5 is designed as a Fresnel lens 9 arranged concentrically to the axis 3, so that the thickness of the lens 4 remains relatively uniform. This is an important prerequisite for their manufacture as plastic molded articles.
  • the lens in the central zone 5 forms a fourth-order curve in vertical section, which has the effect that the rays passing through this central zone 5 are deflected somewhat more strongly, ie towards the axis 3, than the rays penetrating deeper into the Axis direction 3 run (see FIG. 1).
  • the brightness in the light spot which is generated by the obliquely incident light cone, does not decrease with increasing distance from the headlight.
  • a corresponding configuration of the diffusing screen is present in the edge zones 6, 7, 8 already mentioned, of which only the upper zone 6 and the lower zone 8 are visible in FIG. 1.
  • the diffuser in vertical section forms, in addition to the circle, a fourth-order curve with a correspondingly greater deflection of the higher rays.
  • the light beams 11 and 12 from these zones 6, 8 also lead to a light spot with a regular light distribution on a base in the case of oblique incidence.
  • These zones are viewed in a horizontal section (cf. FIGS. 2 and 3), they have a scattering lens structure 14 of a type known per se, which leads to a lateral divergence of the light cone according to FIG.
  • the edge zone 7 has the same configuration.
  • the headlight designed in this way is used as a bicycle lamp, it produces a substantially trapezoidal spot of uniform brightness on the street at a distance of 4 m to 10 m from the lamp position. Since the direct light of the solid angle detected by the central zone 5 contributes to this, the luminous efficacy can be significantly improved.
  • the transparent ring 15 preferably has a signal color, so that it appears in a side view as a streak glowing in the signal color occurs (see FIG. 4).
  • the scattered light from the headlight contributes to the lateral marking of, for example, a cyclist at night, which is otherwise often only possible with passive reflectors.
  • the transparent ring 15 can also be designed as a mounting element for connecting the reflector 2 and the diffuser 4.
  • Figure 4 shows a possible embodiment of the headlamp described as a bicycle lamp.
  • the headlight with signal ring 15 and reflector 2 is arranged on a housing 16.
  • FIG. 5 shows a somewhat modified embodiment of the diffusing screen 4. As can be seen, this differs from the embodiment according to FIG. 1 only in that the central zone 5 itself once again forms an arch towards the light source 1. It can be achieved that the detected solid angle of the direct light is further increased.
  • the described headlight can also be provided with a reflector ring 16 directed forward. Should the light source 1 or its supply fail, this serves to make the bike recognizable for oncoming traffic at night.
  • the reflector ring 16 made of transparent plexiglass has a back 17 with a reflector structure. It is welded to a ring made of transparent red plexiglass designed as a signal ring 15, through which stray light can escape laterally in the manner described. The whole can be designed as a snap ring for mounting the lens 4 on the reflector 2.
  • the headlamp according to the invention is an integrated, active and passive effective, visual identification in traffic.
  • the described headlamp allows light sources with relatively low power, such as those used in bicycle lighting systems, to be used optimally for light generation by the false light losses are reduced and the light is emitted in an optimal direction, so that an extensive light spot with even light distribution is generated in front of the bicycle on the street.
  • the components, in particular the diffusing screen, can be produced as molded parts in efficient processes.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
  • Securing Globes, Refractors, Reflectors Or The Like (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangements For Discharge Lamps (AREA)

Abstract

The headlight has a lens (4) convex towards the light source (1). Said lens is constructed as a one-piece moulded part, and has in its central zone (5), which is closest to the light source (1), a collector lens structure (9). Consequently, a substantial portion of the light emitted from the light source (1) directly into a front solid angle can be collected in the direction of the headlight axis. The lens (4) can be produced as a simple moulded part. Provided outside on the lens (4) is a transparent ring (15) in a signalling colour. As a result, the scattered light is utilised for lateral marking when the headlight is used, for example, in a cycle lighting unit. <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft einen Scheinwerfer mit einer in der Scheinwerferachse angeordneten Lichtquelle, mit einem Reflektor und mit einer vor der Lichtquelle angeordneten Streuscheibe und insbesondere einen Scheinwerfer für relativ schwache Lichtquellen, wie sie etwa bei Fahrradlichtanlagen vorhanden sind. Die Erfindung betrifft auch die Verwendung eines solchen Scheinwerfers als Fahrradleuchte.The invention relates to a headlamp with a light source arranged in the headlamp axis, with a reflector and with a diffuser arranged in front of the light source, and in particular with a headlamp for relatively weak light sources, such as are present in bicycle lighting systems. The invention also relates to the use of such a headlight as a bicycle lamp.

