EP2719940B1 - Light module - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a light module for motor vehicle headlights according to the preamble of claim 1.

In the present context, a light module is understood to be the light-emitting unit actually emitting the desired emission light distribution. This light module can be installed in a motor vehicle headlight, for example, enclosed in a headlight housing.

Depending on the field of application, the emission light distribution should have specific, often prescribed by law, characteristic intensity profiles.

On the one hand, the generation of a dimmed light distribution, which is characterized by a sectionally substantially horizontal light-dark boundary, is of interest. This light distribution has a vertical dark area and a vertical light area below, the bright area is separated from the dark area by the cut-off. In particular, the most intense possible illumination in the area immediately below the cut-off line is desired (low beam spot light distribution) in order to achieve a sufficient range. In addition, a sufficient illumination of the vehicle apron or side areas should be ensured (basic light distribution). Corresponding light modules can be used as dipped beam or fog light.

Furthermore, with car headlamps often a high beam light distribution be generated, which has a high illuminance in a range above the cut-off line (ie in the dark area of the dimmed light distribution). The main beam distribution should overlap as homogeneously as possible with the basic light distribution of the dimmed light distribution. For example, a disturbing fringe pattern should be avoided at the transition of the different light distributions, in particular in the region of the cut-off line.

Depending on the area of use, lighting functions such as daytime running lights, driving lights or flashing lights should also be provided. In this case, usually a large part of the light exit surface of the light module should have a spatially constant luminance in order to achieve a homogeneous appearance as possible.

On the one hand, projection systems are known for realizing the different emission light distributions. These are usually two-stage optical systems, in which light from a light source is directed by a primary optics into the focal plane of a secondary optics, which projects light with the desired radiated light distribution. Due to the two-stage design, projection systems generally require a large amount of space along the beam path. In addition, reflection systems are known in which a reflector is used for shaping and deflecting the light emitted by a light source into the radiated light distribution. In this case, usually complex shaped and large reflector surfaces are required to achieve the desired light distribution.

As a light source for motor vehicle headlights, the use of LEDs is often desirable because they are a comparatively have low energy consumption and a comparatively high efficiency of energy conversion. Here, there is a problem in that, according to the current state of the art, LEDs usually generate lower luminous fluxes than gas discharge lamps or halogen lamps. Therefore, several LED light sources in a light module must be regularly combined to produce sufficiently high luminous flux.

In the US 2009/0091944 A1 a light module according to the preamble of claim 1 is described. The disk-like Lichtleitabschnitte run together in the region of their Lichteinkoppelflächen. This can lead to problems with regard to the waste heat of the semiconductor light sources assigned to the respective light coupling surfaces, since these are arranged close to one another. In the case of the described light module, furthermore, each light guide section has on its light outcoupling surface a solid, cylindrical lens-like end piece, which extends along the respective light coupling-out surface. Due to the size of these end pieces, the light guide sections must maintain a minimum distance from one another in the region of their light output surfaces. The light module therefore has a comparatively large light exit section. In addition, there is a considerable cost of materials. The DE 20 2011 103 703 U1 describes a light module having features of the preamble of claim 1.

The object of the invention is to remedy the mentioned disadvantages of the known light modules. In particular, a compact light module with semiconductor light sources is to be provided, which has a high optical efficiency and which allows the production of different emission light distributions with a single Module allowed.

This object is achieved by a light module having the features of claim 1. The light module comprises a plurality of semiconductor light sources, for example light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for emitting light, and a primary optics element for concentrating the light emitted by the semiconductor light sources within sections perpendicular to a sagittal plane of the light module. The primary optic element has a plurality of surface-like, perpendicular to the sagittal plane extending, disc-like Lichtleitabschnitte. Each light guide section has a light input surface and a light output surface and is formed for light conduction under total internal reflection from the light input surface to the light outcoupling surface. Total internal reflection occurs when a light beam striking a boundary surface of the light guide portion forms an angle with the solder on the boundary surface at the reflection point exceeding the critical angle of total reflection, so that the law of refraction (Snellius law) does not provide a real solution to the refraction angle.

In the light module is ever a Lichtleitabschnitt a Semiconductor light source assigned such that the light of the semiconductor light source can be coupled by the respective light input surface in the light guide. Each light guide section has a convexly curved main reflection surface such that a primary focal line assigned in each case to the light guide section is defined. This is characterized by the fact that a light bundle emanating from the primary focal line and striking the light incoupling surface in a diverging manner can be transformed into a light bundle that passes through the light outcoupling surface and is parallelized within sections perpendicular to the primary burning line. The primary focal lines each extend in and / or parallel to the sagittal plane.

In the light module according to the invention, a secondary optical element arranged downstream of the primary optics element in the beam path is provided for the concentration of light within sections parallel to the sagittal plane. The secondary optical element is designed in such a way that the light passing through the light output surfaces of the plurality of optical waveguide sections can be concentrated within sections parallel to the sagittal plane.

To explain the invention, a sagittal plane is defined for the light module. If, for example, the light module is installed in a motor vehicle headlight, then the sagittal plane can be the horizontal plane of the overall system, which is spanned by a main emission direction of the light module and a horizontal axis perpendicular to the main emission direction. Furthermore, in the following, reference is made to a meridional plane of the light module. This is to be understood as the plane which is perpendicular to the sagittal plane and which is spanned by the surface normal of the sagittal plane and the main emission direction of the light module. For example, the meridional plane the vertical plane in which the main emission direction of the light module runs. The indication of the horizontal or vertical refers to a reference system of the light module. Of course, the light module as a whole can also be tilted and used twisted or installed.

Concentration of light within sections parallel to a plane means in the present context that a light beam diverging at a divergence angle in the respective section is transformed into a light bundle which diverges, in particular is parallelized, within the respective section at a smaller angle (" Collimation ") or even converged (" bundling ").

The light module according to the invention allows the integration of different light functions (e.g., low beam, high beam) into a single, compact light module. For each light-guiding section, the optical properties, in particular the focal length of the respective light-conducting section, can be preset independently. The position of the respective semiconductor light source relative to the associated primary focal line determines the properties of the portion of the emission light distribution generated by the respective semiconductor light source. This makes it possible to realize different emission light distributions with the different light guide sections. The light module according to the invention can therefore be designed as a multifunction light module.

The individual semiconductor light sources are in particular independently controllable or switched on and off. This allows the different Light functions are electrically activated and deactivated (eg switchable main beam or daytime running light), without the need for moving mechanical parts.

