EP2230446B1 - Lighting or signalling device for an automobile - Google Patents

Lighting or signalling device for an automobile Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2230446B1
EP2230446B1 EP10156090.2A EP10156090A EP2230446B1 EP 2230446 B1 EP2230446 B1 EP 2230446B1 EP 10156090 A EP10156090 A EP 10156090A EP 2230446 B1 EP2230446 B1 EP 2230446B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
diopter
light
output
rays
optical system
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Application number
EP10156090.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2230446A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Claude Gasquet
Laure Martin
Benjamin Thierry
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.)
Valeo Vision SAS
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Valeo Vision SAS
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Publication of EP2230446A1 publication Critical patent/EP2230446A1/en
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Classifications

    • 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
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/10—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source
    • F21S43/13—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by the light source characterised by the type of light source
    • F21S43/14—Light emitting diodes [LED]
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
    • F21W2103/00—Exterior vehicle lighting devices for signalling purposes
    • F21W2103/10—Position lights
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
    • F21W2103/00—Exterior vehicle lighting devices for signalling purposes
    • F21W2103/35—Brake lights
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
    • F21W2103/00—Exterior vehicle lighting devices for signalling purposes
    • F21W2103/45—Reversing lights
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
    • F21W2103/00—Exterior vehicle lighting devices for signalling purposes
    • F21W2103/55—Daytime running lights [DRL]
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2115/00—Light-generating elements of semiconductor light sources
    • F21Y2115/10—Light-emitting diodes [LED]