Bei Lichtanlagen mit relativ geringer Speiseleistung für die Lichtquellen ist es wichtig, dass das erzeugte Licht in optimaler Weise genutzt werden kann. Es soll ein möglichst kleiner Teil davon als Streulicht verloren gehen. Dabei ist zu unterscheiden zwischen dem Licht, welches von der Lichtquelle zunächst auf den Reflektor fällt und durch diesen ungefähr parallel gerichtet wird und dem Licht, das in einen vorderen Raumwinkel direkt auf die Streuscheibe fällt. Das Licht der ersten Herkunft lässt sich durch die Streuscheibenoptik relativ gut in die gewünschte Richtung ablenken, um einen entsprechenden Lichtkegel zu erzeugen. Beim direkt aus der Lichtquelle auf die Streuscheibe gelangenden Licht stellt sich das Problem, dass der Strahlengang relativ stark abgelenkt werden muss, wozu an der Streuscheibe eine Sammellinse vorgesehen sein muss. Dabei soll die Sammellinse einen möglichst grossen Raumwinkel des direkt abgestrahlten Lichts erfassen, ohne indessen einen zu grossen Flächenbereich der Streuscheibe einzunehmen. Es wurde hierzu bereits vorgeschlagen, innen auf die Streuscheibe eine relativ dicke Sammellinse aufzukitten, welche das Direktlicht der Lichtquelle bündelt. Diese Lösung ist indessen herstellungstechnisch aufwendig.In lighting systems with a relatively low power output for the light sources, it is important that the light generated can be used in an optimal manner. As small a part of it as possible should be lost as stray light. A distinction must be made between the light that first falls on the reflector from the light source and is directed approximately parallel by it, and the light that falls directly on the lens at a front solid angle. The light of the first origin can be deflected relatively well in the desired direction by the diffusing lens optics in order to generate a corresponding light cone. With the light coming directly from the light source onto the lens, the problem arises that the beam path has to be deflected relatively strongly, for which purpose a collecting lens must be provided on the lens. The converging lens is intended to capture the largest possible solid angle of the directly emitted light, without, however, taking up too large an area of the lens. For this purpose, it has already been proposed to cement a relatively thick converging lens on the inside of the lens, which bundles the direct light from the light source. This solution is, however, complex in terms of production technology.

Es sind verschiedene Möglichkeiten bekannt, die Lichtausbeute derartiger Lampen zu verbessern. In US-A-1 571 139 wird die Möglichkeit gezeigt, eine Sammellinse möglichst nahe vor der Lampe zu plazieren und somit die Lichtausbeute zu verbessern. Der aus der Lampe austretende Lichtkegel hat jedoch eine sehr grosse Apertur, da die Streuscheibe grösstenteils als Diffusor ausgestaltet ist. Deshalb geht ein grosser Teil der Lichtintensität verloren. Bei den Lampen gemäss DE-A-3 317 519, DE-A-1 472 525 und GB-A-120 581 werden Fresnel-Linsen verwendet. Damit wird die Lichtausbeute verbessert. Jedoch ergibt sich bei Lampen dieser Art auf der Strasse ein Lichtfleck, dessen Intensität mit zunehmendem Abstand von der Lampe schnell abnimmt.Various possibilities are known for improving the luminous efficacy of such lamps. US-A-1 571 139 shows the possibility of placing a converging lens as close as possible in front of the lamp and thus to improve the light output. However, the light cone emerging from the lamp has a very large aperture, since the diffuser is largely designed as a diffuser. Therefore a large part of the light intensity is lost. Fresnel lenses are used in the lamps according to DE-A-3 317 519, DE-A-1 472 525 and GB-A-120 581. This improves the light output. However, with lamps of this type there is a light spot on the street, the intensity of which rapidly decreases with increasing distance from the lamp.

