EP2492580A2 - Lighting device for installation in a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The lighting device has a semiconductor light source (5) that emits light rays, a primary optics for collecting the portion of light beams, and a secondary optics (12) for imaging the portion of focused light beams in a light exit direction on a road ahead of vehicle to produce a desired light distribution. The primary and secondary optics are installed along vehicle alignment direction. The light beams are collected at an interface of an optical head (8) made of transparent material set with total reflective properties, based on total internal reflection and refraction.

Description

The present invention relates to a lighting device provided for installation in a motor vehicle. This comprises at least one semiconductor light source for emitting light beams, a primary optics for bundling at least a part of the emitted light beams, and secondary optics for imaging at least a part of the bundled light beams in a light exit direction on a roadway in front of the vehicle to produce a desired light distribution. The at least one semiconductor light source, the primary optics and the secondary optics are arranged vertically above one another in a vehicle-mounted orientation of the illumination device.

Such a lighting device is, for example, from the EP 2 119 959 A1 known. In the known illumination device, the primary optic is as a

Ellipsoid reflector and the secondary optics formed as a paraboloidal reflector. The entire light emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source reaches the paraboloid reflector and is reflected by it to produce a desired light distribution on the road ahead of the motor vehicle. The light emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source reaches the paraboloid reflector either directly or after reflection at the ellipsoid reflector. The known lighting device is formed relatively short construction and therefore particularly suitable for installation in motor vehicles with installation openings for the lighting device with shallow depth. However, the known illumination device has a relatively low efficiency, since losses, in particular so-called Fresnel losses, occur due to the multiple reflections of the light at the reflection surfaces of the various reflectors. As a result of the light emitted by the at least one light source after reflection at the reflectors, only a part of the originally emitted light is available for generating the desired light distribution.

This means that substantially more light has to be generated by the at least one semiconductor light source of the known illumination device, ie either more semiconductor light sources must be provided or the existing semiconductor light sources must be operated with a higher operating current than is finally available for generating the desired light distribution. However, more light sources lead to increased complexity in terms of arrangement, supply of electrical energy, heat dissipation and control of the semiconductor light sources. In addition, it can by additional Semiconductor light sources come to space problems within the known lighting device. The operation of the existing semiconductor light sources with an increased operating current leads to a significantly higher power loss in the form of heat and to an extraordinary burden on the semiconductor light sources. Although the amount of light emitted by the semiconductor light sources can be increased by the operation of the semiconductor light sources with an increased operating current, but at the cost of increased energy consumption, a higher probability of failure and a shorter life of the semiconductor light sources.

Based on the described prior art, the present invention has the object, to design a lighting device of the type mentioned in such a way and further that their efficiency can be improved. In particular, the luminous flux generated by the illumination device for a given electrical power consumption should be increased without impairing the reliability and lifetime of the illumination device.

To solve this problem, it is proposed on the basis of the illumination device of the type mentioned above that the primary optics comprise at least one intent optics made of a transparent material with totally reflecting properties, comprising at least part of the light beams emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source by means of total reflection and refraction at interfaces of the attachment optics bundles.

According to the invention, therefore, a lighting device for proposed a motor vehicle, in particular in the form of a motor vehicle headlight, which is suitable due to their space-optimized, in particular vertically stacked individual components for installation in an installation opening of a motor vehicle body with low installation depth. In addition, the illumination device according to the invention has a particularly high efficiency, since the bundling of the emitted light from the at least one semiconductor light source is not by means of a reflector on conventional reflections, but by means of at least one attachment optics on very low-loss total reflections. In particular, with a total reflection of the light coupled into the at least one optical attachment, there are no or only extremely small Fresnel losses. For this reason, the lighting device according to the invention generates a particularly high luminous flux for a given electrical power consumption, without affecting the reliability and life of the lighting device. Because of this high efficiency, the lighting device according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in a motor vehicle driven at least at times by electric current. However, even in conventional motor vehicles equipped with an internal combustion engine, a fuel saving can be achieved by the particularly efficient illumination device according to the invention and ultimately a reduction in the CO ₂ emitted by the internal combustion engine.

According to an advantageous development of the present invention, the secondary optics comprise at least one reflector. It is conceivable that the secondary optics either have a plurality of separately formed, possibly also differently shaped reflectors. alternative The secondary optics could also have only a reflector with different areas, sections or reflecting surfaces, but they are all an integral part of the one reflector. By means of the various reflectors or the different reflection surfaces, it is possible in each case to produce specific parts of the desired resulting light distribution of the illumination device.

The resulting light distribution of
Lighting device can either represent a complete total light distribution, for example, a low beam distribution, high beam distribution, city light distribution, high street light distribution, motorway light distribution, fog light distribution, bad weather light distribution, an adaptive light distribution or any other light distribution represent. It is also conceivable, however, for the resulting light distribution to be only a part of an overall light distribution, for example to be a broadly scattering basic light distribution of a low beam distribution composed of the base light distribution and a concentrated spotlight distribution with higher light intensity values than the base light distribution.