The Lichtleitabschnitte are disc-like design insofar as each Lichtleitabschnitt has a two-dimensional extent and has a small thickness compared to the dimensions along the planar extension. The disc-like light guide sections extend substantially perpendicular to the sagittal plane. Preferably, the Lichtleitabschnitte extend side by side. The said main reflection surface bulges in particular, starting from the light incoupling surface, preferably along the path in the direction of the light outcoupling surface, convexly and perpendicular to the extension surface of the Lichtleitabschnitts. In particular, the main reflection surface is perpendicular to the meridional plane of the light module. The main reflection surface of the light-conducting sections has in sections with or parallel to the meridional plane a convex course, in particular a parabolic or circular segment-like course. Preferably, the main reflection surface is formed as a portion of a cylindrical paraboloid, which is substantially free of curvature in sections with or parallel to the sagittal plane.

The primary optic element defines a primary focal line insofar as light diverging from the primary focal line and diverging in a section perpendicular to the primary focal line can be converted into a light bundle that passes through the light outcoupling surface and is parallelized at least in a plane perpendicular to the primary focal line. In particular, the convexly curved main reflection surface contributes to this. This is especially so shaped such that the optical paths of the light (ie the along the light path summed up products of irradiated path length and refractive index of each irradiated space area) is constant for all light paths, starting from the primary focal line through the respective Lichtleitabschnitt to Lichtauskoppelfläche.

Overall, the light module according to the invention has a high optical efficiency. Various features contribute to this. Since a common Sekundäroptikelement is provided, material can be saved in comparison to the known light module of the type mentioned and the light exit portion of the light module can be made small. This allows high luminance. In addition, each semiconductor light source is assigned a light input surface. This can be adapted so that a high proportion of the light emitted by the semiconductor light source can be recorded. The disk-like Lichtleitabschnitte with the common Sekundäroptikelement allow a compact design.

Preferably, the plurality of Lichtleitabschnitte are integrally connected to one another in the region of the light outcoupling surfaces. In particular, the light guide sections extend adjacent to one another and open into a common outcoupling section of the primary optics element. At the Auskoppelabschnitt the light outcoupling surfaces are arranged. The decoupling section may have a common light output surface for all Lichtleitabschnitte. The light-guiding sections are preferably integral with each other and possibly connected to the decoupling section.

It is also conceivable that the Lichtleitabschnitte run next to each other and the light output surfaces are arranged spaced from each other. The Lichtleitabschnitte need not be integral with each other. Preferably, the light outcoupling surfaces of different Lichtleitabschnitte lie in a common, imaginary plane.

In the area of the light coupling surfaces, however, the Lichtleitabschnitte can keep a distance from each other. As a result, the semiconductor light sources can be arranged at a sufficient distance to ensure a sufficient dissipation of waste heat.

In principle, each light guide section is delimited by further light guide surfaces. These are in particular perpendicular to the sagittal plane and thus form the side surfaces of the Lichtleitabschnitts, which limit the Lichtleitabschnitt along its areal extent.

The said further light guide surfaces run in particular in such a way that the light guide section has a rectangular shape in sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane and to the meridional plane. On the other hand, if the side surfaces are at an angle to the sagittal plane, light rays receive a directional component perpendicular to the sagittal plane on total reflection on such side surfaces. This may be undesirable depending on the application, as this light beams can be directed, for example, in the dark area of a dimmed light distribution.

The further light guide surfaces can be designed such that the cross section of the light guide section increases in the course of the light incoupling surface to the light outcoupling surface. With multiple Total reflection on the sidewalls then hits light rays at each total reflection at a small angle to the side surface, as was the case in the previous total reflection. As a result, a collimation of the light can be achieved. In principle, however, it is also conceivable that the further light guide surfaces extend in such a way that the cross section of the light guide section decreases starting from the light coupling surface to the light coupling surface. As a result, an additional Lichtauffächerung be achieved.

The said further light guide surfaces of individual light guide sections can also run in a curved manner, wherein they are in particular perpendicular to the sagittal plane. The curved course is in particular such that the entire light guide section is curved in sections parallel to the sagittal plane. This refinement is advantageous if several light-conducting sections are to be brought together to form a common light output surface or a common outcoupling section. Then, e.g. the marginal Lichtleitabschnitte be performed bent. Thus, a sufficient distance between the semiconductor light sources can be maintained.

The light guide section may also have (in each case) a counter-reflection surface opposite the curved main reflection surface. The counter-reflection surface is substantially flat or (compared to the main reflection surface) only slightly curved. The counter-reflection surface forms, in particular, a narrow side of the disk-like light guide section. By reflection at the counter-reflection surface, the light rays guided in the light-guiding section receive, after reflection at the main reflection surface, a directional component in the direction of the main reflection surface.

This makes it possible to change the main emission direction of the light module by a suitable orientation of the counter-reflection surface.

The secondary optical element is shaped such that a secondary burning line is defined. This is characterized by the fact that a divergent bundle of light emanating from the secondary focal line can be transformed into a bundle of rays parallelized within sections perpendicular to the secondary focal line. The secondary firing line preferably runs perpendicular to one or all of the primary firing lines. Preferably, secondary firing line and primary firing lines are oriented perpendicular to the main emission direction of the light module. Since the secondary firing line and the primary firing lines are perpendicular to one another, the light concentration is split functionally into two components that follow one another in the beam path. The secondary optic element preferably acts only in the light concentration in sections parallel to the sagittal plane. By contrast, the primary optic element is designed in particular in such a way that a light concentration takes place substantially only in sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane or in sections parallel to or in the meridional plane. In particular, a light beam passing through the secondary optic element remains unaffected within sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane.

The Lichtauskoppelflächen the Lichtleitabschnitte lie between the Sekundärbrennlinie and the Sekundäroptikelement. In particular, the secondary focal line lies opposite the main emission direction of the light module behind the light output surfaces. In this embodiment, a divergent light beam emanating from the light output surface does not become parallelized, but only narrowed. However, it is also conceivable that the secondary focal line extends at least on a light output surface.

The main reflection surface of one or all light-conducting sections can each have one or more facets for light scattering. A facet is formed, for example, by a region of the main reflection surface which is locally tilted, twisted, recessed or raised relative to the surrounding regions of the main reflection surface. In particular, the facet is designed in such a way that the main reflection surface in the area of the facet has a locally discontinuous or kinked (that is, not continuously differentiable) profile. As a result, a light bundle can be deflected in a direction deviating from the remaining light bundles passing through the light outcoupling surface. For example, a light beam can be targeted in the dark area above the cut-off line. With this "overhead lighting" can then be illuminated, for example, street signs. With a correspondingly small expansion of the facet, only a small proportion of the light is directed into the dark area, so that dangerous dazzling of oncoming traffic can be avoided.

