EP1198823A1 - Gas discharge lamp with ignition assisting electrodes, especially for automobile headlights - Google Patents

Gas discharge lamp with ignition assisting electrodes, especially for automobile headlights

Info

Publication number
EP1198823A1
EP1198823A1 EP00930982A EP00930982A EP1198823A1 EP 1198823 A1 EP1198823 A1 EP 1198823A1 EP 00930982 A EP00930982 A EP 00930982A EP 00930982 A EP00930982 A EP 00930982A EP 1198823 A1 EP1198823 A1 EP 1198823A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
discharge lamp
gas discharge
electrodes
cavity
discharge vessel
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP00930982A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Ingo Gorille
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.)
Robert Bosch GmbH
Original Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Robert Bosch GmbH filed Critical Robert Bosch GmbH
Publication of EP1198823A1 publication Critical patent/EP1198823A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J61/00—Gas-discharge or vapour-discharge lamps
    • H01J61/02—Details
    • H01J61/54—Igniting arrangements, e.g. promoting ionisation for starting
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J61/00—Gas-discharge or vapour-discharge lamps
    • H01J61/02—Details
    • H01J61/54—Igniting arrangements, e.g. promoting ionisation for starting
    • H01J61/547—Igniting arrangements, e.g. promoting ionisation for starting using an auxiliary electrode outside the vessel

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a gas discharge lamp, in particular for motor vehicle headlights according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a gas discharge lamp is known from DE 196 10 387 AI.
  • This gas discharge lamp has a firing vessel with a cavity into which two electrodes of opposite polarity protrude, between which an arc is formed during operation of the gas discharge lamp.
  • a filling of gas and solids is arranged in the cavity.
  • At least one auxiliary electrode is also arranged in the cavity and is used to improve the ignition behavior of the gas discharge lamp.
  • the at least one auxiliary electrode is arranged in such a way that there is a shorter ignition distance than the burning distance between the two electrodes, which facilitates the ignition of the gas discharge lamp. In this case, it can prove difficult to ensure the required separation between the electrodes and the at least one auxiliary electrode and the separation of the burning path and the ignition path.
  • the gas discharge lamp according to the invention with the features according to claim 1 has the advantage that the arrangement of the at least one auxiliary electrode is possible in a simple manner on the outside of the burner vessel. Due to the high-frequency electrical voltage applied to the auxiliary electrode and the counter electrode, dielectrically impeded discharges, so-called silent discharges or, are created in the cavity of the burner vessel.
  • FIG. 1 shows a gas discharge lamp in a longitudinal section
  • FIG. 2 shows a section of the gas discharge lamp designated by II in FIG. 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment in an enlarged view
  • FIG. 3 shows section II of the gas discharge lamp according to a second exemplary embodiment. Description of the embodiments
  • a gas discharge lamp shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 is particularly suitable for use with
  • the gas discharge lamp has a base 10, shown in a highly simplified manner, which can be made in several parts and via which it can be used, for example, in an opening in a reflector
  • a burner 12 which has a discharge vessel 14, is connected to the base 10.
  • the discharge vessel 14 has a cavity 15, into which at least two electrodes 16, 18 protrude and which contains a filling which consists of an inert gas, preferably xenon, and mercury and optionally metal halides.
  • the discharge vessel 14 has tubular extensions 20, 21 adjoining the cavity 15, a feed line 22 to the electrode 16 being arranged in the extension 20 facing the base 10 and a connection 21 connected to the other electrode 18 in the extension 21 facing away from the base 10 Line 23 is arranged.
  • the discharge vessel 14 with the extensions 20, 21 consists of glass, preferably quartz glass.
  • a metal foil 24 is arranged between them, which preferably consists of molybdenum.
  • the burner 12 can also have a glass tube 26 which at least partially surrounds the discharge vessel 14 with its extensions 20, 21, which serves on the one hand to protect the discharge vessel 14 and on the other hand can be used to shield UV radiation which arises during operation of the gas discharge lamp.
  • a return line 28 running outside the burner 12 is connected to the line 23, which leads along the burner 12 to the base 10 and which is insulated 29 can be provided.
  • the supply line 22 to the electrode 16 and the return line 23 from the electrode 18 are each connected to a plug contact (not shown) on the base 10.
  • an electrical ballast device which has an ignition part and a control part.
  • the ignition part can be arranged separately from the gas discharge lamp or can be integrated in its base 10.