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a lighting or signaling device for a motor vehicle.
  • Such a device is for example known from the document EP 0 066 438 A1 .
  • the lighting devices mainly include the dipped beam, main beam, fog or daytime running lights
  • the signal lights mainly include the position lights, direction change indicator lights, brake indicator lights , reversing lights, rear fog lights.
  • Each function generally includes a light source, an optical system redirecting the light rays emitted by the source in a general direction of emission, and possibly a lens.
  • closing also called indicator, participating or not in the formation of the light beam, these various elements being arranged to provide a lighting or signaling beam whose geometric and photometric characteristics must be in accordance with different regulations.
  • the enclosure closing glass or indicator light is generally common to all the devices present in the same enclosure.
  • a compact lighting or signaling device is known from the state of the art, in particular from the document EP-A-1,746,339 .
  • Such a device is shown schematically in the figure 1 .
  • This device comprises at least one light source 10 such as a light emitting diode in association with an optical input system 12 which is capable of collimating the light rays emitted by the light emitting diode 10 into a beam of parallel rays 14 in the axis emission of the lighting or signaling beam 18.
  • An optical output system 16 is interposed on the path of the parallel beam 14 so as to deflect the light rays to form the regulatory lighting or signaling beam 18.
  • the optical output system is formed by an output diopter 16 which deflects the light rays by refraction.
  • Such a device has the advantage of being very compact compared to a device provided with a reflector.
  • the radial size of the device is here limited by the cross section of the beam of parallel rays 14.
  • regulatory beams having, in at least one axial plane, an angular opening greater than a limit angular opening.
  • the angular opening is defined as being the angle formed between the main axis of the regulatory beam and the envelope of the regulatory beam, in a determined axial plane.
  • the light beams having an angular opening greater than a limit angle, such as that of a reversing light, cannot physically be produced by the sole refraction of a beam of parallel rays.
  • the output diopter 16 has concave or convex patterns.
  • the angle of deflection by refraction depends on the angle formed between the incident ray and the normal to the local surface of the diopter.
  • the incident parallel light rays are no longer refracted by the output diopter 16, but they undergo total reflection.
  • the light rays thus reflected "leak" radially in a crown 20 around the regulatory light beam, leaving a dark area around the light beam.
  • the limiting angular opening "a0" depends on the refractive indices of the light propagation media located on either side of the diopter.
  • the invention provides a lighting or signaling device comprising all the features of claim 1
  • the device according to the invention comprises an intermediate optical system which is interposed on the path of the beam of parallel rays and which is shaped so as to transmit a beam of non-parallel rays to the output diopter in order to obtain a light beam of lighting or signaling having a large angular opening. More particularly, the intermediate optical system deflects the light rays in at least one first opening plane, and the output diopter accentuates the deflection of the light rays in said opening plane. This makes it possible to obtain much higher beam opening angles in the beam opening plane and in particular an angular opening greater than the limit angular opening.
  • this configuration makes it possible to produce a signaling device, where the signaling device is a reversing light.
  • FIG. 3 We have represented in figures 3 and 4 a lighting or signaling device produced in accordance with the present invention. This device is intended to be mounted on a motor vehicle.
  • Such a device comprises a light source 10, such as a light-emitting diode in the example shown.
  • the light rays emitted by this light source 10 are received by an optical input system 12.
  • the optical input system 12 is here a dioptric system which is formed by a collimating optical element 12, the focus of which is arranged in the vicinity immediate of the light source 10.
  • the light rays emerging from this collimating element therefore form a beam of parallel rays 14.
  • An exit diopter 16 is interposed on the path of the beam of parallel rays 14.
  • the exit diopter 16 thus forms a regulatory lighting or signaling harness 18.
  • the collimating element constituting the optical input system 12 can for example be produced by a converging lens, for example a Fresnel lens.
  • the collimating element constituting the optical input system 12 could for example be formed by a concave shape given to the face opposite the light source 10. It could also be formed by concentric circular grooves constituting a Fresnel lens, taking into account the refractive index of the material constituting the device.
  • the output diopter 16 generally extends in a transverse vertical plane which is orthogonal to the incident light rays of the beam of parallel rays 14, and which is orthogonal to the main axis of the lighting or signaling beam 18.
  • the output diopter 16 is formed by the front vertical transverse face of a transparent output optical unit 22.
  • the output optical unit 22 is made of a material having a determined refractive index.
  • the incident light rays are capable of being deflected by refraction by the output diopter 16 at most by a limit angle "a0" relative to their incident direction. Beyond this limit angle "a0", the light rays are reflected by the output diopter 16.
  • the light source 10 and the output diopter 16 here define the longitudinal optical axis of the device.
  • the output diopter 16 includes one or more lenticular patterns, specific to satisfy the desired lighting or signaling function.
  • the lenticular patterns are especially designed to deflect light rays only by refraction and not by total reflection.
  • FIGs 5A, 5B and 5C various embodiments of the output diopter 16.
  • FIG 5A it is formed by a grid of lenticular patterns
  • FIG. 5B it is formed by a central motif of generally square shape surrounded by eight lateral motifs
  • FIG. 5C it consists of a single lenticular motif.
  • Such patterns have so-called "complex" surfaces, distributing the light rays horizontally and vertically to meet a regulatory photometric grid.
  • the lenticular patterns here have a concave shape so as to form a divergent lens.
  • the distance between the input light source 10 and the output diopter 16 can be chosen as desired, giving the path of the beam of parallel rays 14 the desired length, so that this distance is no longer subject to purely optical design constraints and the resulting geometric constructions.
  • an intermediate optical system 24 is interposed on the path of the beam of parallel rays 14 between the input optical system 12 and the output diopter 16.
  • the intermediate optical system 24 is intended to deflect the rays parallel light beams of parallel rays 14 so as to transmit a transition light beam 26 of non-parallel rays towards the output diopter 16.
  • the light rays are deflected for the first time in an angular opening direction. This first deflection of the light rays is then accentuated by refraction during their passage through the output diopter 16 to obtain a light or signaling light beam 18 having an angular opening "a1" greater than the limit angle "a0" in said opening direction.
  • the intermediate optical system is here formed by an intermediate diopter 24 which extends in a generally transverse vertical plane, that is to say parallel to the output diopter 16, and which deflects the light rays by refraction.
  • the intermediate diopter 24 is arranged at a longitudinal distance "D" from the output diopter 16. Such a device is thus very compact.
  • the output diopter 16 and the intermediate diopter 24 are made in one piece.
  • the output optical unit 22 is thus delimited longitudinally towards the front by a face forming the output diopter 16 and which is delimited longitudinally towards the rear by a face forming the intermediate diopter 24.
  • Such an output optical unit 22 is very compact and makes it possible to limit the loss of light intensity by avoiding changing the light propagation medium between the intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16.
  • the output optical unit 22 is here made of a transparent plastic material.
  • the transparent material used may by example be made of a plastic material such as polycarbonate (PC) or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), or a mineral material such as glass.
  • the limiting angle of refraction "a0" is approximately 40 degrees for polycarbonate (PC) or approximately 43 degrees for polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).
  • the output optical unit 22 is for example produced by molding.
  • the device makes it possible to obtain a reversing light beam 18 having a horizontal angular opening "a1" greater than the limit angle "a0", for example equal to 50 °.
  • the vertical angular opening "a2" of the reversing light beam 18 in a longitudinal vertical plane is however less than or equal to the limit angle "a0", for example less than 40 °.
  • Such a vertical angular opening "a2" can be obtained without prior deviation of the parallel light rays by the intermediate optical system 24 in a vertical plane.
  • the intermediate optical system 24 is shaped so as to deflect the light rays from the beam of parallel rays 14 in a horizontal plane of opening, while the exit diopter 16 is shaped so as to accentuate the deflection of the light rays in said horizontal opening plane.
  • the intermediate diopter 24 is shaped so as not to deflect the light rays in a vertical plane.
  • the light rays are therefore deflected by the intermediate diopter 24 so as to form, in projection on a horizontal opening plane, a fan open around a vertical axis, as illustrated in the figure 6 , while the light rays remain substantially parallel to each other in projection on a longitudinal vertical plane, as illustrated in the figure 7 .
  • the intermediate diopter 24 deflects the light rays in a horizontal opening plane
  • the output diopter 16 deflects the rays in at least two intersecting opening planes.
  • the intermediate diopter 24 comprises at least one facet 28 having a cylindrical surface of generator orthogonal to the first plane of opening, the generator is therefore here vertical.
  • this facet 28 is here convex so as to form a converging lens with focal length less than the longitudinal distance "D" so that the incident light rays reach the output diopter 16 with the desired angle to form the lighting light beam regulatory 18.
  • the focal point "F" of the transition light beam 26 is arranged longitudinally in the middle of the longitudinal spacing "D” so as to obtain maximum opening of the transition beam 26, and therefore of the beam of d lighting or signaling 18 obtained subsequently.
  • the intermediate diopter 24 has a series of cylindrical facets 28 which are aligned side by side transversely contiguously, while the output diopter 16 is formed by a grid of lenticular patterns.
  • the grid comprises as many vertical columns as there are cylindrical facets 28.
  • the lenticular patterns of the output diopter 16 have a concave shape so as to form a divergent lens.
  • each cylindrical facet 28 of the intermediate diopter 24 transmits a transition light beam 26 converging on an associated column of lenticular patterns so that each lenticular pattern transmits light rays in all regulatory directions.
  • the longitudinal distance "D" of spacing between the intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16 is for example equal to 6 mm, and the transverse width of the columns of lenticular patterns and of each cylindrical facet 28 is for example equal to 2.75 mm.
  • the intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16 have substantially equivalent dimensions.
  • the intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16 here have a substantially circular shape with a diameter for example equal to 15 mm.
  • the different elements of the device may have dimensions different from those given as an example, in particular to meet regulatory constraints, specific technical constraints and / or aesthetic constraints.
  • the input optical systems 12 and the output optical unit 22 are separated longitudinally from one another.
  • the volume between the inlet 12 and outlet 16 optical systems is thus constituted by air.
  • the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 can be completely independent of each other, and each maintained by a support element ensuring them a fixed relative position, in particular in alignment with the optical axis of the device.
  • the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 are in one piece, thus forming a module 30 in which the optical input system and the optical output unit 22 are connected to one another. 'other by at least one longitudinal arm 32. This is visible to figures 3 and 4 .
  • the module 30 is for example made of a transparent plastic material by molding. Such a module 30 is simple and inexpensive to produce.
  • the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 are more particularly arranged at the ends of a volume optical tube having a recess 34, as shown in the figure 3 , to form a hollow module 30.
  • the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 are separated longitudinally from one another by a recess 34 so that the beam of parallel rays 14 propagates in the air.
  • the recess 34 may be produced in any suitable form, the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 being held together by at least one arm 32.
  • the arm 32 more particularly forms a half-envelope which surrounds the recess 34 and which has, as illustrated in the figure 4 , a window 36 which opens in the direction of the generators of the facets 28.
  • This arrangement of the window 36 relative to the generators is very advantageous when the module 30 is obtained by molding.
  • the overall shape of the facets 28 of the intermediate diopter 24 can be obtained by molding.
  • the transverse width of the recess 34 is chosen to ensure the arms 32 a minimum rigidity and to allow the passage of the beam of parallel rays 14.
  • the recess 34 has a shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, but could have any desired prismatic shape, preferably symmetrical with respect to the optical axis of the device.
  • the output diopter 16 has slightly larger dimensions to those of the intermediate diopter 24.
  • the advantage of such an embodiment is that it requires little material to obtain the module 30 as a whole.
  • a device thus produced will therefore be relatively light and inexpensive, while facilitating the method of manufacture, since during the molding of the device provided with such a recess 34, the cooling of the material takes place under better conditions, and it is therefore possible to optimize the design of the device of the invention by minimizing for example the average thickness of the arm 32 , which tends to provide better heat exchange during cooling.
  • the light rays emitted by the light-emitting diode 10 are collimated by the optical input system 12 so as to form the beam of parallel rays 14 which are directed along a longitudinal axis towards the before.
  • the light rays of the beam of parallel rays 14 are deflected in a horizontal plane by refraction as they pass through the intermediate diopter 24 so as to form the transition beam 26.
  • the rays of the transition beam 26 are then deflected by the output diopter 16 in different directions to form the lighting or signaling beam 18.
  • a reflection surface for example a plane mirror
  • This plane mirror is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the general direction of the parallel light rays transmitted by the optical input system.
  • the direction of the light rays reflected by the plane mirror makes an angle twice of said predetermined angle with the direction of the rays incident on this mirror.
  • Such a variant allows even more flexibility in the design of a lighting or signaling device according to the present invention, since the light source does not necessarily have to be located in the axis of the optical output device.
  • the light sources 10, light-emitting diodes in the examples shown are arranged on the same electrical supply circuit (not shown), which can thanks to the invention be made of planar shape.
  • These light-emitting diodes 10 are each associated with an optical input system 12, disposed in the vicinity of the light-emitting diode 10.
  • the invention it can be seen that it is possible to have several modules 30 of different lengths side by side, for example of decreasing lengths, so that the output diopters 16 are arranged in different planes, so as to adapt the lighting or signaling function fulfilled by all of the modules 30 to a non-planar shape of a glass of closing of a box (not shown) containing these modules 30, this form of glass being imposed by stylists or automobile manufacturers.
  • the output diopters 16 can thus be arranged so that they are all in different planes and substantially perpendicular to the general direction of emission of the lighting or signaling beam 18, generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, while the light sources 10 are all arranged on the same plane, which can be inclined or perpendicular relative to this axis.
  • the two modules 30 arranged side by side are fixed to each other. To this end, the two modules 30 are connected to at least one transverse bridge 38 of material. This simplifies their mounting on the vehicle or in the associated box.
  • the modules 30 are here connected by two parallel material bridges 38 which extend transversely from the arm 32 of one module 30 to the arm 32 of the other module 30. This makes it possible to improve the rigidity of the assembly of the two modules 30 while minimizing the cross-section of the material bridges 38.
  • the two modules 30 are advantageously produced integrally in one piece.
  • the material bridges 38 are made of the same material as the modules 30.
  • the mold When the modules 30 are produced by injection molding, the mold generally includes orifices for entering the molten material. The presence of these inlet orifices results in the presence of a growth or inhomogeneity of the material which will be called "injection point" on the surface of the product obtained after demolding. The presence of these injection points on a surface capable of being optically active is harmful because it disturbs the propagation of light rays.
  • the injection points are advantageously positioned on the material bridges 38 in order to avoid light leaks.
  • the material bridges 38 have in fact no optical function.
  • the modules 30 are advantageously fixed to the motor vehicle or to the housing by means of the material bridges 38.
  • a lighting or signaling device has therefore been produced which can easily be adapted to a curved three-dimensional outer envelope in order to respond to aesthetic or aerodynamic considerations, in a particularly simple manner, while retaining the advantages of a common plane.
  • This lighting or signaling device also makes it possible to produce a lighting or signaling beam having an angular opening greater than the limit refractive angle of the output diopter by means of a compact device, inexpensive and simple to achieve.

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation pour un véhicule automobile.The present invention relates to a lighting or signaling device for a motor vehicle.

La présente invention concerne plus particulièrement un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation, notamment pour véhicule automobile, comportant :

  • au moins une source lumineuse,
  • au moins un système optique d'entrée comprenant un élément de collimation recevant des rayons lumineux émis par la source et transmettant un faisceau de rayons parallèles ;
  • au moins un dioptre de sortie qui est interposé sur le trajet des rayons lumineux issus du faisceau de rayons parallèles pour former, par réfraction, un faisceau lumineux d'éclairage ou de signalisation réglementaire d'orientation globale longitudinale,
  • et un système optique intermédiaire qui est interposé sur le trajet du faisceau de rayons parallèles, qui est conformé de manière à transmettre un faisceau de rayons non parallèles vers le dioptre de sortie afin d'obtenir un faisceau lumineux d'éclairage ou de signalisation présentant une grande ouverture angulaire, et qui dévie les rayons lumineux dans au moins un premier plan d'ouverture, et où le dioptre de sortie accentue la déviation des rayons lumineux dans ledit plan d'ouverture.
The present invention relates more particularly to a lighting or signaling device, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising:
  • at least one light source,
  • at least one input optical system comprising a collimating element receiving light rays emitted by the source and transmitting a beam of parallel rays;
  • at least one exit diopter which is interposed on the path of the light rays coming from the beam of parallel rays to form, by refraction, a light beam for lighting or regulatory signaling of overall longitudinal orientation,
  • and an intermediate optical system which is interposed in the path of the beam of parallel rays, which is shaped so as to transmit a beam of non-parallel rays towards the output diopter in order to obtain a light or signaling light beam having a large angular opening, and which deflects the light rays in at least a first opening plane, and where the output diopter accentuates the deflection of the light rays in said opening plane.