Each semiconductor light source (in particular in each case comprising one or more LEDs) has at least one preferably plane light emission surface, which is delimited by at least one preferably straight boundary edge. This boundary edge can run on the primary focal line of the associated Lichtleitabschnitts. However, it is also conceivable that the primary focal line of the associated light guide section extends through the light emission surface.

The boundary edge may be an edge of the optically active semiconductor surface. However, it is also conceivable that a diaphragm is provided with a diaphragm edge, wherein the diaphragm edge defines said boundary edge of the semiconductor light source.

Due to the position of the light emission surface and the boundary edge with respect to the primary focal line, the emission light distribution of the light module is significantly influenced. If the boundary edge runs along the primary focal line, the light distribution passing through the coupling-out surface of the associated light-conducting section has a light-dark boundary. This results essentially by mapping the boundary edge. Depending on the direction in which the light emission surface extends from the primary focal line, the emission light distribution has an overhead dark area (for example for a low beam distribution) or a dark area below (e.g., for a high beam spot distribution).

The light module according to the invention makes it possible to select different arrangements of the semiconductor light source relative to the primary focal line for different light guide sections. This can happen, on the one hand, that the primary focal line extends at different distances from the respective light coupling surface for different light-conducting sections (ie different primary focal lengths are selected). On the other hand, the respective semiconductor light sources can be arranged at different distances to the associated light coupling surfaces on the light module.

For example, a first semiconductor light source or a first group of semiconductor light sources are each such arranged that the primary focal line of each associated Lichtleitabschnitts extends on the boundary edge of the respective Lichtabstrahlfläche. A second semiconductor light source or a second group of semiconductor light sources may be arranged such that the primary focal line extends through the light emitting surfaces. In this case, form the first semiconductor light source or the first group of semiconductor light sources, for example, a low beam light source, whereas the second semiconductor light source or the second group of semiconductor light sources form a high beam light source. The various semiconductor light sources are preferably independently electronically controllable, so that, for example, high beam can be optionally switched on.

The light incoupling surfaces are preferably flat and are inclined with respect to the preferably likewise plane light emission surface in such a way that a clearance gap with a variable varying over the course of the light emission surface is formed between the light input surface and the light emission surface. In particular, the distance gap increases continuously over the course of the light emission surface starting from the primary focal line. Preferably, a conical gap is formed. A curved course of the light coupling surface can also be advantageous. A concave profile can lead eg to the coupling of a larger amount of light. A convex light coupling surface may be advantageous to reduce the divergence of the light beam after coupling and to adapt the properties of the coupled light beam to the numerical aperture of the Lichtleitabschnitts.

It is also conceivable, however, for the light-incoupling surface and the light-emitting surface to be both planar and to extend parallel to one another. The gap then has constant thickness.

The light outcoupling surfaces of the light guide sections preferably extend perpendicular to the sagittal plane, in particular also perpendicular to the main emission direction of the light module. The light output surfaces are, for example, flat and perpendicular to the main emission and the sagittal plane. It is also conceivable that the light outcoupling surfaces are curved, in particular convex. They have, for example, in sections parallel to the sagittal plane on a convex curvature and are preferably free of curvature in sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane.

The secondary optic element is preferably designed as a cylindrical lens for light concentration within sections parallel to the sagittal plane. The cylindrical lens has in sections in or parallel to the sagittal plane e.g. a collecting lens cross section and is preferably formed without curvature in sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane. In this respect, the cylinder lens can be assigned a cylinder axis about which the light passage surfaces of the cylindrical lens are curved. The light-transmitting surfaces here are the optically effective surfaces of the cylindrical lens through which light enters or exits the lens.

The cylindrical lens may have scattering structures on one or both of its light transmission surfaces. These are preferably designed like a roller, wherein the roller axes of the scattering structures are parallel to the cylinder axis of the cylindrical lens. Such scattering structures act Although contrary to a bundling effect of the cylindrical lens, but lead to a more homogeneous illumination of the light exit section.

A particularly simple Hehrstellung a compact light module is made possible by the fact that the cylindrical lens is integrally connected to the Lichtleitabschnitten of the primary optic element. This is realized in particular in such a way that the light outcoupling surfaces of the light guide sections coincide with one of the light passage surfaces of the cylinder lens. In this respect, cylinder lens and Lichtleitabschnitte are integrally connected via the light outcoupling surfaces and a light passage surface. This makes it possible to design the entire optics of the light module as a single molded part.

The Lichtleitabschnitte and the cylindrical lens, and optionally the common Auskoppelabschnitt of the primary optic element may be formed of glass or plastic. Suitable plastics are, in particular, organic glasses, polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), cycloolefin polymer (COP), cycloolefin copolymer (COC), polymethacrylic imide (PMMI) or polysulfone (PSU). The plastics mentioned can be processed in particular by injection molding.

Another embodiment of the invention is that the secondary optic element is designed as a cylindrical reflector. This is in particular formed as a section or segment of a cylindrical concave mirror or a cylindrical parabolic mirror. The cylindrical reflector has, for example, a (preferably parabolic) curvature in the sagittal plane and is in sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane in particular formed curvature-free. Since a cylindrical reflector light can not only concentrate or focus, but can also deflect by reflection, the main emission direction of the light module can be structurally predetermined with the construction mentioned. In addition, for example, the partial color errors occurring in the case of lenses can be avoided, which can lead to undesired color changes in the emission light distribution of the light module. The cylindrical reflector may have scattering structures and / or facets in order to achieve a more homogeneous emission light distribution. Conceivable, for example, roller-like scattering structures whose roller axis is parallel to the cylinder axis of the cylinder reflector.

Further details and advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description, with reference to which the embodiments of the invention shown in the figures are described and explained in more detail.

Figur 1

ein Lichtmodul zur Erläuterung von Geometrie und Gestaltungsmerkmalen;

Figur 2

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul in perspektivischer Darstellung;

Figur 3

das Lichtmodul aus Figur 2 in einer Draufsicht;

Figur 4

eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Lichtmoduls in perspektivischer Darstellung;

Figur 5

das Lichtmodul aus Figur 4 in Draufsicht;

Figur 6

erläuternde Darstellungen zur Anordnung der Halbleiterlichtquellen;

Figur 7

erläuternde Darstellungen zur Anordnung der Halbleiterlichtquellen;

Figur 8

Darstellung zur Erläuterung des Strahlengangs in den erfindungsgemäßen Lichtmodulen;

Fig. 9 - Fig. 14

Darstellungen zu Ausgestaltungen des Primäroptikelements;

Figur 15

eine weitere Ausgestaltung für ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul;

Figur 16 und 17

Darstellungen zur Ausgestaltung des Sekundärelements;

Figur 18

Darstellung zu einer alternativen Ausgestaltung des Lichtmoduls; und

Figur 19

Darstellung einer weiteren Ausgestaltung des Lichtmoduls.