  • the ignition part serves the
  • a very high voltage is required here to ignite the gas discharge lamp.
  • the ignition part can be constructed, for example, on the principle of resonance ignition. When the gas discharge lamp is in operation, an arc is formed in the cavity 15 of the discharge vessel 14 between the electrodes 16, 18.
  • auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are provided, which are arranged outside the discharge vessel 14 in the region of its cavity 15.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are provided, which are arranged outside the discharge vessel 14 in the region of its cavity 15.
  • Auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are shown according to a first exemplary embodiment, in which they are formed by an electrically conductive coating on the outside of the discharge vessel 14 in the region of the cavity 15.
  • the coating for forming the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can, for example, consist of a metal with sufficient heat resistance and can be applied to the discharge vessel 14 by vapor deposition, painting or in another suitable manner.
  • the two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are arranged at least approximately diametrically opposite one another on the discharge vessel 14. More than two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can also be provided, two auxiliary electrodes being arranged opposite one another, for example.
  • the coatings forming the two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are separated from one another and each extend over part of the circumference of the discharge vessel 14 around the cavity 15.
  • a conductor track 44 running on the discharge vessel 14 can be connected to the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42, which lead to the base 10 of the gas discharge lamp.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can also be contacted in any other way, for example by means of cables connected to them.
  • Ballast device for example its ignition part, a high-frequency high voltage is applied to the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42, the two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 having an opposite polarity. It can be provided that the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are supplied with high-frequency high voltage only for a certain period of time before the ignition and, if necessary, during the ignition of the gas discharge lamp, or alternatively, it can be provided that the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are constantly at a high frequency when the gas discharge lamp is switched off
  • High voltage can be supplied.
  • the high voltage can be more than 1 kV and the frequency can be more than 10 kHz.
  • auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 When the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are supplied with high-frequency high voltage, dielectrically disabled discharges, so-called silent discharges or barrier discharges, are generated in the cavity 15 of the discharge vessel 14 of the gas discharge lamp. As a result, the filling of the cavity 15, in particular the noble gas, energetically stimulated.
  • the gas discharge lamp is ignited by means of the ignition part of the ballast by applying high voltage to the electrodes 16, 18, the dielectric breakdown through the noble gas in the cavity 15 between the electrodes 16, 18 occurs faster and / or at a lower ignition voltage than without the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 would be the case.
  • the ignition part of the ballast can be designed accordingly weaker, which offers cost advantages.
  • the overall design of the gas discharge lamp can also be made simpler in terms of insulation measures, since lower ignition voltages are required.
  • the gas discharge lamp can achieve a longer service life due to the reduced ignition load.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are arranged between the outside of the discharge vessel 14 and the glass tube 26, so that they cannot be touched and there is no danger from them.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 could also be formed by a conductive coating on the inside of the glass tube 26 in the region of the glass tube 26 which surrounds the cavity 15 of the discharge vessel 14. The contacting of the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can then also take place via conductor tracks on the inside of the glass tube 26 or in any other way.
  • FIG. 3 shows a section of the gas discharge lamp according to a second exemplary embodiment.
  • the basic structure of the gas discharge lamp is the same as in the first exemplary embodiment, the design of the auxiliary electrodes being modified.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 according to the second exemplary embodiment are separate parts on the outside of the discharge vessel 14 in the region of the cavity 15 thereof arranged.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are made of electrically conductive material, in particular metal, and their shape can be adapted to the outside of the discharge vessel 14 in the region of the cavity 15, that is to say, for example, they can be curved.
  • Auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can be connected to the discharge vessel 14 by means of a clamp or snap connection, by gluing or in any other way.
  • the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can also be clamped between the discharge vessel 14 and the glass tube 26.
  • Electrical lines 46 are connected to the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42, which lead to the base 10 of the gas discharge lamp and serve to connect the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 to the high-frequency high voltage as in the first exemplary embodiment.
  • auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 only one of the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 is provided on the outside of the discharge vessel 14, which can be designed as explained above.
  • One of the electrodes 16, 18 protruding into the cavity 15 serves as the counter electrode to this one auxiliary electrode 40 or 42.
  • a high-frequency high voltage of opposite polarity is applied to the auxiliary electrode 40 or 42 and the counter electrode 16 or 18, so that an electrical field is formed between the auxiliary electrode 40 or 42 and the counter electrode 16 or 18, which penetrates the cavity 15 and facilitates the ignition of the gas discharge lamp.