The at least one reflector or the reflection surfaces of the secondary optics preferably have a parabolic shape. This is preferably formed starting from a paraboloid shape by variations of individual discrete points of the paraboloid shape as a free-form surface. In particular, the at least one reflector or the reflection surfaces of the secondary optics form a parabola in a vertical section and an ellipse, a deformed ellipse, a deformed parabola in a horizontal section or a combination of the two.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is proposed that a diaphragm arrangement for shading at least a part of the light rays bundled by the primary optics is arranged in a beam path of the light beams, the secondary optics imaging an edge of the diaphragm arrangement as a light-dark boundary of a dimmed light distribution onto the roadway. According to this embodiment, the
Lighting device for generating a dimmed light distribution, eg. Dipped beam, city light, high street lighting or fog light, with a substantially horizontally extending light-dark border suitable. Such a horizontal chiaroscuro boundary can either be designed completely as a symmetrical light-dark boundary or with an increase on the own traffic side as an asymmetric light-dark boundary. The transition between a lower section of the light-dark border on the oncoming traffic side and a higher section of the light-dark border on one's own traffic side can be either stepped or oblique.

Advantageously, the diaphragm arrangement comprises a roller element rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation extending transversely to the optical axis of the attachment optics with different contours distributed over the circumferential surface as edges or a planar diaphragm element having a front and / or upper edge. The course of the edge of the flat panel element can by suitable measures, such as. From DE 10 2005 012 303 A1 are known to be varied. An aperture arrangement with a rotatable roller element is, for example, from DE 197 39 089 A1 known. A flat panel element can, for example, vertical, parallel or be arranged obliquely to an optical axis of the at least one attachment optics. In the case of a diaphragm element arranged perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical attachment, an upper edge of the diaphragm element is imaged by the secondary optics for generating the light-dark boundary of the desired light distribution on the roadway in front of the vehicle. In a diaphragm element arranged parallel to the optical axis of the attachment optics, preferably a front edge of the diaphragm element is imaged by the secondary optics on the roadway. In the illumination device according to the invention, a planar diaphragm element is preferably arranged obliquely to an optical axis of the attachment optics. It is particularly preferred if the flat diaphragm element is arranged at an angle of about 40 to 50 °, preferably at an angle of 45 °, with respect to the optical axis of the at least one attachment optics. In this case, the upper or front edge of the areal diaphragm element is imaged by the secondary optics for generating the light-dark boundary of the resulting light distribution on the roadway.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the illumination device has an optical element and the diaphragm arrangement at least partially has a reflective coating on a surface facing the at least one optical attachment, the reflective coating reflecting at least part of the part of the light beams shaded by the diaphragm arrangement onto the optical element. The optical element advantageously directs the light rays of the shaded portion of the light rays to the secondary optics, from where they are then reflected onto the roadway as part of the resulting desired light distribution. Alternatively, the reflected from the aperture arrangement Part of the collimated light also for generating a different light function with a deviating from the desired light distribution light distribution, eg. A position light or a daytime running light, are used. In order to realize these additional lighting functions, electrically separately controllable light sources are required for each individual light function, but they can also be switched on together.

It is also proposed that the optical element has an at least partially reflecting surface which reflects at least part of the light rays striking the optical element onto the secondary optics. Preferably, the partially reflecting surface of the optical element reflects a first part of the light rays striking the optical element to the secondary optics and a second part of the light rays striking the optical element is transmitted through the optical element. The light transmitted through the optical element therefore does not leave the illumination device via the secondary optics, but rather via the optical element. The light can be directed to the roadway as part of the resulting desired light distribution. Alternatively, the light transmitted through the optical element can also be used to produce another light function with a light distribution deviating from the desired light distribution, for example a position light or a daytime running light.

The light transmitted through the optical element can be used, for example, for expanding the signal image. The signal image expansion has on the one hand a meaning in the night design of the lighting device and on the other a photometric significance, because just small light emission openings, as present in the lighting device according to the invention, subjectively uncomfortable bright oncoming road users. With the Signalbildaufweitung perceive other road users the same amount of light passing through the same light exit opening, as pleasant. Furthermore, with the light transmitted through the optical element, targeted overhead values of the light distribution can be operated. For this purpose, further optical elements for deflecting the light can be introduced into this part of the beam path.

The light passed by the diaphragm arrangement-either after being bundled by the attachment optics or directly emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source-preferably passes directly and directly onto the secondary optics, preferably as a reflector, from where it generates a first part of the resulting desired light distribution the roadway is reflected in front of the vehicle. By contrast, the part of the light which is shaded by the diaphragm arrangement-whether after bundling by an attachment optics or immediately after emission by the at least one semiconductor light source-preferably reaches the secondary optics indirectly, for example by deflection at the optical element. So that the light shaded by the diaphragm arrangement is not lost, the diaphragm arrangement is at least partially provided with a reflective coating which directs the shaded light, for example, onto the optical element. If, for example, the optical element is designed as a reflector, it can transmit the light which has been shaded by the diaphragm arrangement further onto the secondary optics reflect from where it can be reflected to generate a second part of the resulting desired light distribution of the illumination device on the road ahead of the motor vehicle. Also in this case, the resulting, desired light distribution of the illumination device can be generated by a superposition of the two parts of the light distribution. For example, it is conceivable that the first part of the light distribution is a concentrated spotlight distribution with a sharp asymmetric upper bright-dark boundary, which is generated by the light beams passing by the diaphragm arrangement. The second part of the light distribution may be a base light distribution having a relatively large horizontal dispersion but no distinct illuminance maxima, from which the diaphragm arrangement is shadowed and part of the light emitted by the semiconductor light sources is indirectly formed. A superposition of the spotlight distribution and the basic light distribution results, for example, in a low-beam distribution.