In US-A-1 674 460 und in DE-A-3 143 086 wird vorgeschlagen, Prismen in die Lampen einzubauen, welche zur Verhinderung einer Blendung entgegenkommender Verkehrsteilnehmer einen Teil des Lichtes nach unten ablenken. Damit wird zugleich mehr Licht auf einen Nahbereich der Strassenfläche geworfen. Damit entsteht zwar eine starke Ausleuchtung der Strassenfläche, die grosse Helligkeit des Nahbereichs sowie die Unregelmässigkeit der Lichtverteilung wird jedoch als unangenehm empfunden.In US-A-1 674 460 and DE-A-3 143 086 it is proposed to install prisms in the lamps which deflect part of the light downwards to prevent oncoming road users from being dazzled. At the same time, more light is thrown onto a close-up area of the street surface. Although this creates a strong illumination of the street surface, the high brightness of the close-up area and the irregularity of the light distribution are perceived as unpleasant.

Es stellt sich damit die Aufgabe, einen Scheinwerfer der eingangs erwähnten Art so zu gestalten, dass bei im wesentlichen unverändertem Herstellungsaufwand eine wesentlich bessere Ausnutzung des Direktlichts der Lichtquelle und eine Reduktion des Falschlichts erzielen lässt.It is therefore the task of designing a headlamp of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that, with an essentially unchanged production outlay, substantially better utilization of the direct light of the light source and a reduction in the false light.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch die in den Patentansprüchen 1-10 erwähnten Merkmale gelöst.This object is achieved by the features mentioned in claims 1-10.

Indem die Streuscheibe nach innen gewölbt ist, kann ein wesentlich grösserer Raumwinkel des Direktlichts genutzt werden, wobei die vorzugsweise als Fresnellinse ausgebildete Sammellinsenstruktur keine wesentliche, lokale Verdickung der Streuscheibe nötig macht, die sich bei der Herstellung nicht beherrschen liesse. Die so ausgebildete Streuscheibe kann deshalb als einstückiger Formteil aus Kunststoff oder Glas in herkömmlicher Weise rationell hergestellt werden. Das noch reduziert auftretende Streulicht wird dabei mit Vorteil zur Erzeugung einer seitlich sichtbaren, leuchtenden Zone am Scheinwerfer genutzt, wozu an der Peripherie der Streuscheibe ein transparenter Ring ausgebildet ist, durch den Falschlicht radial austritt.Because the lens is curved inwards, a much larger solid angle of the direct light can be used, whereby the converging lens structure, which is preferably designed as a Fresnel lens, does not require a significant local thickening of the lens, which could not be controlled during manufacture. The diffusing screen thus formed can therefore be efficiently produced in a conventional manner as a one-piece molded part made of plastic or glass. The stray light, which is still reduced, is advantageously used to produce a laterally visible, illuminated zone on the headlamp, for which purpose a transparent ring is formed on the periphery of the lens through which false light radially emerges.

Nachfolgend werden anhand der Zeichnungen Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

  • Figur 1 eine erste Ausführung des Scheinwerfers in Schnittansicht, längs einem Vertikalschnitt durch die Scheinwerferachse;
  • Figur 2 eine Frontansicht auf die Streuscheibe;
  • Figur 3 einen Schnitt entlang der Linie III-III in Figur 2;
  • Figur 4 eine Seitenansicht des Scheinwerfers einschliesslich seinem Gehäuse;
  • Figur 5 eine zweite Ausführung des Scheinwerfers in der Darstellung gemäss Figur 1, und
  • Figur 6 eine weitere Ausführung des Scheinwerfers mit zusätzlichem Reflektorring.
Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Show it:
  • Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the headlight in a sectional view, along a vertical section through the headlight axis;
  • Figure 2 is a front view of the lens;
  • 3 shows a section along the line III-III in Figure 2;
  • Figure 4 is a side view of the headlamp including its housing;
  • Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of the headlamp in the representation of Figure 1, and
  • Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the headlamp with an additional reflector ring.