Un tel dispositif est par exemple connu du document EP 0 066 438 A1 .Such a device is for example known from the document EP 0 066 438 A1 .

Les dispositifs d'éclairage comprennent principalement les projecteurs de faisceaux de croisement, de route, d'antibrouillard ou de circulation diurne, et les feux de signalisation comprennent principalement les feux de position, les feux indicateurs de changement de direction, les feux indicateurs de freinage, les feux de recul, les feux arrière de brouillard.The lighting devices mainly include the dipped beam, main beam, fog or daytime running lights, and the signal lights mainly include the position lights, direction change indicator lights, brake indicator lights , reversing lights, rear fog lights.

Pour simplifier l'implantation de ces différents dispositifs sur un véhicule, il est usuel d'en regrouper plusieurs dans un même boîtier, ce qui facilite en particulier leur installation sur le véhicule, et leur raccordement au faisceau électrique du véhicule à l'aide d'un seul connecteur pourvu du nombre approprié de broches.To simplify the installation of these various devices on a vehicle, it is customary to group several of them in the same housing, which in particular facilitates their installation on the vehicle, and their connection to the electric harness of the vehicle using '' a single connector with the appropriate number of pins.

Chaque fonction comporte généralement une source lumineuse, un système optique redirigeant les rayons lumineux émis par la source dans une direction générale d'émission, et éventuellement une glace de fermeture, encore appelée voyant, participant ou non à la formation du faisceau lumineux, ces différents éléments étant agencés pour fournir un faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation dont les caractéristiques géométriques et photométriques doivent être conformes à différentes réglementations. La glace de fermeture du boîtier ou voyant est généralement commune à tous les dispositifs présents dans le même boîtier.Each function generally includes a light source, an optical system redirecting the light rays emitted by the source in a general direction of emission, and possibly a lens. closing, also called indicator, participating or not in the formation of the light beam, these various elements being arranged to provide a lighting or signaling beam whose geometric and photometric characteristics must be in accordance with different regulations. The enclosure closing glass or indicator light is generally common to all the devices present in the same enclosure.

Chaque fonction nécessite ainsi un volume minimal pour son implantation dans un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation particulier. Cependant, le volume disponible pour implanter des dispositifs d'éclairage ou de signalisation est de plus en plus réduit aussi bien à l'avant qu'à l'arrière d'un véhicule automobile moderne. En effet, les contraintes de l'aérodynamique et les conceptions des stylistes conduisent à des formes souvent très différentes de celles qui résultent uniquement de considérations techniques.Each function thus requires a minimum volume for its installation in a particular lighting or signaling device. However, the volume available for installing lighting or signaling devices is increasingly reduced both at the front and at the rear of a modern motor vehicle. Indeed, the constraints of aerodynamics and the designs of stylists lead to forms that are often very different from those that result solely from technical considerations.

Il en résulte que dans de nombreux cas, trois contraintes sont imposées simultanément aux concepteurs de dispositifs d'éclairage ou de signalisation :

  1. i) les faisceaux lumineux doivent être émis parallèlement à l'axe longitudinal du véhicule ;
  2. ii) la glace de fermeture du boîtier doit posséder une forme qui peut être à la fois très incurvée et très inclinée par rapport à la verticale ; et
  3. iii) le volume disponible à l'intérieur du boîtier pour y implanter les différents systèmes optiques est relativement réduit.
As a result, in many cases, three constraints are imposed simultaneously on the designers of lighting or signaling devices:
  1. i) the light beams must be emitted parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle;
  2. ii) the enclosure closing glass must have a shape which can be both very curved and very inclined relative to the vertical; and
  3. iii) the volume available inside the box for implanting the various optical systems therein is relatively small.

Un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation compact est connu de l'état de la technique, notamment du document EP-A-1.746.339 . Un tel dispositif est représenté schématiquement à la figure 1. Ce dispositif comporte au moins une source lumineuse 10 telle qu'une diode électroluminescente en association avec un système optique d'entrée 12 qui est apte à collimater les rayons lumineux émis par la diode électroluminescente 10 en un faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 dans l'axe d'émission du faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18. Un système optique de sortie 16 est interposé sur le trajet du faisceau parallèle 14 de manière à dévier les rayons lumineux pour former le faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation réglementaire 18.A compact lighting or signaling device is known from the state of the art, in particular from the document EP-A-1,746,339 . Such a device is shown schematically in the figure 1 . This device comprises at least one light source 10 such as a light emitting diode in association with an optical input system 12 which is capable of collimating the light rays emitted by the light emitting diode 10 into a beam of parallel rays 14 in the axis emission of the lighting or signaling beam 18. An optical output system 16 is interposed on the path of the parallel beam 14 so as to deflect the light rays to form the regulatory lighting or signaling beam 18.

Dans un tel dispositif, par soucis de compacité, le système optique de sortie est formé par un dioptre de sortie 16 qui dévie les rayons lumineux par réfraction.In such a device, for the sake of compactness, the optical output system is formed by an output diopter 16 which deflects the light rays by refraction.

Un tel dispositif présente l'avantage d'être très compact par rapport à un dispositif muni d'un réflecteur. En effet, l'encombrement radial du dispositif est ici limité par la section transversale du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14.Such a device has the advantage of being very compact compared to a device provided with a reflector. In fact, the radial size of the device is here limited by the cross section of the beam of parallel rays 14.

Cependant, on a constaté que certains faisceaux de signalisation ou d'éclairage réglementaires ne pouvaient pas être réalisés simplement par de tels dispositifs. Il s'agit de faisceaux réglementaires présentant, dans au moins un plan axial, une ouverture angulaire supérieure à une ouverture angulaire limite.However, it has been found that certain regulatory signaling or lighting beams could not be produced simply by such devices. These are regulatory beams having, in at least one axial plane, an angular opening greater than a limit angular opening.

Pour la suite de la description et dans les revendications, on définit l'ouverture angulaire comme étant l'angle formé entre l'axe principal du faisceau réglementaire et l'enveloppe du faisceau réglementaire, dans un plan axial déterminé.For the remainder of the description and in the claims, the angular opening is defined as being the angle formed between the main axis of the regulatory beam and the envelope of the regulatory beam, in a determined axial plane.

En effet, les faisceaux lumineux, présentant une ouverture angulaire supérieure à un angle limite, tel que celui d'un feu de recul, ne peuvent physiquement pas être réalisés par la seule réfraction d'un faisceau de rayons parallèles.Indeed, the light beams, having an angular opening greater than a limit angle, such as that of a reversing light, cannot physically be produced by the sole refraction of a beam of parallel rays.

De manière bien connue, le dioptre de sortie 16 présente des motifs concaves ou convexe. L'angle de déviation par réfraction dépend de l'angle formé entre le rayon incident et la normale à la surface locale du dioptre. Cependant, comme illustré à la figure 2, au-delà d'un angle limite "a0", les rayons lumineux parallèles incidents ne sont plus réfractés par le dioptre de sortie 16, mais ils subissent une réflexion totale. Les rayons lumineux ainsi réfléchis "fuient" radialement en couronne 20 autour du faisceau lumineux d'éclairage réglementaire, laissant une zone sombre autour du faisceau d'éclairage.As is well known, the output diopter 16 has concave or convex patterns. The angle of deflection by refraction depends on the angle formed between the incident ray and the normal to the local surface of the diopter. However, as illustrated in the figure 2 , beyond a limit angle "a0", the incident parallel light rays are no longer refracted by the output diopter 16, but they undergo total reflection. The light rays thus reflected "leak" radially in a crown 20 around the regulatory light beam, leaving a dark area around the light beam.

Il en résulte que par la simple réfraction du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14, il n'est pas possible d'obtenir un faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation présentant une ouverture angulaire supérieure à une ouverture angulaire limite "a0".It follows that by the simple refraction of the beam of parallel rays 14, it is not possible to obtain a lighting or signaling beam having an angular opening greater than a limit angular opening "a0".

De manière connue, l'ouverture angulaire limite "a0" dépend des indices de réfraction des milieux de propagation de la lumière situés de part et d'autre du dioptre.In known manner, the limiting angular opening "a0" depends on the refractive indices of the light propagation media located on either side of the diopter.