According to another advantageous development of the present invention, it is proposed that part of the light beams emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source pass the secondary optics past the attachment optics, and that the secondary optics reflect this part of the light beams in front of the vehicle in the light exit direction. According to this development, therefore, not all of the light emitted by the semiconductor light sources of the illumination device light is bundled by the at least one attachment optics. A part of the light emitted by the semiconductor light sources arrives without bundling through the at least one optical attachment preferably designed as a reflector secondary optics

The parts of the light rays passing the attachment optics can directly and directly impact on the secondary optics. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the illumination device to have an optical element, wherein the part of the light beams passing the attachment optics strikes the optical element and the optical element directs this part of the light beams onto the secondary optics. The optical element to which the light which has passed the attachment optics passes, may be the same optical element to which the light reflected by the diaphragm arrangement is also directed. Alternatively, it may also be different optical elements. The additionally provided optical element to which the light which has passed the attachment optics passes can, for example, be designed as a reflector which reflects the light incident on it and past the attachment optics to the secondary optics.

The light passed by the attachment optics can-if present-after deflection through the optical element and after reflection on the secondary optics, which is preferably designed as a reflector, be used to generate a first part of the resulting desired light distribution of the illumination device. A second part of the resulting light distribution could then be generated by the light bundled by the attachment optics - if present - after deflection through the optical element and after reflection at the secondary optics, which is preferably designed as a reflector. A superposition of the first and the second part of the light distribution then gives the resulting desired light distribution of Lighting device.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is proposed that the optical element has an at least partially reflecting surface, which reflects at least a part of the light rays striking the optical element onto the secondary optics. The partially reflective surface of the optical element reflects a first portion of the light rays striking the optical element onto the secondary optics and transmits a second portion of the light rays incident on the optical element through the optical element. It is conceivable, for example, that the optical element consists of a transparent material, for example a transparent plastic or glass, and has a partially reflecting coating.

The second part of the light beams transmitted through the optical element can exit the illumination device via the optical element. It is conceivable that a light exit surface of the optical element is coated with scattering structures (eg prisms, cylindrical lenses, a microstructure or the like), which causes a scattering of the light emerging from the optical element. Preferably, the second part of the light beams transmitted through the optical element exits the illumination device in the light exit direction. The emerging from the optical element part of the light rays generated in accordance with a preferred embodiment, non-focused scattered light to enlarge a signal image of the imaged by the secondary optics light distribution. Alternatively, it is proposed that the part of the light beams emerging from the optical element contribute to the resulting, desired light distribution of the illumination device makes. It is particularly preferred if the part of the light beams emerging from the optical element illuminates a region of the light distribution above a light-dark boundary of the light distribution for a desired dimmed light distribution. The named range above the light-dark limit of the light distribution is also referred to as the overhead range. Illuminating this area at a relatively low intensity so as to avoid dazzling oncoming road users and to comply with the legal requirements for the maximum illuminance values in the overhead area may result in improved recognition of traffic signs and other objects located above the roadside on their own traffic side ,

Figur 1

ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinrichtung in einer Ansicht entgegen einer Lichtaustrittsrichtung;

Figur 2

die wesentlichen Komponenten einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinrichtung gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Figur 3

die wesentlichen Komponenten einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinrichtung gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Figur 4

die wesentlichen Komponenten einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinrichtung gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Figur 5

die wesentlichen Komponenten einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinrichtung gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Figur 6

einen Ausschnitt einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinrichtung gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Figuren 3 und 5 im Detail in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Figur 7

ein Beispiel für eine durch die erfindungsgemäße Beleuchtungseinrichtung erzeugte Lichtverteilung;

Figur 8

ein weiteres Beispiel für eine durch die erfindungsgemäße Beleuchtungseinrichtung erzielbare Lichtverteilung; und

Figur 9

ein weiteres Beispiel für eine durch die erfindungsgemäße Beleuchtungseinrichtung erzielbare Lichtverteilung.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. The features mentioned are essential to the invention not only in the combination described, but also individually or in other than the combinations described. Show it:

FIG. 1

A preferred embodiment of a lighting device according to the invention in a view opposite to a light exit direction;

FIG. 2

the essential components of a lighting device according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment in a perspective view;

FIG. 3

the essential components of a lighting device according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment in a perspective view;

FIG. 4

the essential components of a lighting device according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment in a perspective view;

FIG. 5

the essential components of a lighting device according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment in a perspective view;

FIG. 6

a section of a lighting device according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment of the Figures 3 and 5 in detail in a perspective view;

FIG. 7

an example of a light distribution generated by the lighting device according to the invention;

FIG. 8

another example of a light distribution achievable by the lighting device according to the invention; and

FIG. 9

a further example of an achievable by the lighting device according to the invention light distribution.

The present invention relates to a lighting device for motor vehicles, which is described in more detail below with reference to the example of a motor vehicle headlight is explained. However, the invention is not limited to headlights, but can equally well for any vehicle lights, especially front, side and rear lights, are used.