Anhand der Figuren 1 und 2 wird zunächst die optische Ausgestaltung des Scheinwerfers im Grundsatz erläutert, bevor auf weitere Einzelheiten eingetreten wird. Der Scheinwerfer besitzt eine Lichtquelle 1, welche vorzugsweise als Halogenlampe ausgebildet ist. Die Lichtquelle ist in Figur 1 punktförmig gezeichnet, ist jedoch in Wirklichkeit als Wendel ausgestaltet. Die Lichtquelle ist im Brennpunkt eines parabolisch oder elliptisch geformten Reflektors 2 angeordnet. Die auf den Reflektor 2 auftreffenden Lichtstrahlen aus der Lichtquelle werden deshalb ungefähr parallel zur Scheinwerferachse 3 reflektiert und treffen so auf eine Streuscheibe 4. Die Streuscheibe 4 ist aus lichtdurchlässigem Material, z.B. einem transparenten Kunststoff wie PMMA, geformt. Ihre Form bestimmt wesentlich den Strahlengang des Scheinwerfers.With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the optical design of the headlamp is explained in principle before going into further details. The headlight has a light source 1, which is preferably is designed as a halogen lamp. The light source is shown in point form in FIG. 1, but is actually designed as a spiral. The light source is arranged in the focal point of a parabolically or elliptically shaped reflector 2. The light rays striking the reflector 2 from the light source are therefore reflected approximately parallel to the headlight axis 3 and thus strike a diffusing screen 4. The diffusing screen 4 is formed from a translucent material, for example a transparent plastic such as PMMA. Their shape essentially determines the beam path of the headlamp.

Die Streuscheibe 4 ist dabei in unterschiedliche Zonen unterteilt. Eine zentrale Zone 5 ist zur Ablenkung des direkt aus der Lichtquelle 1 kommenden Lichts vorgesehen. Die aussen anschliessenden Randzonen 6,7,8 sind in eine obere Zone 6, eine mittlere Zone 7 und eine untere Zone 8 unterteilt (vergl. Fig. 2) und dienen für die Ablenkung des vom Reflektor 2 parallel reflektierten Lichts.The lens 4 is divided into different zones. A central zone 5 is provided for deflecting the light coming directly from the light source 1. The outer peripheral zones 6, 7, 8 are divided into an upper zone 6, a central zone 7 and a lower zone 8 (cf. FIG. 2) and serve to deflect the light reflected in parallel by the reflector 2.

Die Streuscheibe 4 ist zur Lichtquelle 1 hin gewölbt. Dies bewirkt, dass die zentrale Zone 5 nahe bei der Lichtquelle 1 liegt und somit einen relativ grossen Raumwinkel des direkt abgestrahlten Lichts der Lichtquelle erfasst. Das in diesem Raumwinkel auf die Streuscheibe einfallende Licht wird mittels einer Sammellinsenstruktur zu einem Lichtbündel 10 gesammelt, das im wesentlichen in der Richtung der Scheinwerferachse 3 ausgestrahlt wird.The lens 4 is curved toward the light source 1. This means that the central zone 5 is close to the light source 1 and thus detects a relatively large solid angle of the directly emitted light from the light source. The light incident on the lens at this solid angle is collected by means of a converging lens structure to form a light bundle 10 which is emitted essentially in the direction of the headlight axis 3.