Landscapes

  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
  • Discharge Lamps And Accessories Thereof (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a gas discharge lamp with a burner provided with a gas discharge vessel (14) with a cavity (15) which is filled with gas and other substances. Two electrodes (16, 18) between which an arc is struck when the gas discharge lamp is operated project into said cavity (15). On the outside of the discharge vessel (14), in the area of the cavity (15), two supplementary electrodes (40, 42) having different polarity are disposed opposite one another. Said supplementary electrodes (40, 42) are produced by coating the outside of the discharge vessel (14) with an electroconductive material. Before and optionally also during the ignition of the gas discharge lamp a high-frequency high voltage is applied to the supplementary electrodes (40, 42), thereby facilitating the ignition of the gas discharge lamp.

Description

GASENTLADUNGSLAMPE MIT ZUNDHILFSELEKTRODEN, INSBESONDRE FÜR KRAFTFAHRZEUGSCHEINWERFERGAS DISCHARGE LAMP WITH AUXILIARY ELECTRODES, ESPECIALLY FOR MOTOR VEHICLE HEADLIGHTS
Stand der TechnikState of the art
Die Erfindung geht aus von einer Gasentladungslampe, insbesondere für Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer nach der Gattung des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a gas discharge lamp, in particular for motor vehicle headlights according to the preamble of claim 1.
Eine solche Gasentladungslampe ist durch die DE 196 10 387 AI bekannt. Diese Gasentladungslampe weist ein Brenngefäß auf, mit einem Hohlraum, in den zwei Elektroden entgegengesetzter Polarität hineinragen, zwischen denen sich im Betrieb der Gasentladungslampe ein Lichtbogen ausbildet. Im Hohlraum ist eine Füllung aus Gas und Feststoffen angeordnet. Im Hohlraum ist außerdem wenigstens eine Hilfselektrode angeordnet, die zur Verbesserung des Zündverhaltens der Gasentladungslampe dient. Die wenigstens eine Hilfselektrode ist dabei derart angeordnet, daß sich eine gegenüber der Brennstrecke zwischen den beiden Elektroden eine kürzere Zündstrecke ergibt, die das Zünden der Gasentladungslampe erleichtert. Hierbei kann es sich als schwierig erweisen, die erforderliche Trennung zwischen den Elektroden und der wenigstens einen Hilfselektrode sowie die Trennung der Brennstrecke und der Zündstrecke sicherzustellen. Vorteile der ErfindungSuch a gas discharge lamp is known from DE 196 10 387 AI. This gas discharge lamp has a firing vessel with a cavity into which two electrodes of opposite polarity protrude, between which an arc is formed during operation of the gas discharge lamp. A filling of gas and solids is arranged in the cavity. At least one auxiliary electrode is also arranged in the cavity and is used to improve the ignition behavior of the gas discharge lamp. The at least one auxiliary electrode is arranged in such a way that there is a shorter ignition distance than the burning distance between the two electrodes, which facilitates the ignition of the gas discharge lamp. In this case, it can prove difficult to ensure the required separation between the electrodes and the at least one auxiliary electrode and the separation of the burning path and the ignition path. Advantages of the invention
Die erfindungsgemäße Gasentladungslampe mit den Merkmalen gemäß Anspruch 1 hat demgegenüber den Vorteil, daß die Anordnung der wenigstens einen Hilfselektrode auf einfache Weise an der Außenseite des Brennergefäßes möglich ist . Durch die an die Hilfselektrode sowie die Gegenelektrode angelegte hochfrequente elektrische Spannung werden im Hohlraum des Brennergefäßes dielektrisch behinderte Entladungen, sogenannte stille Entladungen oderThe gas discharge lamp according to the invention with the features according to claim 1 has the advantage that the arrangement of the at least one auxiliary electrode is possible in a simple manner on the outside of the burner vessel. Due to the high-frequency electrical voltage applied to the auxiliary electrode and the counter electrode, dielectrically impeded discharges, so-called silent discharges or, are created in the cavity of the burner vessel
Barrierentladungen, erzeugt. Hierdurch wird das Gas der Füllung des Hohlraums energetisch angeregt. Beim Zünden der Gasentladungslampe mittels Anlegen von Hochspannung an die Elektroden erfolgt der elektrische Durchschlag durch das Gas der Füllung des Hohlraums schneller und/oder bereits bei einer niedrigeren Spannung als dies ohne die Hilfselektrode der Fall wäre.Barrier discharges generated. As a result, the gas filling the cavity is energetically excited. When the gas discharge lamp is ignited by applying high voltage to the electrodes, the electrical breakdown through the gas filling the cavity occurs faster and / or at a lower voltage than would be the case without the auxiliary electrode.