Pour résoudre ce problème, on a déjà proposé d'utiliser un réflecteur en association avec le système optique de sortie afin de rediriger vers l'avant les rayons lumineux qui sont réfléchis par le dioptre de sortie pour compléter le faisceau lumineux à large ouverture. Cependant, un tel dispositif optique est très encombrant.To solve this problem, it has already been proposed to use a reflector in association with the optical output system in order to redirect forward the light rays which are reflected by the output diopter to complete the wide-opening light beam. However, such an optical device is very bulky.

Pour réaliser un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation peu encombrant permettant de réaliser des faisceaux lumineux présentant une ouverture angulaire supérieure à l'ouverture angulaire limite, l'invention propose un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation comprenant toutes les caractéristiques de la revendication 1. Le dispositif selon l'invention comporte un système optique intermédiaire qui est interposé sur le trajet du faisceau de rayons parallèles et qui est conformé de manière transmettre un faisceau de rayons non parallèles vers le dioptre de sortie afin d'obtenir un faisceau lumineux d'éclairage ou de signalisation présentant une grande ouverture angulaire. Plus particulièrement, le système optique intermédiaire dévie les rayons lumineux dans au moins un premier plan d'ouverture, et le dioptre de sortie accentue la déviation des rayons lumineux dans ledit plan d'ouverture. Ceci permet d'obtenir des angles d'ouvertures du faisceau dans le plan d'ouverture du faisceau beaucoup plus élevés et notamment une ouverture angulaire supérieure à l'ouverture angulaire limite.To produce a space-saving lighting or signaling device making it possible to produce light beams having an angular opening greater than the limit angular opening, the invention provides a lighting or signaling device comprising all the features of claim 1 The device according to the invention comprises an intermediate optical system which is interposed on the path of the beam of parallel rays and which is shaped so as to transmit a beam of non-parallel rays to the output diopter in order to obtain a light beam of lighting or signaling having a large angular opening. More particularly, the intermediate optical system deflects the light rays in at least one first opening plane, and the output diopter accentuates the deflection of the light rays in said opening plane. This makes it possible to obtain much higher beam opening angles in the beam opening plane and in particular an angular opening greater than the limit angular opening.

Il est ainsi possible de réaliser un dispositif d'éclairage et/ou de signalisation selon l'invention configuré pour que l'angle d'ouverture du faisceau dans le plan d'ouverture soit supérieur à 40°.It is thus possible to produce a lighting and / or signaling device according to the invention configured so that the beam opening angle in the opening plane is greater than 40 °.

Selon un mode de réalisation, cette configuration permet de réaliser un dispositif de signalisation, où le dispositif de signalisation est un feu de recul.According to one embodiment, this configuration makes it possible to produce a signaling device, where the signaling device is a reversing light.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques de la présente invention :

  • le système optique intermédiaire est formé par un dioptre intermédiaire qui dévie les rayons lumineux par réfraction ;
  • le dioptre de sortie et le dioptre intermédiaire sont réalisés en un seul bloc ;
  • le dispositif comporte un bloc optique de sortie de matériau transparent qui est délimité longitudinalement vers l'arrière par le dioptre intermédiaire et qui est délimité longitudinalement vers l'avant par le dioptre de sortie ;
  • le système optique intermédiaire dévie les rayons lumineux uniquement dans ledit premier plan d'ouverture, et en ce que le dioptre de sortie dévie les rayons dans au moins deux plans d'ouverture ;
  • le système optique intermédiaire est formé par un dioptre intermédiaire qui dévie les rayons lumineux par réfraction, le dioptre intermédiaire comportant au moins une facette de surface cylindrique de génératrice orthogonal audit premier plan d'ouverture ;
  • le dioptre intermédiaire comporte une série de facettes qui présentent une surface cylindrique de génératrice orthogonale audit premier plan d'ouverture et qui sont alignées côte à côte selon une direction perpendiculaire à la génératrice ;
  • l'élément de collimation est une lentille convergente dont le foyer est situé au voisinage de la source lumineuse ;
  • l'élément de collimation est une lentille de Fresnel ;
  • le système optique d'entrée et le bloc optique de sortie sont séparés longitudinalement l'un de l'autre par un évidement de manière que le faisceau de rayons parallèles se propage dans l'air ; selon une variante de réalisation, le système optique d'entrée et le bloc optique de sortie sont agencés aux extrémités d'un tube optique volumique présentant l'évidement, pour former un module creux ;
  • le système optique d'entrée et le bloc optique de sortie forment un module réalisé en une seule pièce, le système optique d'entrée et le bloc optique de sortie étant reliés l'un à l'autre par au moins un bras longitudinal ;
  • le système optique intermédiaire est formé par un dioptre intermédiaire qui dévie les rayons lumineux par réfraction et le bras forme une demi-enveloppe qui entoure l'évidement et qui présente une fenêtre qui débouche selon la direction des génératrices des facettes du dioptre intermédiaire ;
  • le module est réalisé en un matériau plastique transparent par moulage ;
  • la source lumineuse est une diode électroluminescente ;
  • les modules sont reliés l'un à l'autre par au moins un pont de matière ;
  • les modules sont réalisés venus de matière par moulage par injection, au moins un point d'injection de la matière dans le moule étant réalisé sur le pont de matière.
According to other characteristics of the present invention:
  • the intermediate optical system is formed by an intermediate diopter which deflects the light rays by refraction;
  • the output diopter and the intermediate diopter are produced in a single block;
  • the device comprises an optical output unit of transparent material which is delimited longitudinally towards the rear by the intermediate diopter and which is delimited longitudinally towards the front by the output diopter;
  • the intermediate optical system deflects the light rays only in said first opening plane, and in that the output diopter deflects the rays in at least two opening planes;
  • the intermediate optical system is formed by an intermediate diopter which deflects the light rays by refraction, the intermediate diopter comprising at least one facet of cylindrical surface of generator orthogonal to said first opening plane;
  • the intermediate diopter comprises a series of facets which have a cylindrical generatrix surface orthogonal to said first opening plane and which are aligned side by side in a direction perpendicular to the generatrix;
  • the collimating element is a converging lens whose focal point is located in the vicinity of the light source;
  • the collimating element is a Fresnel lens;
  • the optical input system and the optical output unit are separated longitudinally from each other by a recess so that the beam of parallel rays propagates in the air; according to a variant embodiment, the optical input system and the optical output unit are arranged at the ends of a volume optical tube having the recess, to form a hollow module;
  • the optical input system and the optical output unit form a module made in one piece, the optical input system and the optical output unit being connected to each other by at least one longitudinal arm;
  • the intermediate optical system is formed by an intermediate diopter which deflects the light rays by refraction and the arm forms a half-envelope which surrounds the recess and which has a window which opens in the direction of the generatrices of the facets of the intermediate diopter;
  • the module is made of a transparent plastic material by molding;
  • the light source is a light emitting diode;
  • the modules are connected to each other by at least one material bridge;
  • the modules are produced from material by injection molding, at least one point for injecting the material into the mold being produced on the material bridge.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre pour la compréhension de laquelle on se reportera aux dessins annexés parmi lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente un schéma de principe d'un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation selon un plan de coupe axial horizontal réalisé selon l'état de la technique ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue de détail à plus grande échelle de la figure 1 qui représente un dioptre de sortie réalisé selon l'état de la technique ;
  • la figure 3 représente une vue en section selon le plan de coupe 6-6 de la figure 4 représentant un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation réalisé selon les enseignements de l'invention ;
  • la figure 4 représente une vue en perspective isométrique du dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation réalisé selon les enseignements de l'invention ;
  • les figures 5A, 5B et 5C représentent des exemples de motifs lenticulaires susceptibles de former le dioptre de sortie du dispositif de la figure 4 ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue de détail à plus grande échelle de la figure 3 qui représente le bloc optique de sortie du dispositif traversé de rayons lumineux émis par la source lumineuse ;
  • la figure 7 est une vue en section axiale verticale selon le plan de coupe 7-7 de la figure 4 qui représente le bloc optique de sortie du dispositif traversé de rayons lumineux émis par la source lumineuse ;
  • la figure 8 est une vue en perspective qui représente un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation comportant deux modules tels que celui représenté à la figure 4.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows for the understanding of which reference will be made to the appended drawings among which:
  • the figure 1 represents a block diagram of a lighting or signaling device according to a horizontal axial cutting plane produced according to the state of the art;
  • the figure 2 is an enlarged detail view of the figure 1 which represents an output diopter produced according to the state of the art;
  • the figure 3 represents a section view according to the section plane 6-6 of the figure 4 representing a lighting or signaling device produced according to the teachings of the invention;
  • the figure 4 shows an isometric perspective view of the lighting or signaling device produced according to the teachings of the invention;
  • the Figures 5A, 5B and 5C represent examples of lenticular patterns capable of forming the output diopter of the device of the figure 4 ;
  • the figure 6 is an enlarged detail view of the figure 3 which represents the optical output block of the device crossed by light rays emitted by the light source;
  • the figure 7 is a view in vertical axial section along the section plane 7-7 of the figure 4 which represents the optical output block of the device crossed by light rays emitted by the light source;
  • the figure 8 is a perspective view which represents a lighting or signaling device comprising two modules such as that shown in figure 4 .