In FIG. 1 is an inventive
Lighting device in the form of a
Motor vehicle headlights in their entirety designated by the reference numeral 1. The headlight 1 is installed in the front region of a motor vehicle. In a motor vehicle designed as an automobile, two of the headlights 1 shown are usually arranged in the front area of the motor vehicle, in each case laterally in the vicinity of the vehicle outer sides, in corresponding mounting openings provided in a vehicle body, fastened therein and electrically contacted, ie with the motor vehicle electrical system and / or a control unit connected. In a motorcycle designed as a motor vehicle, preferably only one headlight 1 is arranged, preferably centrally in the front region of the vehicle.

• einzelne LED 5,
• LED-Array mit mehreren gleich ausgestalteten LEDs, und
• LED-Array mit unterschiedlich ausgestalteten LEDs.

The headlight 1 comprises a headlight housing 2, which is preferably made of plastic. The housing 2 has in a light exit direction on a light exit opening 3, which is closed by a cover 4. In the interior of the headlight housing 2, at least one semiconductor light source 5 designed, for example, as a light-emitting diode (LED) is arranged, which emits light in a main exit direction 6. The light-emitting diode 5 can be used in the present invention, for example, in the following variants:

• single LED 5,
• LED array with several identically designed LEDs, and
• LED array with differently designed LEDs.

The light-emitting diode 5 is preferably arranged on a carrier element 7, which in turn may be arranged on a heat sink (not shown). The carrier element 7 may be equipped with printed conductors and electronic components as well as plugs. During operation of the light-emitting diode 5, heat can be transmitted either directly or indirectly via the carrier element 7 to the heat sink, which emits the heat to the environment in order to avoid overheating of the light-emitting diode 5. The light-emitting diode 5 usually transmits in a 180.degree. Half-space formed above the surface extension of the support element 7, as stated above, in the main exit direction 6.

The light emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 is bundled by at least one primary optics 8 designed as an optical attachment. The attachment optics 8 consists of a transparent material, preferably of a plastic. An optical axis of the attachment optics 8 preferably extends either congruently or parallel to the main exit direction 6 of the light-emitting diode 5. The light emitted by the light-emitting diode 5 is transmitted via light entry surfaces 9 (cf. FIG. 6 ) coupled into the attachment optics 8. At least part of the coupled-in light is totally reflected at least once at outer boundary surfaces 10 of the optical attachment 8. Via a light exit surface 11, the light is then extracted from the optical attachment 8. The intent optics 8 provides by refraction of the light at the entrance surfaces 9 and the exit surface 11 and by total reflection of the light at the oblique boundary surfaces 10 for a bundling of the light beams.

Coming back to FIG. 1 , the light bundled by the attachment optics 8 reaches preferably one Reflector trained secondary optics 12, the at least a portion of the collimated light in a light exit direction 32 (see FIGS. 2 to 5 ) on a roadway in front of the vehicle to produce a desired light distribution maps. The reflector 12 may have a plurality of partially differently shaped reflection surfaces, which are an integral part of the reflector 12. In the illustrated embodiment FIG. 1 the reflector 12 comprises a central first reflection surface 13, two second reflection surfaces 14 arranged laterally therefrom and a third reflection surface 15 arranged above the central reflection surface 13. Of course, depending on the type and configuration of the desired light distribution to be achieved by the illumination device 1 , Also more or less or differently arranged and formed reflection surfaces than the illustrated reflection surfaces 13 to 15 may be formed on the reflector 12. The reflection surfaces 13 to 15 are in FIG. 1 For better understanding shown by lines separated from each other. These lines may correspond to steps, edges and / or kinks between the reflection surfaces 13 to 15, so that they can be seen with the naked eye on the reflector 12. However, the reflection surfaces 13 to 15 can also be flush with each other without steps, edges and kinks, so that they may not be visible to the naked eye.

The reflection surfaces 13 to 15 preferably generate different parts of the resulting, desired total light distribution of the illumination device 1. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, that the central reflection surface 13 has a relatively highly concentrated spotlight distribution with a relatively small horizontal Extension and a clearly formed upper chiaroscuro limit generated. The lateral reflection surfaces 14 can produce a broadly scattering base light distribution without pronounced intensity maxima and with a straight upper bright-dark boundary. A superposition of the spotlight distribution and the basic light distribution then forms the resulting, desired total light distribution of the illumination device 1, which is embodied, for example, as a low-beam light distribution. In addition, by the light reflected on the upper reflection surface 15, an area above the light-dark boundary of the low-beam light distribution can be generated to achieve overhead lighting.