Show it:

FIG. 1

a light module for explaining geometry and design features;

FIG. 2

an inventive light module in perspective view;

FIG. 3

the light module off FIG. 2 in a plan view;

FIG. 4

a further embodiment of a light module according to the invention in a perspective view;

FIG. 5

the light module off FIG. 4 in plan view;

FIG. 6

explanatory diagrams for the arrangement of the semiconductor light sources;

FIG. 7

explanatory diagrams for the arrangement of the semiconductor light sources;

FIG. 8

Representation for explaining the beam path in the light modules according to the invention;

FIGS. 9-14

Representations of embodiments of the primary optic element;

FIG. 15

a further embodiment of an inventive light module;

FIGS. 16 and 17

Illustrations for the design of the secondary element;

FIG. 18

Representation of an alternative embodiment of the light module; and

FIG. 19

Representation of a further embodiment of the light module.

In the following description, the same or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals.

Information on the spatial position of various components is made below on the basis of different levels in space. To illustrate the levels shows FIG. 1 details a light module 10, wherein the design features shown can be used in all light modules according to the invention.

In FIG. 1 is a semiconductor light source 12, a disc-like Lichtleitabschnitt 14 as part of a primary optics element, and designed as a cylindrical lens 19 Sekundäroptikelement 18 shown.

For the light module, a main emission direction 20 is defined, into which the light energy is radiated in the spatial average. Furthermore, a sagittal plane 22 is defined, which in the example illustrated is spanned by the direction of the horizontal and the main emission direction 20. Furthermore, a meridional plane 24 is defined as the plane which extends perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 and is spanned by the vertical and the main emission direction 20.

During operation of the light module 10, the intensity distribution of the emission light distribution 28 can be observed on a test screen 26. The test screen 26 extends in the direction perpendicular to the main emission direction 20 (i.e., both perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 and the meridional plane 24) and is spaced from the light module 10 in the direction of the main emission direction 20. The spatial position of regions of the emission light distribution 28 is indicated on the test screen 26 by means of vertical and horizontal angle coordinates V, H. These angle coordinates V, H correspond to coordinates in the Cartesian coordinate system spanned by the horizontal and the vertical in the plane of the test screen 26.

In the example shown, the emission light distribution 28, a light-dark boundary HDG, which a vertical down light area 30 and a vertical overhead dark area 32 from each other. Such a light beam distribution 28 is used in motor vehicle headlamps as dimmed light distribution use.

In the FIG. 1 an LED chip of the semiconductor light source 12 can be seen, which may additionally comprise further LED chips. The illustrated LED chip of the semiconductor light source 12 is arranged on a heat sink 36 in order to dissipate the waste heat of the LEDs can.

Of the Primäroptikelement only the disc-like Lichtleitabschnitt 14 is shown, which extends flat perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22. The light guide section 14 has a thickness measured perpendicular to its plane of extent, which is substantially smaller than the dimensions of the light guide section 14 in its plane of extent. The light guide section 14 has a light input surface 38 facing the semiconductor light source 12, through which light can be coupled into the light guide section 14. The light coupled in this way can be conducted in the light guide section 14 with total internal reflection to a light output surface 40, through which the light can exit the light guide section 14. Internal total reflection takes place in particular on a main reflection surface 42. In the illustrated example, the main reflection surface 42 extends from the light input surface 38 to the light output surface 40.

The main reflection surface 42 is curved in such a convex manner with respect to the sagittal plane 22 that the optical properties of the light guide section 14 can be characterized by a primary focal line 44. These is characterized in that a thought, diverging from the primary focal line in a section perpendicular to the primary focal line 44 light bundle is deflected after passing through the light input surface 38 and total reflection at least at the main reflection surface 42 in passing through the light outcoupling surface 40 tufts, which in a section perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 consists essentially of parallel light rays. In this respect, the light-guiding section 14 acts collimating within sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22.

The Sekundäroptikelement 18 is formed as a cylindrical lens 19, the optically active light transmission surfaces 46 bulge cylindrically about a cylinder axis 48. In sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22, the cylindrical lens 19 in each case has a collecting lens cross section. In sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22, the cylindrical lens 19 preferably has a curvature-free course. The optical properties of the cylindrical lens 19 are characterized, inter alia, by a secondary focal line 50. This is characterized by the fact that a light bundle diverging from the secondary burning line and diverging in sections perpendicular to the secondary burning line 50, after passing through the cylindrical lens 19, is transformed into a tuft of light which, in sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22, consists essentially of parallel light rays. The secondary optic element 18 acts in a collimating manner within cuts parallel to the sagittal plane 22.

Secondary optic element 18 and primary optic element 16 are arranged relative to one another in such a way that secondary filament 50 runs perpendicular to primary filament 44. For all light modules according to the invention, it may be advantageous be when the Primärbrennlinie 44 between the Sekundärbrennlinie 50 and the Sekundäroptikelement 18 runs. The focal length assigned to the cylindrical lens 19 is, for example, chosen to be so large that the secondary focal line 50 is offset from the main emission direction 20 offset from the light output surface 40 of the light-conducting section 12. The secondary optic element 18 therefore does not act collimating, but only narrows light bundles within sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22. However, it is also conceivable to choose a shorter focal length for the cylindrical lens 19 so that the secondary focal line 50 is closer to the cylindrical lens 19, for example between primary focal line 44 and cylindrical lens 19, or in the region or on the light output surface 40.

In case of FIG. 1 the light outcoupling surface 40 is perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 and perpendicular to the meridional plane 24. The Lichtleitabschnitt 14 is formed in the example shown mirror-symmetrical to Meridionalebene 24. Likewise, the cylindrical lens 19 is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the meridional plane 24. The secondary focal line 50 extends in the meridional plane 24.

To explain the beam path is in the FIG. 1 a main beam 52 is sketched, which after passing through the secondary optical element 18 along the main emission direction 20 falls on the light-dark boundary HDG. The main beam 52 extends in the meridional plane 24. Starting from the primary focal line 44, the main beam 52 enters the light guide section 14 through the light input surface 38, is totally reflected at the convexly curved main reflection surface 42 and exits the light guide section 14 through the light output surface 40. Thereafter, the main beam 52 extends in the meridional plane 24 parallel to Sagittal plane 22. Since the main beam 52 has no directional component perpendicular to the meridional plane 24, its course is not affected by the cylindrical lens 19 (in the example shown). The main beam 52 therefore runs after the cylindrical lens 19 in the meridional plane 24 and perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 along the main emission direction 20.