Dans la description qui va suivre, des numéros de référence identiques désignent des pièces identiques ou ayant des fonctions similaires.In the description which follows, identical reference numbers designate parts that are identical or have similar functions.

Dans la description qui va suivre, on adoptera, à titre non limitatif, des orientations longitudinale dirigée d'arrière en avant, verticale dirigée de bas en haut, et transversale dirigée de gauche à droite, qui sont indiquées par les trièdres "L,V,T" des figures.In the description which follows, we will adopt, without limitation, longitudinal orientations directed from rear to front, vertical directed from bottom to top, and transverse directed from left to right, which are indicated by the trihedra "L, V , T "of the figures.

On a représenté aux figures 3 et 4 un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation réalisé conformément à la présente invention. Ce dispositif est destiné à être monté sur un véhicule automobile.We have represented in figures 3 and 4 a lighting or signaling device produced in accordance with the present invention. This device is intended to be mounted on a motor vehicle.

Un tel dispositif comporte une source lumineuse 10, telle qu'une diode électroluminescente dans l'exemple représenté. Les rayons lumineux émis par cette source lumineuse 10 sont reçus par un système optique d'entrée 12. Le système optique d'entrée 12 est ici un système dioptrique qui est formé par un élément optique de collimation 12, dont le foyer est disposé au voisinage immédiat de la source lumineuse 10. Les rayons lumineux émergeant de cet élément de collimation forment donc un faisceau de rayons parallèles 14. Un dioptre de sortie 16 est interposé sur le trajet du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14. Le dioptre de sortie 16 forme ainsi un faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18 réglementaire.Such a device comprises a light source 10, such as a light-emitting diode in the example shown. The light rays emitted by this light source 10 are received by an optical input system 12. The optical input system 12 is here a dioptric system which is formed by a collimating optical element 12, the focus of which is arranged in the vicinity immediate of the light source 10. The light rays emerging from this collimating element therefore form a beam of parallel rays 14. An exit diopter 16 is interposed on the path of the beam of parallel rays 14. The exit diopter 16 thus forms a regulatory lighting or signaling harness 18.

L'élément de collimation constituant le système optique d'entrée 12 peut par exemple être réalisé par une lentille convergente, par exemple une lentille de Fresnel. L'élément de collimation constituant le système optique d'entrée 12 pourra par exemple être formé par une forme concave donnée à la face en regard de la source lumineuse 10. Il pourra aussi être formé par des rainures circulaires concentriques constituant une lentille de Fresnel, compte tenu de l'indice de réfraction du matériau constituant le dispositif.The collimating element constituting the optical input system 12 can for example be produced by a converging lens, for example a Fresnel lens. The collimating element constituting the optical input system 12 could for example be formed by a concave shape given to the face opposite the light source 10. It could also be formed by concentric circular grooves constituting a Fresnel lens, taking into account the refractive index of the material constituting the device.

Le dioptre de sortie 16 s'étend globalement dans un plan vertical transversal qui est orthogonal aux rayons lumineux incidents du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14, et qui est orthogonal à l'axe principal du faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18.The output diopter 16 generally extends in a transverse vertical plane which is orthogonal to the incident light rays of the beam of parallel rays 14, and which is orthogonal to the main axis of the lighting or signaling beam 18.

Le dioptre de sortie 16 est formé par la face transversale verticale avant d'un bloc optique de sortie 22 transparent. Le bloc optique de sortie 22 est réalisé en un matériau présentant un indice de réfraction déterminé. De manière connue, les rayons lumineux incidents sont susceptibles d'être déviés par réfraction par le dioptre de sortie 16 au plus d'un angle limite "a0" par rapport à leur direction incidente. Au-delà de cette angle limite "a0", les rayons lumineux sont réfléchis par le dioptre de sortie 16.The output diopter 16 is formed by the front vertical transverse face of a transparent output optical unit 22. The output optical unit 22 is made of a material having a determined refractive index. In known manner, the incident light rays are capable of being deflected by refraction by the output diopter 16 at most by a limit angle "a0" relative to their incident direction. Beyond this limit angle "a0", the light rays are reflected by the output diopter 16.

La source lumineuse 10 et le dioptre de sortie 16 définissent ici l'axe optique longitudinal du dispositif.The light source 10 and the output diopter 16 here define the longitudinal optical axis of the device.

Le dioptre de sortie 16 comporte un ou plusieurs motifs lenticulaires, spécifiques pour satisfaire la fonction d'éclairage ou de signalisation recherchée. Les motifs lenticulaires sont notamment conçus pour dévier les rayons lumineux uniquement par réfraction et non par réflexion totale.The output diopter 16 includes one or more lenticular patterns, specific to satisfy the desired lighting or signaling function. The lenticular patterns are especially designed to deflect light rays only by refraction and not by total reflection.

On a représenté sur les figures 5A, 5B et 5C divers modes de réalisation du dioptre de sortie 16. Sur la figure 5A, il est formé d'un quadrillage de motifs lenticulaires, sur la figure 5B, il est formé d'un motif central de forme générale carrée entouré de huit motifs latéraux, et sur la figure 5C, il est formé d'un seul motif lenticulaire. De tels motifs ont des surfaces dites "complexes", répartissant les rayons lumineux horizontalement et verticalement pour répondre à une grille photométrique réglementaire.We have represented on Figures 5A, 5B and 5C various embodiments of the output diopter 16. On the figure 5A , it is formed by a grid of lenticular patterns, on the figure 5B , it is formed by a central motif of generally square shape surrounded by eight lateral motifs, and on the figure 5C , it consists of a single lenticular motif. Such patterns have so-called "complex" surfaces, distributing the light rays horizontally and vertically to meet a regulatory photometric grid.

Les motifs lenticulaires présentent ici une forme concave de manière à former une lentille divergente.The lenticular patterns here have a concave shape so as to form a divergent lens.

Grâce à une telle conception, la distance entre la source lumineuse d'entrée 10 et le dioptre de sortie 16 peut être choisie à volonté, en donnant au trajet du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 la longueur voulue, de sorte que cette distance n'est plus soumise à des contraintes de conception purement optique et des constructions géométriques qui en découlent.Thanks to such a design, the distance between the input light source 10 and the output diopter 16 can be chosen as desired, giving the path of the beam of parallel rays 14 the desired length, so that this distance is no longer subject to purely optical design constraints and the resulting geometric constructions.

Selon les enseignements de l'invention, un système optique intermédiaire 24 est interposé sur le trajet du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 entre le système optique d'entrée 12 et le dioptre de sortie 16. Le système optique intermédiaire 24 est destiné à dévier les rayons lumineux parallèles du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 de manière à transmettre un faisceau lumineux de transition 26 de rayons non parallèles vers le dioptre de sortie 16.According to the teachings of the invention, an intermediate optical system 24 is interposed on the path of the beam of parallel rays 14 between the input optical system 12 and the output diopter 16. The intermediate optical system 24 is intended to deflect the rays parallel light beams of parallel rays 14 so as to transmit a transition light beam 26 of non-parallel rays towards the output diopter 16.

Ainsi, comme représenté plus en détail à la figure 6, les rayons lumineux sont déviés une première fois dans une direction angulaire d'ouverture. Cette première déviation des rayons lumineux est ensuite accentuée par réfraction lors de leur passage à travers le dioptre de sortie 16 pour obtenir un faisceau lumineux d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18 présentant une ouverture angulaire "a1" supérieure à l'angle limite "a0" dans ladite direction d'ouverture.So as shown in more detail at the figure 6 , the light rays are deflected for the first time in an angular opening direction. This first deflection of the light rays is then accentuated by refraction during their passage through the output diopter 16 to obtain a light or signaling light beam 18 having an angular opening "a1" greater than the limit angle "a0" in said opening direction.

Le système optique intermédiaire est ici formé par un dioptre intermédiaire 24 qui s'étend dans un plan globalement transversal vertical, c'est-à-dire parallèle au dioptre de sortie 16, et qui dévie les rayons lumineux par réfraction. Le dioptre intermédiaire 24 est agencé à une distance longitudinale "D" du dioptre de sortie 16. Un tel dispositif est ainsi très compact.The intermediate optical system is here formed by an intermediate diopter 24 which extends in a generally transverse vertical plane, that is to say parallel to the output diopter 16, and which deflects the light rays by refraction. The intermediate diopter 24 is arranged at a longitudinal distance "D" from the output diopter 16. Such a device is thus very compact.

De manière avantageuse, le dioptre de sortie 16 et le dioptre intermédiaire 24 sont réalisés en une seule pièce. Le bloc optique de sortie 22 est ainsi délimité longitudinalement vers l'avant par une face formant le dioptre de sortie 16 et qui est délimité longitudinalement vers l'arrière par une face formant le dioptre intermédiaire 24.Advantageously, the output diopter 16 and the intermediate diopter 24 are made in one piece. The output optical unit 22 is thus delimited longitudinally towards the front by a face forming the output diopter 16 and which is delimited longitudinally towards the rear by a face forming the intermediate diopter 24.