If the resulting, desired total light distribution of the headlight 1 is to produce a dimmed light distribution, such as a low beam distribution or a fog light distribution, a diaphragm arrangement 16 can be arranged in the beam path, which shadows at least a part of the light bundled by the optical attachment 8. An upper or front edge 17 of the diaphragm arrangement 16 is reflected by the reflector 12 as a light-dark boundary of the desired light distribution of the headlight 1 on the road ahead of the vehicle. The diaphragm edge 17 is preferably horizontal and perpendicular to the beam path. The diaphragm edge 17 may have a straight course (cf., for example. FIGS. 2 to 5 ). Preferably, however, it comprises, as in FIG. 1 shown, two horizontal portions 17 a, 17 b, which are offset perpendicular to the light propagation direction and which are connected by a rectilinear diaphragm portion 17 c. The connecting portion 17c adjoins the horizontal portions 17a, 17b with a kink. The bending angle is between 0 ° and 90 °, whereby the values 15 °, 30 °, 45 °, 60 ° and 90 ° are preferred. The sections 17a, 17b, 17c together form the diaphragm edge 17. According to the requirements, the diaphragm arrangement 16 comprises a simple edge 17 or two edges 17 arranged in succession in the light propagation direction (so-called double diaphragm). The two edges 17 may, for example, be formed by a large thickness of the panel material (edge on the front side and edge on the rear side of the panel) or by two screens 16 arranged one behind the other with two separate edges 17.

Depending on the configuration of the optical system of the headlight 1 can - in deviation of the illustrated embodiment - the aperture itself also be bent. The contour of such a curved aperture corresponds to the contour of the described planar aperture arrangement 16 as viewed in the light propagation direction. If the curved aperture along the main light propagation direction is projected into a plane which is perpendicular to the main exit direction, an edge profile comparable to the profile of the edge 17 of FIG Furthermore, the diaphragm arrangement 16 can also be configured as a variable diaphragm, for example as a hinged diaphragm or as a roller diaphragm.

In addition, the headlight 1 may have an optical element 18, the functionality of which will be explained in detail below. In the in FIG. 1 shown view of the headlamp 1 opposite to the light exit direction 32, the optical element 18 through the cover 4 through visible. The diaphragm assembly 16 is disposed substantially behind the optical element 18 and therefore not visible and in FIG. 1 shown only by dashed lines. The same applies to the LED 5, the support member 7 and the attachment optics 8, which are arranged behind the housing 2 of the headlamp 1 and therefore also in FIG. 1 only shown by dashed lines. The visible through the cover 4 areas outside of the optical element 18 and the reflector 12 may be provided with a cover 19, which is for example mirrored. When installed in the motor vehicle headlight 1 are essentially only the cover 4 and visible through these components of the lighting device 1, in particular the reflector 12 and the optical element 18, visible.

In the FIGS. 2 to 5 the essential components of the headlamp according to the invention are shown in various embodiments in a perspective view. Especially clear is the basis of the FIGS. 2 to 5 the vertical arrangement one above the other of the components of the headlight 1, ie the at least one light emitting diode 5, the at least one attachment optics 8, the - if present - diaphragm assembly 16, - if present - optical element 18 and the reflector 12. Overall, this results in a Compared to conventional lighting devices, where these components are arranged in a horizontal plane one behind the other, particularly short-lighting device 1.

In the FIGS. 2 to 5 those components of a lighting device 1 according to the invention are shown, which may be part of a headlight module. These are in particular one or more light sources 5, in particular one or more LEDs, one or more primary optics 8, in particular auxiliary optics, a secondary optics 12, in particular a reflector, a Aperture arrangement 16 and / or an optical element 18, in particular a reflector, which at least partially reflects visible light. In the headlight modules of the FIGS. 2 to 5 the aperture arrangement 16 is shown only schematically. Also, the aperture assembly 16 of the headlamp modules of FIGS. 2 to 5 Can the above regarding the FIG. 1 described asymmetrical course of the diaphragm edge 17, although this in the FIGS. 2 to 5 not shown.

At the in FIG. 2 In the embodiment shown, the light emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 is bundled by the attachment optics 8 and directed essentially in the direction of the upper or front edge 17 of the aperture arrangement 16. A first part 20 of the collimated light beams passes the edge 17 of the diaphragm assembly 16 and impinges directly on one or more of the reflection surfaces 13 to 15 of the reflector 12. From there, the first part 20 of the light beams to produce a first part of the resulting, desired total light distribution of the lighting device 1 is reflected on the road ahead of the vehicle. A second part 21 of the collimated light beams strikes the shade assembly 16 and is shadowed by this. The diaphragm arrangement 16 is formed on one of the at least one attachment optics 8 facing side 22 at least partially reflective, for example, provided with a reflective coating. The diaphragm arrangement 16 is arranged and aligned in the beam path such that light rays striking the reflective surface 22 of the diaphragm arrangement 16 are reflected in the direction of the optical element 18. The optical element 18 is in the in FIG. 2 shown embodiment formed as a reflector, the is formed and arranged in the beam path, that the second part 21 of the incident on the reflector 18 light rays is reflected in the direction of the reflector 12, from where he to generate a second part of the resulting desired total light distribution of the headlamp 1 on the road ahead of the vehicle is reflected. A superimposition of the different parts 20, 21 of the light rays reflected by the reflector 12 produces the resulting, desired total light distribution of the headlight 1.

A through the headlight 1 in the in FIG. 2 shown embodiment, the total light distribution is, for example, in FIG. 7 shown how it results on a at a distance to the headlight 1, for example, at a distance of 25 meters, arranged measuring screen. On this a horizontal HH and a perpendicular vertical VV is drawn. A concentrated area in the form of a spotlight distribution produced by the first part 20 of the light beams reflected by the reflector 12 is designated by the reference numeral 23. The spotlight distribution 23 has a relatively high concentration, ie a small extent, in both the horizontal and the vertical direction. The upper side of the spotlight distribution 23 forms a relatively sharply demarcated asymmetrical light-dark boundary 24. This comprises a horizontal section 25 arranged on the oncoming traffic side below the horizontal HH and a higher section 26 arranged on its own traffic side and rising obliquely above the horizontal HH. The spotlight distribution 23 has a pronounced intensity maximum, in particular in the center immediately below the light-dark boundary 24.