The for the light module 10 in FIG. 1 explained design features, in particular the Lichtleitabschnitts 14 and the Sekundäroptikelements 18, can be used for all light modules according to the invention. Likewise, to explain further embodiments of the invention to the according to FIG. 1 defined sagittal plane 22, the Meridionalebene 24, the test screen 26, and the main radiation direction 20 reference.

In the FIGS. 2 and 3 an inventive light module 60 is shown. The primary optic element 16 of the light module 60 comprises three light guide sections 14, 14a and 14b, and a secondary optic element 18 in the form of a cylinder lens 19 FIG. 1 explained kind.

Each light-conducting section 14, 14a, 14b is assigned a substrate 62, 62a, 62b (LED chip) as a semiconductor light source in such a way that the light emitted by the respective substrate 62, 62a, 62b passes into the respective light-guiding section 14, 14a through respectively assigned light-coupling surfaces. 14b can be coupled.

The three light-conducting sections 14, 14a, 14b extend next to one another and each extend perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 (FIG. FIG. 1 ). In this case, the middle light guide 14 in the zu FIG. 1 explained type configured. The two outer light guide sections 14a and 14b extend in sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22 (FIG. FIG. 1 ), which is particularly hereafter FIG. 12 will be explained in more detail.

The light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b extend in such a way that they open in a common outcoupling section 64 of the primary optics element 16 ( FIG. 3 ). The decoupling portion 64 has a common light output surface 66, which the light outcoupling surfaces 40 of the Lichtleitabschnitte 14, 14 a and 14 b in the sense of FIG. 1 includes. It is conceivable, in particular, for the coupling-out section 64 to be formed in one piece with the light-conducting sections 14, 14a, 14b.

Deviating from the embodiment described above, however, it is also conceivable that each of the light guide sections 14, 14 a, 14 b has a separate light output surface 40 in the manner of FIG. 1 has, over which the Lichtleitabschnitte 14, 14 a, 14 b in the Auskoppelabschnitt 64 (eg in non-integral formation) open. For example, materials with different optical properties (eg refractive index) than the light-conducting sections 14, 14a, 14b can then be selected for the decoupling section 64. In the FIG. 3 the transition between Lichtleitabschnitten 14, 14a, 14b and Auskoppelabschnitt 64 is indicated by lines. However, they do not have to be separate components.

As in FIG. 3 can be seen, each Lichtleitabschnitt 14, 14a, 14b associated with a Primärbrennlinie 44, 44a, 44b. The primary focal lines 44, 44a, 44b each extend in the sagittal plane 22 (cf. FIG. 1 ). In their extension direction along the main emission direction 20, the light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b have different lengths. In particular, the run associated primary focal lines 44, 44a, 44b in the light module 60 not on a common, imaginary line. Instead, the primary firing line 44 is offset relative to the primary firing lines 44a, 44b in the direction of the main emission direction 20. In principle, each of the light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b can be designed in such a way that a desired focal length and thus a desired course of the respective associated primary focal line 44, 44a, 44b result. In particular, different focal lengths can be assigned to different light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b, so that different light functions (low beam, high beam, daytime running light) can be realized with the various light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b.

Likewise, it is conceivable that the substrates 62, 62a, 62b are each arranged in different positions with respect to the primary focal line 44, 44a, 44b of their respective associated light-conducting section 14, 14a, 14b.

In the case of the light module 60, the secondary optics element 18 arranged downstream of the primary optics element 16 in the beam path acts together for all the light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b in the latter FIG. 1 explained way. The secondary firing line 50 extends perpendicular to all primary firing lines 44, 44a, 44b.

In case of FIGS. 2 and 3 For example, the primary optic element 16 comprising the plurality of light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b is mirror-symmetrical to the meridional plane 24 (which corresponds to those in FIG FIG. 1 has explained, however, in FIG. 2 not shown for clarity). Preferably, the arrangement and configuration of the individual semiconductor light sources 62, 62a, 62b as a whole mirror-symmetrical to the meridional plane 24. Since the cylindrical lens 19 is mirror-symmetrical to the Meridionalebene 24 (see FIG. 1 ), the meridional plane 24 represents a plane of symmetry of the entire optical system.

In the FIGS. 4 and 5 a light module 70 is shown. This differs from the light module 60 in that the three light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b open directly into the common secondary optical element 18.

The secondary optical element 18 is designed as a cylindrical lens element 72, which has a cylindrical lens surface 74. The cylindrical lens surface 74 bulges cylindrically around a plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 (FIG. Fig. 1 The lens element 72 furthermore has a transition section 78, into which the light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b of the primary optics element 16 open.

The Lichtleitabschnitte 14, 14a, 14b are on their light output surfaces 40, 40a, 40b (see for explanation FIG. 1 ) is connected to the transition section 78 of the lens element 72 such that the light passing through the light outcoupling surfaces 40, 40a, 40b propagates in the lens element 72 and is refracted as it passes through the cylindrical lens surface 74. Due to the cylindrical shape of the cylindrical lens surface 74, the lens element 72 can in turn be assigned a (virtual) primary focal line 50 with the properties described above.

The lens element 72 is integral with the light guide sections 14, 14a via the light outcoupling surfaces 40, 40a, 40b. 14b connected. The connection is in particular such that light beams propagate without refraction during the transition from a light guide section 14, 14a, 14b through the (imaginary) light coupling-out surface 40, 40a, 40b into the lens element 72. The unit comprising the light guide sections 14, 14a, 14b forming the primary optic element 60 and the lens element 72 forming the secondary optic element 18 can be produced, in particular, as a one-piece molded part, for example by injection molding, from a suitable plastic.

It is also conceivable, starting from the in the FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrated light module 60 to produce a one-piece design in that the decoupling portion 64 via its light output surface 66 integral with a light passage surface 46 of the cylindrical lens 19 according to the FIGS. 2 and 3 is connected.

In the case of the light modules according to the invention, the properties of the emission light distribution 28 are determined essentially by the arrangement of the semiconductor light source 12 relative to the respective associated primary focal line 44, which will be described below FIG. 6 is explained.

As semiconductor light sources 12, 62 are preferably light emitting diodes (LED) use, which have a flat Lichtabstrahlfläche 80, which is sharply bounded by straight boundary edges 82. For example, LEDs with square light emission surfaces 80 and corresponding boundary edges 82 are common. Preferably, a plurality of such LEDs are arranged on a common substrate 62 and form a semiconductor light source 12.