In den abhängigen Ansprüchen sind vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen und Weiterbildungen der erfindungsgemäßenAdvantageous refinements and developments of the invention are set out in the dependent claims
Gasentladungslampe angegeben. Die Ausbildung gemäß Anspruch 2 ermöglicht eine einfache Herstellung der Hilfselektrode.Gas discharge lamp specified. The design according to claim 2 enables simple manufacture of the auxiliary electrode.
Zeichnungdrawing
Zwei Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung sind in der Zeichnung dargestellt und in der nachfolgenden Beschreibung näher erläutert. Es zeigen Figur 1 eine Gasentladungslampe in einem Längsschnitt, Figur 2 einen in Figur 1 mit II bezeichneten Ausschnitt der Gasentladungslampe gemäß einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel in vergrößerter Darstellung und Figur 3 den Ausschnitt II der Gasentladungslampe gemäß einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel. Beschreibung der AusführungsbeispieleTwo embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing and explained in more detail in the following description. 1 shows a gas discharge lamp in a longitudinal section, FIG. 2 shows a section of the gas discharge lamp designated by II in FIG. 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment in an enlarged view, and FIG. 3 shows section II of the gas discharge lamp according to a second exemplary embodiment. Description of the embodiments
Eine in den Figuren 1 bis 3 dargestellte Gasentladungslampe ist insbesondere zur Verwendung beiA gas discharge lamp shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 is particularly suitable for use with
Fahrzeugbeleuchtungseinrichtungen wie beispielsweise Scheinwerfern vorgesehen. Die Gasentladungslampe weist einen stark vereinfacht dargestellten Sockel 10 auf, der mehrteilig ausgebildet sein kann und über den sie beispielsweise in einer Öffnung in einem Reflektor desVehicle lighting devices such as headlights are provided. The gas discharge lamp has a base 10, shown in a highly simplified manner, which can be made in several parts and via which it can be used, for example, in an opening in a reflector
Scheinwerfers angeordnet werden kann. Mit dem Sockel 10 ist ein Brenner 12 verbunden, der ein Entladungsgefäß 14 aufweist. Das Entladungsgefäß 14 weist einen Hohlraum 15 auf, in den wenigstens zwei Elektroden 16,18 hineinragen und der eine Füllung enthält, die aus einem Edelgas, vorzugsweise Xenon, und Quecksilber sowie gegebenenfalls Metallhalogeniden besteht. Das Entladungsgefäß 14 weist an den Hohlraum 15 anschließende rohrförmige Fortsätze 20,21 auf, wobei in dem dem Sockel 10 zugewandten Fortsatz 20 eine Zuleitung 22 zu der Elektrode 16 angeordnet ist und in dem dem Sockel 10 abgewandten Fortsatz 21 eine mit der anderen Elektrode 18 verbundene Leitung 23 angeordnet ist. Das Entladungsgefäß 14 mit den Fortsätzen 20,21 besteht aus Glas, vorzugsweise Quarzglas. Zur Verbindung der Leitungen 22,23 mit den Elektroden 16,18 ist zwischen diesen jeweils eine Metallfolie 24 angeordnet, die vorzugsweise aus Molybdän besteht . Der Brenner 12 kann außerdem ein das Entladungsgefäß 14 mit dessen Fortsätzen 20,21 zumindest teilweise umgebendes Glasrohr 26 aufweisen, das einerseits zum Schutz des Entladungsgefäßes 14 dient und das andererseits zur Abschirmung von im Betrieb der Gasentladungslampe entstehender UV-Strahlung dienen kann. Mit der Leitung 23 ist eine außerhalb des Brenners 12 verlaufende Rückleitung 28 verbunden, die entlang dem Brenner 12 zum Sockel 10 führt und die mit einer Isolierung 29 versehen sein kann. Die Zuleitung 22 zur Elektrode 16 und die Rückleitung 23 von der Elektrode 18 sind mit jeweils einem nicht dargestellten Steckkontakt am Sockel 10 verbunden.Headlights can be arranged. A burner 12, which has a discharge vessel 14, is connected to the base 10. The discharge vessel 14 has a cavity 15, into which at least two electrodes 16, 18 protrude and which contains a filling which consists of an inert gas, preferably xenon, and mercury and optionally metal halides. The discharge vessel 14 has tubular extensions 20, 21 adjoining the cavity 15, a feed line 22 to the electrode 16 being arranged in the extension 20 facing the base 10 and a connection 21 connected to the other electrode 18 in the extension 21 facing away from the base 10 Line 23 is arranged. The discharge vessel 14 with the extensions 20, 21 consists of glass, preferably quartz glass. To connect the lines 22, 23 to the electrodes 16, 18, a metal foil 24 is arranged between them, which preferably consists of molybdenum. The burner 12 can also have a glass tube 26 which at least partially surrounds the discharge vessel 14 with its extensions 20, 21, which serves on the one hand to protect the discharge vessel 14 and on the other hand can be used to shield UV radiation which arises during operation of the gas discharge lamp. A return line 28 running outside the burner 12 is connected to the line 23, which leads along the burner 12 to the base 10 and which is insulated 29 can be provided. The supply line 22 to the electrode 16 and the return line 23 from the electrode 18 are each connected to a plug contact (not shown) on the base 10.