A region in the form of a basic light distribution generated by the second part 21 of the light beams reflected by the reflector 12 is shown in FIG FIG. 7 denoted by the reference numeral 27. The base light distribution 27 has a straight horizontal light-dark boundary 28 on its upper side. This preferably runs slightly below the bright-dark boundary 24 of the spotlight distribution 23. Furthermore, the base light distribution 27 has a relatively large extent in the vertical direction, but especially in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the basic light distribution 27 has intensity peaks which are less pronounced than the spotlight distribution 23. A superimposing of the base light distribution 27 and the spotlight distribution 23 results in a low-beam distribution that satisfies the legal requirements for a low-beam distribution and particularly well suited to the customer's wishes as the resulting, desired total light distribution.

In the embodiment of FIG. 2 For example, the first part 20 of the collimated light beams may impinge on a first region of the reflector 12, for example on the central reflection surface 13, and the second part 21 of the light rays collimated by the attachment optics 8 may strike other regions of the reflector 12, for example the lateral reflection surfaces 14 and from there then reflected in the desired manner on the road ahead of the vehicle. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the first part 20 and the second part 21 of the collimated light beams to strike different areas of the reflector 12, for example both the central reflection surface 13 and the lateral reflection surfaces 14.

At the in FIG. 3 shown embodiment of the headlamp 1 according to the invention, the light emitted from the at least one light emitting diode 5 is split not only in the first part 20 and the second part 21 of the light beams, but also in a third part 33rd Der Third Teil 33 of the at least one Light emitting diode 5 emitted light rays preferably comprises those light rays that are not coupled via one of the entry surfaces 9 in the attachment optics 8 after the emission by the at least one light-emitting diode 5. This part 33 of the light rays emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5, which has passed by the attachment optics 8, reaches the reflector 12 and is reflected by it as part of the resulting, desired total light distribution onto the road ahead of the motor vehicle. In this case, the third part 33 of the light beams from the at least one light emitting diode 5 from directly on the reflector 12 meet (in FIG. 3 not shown).

Alternatively, it is conceivable that the third part 33 of the light beams emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 at least partially strikes an optical element, for example the optical element 18, and is deflected by it in the direction of the reflector 12. The optical element 18, which is hit by the third part 33 of the light rays, may be the same optical element 18, which also comprises at least a part of the second part 21 of the light rays reflected at the surface 22 of the aperture arrangement 16 in the direction of the reflector 12 turns. But it is also conceivable that they are different optical elements. The optical element 18, which is hit by the light rays 33 passing past the attachment optics 8, is preferably designed as a reflector.

It is conceivable that the different parts 20, 21, 33 of the light beams emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 strike different areas of the reflector 12. For example, it is conceivable for the first part 20 of the light beams bundled by the attachment optics 8 to act on the central reflection surface 13, the second part 21 of the focused light rays for lateral reflection surfaces 14, and the third part 33 for the light rays emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 an upper reflection surface 15 strikes, from where the light beams are respectively reflected to generate the resulting, desired total light distribution in a light exit direction 32 on the road ahead of the vehicle. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the different parts 20, 21, 33 of the light beams each hit several of the reflection surfaces 13 to 15.

A through the headlight 1 according to the embodiment of FIG. 3 generated light distribution is exemplary in FIG. 8 shown. In this case, the first part 20 of the light beams can still generate the spotlight distribution 23 and the second part 21 of the light beams can generate the basic light distribution 27. The third part 33 of the light beams emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 can serve for targeted additional illumination of the lateral regions of the low-beam light distribution 23, 27. With such a resulting total light distribution, the road edges and persons, objects and traffic signs located there are better visible to the driver of the motor vehicle. The third part 33 of the light beams therefore generates the dipped beam distribution 23, 27 on one or both sides arranged side illumination areas 29, which overlap the low beam distribution 23, 27 to improve the illumination of the road edges.

An alternative embodiment of the headlight 1 according to FIG. 3 realized light distribution is exemplary in FIG. 9 shown. In this case, an overhead region 30 above the light-dark boundary 24 of the low-beam light distribution 23, 27 is illuminated by the third part 33 of the light beams emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode. In the illustrated embodiment, in particular, an overhead area 30 on the own traffic side, in right traffic thus right of the vertical VV illuminated. Through the illuminated overhead area 30 traffic signs and other objects that are located above the roadway at the edge of the road on the own traffic side can be better recognized by the driver of the motor vehicle.

Of course, it is also conceivable that the light resulting from the third part 33 of the light rays after reflection by the reflector 12 simply for amplifying certain portions of the low beam distribution 23, 27, for example, the spotlight 23 or the base light 27 is used.