In the FIG. 6 are each such semiconductor light sources 12 outlined, wherein three possible gradients for the primary focal line 44 of the associated Lichtleitabschnitts 14 are indicated when the semiconductor light source 12 is installed in a light module of the present type. Here, the plane of the light emitting surfaces 80 is defined as a forward direction 84 (for example, substantially in the direction of the main emission direction 20) and a reverse direction 85 (for example, opposite to the main emission direction 20).

In case of FIG. 6a For example, the semiconductor light source 12 is arranged such that the associated primary focal line 44 passes through the light emitting surfaces 80. For on a test screen 26 (see. FIG. 1 ) observed emission distribution 28 results in the FIG. 6a to the right of the sketch of the semiconductor light source 12 illustrated illumination image.

The Lichtleitabschnitt 14 parallelizes diverging, emanating from the Primärbrennlinie 44 light bundles within cuts perpendicular to the primary focal line 14. Since the light emitting surface 80 extends both in the forward direction 84 and in the backward direction 85 from the Primärbrennlinie 44, passing through the light outcoupling surfaces and by the Sekundäroptikelement 18th both light rays having a direction component vertically upward and light rays having a direction component vertically downward. Therefore, the emission light distribution 28 has no bright-dark boundary, but has the property of a spot light distribution with a light center about the main emission direction (for example, given by the in FIG FIG. 1 explained main beam 52).

In case of FIG. 6b Starting from the primary focal line 44, the light emitting surface 80 extends in the backward direction 85. The light beams emanating from said boundary edges 82 are parallelized in the main emission direction 20. This leads to a light-dark boundary HDG on the test screen 26, as shown in the sketch of the emission light distribution 28 to the right of the representation of the chip 62 in FIG FIG. 6b indicated. The light rays which emanate from the light emission surfaces extending in the backward direction 85 have, after passing through the light outcoupling surface 40 or through the secondary optics element 18, a direction component vertically downwards. Therefore, the emission light distribution 28 has a bright vertical area 30 below and a vertical dark area 32 separated therefrom by the cut-off line HDG.

In the example of FIG. 6c extends from the primary focal line 44 in the forward direction 84. Here, the primary focal line 44 extends through a respective boundary edge 82 of the Lichtabstrahlfläche 80. Accordingly, the outgoing from the primary focus line 44 boundary edges 82 outgoing light rays again lead to a sharp light-dark Limit HDG, in which case the bright area 30 is vertically above the dark area 32 (in FIG. 6c sketched on the right).

In the cases according to FIG. 6b and FIG. 6c In each case, a boundary edge 82 which runs on the respective primary focal line 44 is imaged as a light-dark boundary of the emission light distribution 28. The remaining Lichtabstrahlfläche 80 is about Lichtleitabschnitt 14 and Sekundäroptikelement 18 in a corresponding Light source image projected. When the light-emitting surface 80 is displaced in the forward direction 84 or in the rearward direction 85 with respect to the primary focal line 44, the position of said light source images in the vertical direction on the test screen 26 changes. The light-guiding section 14 is preferably designed such that, when displaced, the directions along the vertical direction V measured size of the respective light source images does not change.

Since the properties of the emission light distribution 28 depend, as explained, on the position of the semiconductor light source 12 with respect to the primary focal line 44, a multifunction light module can be implemented in a simple manner with the arrangement according to the invention. For this purpose, for example, a plurality of semiconductor light sources 12 may be provided, wherein semiconductor light sources 12 of a first group of the type FIG. 6b are arranged. A second group may comprise semiconductor light sources 12 which are in the nature of the FIG. 6c are arranged. This is in the FIG. 7 outlined. The first group of semiconductor light sources then leads to an emission light distribution with a vertical downwardly lying light area, while the second group leads to a light emission distribution with a vertical overhead light area (cf. FIG. 6 ). The said first group can therefore feed a low-beam distribution of a motor vehicle headlamp, which has a horizontally running cut-off line. The second group can serve as a high beam source, which leads to an illumination above the cut-off line.

Preferably, in the mentioned example, the semiconductor light sources of the first group are electrically independent of the semiconductor light sources of the second group can be controlled, in particular switched on and off. As a result, for example, the high beam light distribution can be switched on and off as required for the low beam light distribution.

In order to achieve as homogeneous a transition as possible between the high-beam illumination above the light-dark boundary and the basic light distribution below the light-dark boundary, the light emission surfaces 80, for example of the second group, can be displaced such that the light emission surface 80 forms the primary focal line 44 slightly overlapped.

For different Lichtleitabschnitte 14 different arrangements of the associated semiconductor light source 12 can be selected in relation to the respective primary focal line 44 in the light modules according to the invention. With different Lichtleitabschnitten 14 therefore different contributions to the Abstrahllichtverteilung can be realized. However, it is also conceivable to associate a light-conducting section 14 with a substrate 62 having a plurality of LEDs with light-emitting surfaces 80, wherein different LEDs occupy different positions relative to the primary focal line 44 of the same light-guiding section 14.

The optical properties of the light-conducting sections 14 of the light modules according to the invention are described below with reference to FIGS FIG. 8 further explained. The FIG. 8 shows a section through an inventive light module (for example, light module 60), wherein the sectional plane extends perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22.

In order to achieve the stated optical properties, the light guide section 14 (in particular Hauptreflexionsfläche 42, Lichteinkoppelfläche 38, Lichtauskoppelfläche 40) formed such that the optical paths (in projection perpendicular to the primary focal line 44) for all, emanating from the primary focal line 44, passing through the Lichteinkoppelfläche 48 and on the main reflection surface 42 totally reflected light rays until they pass through the Lichtauskoppelfläche 40 (and also in the further course by the Sekundäroptikelement 18) are constant. Under the optical path through a material section, the product of the respectively associated refractive index _n.sub.i and the path si covered in the respective material section is understood in a known manner. In the FIG. 8 For example, the optical paths for three different beams in planes perpendicular to the primary firing line 44 are shown. A first beam, starting from the primary firing line 44, defines a path s1 to the light-incoupling surface 38, a path s2 in the light-conducting section 14 to the main reflection surface 42, a total reflection of a path s3 through the light-conducting section 14 to the light-outcoupling surface 40, and further out of the light-conducting section 14 Path sections s4, s5 back (by the Sekundäroptikelement 18) and s6 back. In this case, the refractive index of the light-conducting section 14 is decisive for the path sections s2 and s3, whereas the path sections s1 and s4 run through air. Accordingly, two further paths (s1 ', s2', s3 ', s4', s5 ', s6' and s1 ", s2", s3 ", s4", s5 ", s6") are sketched, which are characterized by the position of the Distinguish point of total reflection at the main reflection surface 42. The product s _i times n _i summed over the individual path sections is constant for the various paths.