Für den Betrieb der Gasentladungslampe ist eine elektrische Vorschalteinrichtung vorgesehen, die einen Zündteil und einen Steuerteil aufweist. Der Zündteil kann getrennt von der Gasentladungslampe angeordnet sein oder in deren Sockel 10 integriert sein. Der Zündteil dient dazu, dieFor the operation of the gas discharge lamp, an electrical ballast device is provided, which has an ignition part and a control part. The ignition part can be arranged separately from the gas discharge lamp or can be integrated in its base 10. The ignition part serves the
Gasentladungslampe zu zünden und durch diesen wird Hochspannung erzeugt, die an die Elektroden 16,18 angelegt wird, um einen Durchschlag zwischen diesen zu bewirken. Je nach Zustand der Gasentladungslampe, insbesondere in warmem Zustand, ist hier eine sehr hohe Spannung erforderlich, um die Gasentladungslampe zu zünden. Der Zündteil kann beispielsweise nach dem Prinzip der Resonanzzündung aufgebaut sein. Beim Betrieb der Gasentladungslampe bildet sich im Hohlraum 15 des Entladungsgefäßes 14 zwischen den Elektroden 16,18 ein Lichtbogen aus.Ignite gas discharge lamp and by this high voltage is generated, which is applied to the electrodes 16, 18 to cause a breakdown between them. Depending on the state of the gas discharge lamp, especially in the warm state, a very high voltage is required here to ignite the gas discharge lamp. The ignition part can be constructed, for example, on the principle of resonance ignition. When the gas discharge lamp is in operation, an arc is formed in the cavity 15 of the discharge vessel 14 between the electrodes 16, 18.
Gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung sind wenigstens zwei Hilfselektroden 40,42 vorgesehen, die außerhalb des Entladungsgefäßes 14 im Bereich von dessen Hohlraum 15 angeordnet sind. In Figur 2 sind dieAccording to a first embodiment of the invention, at least two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are provided, which are arranged outside the discharge vessel 14 in the region of its cavity 15. In Figure 2, the
Hilfselektroden 40,42 gemäß einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel dargestellt, bei dem diese durch eine elektrisch leitfähige Beschichtung der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes 14 im Bereich des Hohlraums 15 gebildet sind. Die Beschichtung zur Bildung der Hilfselektroden 40,42 kann beispielsweise aus einem Metall mit ausreichender Wärmebeständigkeit bestehen und durch Bedampfen, Lackieren oder in anderer geeigneter Weise auf das Entladungsgefäß 14 aufgebracht sein. Die beiden Hilfselektroden 40,42 sind einander zumindest annähernd diametral gegenüberliegend am Entladungsgefäß 14 angeordnet. Es können auch mehr als zwei Hilfselektroden 40,42 vorgesehen werden, wobei beispielsweise jeweils zwei Hilfselektroden einander gegenüberliegend angeordnet sind. Die die beiden Hilfselektroden 40,42 bildenden Beschichtungen sind voneinander getrennt und erstrecken sich jeweils über einen Teil des Umfangs des Entladungsgefäßes 14 um den Hohlraum 15 herum. Mit den Hilfselektroden 40,42 kann jeweils eine auf dem Entladungsgefäß 14 verlaufende Leiterbahn 44 verbunden sein, die zum Sockel 10 der Gasentladungslampe führen. Alternativ können die Hilfselektroden 40,42 auch in beliebiger anderer Weise kontaktiert sein, beispielsweise mittels an dieser angeschlossener Kabel. Durch die elektrischeAuxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are shown according to a first exemplary embodiment, in which they are formed by an electrically conductive coating on the outside of the discharge vessel 14 in the region of the cavity 15. The coating for forming the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can, for example, consist of a metal with sufficient heat resistance and can be applied to the discharge vessel 14 by vapor deposition, painting or in another suitable manner. The two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are arranged at least approximately diametrically opposite one another on the discharge vessel 14. More than two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can also be provided, two auxiliary electrodes being arranged opposite one another, for example. The coatings forming the two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are separated from one another and each extend over part of the circumference of the discharge vessel 14 around the cavity 15. A conductor track 44 running on the discharge vessel 14 can be connected to the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42, which lead to the base 10 of the gas discharge lamp. Alternatively, the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can also be contacted in any other way, for example by means of cables connected to them. Through the electrical