Un tel bloc optique de sortie 22 est très compact et permet de limiter la perte d'intensité lumineuse en évitant de changer de milieu de propagation de la lumière entre le dioptre intermédiaire 24 et le dioptre de sortie 16.Such an output optical unit 22 is very compact and makes it possible to limit the loss of light intensity by avoiding changing the light propagation medium between the intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16.

Le bloc optique de sortie 22 est ici réalisé en un matériau plastique transparent. Le matériau transparent utilisé pourra par exemple être constitué d'un matériau plastique tel que du polycarbonate (PC) ou du polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), ou encore d'un matériau minéral tel que du verre.The output optical unit 22 is here made of a transparent plastic material. The transparent material used may by example be made of a plastic material such as polycarbonate (PC) or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), or a mineral material such as glass.

Dans le cas de ces matériaux, l'angle limite de réfraction "a0" est égal à environ 40 degrés pour le polycarbonate (PC) ou environ 43 degrés pour le polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).In the case of these materials, the limiting angle of refraction "a0" is approximately 40 degrees for polycarbonate (PC) or approximately 43 degrees for polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

Le bloc optique de sortie 22 est par exemple réalisé par moulage.The output optical unit 22 is for example produced by molding.

Comme représenté à la figure 6, le dispositif permet d'obtenir un faisceau de feu de recul 18 présentant une ouverture angulaire horizontale "a1" supérieure à l'angle limite "a0", par exemple égale à 50°.As shown in the figure 6 , the device makes it possible to obtain a reversing light beam 18 having a horizontal angular opening "a1" greater than the limit angle "a0", for example equal to 50 °.

Comme représenté à la figure 7, l'ouverture angulaire verticale "a2" du faisceau de feu de recul 18 dans un plan vertical longitudinal est en revanche inférieure ou égale à l'angle limite "a0", par exemple inférieure à 40°. Une telle ouverture angulaire verticale "a2" est susceptible d'être obtenu sans déviation préalable des rayons lumineux parallèles par le système optique intermédiaire 24 dans un plan vertical.As shown in the figure 7 , the vertical angular opening "a2" of the reversing light beam 18 in a longitudinal vertical plane is however less than or equal to the limit angle "a0", for example less than 40 °. Such a vertical angular opening "a2" can be obtained without prior deviation of the parallel light rays by the intermediate optical system 24 in a vertical plane.

Ainsi, pour obtenir le faisceau de feu de recul 18, le système optique intermédiaire 24 est conformé de manière à dévier les rayons lumineux du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 dans un plan horizontal d'ouverture, tandis que le dioptre de sortie 16 est conformé de manière à accentuer la déviation des rayons lumineux dans ledit plan horizontal d'ouverture.Thus, to obtain the reversing light beam 18, the intermediate optical system 24 is shaped so as to deflect the light rays from the beam of parallel rays 14 in a horizontal plane of opening, while the exit diopter 16 is shaped so as to accentuate the deflection of the light rays in said horizontal opening plane.

En outre, pour obtenir le faisceau de feu de recul 18, le dioptre intermédiaire 24 est conformé de manière à ne pas dévier les rayons lumineux dans un plan vertical.In addition, to obtain the reversing light beam 18, the intermediate diopter 24 is shaped so as not to deflect the light rays in a vertical plane.

Les rayons lumineux sont donc déviés par le dioptre intermédiaire 24 de manière à former, en projection sur un plan horizontal d'ouverture, un éventail ouverts autour d'un axe vertical, comme cela est illustré à la figure 6, tandis que les rayons lumineux demeurent sensiblement parallèle entre eux en projection sur un plan vertical longitudinal, comme cela est illustré à la figure 7.The light rays are therefore deflected by the intermediate diopter 24 so as to form, in projection on a horizontal opening plane, a fan open around a vertical axis, as illustrated in the figure 6 , while the light rays remain substantially parallel to each other in projection on a longitudinal vertical plane, as illustrated in the figure 7 .

Ainsi, Le dioptre intermédiaire 24 dévie les rayons lumineux dans un plan horizontal d'ouverture, tandis que le dioptre de sortie 16 dévie les rayons dans au moins deux plans sécants d'ouverture.Thus, the intermediate diopter 24 deflects the light rays in a horizontal opening plane, while the output diopter 16 deflects the rays in at least two intersecting opening planes.

Pour obtenir la distribution en éventails des rayons lumineux, le dioptre intermédiaire 24 comporte au moins une facette 28 présentant une surface cylindrique de génératrice orthogonale au premier plan d'ouverture, la génératrice est donc ici verticale.To obtain the distribution of light rays in fans, the intermediate diopter 24 comprises at least one facet 28 having a cylindrical surface of generator orthogonal to the first plane of opening, the generator is therefore here vertical.

Comme cela est illustré à la figure 6, cette facette 28 est ici convexe de manière à former une lentille convergente de focale inférieure à la distance longitudinale "D" de manière que les rayons lumineux incidents atteignent le dioptre de sortie 16 avec l'angle souhaité pour former le faisceau lumineux d'éclairage réglementaire 18. Avantageusement, le foyer de convergence "F" du faisceau lumineux de transition 26 est agencé longitudinalement au milieu de l'espacement longitudinal "D" de manière à obtenir une ouverture maximale du faisceau de transition 26, et donc du faisceau de d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18 obtenu par la suite.As illustrated in the figure 6 , this facet 28 is here convex so as to form a converging lens with focal length less than the longitudinal distance "D" so that the incident light rays reach the output diopter 16 with the desired angle to form the lighting light beam regulatory 18. Advantageously, the focal point "F" of the transition light beam 26 is arranged longitudinally in the middle of the longitudinal spacing "D" so as to obtain maximum opening of the transition beam 26, and therefore of the beam of d lighting or signaling 18 obtained subsequently.

Dans l'exemple représenté aux figures, le dioptre intermédiaire 24 comporte une série de facettes cylindriques 28 qui sont alignées côte à côte transversalement de manière jointive, tandis que le dioptre de sortie 16 est formée par un quadrillage de motifs lenticulaires. Le quadrillage comporte autant de colonnes verticales que de facettes cylindriques 28. Les motifs lenticulaires du dioptre de sortie 16 présentent une forme concave de manière à former une lentille divergente.In the example shown in the figures, the intermediate diopter 24 has a series of cylindrical facets 28 which are aligned side by side transversely contiguously, while the output diopter 16 is formed by a grid of lenticular patterns. The grid comprises as many vertical columns as there are cylindrical facets 28. The lenticular patterns of the output diopter 16 have a concave shape so as to form a divergent lens.

Ainsi, comme représenté à la figure 6, en projection sur le plan d'ouverture horizontal, chaque facette cylindrique 28 du dioptre intermédiaire 24 transmet un faisceau lumineux de transition 26 convergent vers une colonne associée de motifs lenticulaires de manière que chaque motif lenticulaire transmette des rayons lumineux dans toutes les directions réglementaires.So as shown in the figure 6 , in projection on the horizontal opening plane, each cylindrical facet 28 of the intermediate diopter 24 transmits a transition light beam 26 converging on an associated column of lenticular patterns so that each lenticular pattern transmits light rays in all regulatory directions.

Ainsi, un observateur éclairé par le faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18 constatera que la surface éclairante qui émet le faisceau lumineux est formée par la surface totale du dioptre de sortie 16.Thus, an observer lit by the lighting or signaling beam 18 will notice that the illuminating surface which emits the light beam is formed by the total surface of the output diopter 16.

Pour obtenir un feu de recul réglementaire tel que décrit précédemment, la distance longitudinale "D" d'espacement entre le dioptre intermédiaire 24 et le dioptre de sortie 16 est par exemple égale à 6 mm, et la largeur transversale des colonnes de motifs lenticulaire et de chaque facette cylindrique 28 est par exemple égale à 2,75 mm.To obtain a regulatory reversing light as described above, the longitudinal distance "D" of spacing between the intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16 is for example equal to 6 mm, and the transverse width of the columns of lenticular patterns and of each cylindrical facet 28 is for example equal to 2.75 mm.

Le dioptre intermédiaire 24 et le dioptre de sortie 16 présentent des dimensions sensiblement équivalentes. Le dioptre intermédiaire 24 et le dioptre de sortie 16 présentent ici une forme sensiblement circulaire de diamètre par exemple égal à 15 mm.The intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16 have substantially equivalent dimensions. The intermediate diopter 24 and the output diopter 16 here have a substantially circular shape with a diameter for example equal to 15 mm.

On comprendra que les différents éléments du dispositif peuvent présenter des dimensions différentes de celles données en exemple, notamment pour répondre à des contraintes réglementaires, des contraintes techniques spécifiques et/ou des contraintes esthétiques.It will be understood that the different elements of the device may have dimensions different from those given as an example, in particular to meet regulatory constraints, specific technical constraints and / or aesthetic constraints.