In the in the FIG. 8 As shown, the light guide section 14 is in the manner of a pie slice formed a parabolic cylinder body, wherein the light input surface 38 converges at an acute angle with the light output surface 40. In the illustrated example, the main reflection surface 42 extends from the light input surface 38 to the light output surface 40. However, these embodiments are not mandatory. It is conceivable, in particular, that the light incoupling surface 38 and the light outcoupling surface 40 form a right angle. If the light-guiding section 14 has further boundary surfaces, light-coupling surface 38 and light-outcoupling surface 40 can also run in parallel, as described below FIG. 15 explained in more detail.

In the example of FIG. 8 the light input surface 38 extends substantially parallel to a not shown light emitting surface of the semiconductor light source 12 (which, for example, in the zu FIG. 6 explained type is designed). Therefore, a clearance gap 88 is formed between the light incoupling surface 38 and the light emission surface 80, which has a constant size along the course of the light emission surface of the semiconductor light source 12. Conceivable, however, are also embodiments in which the light incoupling surface 38 extends at an angle to the light emission surface of the semiconductor light source 12 and therefore the distance gap 88 has a variable over the course of the light emission surface size. Likewise, the light input surface 38 may be arched, for example convex or concave, so that the size of the gap 88 varies over the course of the light emission surface of the semiconductor light source 12.

In the FIGS. 9 to 14 In the following embodiments of the Lichtleitabschnitte 14 are explained. These can in all Lichtleitabschnitten the inventive Light modules find application, wherein in the FIGS. 9 to 14 in each case only a single light guide 14 is shown.

As in FIG. 9 clarified, not all boundary surfaces of a Lichtleitabschnitts 14 must be optically effective. In particular, the light-guiding section 14 may have sections in areas between the main reflection surface 42 and the light outcoupling surface 40, or between light input surface 38 and light outcoupling surface 40 or between light input surface 38 and main reflection surface 42, which are optically inoperative, ie essentially without the optical properties of the light guide section 14 Meaning are. For example, the light-guiding section 14 may have a flange-like projection 90 at the transitions of the light output surface 40 to the main reflection surface 42 and to the light input surface 38. This can serve as a mounting portion of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14. Likewise, a positionally accurate alignment can take place via the flange-like projection 90. Accordingly, a fastening or positioning portion 92 may be provided at the transition between light input surface 38 and main reflection surface 42. The attachment and positioning portions 90, 92 are preferably formed integrally therewith during an injection molding step in the manufacture of the light guide portion 14.

The light guide section 14 is delimited by further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 which are perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 (FIG. FIG. 1 ) stand. The further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 form insofar large side surfaces of the surface extending Lichtleitabschnitts 14, whereas the Lichteinkoppelfläche 38, the light output surface 40 and the Main reflection surface 42 narrow side surfaces of the disc-like Lichtleitabschnitts 14 represent. With regard to the light transport through the light guide section 14, the further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 have the function of directing light beams with direction components perpendicular to the main emission direction 20 under total internal reflection from the light input surface 38 to the light output surface 40.

As in FIG. 10 represented, the other light guide surfaces 94 and 96 are in particular perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 (viewing plane in FIG. 10 ) and can be parallel to each other.

An alternative embodiment is in FIG. 11 shown. The further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 are also perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 (viewing plane of FIG FIG. 11 ), however, diverge in the direction of the main emission direction 20, so that the cross-sectional area of the light-conducting section 14 measured in sections perpendicular to the main emission direction 20 increases steadily as it progresses in the direction of the main emission direction 20. In particular, the further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 are planar and enclose with one another an acute angle which is open in the main emission direction 20. Therefore, the light guide section 14 has in sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22 (viewing plane of the FIG. 11 ) trapezoidal shape. The other light guide surfaces 94 and 96 are so far apart conically. In the example of FIG. 11 the light guide section 14 is mirror-symmetrical to the meridional plane 24. However, it is also conceivable that the light guide section 14 is arranged offset in the direction perpendicular to the meridional plane, or that the light guide surface 94 with the main emission direction 20 another (acute) angle includes, as the further light guide 96th

In FIG. 12 is one in sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22 (viewing plane of the FIG. 12 ) curved configuration of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14 shown. The further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 run perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22, but are curved within sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22. In this case, the light guide surfaces 94 and 96 in particular do not run parallel to one another, but have a slightly different course such that the cross-sectional area of the light guide section 14 in turn increases steadily as it progresses in the light emission direction. Starting from the illustration in FIG. 11 can the in FIG. 12 shown Lichtleitabschnitt 14 are obtained in that instead of the meridional plane 24 as a plane of symmetry for the Lichtleitabschnitt 14 a curved in sections with the sagittal plane 22 extending guide surface 98 is selected, so that the mirror symmetry of the other Lichtleitflächen 94 and 96 to the guide surface 98 only for infinitesimal small, perpendicular to each other projected surface pieces of the light guide surfaces 94 and 96 applies to the guide surface 98. In this respect, the guide surface forms a neutral fiber of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14th

In the example of FIG. 12 the Lichtleitabschnitt is also arranged offset in the direction perpendicular to the Meridionalebene 24.

The in the FIGS. 10 to 12 illustrated embodiments of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14 have in common that the Lichtleitabschnitt 14 in sections perpendicular to the main emission direction 20 (or in sections, both perpendicular to the Meridionalebene 24 and on the Sagittal plane 22) has substantially rectangular shape. In total reflection at the other light guide surfaces 94 and 96, therefore, light beams receive no additional directional component perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22.

The in the FIG. 12 shown curved configuration of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14 is advantageous if several Lichtleitabschnitte 14 arranged side by side and in a common decoupling portion 64 (FIGS. FIG. 2 ) or a common, integrally formed secondary optical element 18 (FIG. FIG. 4 ) should result.

In the in the Figures 13 and 14 For the light guide sections 14, the main reflection surface 42 of the light guide section 14 has a facet 102 for targeted light scattering (FIG. FIG. 13a ). The facet 102 is designed in such a way that a light beam 104 reflected by the main reflection surface 42 in the region of the facet 102 is deliberately deflected in a direction deviating from light rays reflected in the vicinity of the facet 102. As a result, for example, a light beam distribution 28 of the FIG. 13b be realized type realized. This emission light distribution 28 has a light-dark boundary HDG, which delimits a bright area 30 lying vertically below (shown on a test screen in FIG FIG. 1 explained type). The facet 102 directs a portion of the light emitted by the semiconductor light source 12 in a targeted manner into the dark region above the light-dark boundary HDG, which leads to an "overhead region" 106 of the emission light distribution 28 illuminated with comparatively weak intensity (cf. FIG. 13b ). This can be used to illuminate street signs without dazzling oncoming traffic.