Referring to the embodiment of the FIG. 6 a first light-emitting diode 5.1 is arranged directly below the attachment optics 8. The third part 33 of the light beams emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 could, for example, be emitted by a further light-emitting diode 5.2 arranged not directly below the attachment optics 8 but offset from it. In such an embodiment would therefore be one or more Light-emitting diodes 5.1 are arranged below the attachment optics 8, so that the light emitted by this at least one light-emitting diode 5.1 would pass through the attachment optics 8 to the first and second parts 20, 21 of the bundled light beams. On the other hand, the light emitted by the at least one further light-emitting diode 5.2 would form the third part 33 of the light rays emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5, which light passes past the attachment optics 8.

For the embodiments of the headlamp 1 according to the Figures 2 and 3 can reference to the front view of the headlamp 1 off FIG. 1 the housing 2 are pulled further upwards, so that the optical element 18 can not be seen through the cover plate 4 when looking into the headlight 1 counter to the light exit direction 32, but through the housing 2 which is pulled up to close to the reflection surface 12 is covered. In a built-in in the vehicle body headlight 1 so the entire area of the headlight 1 could be hidden below the reflector 12 of the vehicle body or corresponding aperture or decorative elements or the headlight housing 2. Visible from the outside would then be only the cover 4 with the reflector 12 located behind it.

At the in FIG. 1 shown embodiment of the headlamp 1 with a visible through the cover 4 through optical element 18 is an embodiment of the components of the headlamp 1 according to the embodiments of FIGS. 4 or 5 especially advantageous. The embodiment of the FIG. 4 corresponds essentially to the embodiment already described above FIG. 2 , An essential difference to the Embodiment from FIG. 2 consists in that the optical element 18 is designed partially reflecting, so that it reflects only a part of the incident on the optical element 18 light rays and transmits another part of the light rays. In this way, the light emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5 and concentrated by the optical attachment 8 could be split into another part 31. The further part 31 of the light beams can be refracted when passing through the optical element 18 at the interfaces between air and the material of the optical element 18. Due to the arrangement of optically active elements (not shown) on the light exit side of the optical element 18, for example. In the form of scattering structures (prisms, cylindrical lenses, a microstructure, etc.), shape, direction, luminous intensity distribution among others by the third part 31 of Light beams generated light beam can be adjusted in the desired manner.

The further part 31 of the light beams could be used to support the resulting total light distribution generated by the first and second parts 20, 21 of the light beams after reflection at the secondary optics 12. Alternatively, the further part 31 of the light beams could also be used to increase the signal image of the resulting total light distribution produced by the first and second parts 20, 21 of the light beams in order to subjectively reduce the glare effect for oncoming traffic participants. For these, the luminous surface of the illumination device 1 is increased since light is no longer emitted only by the reflector 12, but in addition also by the optical element 18. Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the other part 31 of the Light beams for generating an additional light function is used, which can optionally be generated via one or more separately controllable light sources.

To realize the partially reflecting properties of the optical element 18, this can be formed, for example, from a transparent material, in particular plastic, and provided on at least one side with a partially reflecting coating. This coating is designed to reflect a part of the light rays impinging on it (the part 21 of the light rays directed toward the reflector 12) and another part of the light rays impinging on them (the other part 31 of the light rays).

The partially reflecting coating can be designed such that the light beams incident on it are reflected or transmitted in a wavelength-selective manner. It would be conceivable, for example, for light to be reflected in a wavelength range visible to the human eye in the direction of the reflector 12 and for light to be transmitted in a wavelength range which is invisible to the human eye, for example an infrared wavelength range. Thus, the further part 31 of the light beams would essentially comprise only infrared (IR) radiation, which could be used, for example, for illuminating the roadway area in front of the motor vehicle, in particular above a light-dark boundary 24. The illuminated with the IR radiation remote area could then be detected by an IR-sensitive camera and output to the driver of the motor vehicle either on a separate screen or as a projection on the windshield. In this way, with the inventive Spotlight 1 realize the function of an IR radiator for a night vision system of a motor vehicle in a simple and cost-effective manner.

However, it is particularly preferred if the further part 31 of the light beams also includes light visible to the human eye. In order to scatter the light emerging from the optical element 18 and to avoid pronounced intensity maxima, a light exit surface of the optical element 18 could be provided at least in regions with scattering elements, for example in the form of cylindrical lenses, prisms or a microstructure.

The partially reflective coating of the optical element 18 could also be designed such that its reflective or transmitting properties can be varied by the application of electrical energy to the coating. In this way, for example, the degree of reflection or transmission of the coating and thus also of the optical element 18 could be adjusted as desired in order to reflect or transmit more or less light. As a result, the further part 31 of the light beams could even be used for generating light functions which can be activated or deactivated independently of an activation of the resulting total light distribution produced by the first and second part 20, 21 of the light beams, such as a flashing light function. To realize a flashing light function, the material of the optical element 18 may also be colored yellow, orange and / or amber.

Another embodiment of the invention Headlamps 1 is described below with reference to FIG. 5 explained in more detail. The components shown there and the function of the headlight 1 substantially correspond to the embodiment FIG. 3 , In contrast, however, here also the optical element 18 is configured partially reflecting. This means that light incident on the optical element 18 is at least partially transmitted (further part 31 of the light beams). This applies both to light rays of the second part 21 (after reflection by the surface 22 of the diaphragm arrangement 16) and to light rays of the third part 33 (passing the attachment optics 8) of the light rays emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 5.