Par ailleurs, les systèmes optiques d'entrée 12 et le bloc optique de sortie 22 sont séparés longitudinalement l'un de l'autre. Le volume entre les systèmes optiques d'entrée 12 et de sortie 16 est ainsi constitué par de l'air. Dans ce cas, le système optique d'entrée 12 et le bloc optique de sortie 22 peuvent être totalement indépendants l'un de l'autre, et maintenus chacun par un élément de support leur assurant une position relative fixe, notamment en alignement sur l'axe optique du dispositif.Furthermore, the input optical systems 12 and the output optical unit 22 are separated longitudinally from one another. The volume between the inlet 12 and outlet 16 optical systems is thus constituted by air. In this case, the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 can be completely independent of each other, and each maintained by a support element ensuring them a fixed relative position, in particular in alignment with the optical axis of the device.

Avantageusement, le système optique d'entrée 12 et le bloc optique de sortie 22 sont d'une seule pièce, formant ainsi un module 30 dans lequel le système optique d'entrée et le bloc optique de sortie 22 sont reliés l'un à l'autre par au moins un bras 32 longitudinal. Ceci est visible aux figures 3 et 4.Advantageously, the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 are in one piece, thus forming a module 30 in which the optical input system and the optical output unit 22 are connected to one another. 'other by at least one longitudinal arm 32. This is visible to figures 3 and 4 .

Le module 30 est par exemple réalisé en un matériau plastique transparent par moulage. Un tel module 30 est simple et peu onéreux à réaliser.The module 30 is for example made of a transparent plastic material by molding. Such a module 30 is simple and inexpensive to produce.

Dans l'exemple représenté aux figures, le système optique d'entrée 12 et le bloc optique de sortie 22 sont plus particulièrement agencés aux extrémités d'un tube optique volumique présentant un évidement 34 , comme on l'a représenté sur la figure 3, pour former un module 30 creux.In the example shown in the figures, the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 are more particularly arranged at the ends of a volume optical tube having a recess 34, as shown in the figure 3 , to form a hollow module 30.

Ainsi, le système optique d'entrée 12 et le bloc optique de sortie 22 sont séparés longitudinalement l'un de l'autre par un évidement 34 de manière que le faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 se propage dans l'air.Thus, the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 are separated longitudinally from one another by a recess 34 so that the beam of parallel rays 14 propagates in the air.

L'évidement 34 pourra être réalisé de toute forme appropriée, le système optique d'entrée 12 et le bloc optique de sortie 22 étant maintenus l'un à l'autre par au moins un bras 32.The recess 34 may be produced in any suitable form, the optical input system 12 and the optical output unit 22 being held together by at least one arm 32.

Le bras 32 forme plus particulièrement une demi-enveloppe qui entoure l'évidement 34 et qui présente, comme illustré à la figure 4, une fenêtre 36 qui débouche selon la direction des génératrices des facettes 28. Cette disposition de la fenêtre 36 par rapport aux génératrices est très avantageuse lorsque le module 30 est obtenu par moulage. Ainsi la forme globale des facettes 28 du dioptre intermédiaire 24 peut être obtenues venues de moulage.The arm 32 more particularly forms a half-envelope which surrounds the recess 34 and which has, as illustrated in the figure 4 , a window 36 which opens in the direction of the generators of the facets 28. This arrangement of the window 36 relative to the generators is very advantageous when the module 30 is obtained by molding. Thus the overall shape of the facets 28 of the intermediate diopter 24 can be obtained by molding.

La largeur transversale de l'évidement 34 est choisie pour assurer aux bras 32 une rigidité minimale et pour permettre le passage du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14. Dans l'exemple représenté aux figures 3 et 4, l'évidement 34 a une forme de parallélépipède rectangle, mais pourrait avoir toute forme prismatique désirée, de préférence symétrique par rapport à l'axe optique du dispositif.The transverse width of the recess 34 is chosen to ensure the arms 32 a minimum rigidity and to allow the passage of the beam of parallel rays 14. In the example shown in figures 3 and 4 , the recess 34 has a shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, but could have any desired prismatic shape, preferably symmetrical with respect to the optical axis of the device.

Bien entendu, des rayons lumineux parallèles 14 émergeant du système optique d'entrée 12 peuvent parvenir au système optique de sortie 16 en traversant le matériau transparent constituant le ou les bras 32. Dans ce cas, le dioptre de sortie 16 présente des dimensions légèrement supérieures à celles du dioptre intermédiaire 24.Of course, parallel light rays 14 emerging from the optical input system 12 can reach the optical output system 16 through the transparent material constituting the arm (s) 32. In this case, the output diopter 16 has slightly larger dimensions to those of the intermediate diopter 24.

L'avantage d'un tel mode de réalisation est de nécessiter peu de matière pour obtenir le module 30 dans son entier. Un dispositif ainsi réalisé sera donc relativement léger et peu coûteux, tout en facilitant le mode de fabrication, puisque lors du moulage du dispositif muni d'un tel évidement 34, le refroidissement de la matière s'effectue dans de meilleures conditions, et qu'il est donc possible d'optimiser la conception du dispositif de l'invention en minimisant par exemple l'épaisseur moyenne du bras 32, ce qui tend à procurer de meilleurs échanges thermiques lors du refroidissement.The advantage of such an embodiment is that it requires little material to obtain the module 30 as a whole. A device thus produced will therefore be relatively light and inexpensive, while facilitating the method of manufacture, since during the molding of the device provided with such a recess 34, the cooling of the material takes place under better conditions, and it is therefore possible to optimize the design of the device of the invention by minimizing for example the average thickness of the arm 32 , which tends to provide better heat exchange during cooling.

Lors de l'utilisation d'un tel dispositif, les rayons lumineux émis par la diode électroluminescente 10 sont collimatés par le système optique d'entrée 12 de manière à former le faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 qui est dirigés selon un axe longitudinal vers l'avant.When using such a device, the light rays emitted by the light-emitting diode 10 are collimated by the optical input system 12 so as to form the beam of parallel rays 14 which are directed along a longitudinal axis towards the before.

Puis les rayons lumineux du faisceau de rayons parallèles 14 sont déviés dans un plan horizontal par réfraction lors de leur passage à travers le dioptre intermédiaire 24 de manière à former le faisceau de transition 26. Les rayons du faisceau de transition 26 sont ensuite déviés par le dioptre de sortie 16 dans différentes direction pour former le faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18.Then the light rays of the beam of parallel rays 14 are deflected in a horizontal plane by refraction as they pass through the intermediate diopter 24 so as to form the transition beam 26. The rays of the transition beam 26 are then deflected by the output diopter 16 in different directions to form the lighting or signaling beam 18.

Selon une variante non représentée de l'invention, une surface de réflexion, par exemple un miroir plan, peut être interposée sur le trajet des rayons lumineux parallèles entre le système optique d'entrée et le dioptre intermédiaire. Ce miroir plan est incliné d'un angle prédéterminé par rapport à la direction générale des rayons lumineux parallèles transmis par le système optique d'entrée. Il en résulte que la direction des rayons lumineux réfléchis par le miroir plan fait un angle double dudit angle prédéterminé avec la direction des rayons incidents sur ce miroir.According to a variant not shown of the invention, a reflection surface, for example a plane mirror, can be interposed on the path of the parallel light rays between the input optical system and the intermediate diopter. This plane mirror is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the general direction of the parallel light rays transmitted by the optical input system. As a result, the direction of the light rays reflected by the plane mirror makes an angle twice of said predetermined angle with the direction of the rays incident on this mirror.

Une telle variante permet encore plus de souplesse dans la conception d'un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation selon la présente invention, puisque la source lumineuse ne doit pas être nécessairement située dans l'axe du dispositif optique de sortie.Such a variant allows even more flexibility in the design of a lighting or signaling device according to the present invention, since the light source does not necessarily have to be located in the axis of the optical output device.

Comme représenté à la figure 8, il est aussi possible d'associer plusieurs modules 30 tels qu'ils viennent d'être décrits, pour qu'ils participent en commun à la même fonction d'éclairage ou de signalisation ou à des fonctions d'éclairage ou de signalisation distinctes. On voit sur la figure 8 que plusieurs modules 30, deux en l'occurrence, sont associés.As shown in the figure 8 , it is also possible to associate several modules 30 as they have just been described, so that they participate jointly in the same lighting or signaling function or in distinct lighting or signaling functions. We see on the figure 8 that several modules 30, two in this case, are associated.