Die Sammellinsenstruktur in der zentralen Zone 5 ist als konzentrisch zur Achse 3 angeordnete Fresnellinse 9 ausgebildet, womit die Dicke der Streuscheibe 4 relativ gleichförmig bleibt. Dies ist eine wichtige Voraussetzung für ihre Herstellung als Kunststoff-Formkörper. Der Fresnellinse überlagert bildet die Streuscheibe in der zentralen Zone 5 im Vertikalschnitt eine Kurve vierter Ordnung, was bewirkt, dass die höher durch diese zentrale Zone 5 hindurchtretenden Strahlen etwas stärker, d.h. zur Achse 3 hin abgelenkt werden, als die tiefer hindurchtretenden Strahlen, die in Achsrichtung 3 verlaufen (vergl. Figur 1). Dies wiederum hat zur Folge, dass der auf die Strasse oder eine andere Unterlage schräg einfallende Lichtkegel zu einem Lichtfleck von im wesentlichen konstanter Helligkeit führt. Anders als bei herkömmlichen Lampen nimmt damit die Helligkeit im Lichtfleck, der durch den schräg einfallenden Lichtkegel erzeugt wird, nicht mit zunehmendem Abstand vom Scheinwerfer ab.The converging lens structure in the central zone 5 is designed as a Fresnel lens 9 arranged concentrically to the axis 3, so that the thickness of the lens 4 remains relatively uniform. This is an important prerequisite for their manufacture as plastic molded articles. Superimposed on the Fresnel lens, the lens in the central zone 5 forms a fourth-order curve in vertical section, which has the effect that the rays passing through this central zone 5 are deflected somewhat more strongly, ie towards the axis 3, than the rays penetrating deeper into the Axis direction 3 run (see FIG. 1). This in turn means that the cone of light falling obliquely onto the street or another base leads to a light spot of essentially constant brightness. In contrast to conventional lamps, the brightness in the light spot, which is generated by the obliquely incident light cone, does not decrease with increasing distance from the headlight.

Eine entsprechende Ausgestaltung der Streuscheibe ist in den bereits erwähnten Randzonen 6,7,8 vorhanden, von denen in Figur 1 nur die obere Zone 6 und die untere Zone 8 sichtbar sind. Auch hier bildet die Streuscheibe im Vertikalschnitt zusätzlich zum Kreis eine Kurve vierter Ordnung mit entsprechend stärkerer Ablenkung der höher durchtretenden Strahlen. Entsprechend führen die Lichtbündel 11 und 12 aus diesen Zonen 6,8 bei schrägem Einfall ebenfalls zu einem Lichtfleck mit regelmässiger Lichtverteilung auf einer Unterlage.A corresponding configuration of the diffusing screen is present in the edge zones 6, 7, 8 already mentioned, of which only the upper zone 6 and the lower zone 8 are visible in FIG. 1. Here, too, the diffuser in vertical section forms, in addition to the circle, a fourth-order curve with a correspondingly greater deflection of the higher rays. Correspondingly, the light beams 11 and 12 from these zones 6, 8 also lead to a light spot with a regular light distribution on a base in the case of oblique incidence.

Betrachtet man diese Zonen in einem Horizontalschnitt (vergl. Fig. 2 und 3), so besitzen sie eine Streulinsenstruktur 14 an sich bekannter Art, welche gemäss Figur 3 zu einer seitlichen Divergenz des Lichtkegels führt. Dieselbe Ausgestaltung besitzt die Randzone 7.If these zones are viewed in a horizontal section (cf. FIGS. 2 and 3), they have a scattering lens structure 14 of a type known per se, which leads to a lateral divergence of the light cone according to FIG. The edge zone 7 has the same configuration.

Wird der so ausgestaltete Scheinwerfer als Fahrradlampe eingesetzt, so erzeugt er im Abstand von 4 m bis 10 m von der Lampenposition einen im wesentlichen trapezförmigen Lichtfleck gleichmässiger Helligkeit auf der Strasse. Da dazu das Direktlicht des von der zentralen Zone 5 erfassten Raumwinkels beiträgt, kann die Lichtausbeute wesentlich verbessert werden.If the headlight designed in this way is used as a bicycle lamp, it produces a substantially trapezoidal spot of uniform brightness on the street at a distance of 4 m to 10 m from the lamp position. Since the direct light of the solid angle detected by the central zone 5 contributes to this, the luminous efficacy can be significantly improved.