Vorschalteinrichtung, beispielsweise deren Zündteil, wird an die Hilfselektroden 40,42 eine hochfrequente Hochspannung angelegt, wobei die beiden Hilfselektroden 40,42 eine entgegengesetzte Polarität aufweisen. Es kann vorgesehen sein, daß die Hilfselektroden 40,42 nur für einen bestimmten Zeitraum vor dem Zünden und gegebenenfalls während des Zündens der Gasentladungslampe mit hochfrequenter Hochspannung versorgt werden oder alternativ kann vorgesehen sein, daß die Hilfselektroden 40,42 ständig bei ausgeschalteter Gasentladungslampe mit hochfrequenterBallast device, for example its ignition part, a high-frequency high voltage is applied to the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42, the two auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 having an opposite polarity. It can be provided that the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are supplied with high-frequency high voltage only for a certain period of time before the ignition and, if necessary, during the ignition of the gas discharge lamp, or alternatively, it can be provided that the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are constantly at a high frequency when the gas discharge lamp is switched off
Hochspannung versorgt werden. Die Hochspannung kann dabei mehr als 1 kV betragen und die Frequenz kann mehr als 10 kHz betragen.High voltage can be supplied. The high voltage can be more than 1 kV and the frequency can be more than 10 kHz.
Bei Versorgung der Hilfselektroden 40,42 mit hochfrequenter Hochspannung werden im Hohlraum 15 des Entladungsgefäßes 14 der Gasentladungslampe dielektrisch behinderte Entladungen, sogenannte stille Entladungen oder Barrierentladungen, in Englisch barrier discharges, erzeugt. Dadurch wird die Füllung des Hohlraums 15, insbesondere das Edelgas, energetisch angeregt. Beim Zünden der Gasentladungslampe mittels des Zündteils der Vorschalteinrichtung durch Anlegen von Hochspannung an die Elektroden 16,18 erfolgt der dielektrische Durchschlag durch das Edelgas im Hohlraum 15 zwischen den Elektroden 16,18 schneller und/oder bei einer niedrigeren Zündspannung als dies ohne die Hilfselektroden 40,42 der Fall wäre. Der Zündteil der Vorschalteinrichtung kann entsprechend schwächer ausgelegt werden, was Kostenvorteile bietet. Auch die Gasentladungslampe kann insgesamt in ihrem Aufbau hinsichtlich Isolierungmaßnahmen einfacher ausgeführt werden, da geringere Zündspannungen erforderlich sind. Darüberhinaus kann die Gasentladungslampe durch die verringerte Zündbelastung eine längere Lebensdauer erreichen.When the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are supplied with high-frequency high voltage, dielectrically disabled discharges, so-called silent discharges or barrier discharges, are generated in the cavity 15 of the discharge vessel 14 of the gas discharge lamp. As a result, the filling of the cavity 15, in particular the noble gas, energetically stimulated. When the gas discharge lamp is ignited by means of the ignition part of the ballast by applying high voltage to the electrodes 16, 18, the dielectric breakdown through the noble gas in the cavity 15 between the electrodes 16, 18 occurs faster and / or at a lower ignition voltage than without the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 would be the case. The ignition part of the ballast can be designed accordingly weaker, which offers cost advantages. The overall design of the gas discharge lamp can also be made simpler in terms of insulation measures, since lower ignition voltages are required. In addition, the gas discharge lamp can achieve a longer service life due to the reduced ignition load.