De manière plus précise, s'agissant de deux modules 30 concourant à réaliser la même fonction d'éclairage ou de signalisation, les sources lumineuses 10, des diodes électroluminescentes dans les exemples représentés, sont disposées sur le même circuit d'alimentation électrique (non représenté), qui peut grâce à l'invention être réalisé de forme plane. Ces diodes électroluminescentes 10 sont associées chacune à un système optique d'entrée 12, disposé au voisinage de la diode électroluminescente 10. Grâce à l'invention, on voit qu'il est possible de disposer côte à côte plusieurs modules 30 de longueurs différentes, par exemple de longueurs décroissantes, pour que les dioptres de sortie 16 soient disposés dans des plans différents, de manière à adapter la fonction d'éclairage ou de signalisation remplie par l'ensemble des modules 30 a une forme non plane d'une glace de fermeture d'un boîtier (non représenté) contenant ces modules 30, cette forme de glace étant imposée par les stylistes ou les constructeurs d'automobiles.More precisely, in the case of two modules 30 contributing to achieving the same lighting or signaling function, the light sources 10, light-emitting diodes in the examples shown, are arranged on the same electrical supply circuit (not shown), which can thanks to the invention be made of planar shape. These light-emitting diodes 10 are each associated with an optical input system 12, disposed in the vicinity of the light-emitting diode 10. Thanks to the invention, it can be seen that it is possible to have several modules 30 of different lengths side by side, for example of decreasing lengths, so that the output diopters 16 are arranged in different planes, so as to adapt the lighting or signaling function fulfilled by all of the modules 30 to a non-planar shape of a glass of closing of a box (not shown) containing these modules 30, this form of glass being imposed by stylists or automobile manufacturers.

Les dioptres de sortie 16 peuvent ainsi être disposés de manière à ce qu'ils soient tous dans des plans différents et sensiblement perpendiculaires à la direction générale d'émission du faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation 18, généralement parallèle à l'axe longitudinal du véhicule, alors que les sources lumineuses 10 sont disposées toutes sur un même plan, qui peut être incliné ou perpendiculaire par rapport à cet axe.The output diopters 16 can thus be arranged so that they are all in different planes and substantially perpendicular to the general direction of emission of the lighting or signaling beam 18, generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, while the light sources 10 are all arranged on the same plane, which can be inclined or perpendicular relative to this axis.

Les deux modules 30 agencés côte à côte sont fixés l'un à l'autre. A cet effet, les deux modules 30 sont reliés au moins un pont 38 transversal de matière. Ceci permet de simplifier leur montage sur le véhicule ou dans le boîtier associé.The two modules 30 arranged side by side are fixed to each other. To this end, the two modules 30 are connected to at least one transverse bridge 38 of material. This simplifies their mounting on the vehicle or in the associated box.

Les modules 30 sont ici reliés par deux ponts de matière 38 parallèles qui s'étendent transversalement depuis le bras 32 d'un module 30 jusqu'au bras 32 de l'autre module 30. Ceci permet d'améliorer la rigidité de l'ensemble des deux modules 30 tout en minimisant la section des ponts de matière 38.The modules 30 are here connected by two parallel material bridges 38 which extend transversely from the arm 32 of one module 30 to the arm 32 of the other module 30. This makes it possible to improve the rigidity of the assembly of the two modules 30 while minimizing the cross-section of the material bridges 38.

Les deux modules 30 sont avantageusement réalisés venus de matière en une seule pièce. A cet effet, les ponts de matière 38 sont réalisés dans le même matériau que les modules 30.The two modules 30 are advantageously produced integrally in one piece. To this end, the material bridges 38 are made of the same material as the modules 30.

Lorsque les modules 30 sont réalisés par moulage par injection, le moule comporte généralement des orifices d'entrée du matériau en fusion. La présence de ces orifices d'entrée se traduit par la présence d'une excroissance ou d'inhomogénéité de la matière qu'on appellera "point d'injection" sur la surface du produit obtenu après démoulage. La présence de ces points d'injection sur une surface susceptible d'être optiquement active est néfaste car elle perturbe la propagation des rayons lumineux.When the modules 30 are produced by injection molding, the mold generally includes orifices for entering the molten material. The presence of these inlet orifices results in the presence of a growth or inhomogeneity of the material which will be called "injection point" on the surface of the product obtained after demolding. The presence of these injection points on a surface capable of being optically active is harmful because it disturbs the propagation of light rays.

Pour éviter ce désagrément, les points d'injection sont avantageusement positionnés sur les ponts de matière 38 afin d'éviter des fuites de lumière. Les ponts de matière 38 n'ont en effet aucune fonction optique.To avoid this inconvenience, the injection points are advantageously positioned on the material bridges 38 in order to avoid light leaks. The material bridges 38 have in fact no optical function.

De plus, toujours dans l'objectif d'éviter les pertes lumineuses, les modules 30 sont avantageusement fixés au véhicule automobile ou au boîtier par l'intermédiaire des ponts de matière 38.In addition, still with the aim of avoiding light losses, the modules 30 are advantageously fixed to the motor vehicle or to the housing by means of the material bridges 38.

On a donc réalisé un dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation qui peut s'adapter facilement à une enveloppe extérieure courbée en trois dimensions pour répondre à des considérations esthétiques ou aérodynamiques, de manière particulièrement simple, tout en conservant les avantages d'un plan commun à deux dimensions pour la fixation des sources lumineuses 10.A lighting or signaling device has therefore been produced which can easily be adapted to a curved three-dimensional outer envelope in order to respond to aesthetic or aerodynamic considerations, in a particularly simple manner, while retaining the advantages of a common plane. two-dimensional for fixing light sources 10.

Ce dispositif d'éclairage ou de signalisation permet en outre de réaliser un faisceau d'éclairage ou de signalisation présentant une ouverture angulaire supérieure à l'angle limite de réfraction du dioptre de sortie au moyen d'un dispositif compact, peu onéreux et simple à réaliser.This lighting or signaling device also makes it possible to produce a lighting or signaling beam having an angular opening greater than the limit refractive angle of the output diopter by means of a compact device, inexpensive and simple to achieve.

Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation qui ont été décrits, mais l'homme du métier pourra au contraire lui apporter de nombreuses modifications qui rentrent dans son cadre. C'est ainsi par exemple qu'on pourra utiliser pour l'élément de collimation du système optique d'entrée un miroir parabolique au foyer duquel sera placée la source lumineuse 10, au lieu su système dioptrique qui a été décrit.Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments which have been described, but those skilled in the art may on the contrary make numerous modifications which fall within its scope. For example, for the collimating element of the input optical system, a parabolic mirror at the focus of which the light source 10 will be placed, instead of the dioptric system which has been described.

Claims (14)

  1. Lighting or signalling device, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising :
    - at least one light source (10),
    - at least one input optical system (12) comprising a collimating element (12) receiving light rays emitted by the source (10) and transmitting a beam of parallel rays (14) ;
    - at least one output diopter (16) which is interposed in the path of the light rays coming from the beam of parallel rays (14) in order to form, by refraction, a regulation lighting or signalling light beam (18) of overall longitudinal orientation,
    - and an intermediate optical system (24) which is interposed in the path of the beam of parallel rays (14), which is shaped so as to transmit a beam of non-parallel rays (26) to the output diopter (16) in order to obtain an lighting or signalling light beam (18) having a large angular aperture, and which deflects the light rays in at least a first plane of aperture, and wherein the output diopter (16) accentuates the deflection of the light rays in said plane of aperture,
    characterized in that the collimating element (12) is a converging lens whose focus is located in the vicinity of the light source (10).
  2. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the intermediate optical system is formed by an intermediate diopter (24) which deflects the light rays by refraction.
  3. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the output diopter (16) and the intermediate diopter (24) are constructed as a single block (22).
  4. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises an output optical block (22) of transparent material which is delimited longitudinally towards the rear by the intermediate diopter (24) and which is delimited longitudinally towards the front by the output diopter (16).
  5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the intermediate optical system (24) deflects the light rays only in said first plane of aperture, and in that the output diopter (16) deflects the rays in at least two planes of aperture.
  6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the intermediate optical system is formed by an intermediate diopter (24) which deflects the light rays by refraction, the intermediate diopter (24) comprising at least one facet (28) of cylindrical surface with a generatrix orthogonal to the said first plane of aperture.
  7. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the intermediate diopter (24) comprises a series of facets (28) which have a cylindrical surface with a generatrix orthogonal to the said first plane of aperture and which are aligned side by side in a direction perpendicular to the generatrix.
  8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collimating element (12) is a Fresnel lens.
  9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input optical system (12) and the output optical block (22) are longitudinally separated from each other by a recess (34) so that the beam of parallel rays propagates in the air.
  10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input optical system (12) and the output optical block (22) form a module (30) made in one piece, the input optical system (12) and the output optical block (22) being connected to one another by at least one longitudinal arm (32).
  11. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the intermediate optical system is formed by an intermediate diopter (24) which deflects light rays by refraction, and in that the arm (32) forms a half-shell which surrounds the recess (34) and has a window (36) which opens in the direction of the generatrix of the facets (28) of the intermediate diopter (24).
  12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the light source (10) is a light-emitting diode.
  13. Device comprising a plurality of modules constructed according to claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the modules (30) are connected to one another by at least one material bridge (38).
  14. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device is a reversing light.
EP10156090.2A 2009-03-17 2010-03-10 Lighting or signalling device for an automobile Active EP2230446B1 (en)

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FR2943400B1 (en) 2013-06-14
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