Wie sich aus der Figur 1 ersehen lässt, wird ein Teil des Lichts aus der Lichtquelle weder am Reflektor gespiegelt, noch als Direktlicht von der zentralen Zone gesammelt. Dieses Streulicht wird nun ebenfalls genutzt, indem es seitlich radial durch einen transparenten Ring 15 austritt. Der transparente Ring besitzt vorzugsweise eine Signalfarbe, so dass er in seitlicher Ansicht als in Signalfarbe leuchtender Streifen in Erscheinung tritt (vergl. Figur 4). Damit trägt das Streulicht des Scheinwerfers zur seitlichen Markierung z.B. eines Fahrradfahrers in der Nacht bei, was sonst oft nur durch passive Reflektoren möglich ist. Der transparente Ring 15 kann zugleich als Montageelement zur Verbindung von Reflektor 2 und Streuscheibe 4 ausgestaltet sein.As can be seen from FIG. 1, part of the light from the light source is neither reflected on the reflector nor collected as direct light from the central zone. This scattered light is now also used in that it emerges laterally radially through a transparent ring 15. The transparent ring preferably has a signal color, so that it appears in a side view as a streak glowing in the signal color occurs (see FIG. 4). The scattered light from the headlight contributes to the lateral marking of, for example, a cyclist at night, which is otherwise often only possible with passive reflectors. The transparent ring 15 can also be designed as a mounting element for connecting the reflector 2 and the diffuser 4.

Figur 4 zeigt eine mögliche Ausgestaltung des beschriebenen Scheinwerfers als Fahrradlampe. Der Scheinwerfer mit Signalring 15 und Reflektor 2 ist an einem Gehäuse 16 angeordnet.Figure 4 shows a possible embodiment of the headlamp described as a bicycle lamp. The headlight with signal ring 15 and reflector 2 is arranged on a housing 16.

In Figur 5 schliesslich ist eine etwas abgewandelte Ausgestaltung der Streuscheibe 4 gezeigt. Wie ersichtlich, unterscheidet sich diese von der Ausführung gemäss Figur 1 lediglich dadurch, dass die zentrale Zone 5 selbst nocheinmal eine Einwölbung gegen die Lichtquelle 1 hin bildet. Damit kann erreicht werden, dass der erfasste Raumwinkel des Direktlichts weiter vergrössert wird.Finally, FIG. 5 shows a somewhat modified embodiment of the diffusing screen 4. As can be seen, this differs from the embodiment according to FIG. 1 only in that the central zone 5 itself once again forms an arch towards the light source 1. It can be achieved that the detected solid angle of the direct light is further increased.

Wie aus Figur 6 zu ersehen ist, kann der beschriebene Scheinwerfer zudem mit einem nach vorn gerichteten Reflektorring 16 versehen sein. Sollte die Lichtquelle 1 oder deren Speisung ausfallen, so dient dieser dazu, das Fahrrad für den Gegenverkehr nachts dennoch erkennbar zu machen. Der Reflektorring 16 aus transparentem Plexiglas besitzt eine Rückseite 17 mit Reflektorstruktur. Er ist verschweisst mit einem als Signalring 15 ausgebildeten Ring aus transparentem roten Plexiglas, durch den seitlich in der beschriebenen Weise Streulicht austreten kann. Das Ganze kann als Schnappring ausgebildet sein zur Montage der Streuscheibe 4 am Reflektor 2. In dieser Ausführung stellt der erfindungsgemässe Scheinwerfer eine integrierte, aktiv und passiv wirksame, optische Kenntlichmachung im Verkehr dar.As can be seen from FIG. 6, the described headlight can also be provided with a reflector ring 16 directed forward. Should the light source 1 or its supply fail, this serves to make the bike recognizable for oncoming traffic at night. The reflector ring 16 made of transparent plexiglass has a back 17 with a reflector structure. It is welded to a ring made of transparent red plexiglass designed as a signal ring 15, through which stray light can escape laterally in the manner described. The whole can be designed as a snap ring for mounting the lens 4 on the reflector 2. In this embodiment, the headlamp according to the invention is an integrated, active and passive effective, visual identification in traffic.

Insgesamt gestattet es der beschriebene Scheinwerfer, Lichtquellen mit relativ geringer Leistung, wie sie z.B. bei Fahrradlichtanlagen eingesetzt werden, zur Lichterzeugung optimal zu nutzen, indem die Falschlichtverluste herabgesetzt werden und das Licht in optimaler Weise gerichtet abgestrahlt wird, so dass vor dem Fahrrad auf der Strasse ein ausgedehnter Lichtfleck mit gleichmässiger Lichtverteilung erzeugt wird. Die Komponenten, insbesondere die Streuscheibe, können in effizienten Verfahren als Formteile hergestellt werden.Overall, the described headlamp allows light sources with relatively low power, such as those used in bicycle lighting systems, to be used optimally for light generation by the false light losses are reduced and the light is emitted in an optimal direction, so that an extensive light spot with even light distribution is generated in front of the bicycle on the street. The components, in particular the diffusing screen, can be produced as molded parts in efficient processes.