Die Hilfselektroden 40,42 sind zwischen der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes 14 und dem Glasrohr 26 angeordnet, so daß diese nicht berührt werden können und von diesen keine Gefahr ausgeht. Alternativ zur vorstehend beschriebenen Ausführung könnten die Hilfselektroden 40,42 auch durch eine leitfähige Beschichtung der Innenseite des Glasrohrs 26 im dem Bereich des Glasrohrs 26 gebildet sein, der den Hohlraum 15 des Entladungsgefäßes 14 umgibt. Die Kontaktierung der Hilfselektroden 40,42 kann dann ebenfalls über Leiterbahnen an der Innenseite des Glasrohrs 26 erfolgen oder in beliebiger anderer Weise.The auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are arranged between the outside of the discharge vessel 14 and the glass tube 26, so that they cannot be touched and there is no danger from them. As an alternative to the embodiment described above, the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 could also be formed by a conductive coating on the inside of the glass tube 26 in the region of the glass tube 26 which surrounds the cavity 15 of the discharge vessel 14. The contacting of the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can then also take place via conductor tracks on the inside of the glass tube 26 or in any other way.
In Figur 3 ist die Gasentladungslampe ausschnittsweise gemäß einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel dargestellt. Der grundsätzliche Aufbau der Gasentladungslampe ist dabei gleich wie beim ersten Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei die Ausbildung der Hilfselektroden modifiziert ist. Die Hilfselektroden 40,42 gemäß dem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel sind als separate Teile an der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes 14 im Bereich von dessen Hohlraum 15 angeordnet. Die Hilfselektroden 40,42 bestehen aus elektrisch leitfähigem Material, insbesondere aus Metall und können in ihrer Form an die Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes 14 im Bereich des Hohlraums 15 angepaßt sein, also beispielsweise gekrümmt ausgebildet sein. DieFIG. 3 shows a section of the gas discharge lamp according to a second exemplary embodiment. The basic structure of the gas discharge lamp is the same as in the first exemplary embodiment, the design of the auxiliary electrodes being modified. The auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 according to the second exemplary embodiment are separate parts on the outside of the discharge vessel 14 in the region of the cavity 15 thereof arranged. The auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 are made of electrically conductive material, in particular metal, and their shape can be adapted to the outside of the discharge vessel 14 in the region of the cavity 15, that is to say, for example, they can be curved. The
Hilfselektroden 40,42 können mittels einer Klemm- oder RastVerbindung, durch Verkleben oder in beliebiger anderer Weise mit dem Entladungsgefäß 14 verbunden sein. Die Hilfselektroden 40,42 können auch zwischen dem Entladungsgefäß 14 und dem Glasrohr 26 eingeklemmt sein. Mit den Hilfselektroden 40,42 sind elektrische Leitungen 46 verbunden, die zum Sockel 10 der Gasentladungslampe führen und zur Verbindung der Hilfselektroden 40,42 mit der hochfrequenten Hochspannung wie beim ersten Ausführungsbeispiel dienen.Auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can be connected to the discharge vessel 14 by means of a clamp or snap connection, by gluing or in any other way. The auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 can also be clamped between the discharge vessel 14 and the glass tube 26. Electrical lines 46 are connected to the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42, which lead to the base 10 of the gas discharge lamp and serve to connect the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 to the high-frequency high voltage as in the first exemplary embodiment.
Bei einer anderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist nur eine der Hilfselektroden 40,42 an der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes 14 vorgesehen, die wie vorstehend erläutert ausgebildet sein kann. Als Gegenelektrode zu dieser einen Hilfselektrode 40 oder 42 dient eine der in den Hohlraum 15 hineinragenden Elektroden 16,18. An die Hilfelektrode 40 oder 42 und die Gegenelektrode 16 oder 18 wird wie bei der ersten Ausführungsform eine hochfrequente Hochspannung entgegengesetzter Polarität angelegt, so daß sich zwischen der Hilfselektrode 40 oder 42 und der Gegenelektrode 16 oder 18 ein elektrisches Feld ausbildet, das den Hohlraum 15 durchsetzt und das Zünden der Gasentladungslampe erleichtert. In another embodiment of the invention, only one of the auxiliary electrodes 40, 42 is provided on the outside of the discharge vessel 14, which can be designed as explained above. One of the electrodes 16, 18 protruding into the cavity 15 serves as the counter electrode to this one auxiliary electrode 40 or 42. As in the first embodiment, a high-frequency high voltage of opposite polarity is applied to the auxiliary electrode 40 or 42 and the counter electrode 16 or 18, so that an electrical field is formed between the auxiliary electrode 40 or 42 and the counter electrode 16 or 18, which penetrates the cavity 15 and facilitates the ignition of the gas discharge lamp.