The described headlight 1 according to the invention can be arranged in its entirety about a horizontal axis 34 and / or a vertical axis 35 pivotally mounted in the vehicle body. Preferably, a headlamp module (cf. FIGS. 2 to 5 ) comprising the at least one light source 5, the at least one primary optics 8, the diaphragm assembly 16, the optical element 18 and the secondary optics 12 or only parts of the headlamp module are pivotable about a horizontal axis 34 and / or a vertical axis 35 relative to the headlamp housing 2 arranged. By pivoting the headlight 1, the headlight module or parts thereof about a horizontal axis 34, a headlight range adjustment can be realized. By pivoting about a vertical axis 35, a cornering light functionality can be realized. The vertical axis of rotation 35 preferably runs parallel to the main emission direction 6 of the light sources 5 in the region of the diaphragm arrangement 16. The vertical pivot axis 35 of the headlight module or of parts thereof is preferred arranged such that the pivot axis 35 coincides with a longitudinal axis of an enveloping cylinder of the module, wherein the enveloping cylinder largely encloses the headlamp module. The horizontal pivot axis 34 and the vertical pivot axis 35 may be offset from each other or intersect (eg in a gimbal mounting).

Claims (18)

For installation in a motor vehicle provided lighting device (1) comprising at least one semiconductor light source (5) for emitting light beams, primary optics for bundling at least a portion of the emitted light beams, and a secondary optics (12) for imaging at least a portion of the bundled light beams in a light exit direction a roadway in front of the vehicle for generating a desired light distribution, wherein the at least one semiconductor light source (5), the primary optics and the secondary optics (12) in a vehicle mounted in the orientation of the illumination device (1) are arranged vertically above one another, characterized in that the Primary optics at least one attachment optics (8) made of a transparent material with total reflective properties, which at least a portion of the at least one semiconductor light source (5) emitted light rays by total reflection and refraction at interfaces (10) d he optical attachment (8) bundles. Lighting device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the secondary optics (1) comprises at least one reflector. Lighting device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in a beam path of the light beams, a diaphragm arrangement (16) for shading at least a part (21) of the primary optics (8) focused light beams is arranged, the secondary optics (12). an edge (17) of the diaphragm arrangement (16) as a light-dark boundary (24) of a dimmed light distribution (23, 27) on the roadway images. Lighting device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the diaphragm arrangement (16) about a horizontal, transversely to the light exit direction rotating axis of rotation rotatable roller element with different contours as edges (17) or a flat diaphragm element with a front and / or top edge (16). 17). Lighting device (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the illumination device (1) an optical element (18) and the diaphragm arrangement on one of the at least one optical attachment facing surface (22) at least partially has a reflective coating, wherein the reflective coating at least part of the part (21) of the light beams shaded by the diaphragm arrangement (16) is reflected onto the optical element (18). Lighting device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the optical element (18) directs the light rays of the shaded part (21) of the light rays to the secondary optics (12). Lighting device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the optical element (18) has an at least partially reflecting surface, the at least a part (21) of the light incident on the optical element (18) light rays on the secondary optics (12). reflected. Lighting device (1) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the partially reflecting surface of the optical element (18) reflects a first part (21) of the light rays striking the optical element (18) onto the secondary optics (12) and has a second part (31 ) the light rays impinging on the optical element (18) are transmitted through the optical element (18). Lighting device (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a part (22) of the light beams emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source (5) passes the secondary optics (12) past the attachment optics (8), and the secondary optics (12) reflects this part (22) of the light beams in the light exit direction in front of the vehicle. Lighting device (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the part (22) of the light beams which has passed the attachment optics (8) passes directly and directly onto the secondary optics (12). Lighting device (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the illumination device (1) has an optical element (18), the part (22) of the light beams reaching the optical attachment (8) impinging on the optical element (18), and the optical element (18) this part (22) of the light rays to the secondary optics (12). Lighting device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the optical element (18) has an at least partially reflecting surface which reflects at least a part of the incident on the optical element (18) light rays on the secondary optics (12). Lighting device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the partially reflecting surface of the optical element (18) reflects a first part of the incident on the optical element (18) light beams to the secondary optics (12) and a second part (31) of the the optical element (18) incident light beams through the optical element (18) transmits. Lighting device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the light emitted by the optical element (18) second part (31) of the light rays in the light exit direction from the optical element (18). Lighting device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the light emerging from the optical element (18) part of the light rays from the illumination device (1) and non-focused scattered light to magnify a signal image of the secondary optics (12) imaged light distribution forms. Lighting device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the part (31) of the light beams emerging from the optical element (18) makes a contribution to the desired light distribution. Illuminating device (1) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the part (31) of the light beams emerging from the optical element (18) at a desired dimmed light distribution (23, 27) comprises a region (30) of the light distribution (23, 27 ) illuminates above a light-dark boundary (24). Lighting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that a light module of the illumination device (1) the at least one semiconductor light source (5), the at least one primary optics (8), the secondary optics (12), the diaphragm arrangement (16). and / or the optical element (18) and that the light module or only parts of the light module about a horizontal axis (34) and / or a vertical axis (35) relative to a housing (2) of the illumination device (1) are pivotally mounted ,

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