Claims (11)

  1. Headlight with a light source (1) located in the headlight axis (3), with a parabolic or elliptical reflector (2) and a light ray guiding disk (4) located in front of the light source and formed as an integrally formed article and provided with a dome towards the light source (1), whereby a collective lens structure (9) is formed in a central zone (5) having the smallest distance from the light source (1) in such a manner that a substantial portion of the light beamed from the light source (1) directly in a forward spatial angle is converged roughly in the direction of the headlight axis (3), whereby the central zone is surrounded by edge zones (6, 7, 8), characterized in that the central zone and possibly the edge zones are shaped in such a manner that rays which pass through the lowest area of each zone are guided in vertical direction substantially parallel to the headlight axis, whereas rays passing more above through these zones are increasingly deflected downwards such that a ground area illuminated by the light cone at an acute angle is illuminated with a brightness substantially independent from the distance to the headlight.
  2. Headlight according to claim 1, characterized in that the collective lens structure (9) is structured at least at the radially outer area of the central zone as Fresnel lens, of which the surfaces are superimposed in the vertical section by curves in the fourth order.
  3. Headlight according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ray guiding disk is structured in every edge zone (6, 7, 8) as spherical lens of which the surfaces are superimposed in the vertical section by curves in the fourth order.
  4. Headlight according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the light ray guiding disk (4) is structured as formed article of a substantially equal thickness.
  5. Headlight according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the edge zone a deflection of the light in lateral direction proceeds in such a manner that a laterally diverging light cone is produced.
  6. Headlight according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central zone (5) comprises an additional arch towards the light source.
  7. Headlight according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a transparent ring (15) is formed at the periphery of the light ray guiding disk (4), through which stray light exits radially.
  8. Headlight according to claim 7, characterized in that the transparent ring (15) possesses a signal colour.
  9. Headlight according to one of the claims, characterized in that the transparent ring (15) is structured as support ring for the mounting of the light ray guiding disk to the reflector.
  10. Headlight according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the light source (1) is a halide light.
  11. Use of a headlight according to one of the claims 1-10 as bicycle light.
EP91118675A 1990-11-12 1991-11-01 Headlight Expired - Lifetime EP0485818B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH3577/90A CH681478A5 (en) 1990-11-12 1990-11-12
CH3577/90 1990-11-20

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0485818A1 EP0485818A1 (en) 1992-05-20
EP0485818B1 true EP0485818B1 (en) 1994-06-22

Family

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EP91118675A Expired - Lifetime EP0485818B1 (en) 1990-11-12 1991-11-01 Headlight

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US (1) US5245515A (en)
EP (1) EP0485818B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH04284301A (en)
AT (1) ATE107755T1 (en)
CH (1) CH681478A5 (en)
DE (1) DE59102003D1 (en)
DK (1) DK0485818T3 (en)
TW (1) TW203584B (en)

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US5945916A (en) * 1996-02-23 1999-08-31 Valeo Vision Indicator light with improved light spreading means
DE102011113627A1 (en) 2011-09-16 2013-03-21 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Lens for lamp e.g. multi-function rear lamp, of motor car, has projection for fastening of lens at housing, and boundary face formed on outer side and partly reflected with boundary face of another material layer by total reflection

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US5945916A (en) * 1996-02-23 1999-08-31 Valeo Vision Indicator light with improved light spreading means
DE102011113627A1 (en) 2011-09-16 2013-03-21 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Lens for lamp e.g. multi-function rear lamp, of motor car, has projection for fastening of lens at housing, and boundary face formed on outer side and partly reflected with boundary face of another material layer by total reflection

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JPH04284301A (en) 1992-10-08
DK0485818T3 (en) 1994-09-26
US5245515A (en) 1993-09-14
EP0485818A1 (en) 1992-05-20
CH681478A5 (en) 1993-03-31
ATE107755T1 (en) 1994-07-15
TW203584B (en) 1993-04-11
DE59102003D1 (en) 1994-07-28

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