Claims

Ansprüche Expectations
1. Gasentladungslampe, insbesondere für Scheinwerfer für Fahrzeuge, mit einem Brenner (12) , der ein Entladungsgefäß (14) mit einem Hohlraum (15) aufweist, in dem eine Füllung aus Gas und anderen Stoffen angeordnet ist und in den wenigstens zwei Elektroden (16,18) hineinragen, zwischen denen sich im Betrieb der Gasentladungslampe ein Lichtbogen ausbildet, und mit wenigstens einer Hilfselektrode (40,42) zur Verbesserung des Zündverhaltens der Gasentladungslampe, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die wenigstens eine Hilfselektrode (40;42) an der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes (14) im Bereich des Hohlraums (15) angeordnet ist, und daß an die wenigstens eine Hilfselektrode (40,-42) und eine Gegenelektrode (42 ; 40 ; 16; 18) zu dieser zumindest zeitweise vor und/oder während des Zündens der Gasentladungslampe eine hochfrequente elektrische Spannung angelegt wird.1. Gas discharge lamp, in particular for headlights for vehicles, with a burner (12) which has a discharge vessel (14) with a cavity (15) in which a filling of gas and other substances is arranged and in the at least two electrodes (16 , 18) protrude, between which an arc is formed during operation of the gas discharge lamp, and with at least one auxiliary electrode (40, 42) to improve the ignition behavior of the gas discharge lamp, characterized in that the at least one auxiliary electrode (40; 42) on the outside of the Discharge vessel (14) is arranged in the region of the cavity (15), and that at least one auxiliary electrode (40, -42) and one counter electrode (42; 40; 16; 18) to it at least temporarily before and / or during ignition a high-frequency electrical voltage is applied to the gas discharge lamp.
2. Gasentladungslampe nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die wenigstens eine Hilfselektrode (40,-42) durch Beschichtung der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes (14) mit elektrisch leitfähigem Material gebildet ist . 2. Gas discharge lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one auxiliary electrode (40, -42) is formed by coating the outside of the discharge vessel (14) with electrically conductive material.
3. Gasentladungslampe nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß wenigstens zwei Hilfselektroden3. Gas discharge lamp according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least two auxiliary electrodes
(40,42) einander gegenüberliegend am Entladungsgefäß (14) angeordnet sind.(40, 42) are arranged opposite one another on the discharge vessel (14).
4. Gasentladungslampe nach einem der vorstehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Entladungsgefäß (14) zumindest teilweise von einem Schutzrohr (26) umgeben ist und daß die wenigstens eine Hilfselektrode (40; 42) zwischen der Außenseite des Entladungsgefäßes (14) und dem Schutzrohr (26) angeordnet ist.4. Gas discharge lamp according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the discharge vessel (14) is at least partially surrounded by a protective tube (26) and that the at least one auxiliary electrode (40; 42) between the outside of the discharge vessel (14) and the protective tube (26) is arranged.
5. Gasentladungslampe nach einem der Ansprüche 1,2 oder 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß nur eine Hilfselektrode (40; 42) vorgesehen ist und daß als Gegenelektrode zu dieser eine der Elektroden (16,18) dient. 5. Gas discharge lamp according to one of claims 1, 2 or 4, characterized in that only one auxiliary electrode (40; 42) is provided and that one of the electrodes (16, 18) serves as a counter electrode to this.
EP00930982A 2000-03-28 2000-03-28 Gas discharge lamp with ignition assisting electrodes, especially for automobile headlights Withdrawn EP1198823A1 (en)

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PCT/DE2000/000910 WO2001073817A1 (en) 2000-03-28 2000-03-28 Gas discharge lamp with ignition assisting electrodes, especially for automobile headlights

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US (1) US6906462B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1198823A1 (en)
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AU4909900A (en) 2001-10-08
KR100802968B1 (en) 2008-02-14
US6906462B1 (en) 2005-06-14

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