As in the detail view of the FIG. 14 recognizable, the facet 102 can be realized in that a delimited region of the main reflection surface 42 with respect to the surrounding course of the main reflection surface 42 is tilted by a facet angle α. In the FIG. 14 the course of the main reflection surface 42 'without the facet 102 is shown in dashed lines. The light beam 104 is therefore deflected into a region above the cut-off line HDG. The facet 102 is preferably arranged in the secondary optical element 18 facing edge portion of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14. In particular, it is conceivable to design the light guide section 14 in the region of a front edge of the main reflection surface 42 in the manner of the facet 102.

In the FIG. 15 a further embodiment for the light guide 14 is described, which allows the construction of a light module 110 as a further embodiment of the invention. The FIG. 15 shows a sectional view perpendicular to the sagittal plane (see. FIG. 1 ). Visible is a Lichtleitabschnitt 14 which extends in the meridional plane like a disk, flat.

Of the above-described embodiments, the light guide section 14 differs in that a counter reflection surface 112 opposed to the main reflection surface 42 is provided. This is in its course in sections parallel to the meridional plane 24 (representation plane of the FIG. 15 ) in particular even or only slightly curved. With regard to the configuration of the other side surfaces of the Lichtleitabschnitts 14 is made to the explanations to the FIGS. 8 to 14 directed.

The counter-reflection surface 112 is arranged downstream of the main reflection surface 42 in the beam path. The counter-reflection surface 112 has the function of redirecting a light beam guided in the light guide section 14 after total reflection at the main reflection surface 42 once again by total reflection in sections perpendicular to the sagittal plane. By specifying the orientation of the counter-reflection surface 112, therefore, the preferred direction of the light-guiding section 14 leaving the light-outcoupling surface 40 can be predetermined. In the illustrated example, the light output surface 40 is oriented differently from the embodiments of the invention described above parallel to the light input surface 38. Accordingly, the light module 110 has a main emission direction 20 rotated by almost 90 °. Such a construction may be advantageous, for example, if, for reasons of space, for example, the orientation of the heat sink 36 must be modified compared with the embodiments described above.

The FIG. 16 shows a further embodiment of a designed as a cylindrical lens 19 Sekundäroptikelement 18, as can be used in all light modules according to the invention. The cylindrical lens 19 has roller-like scattering structures 116 on its light passage surface 46 facing the primary optics element 16 (in particular the light-conducting sections 14), which in the detail view according to FIG FIG. 16b are illustrated in more detail. In the area of the roller-type scattering structures 116, the light passage surface 46 bulges in each case cylindrically about a roller axis not shown in detail, which is preferably parallel to the cylinder axis 48 of the cylindrical lens 19 (cf. FIG. 1 ) runs. As a result, individual light beams are counter to the total concentrating effect in Cut scattered parallel to the sagittal plane, which can lead to a better homogeneity of the light beam distribution of the light module.

FIG. 17 shows an embodiment in which the secondary optic element 18 is formed by a integrally formed on the Lichtleitabschnitt 14 light exit portion with a cylindrically curved cylindrical lens surface.

In the case of the light modules according to the invention, it is fundamentally possible that the common secondary optical element 18 is formed by a cylinder reflector 120. This is in FIG. 18 shown. The cylindrical reflector 120 is formed as a segment of a cylindrical concave mirror, which in the sagittal plane 22 (plane of the FIG. 18 ) has a partially parabolic course. Therefore, the cylinder reflector 120 can be associated with a perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22 extending secondary focal line 50, which in the FIG. 18 extends perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. In addition to the collimating effect for diverging tufts of light originating from the secondary focal line 50 within sections parallel to the sagittal plane, the cylindrical reflector deflects the light rays leaving the light guide sections 14. Therefore, by suitable orientation of the cylindrical reflector 120, the main emission direction 20 of the light module can be predetermined.

FIG. 19 shows a further embodiment of the Lichtleitabschnitte 14, which can also be found in all light modules according to the invention application. The light outcoupling surface 40 of a light-conducting section 14 can have roller-type scattering structures 124, which in the detail view of FIG FIG. 19b for the arrangement according to figure 19a are recognizable. In the region of a scattering structure 124, the light outcoupling surface 40 has sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22 (plane of representation of FIG FIG. 19 ) has a convexly curved, in particular cylindrical or parabolic course. In this respect, the light outcoupling surface 40 curves in the region of a scattering structure 124 each about a roller axis, not shown, which is oriented perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22. This leads to a scattering of light rays in sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22 and thus to a homogenization of the emission light distribution. In the example of FIG. 19 the light guide section 14 has further light guide surfaces 94 and 96 extending perpendicular to the sagittal plane 22, which diverges in the direction of the main emission direction 20. This contributes to a collimation of the light guided in the light guide section 14 in sections parallel to the sagittal plane 22.

Claims (8)

1. A light module (60, 70, 110) for a lighting system of a motor vehicle, comprising: a plurality of semiconductor light sources (12, 62, 62a, 62b) for emitting light; a primary lens element (16) for concentrating the light emitted from the semiconductor light sources (12, 62, 62a, 62b) in sections perpendicular to a sagittal plane (22) of the light module (60, 70, 110), wherein the primary lens element (16) includes a plurality of disk-like light conducting sections (14, 14a, 14b) extending in a plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane (22), wherein each light conducting section (14, 14a, 14b) includes a light coupling surface (38) and a light decoupling surface (40), and is designed to conduct light by internal total reflection, from the light coupling surface (38) to the light decoupling surface (40), wherein each light conducting section (14, 14a, 14b) is allocated to a semiconductor light source (12, 62, 62a, 62b) such that light from the semiconductor light source (12, 62, 62a, 62b) can be coupled in through the respective light coupling surface (38) into the light conducting section (14, 14a, 14b), wherein each light conducting section (14, 14a, 14b) includes a convex curved main reflection surface (42), such that a primary focal line (44) allocated in each case to the light conducting section (14, 14a, 14b) is defined, wherein the primary focal line (44) extends in, or parallel to, the sagittal plane (22), characterized in that a common secondary lens element (18, 19, 120) is provided downstream of the primary lens element (16) in the beam path, which secondary lens element is configured in such a way that the light passing through the light decoupling surfaces (40) can be concentrated in sections parallel to the sagittal plane (22),
   wherein the secondary lens element (18, 19, 120) is configured to define a secondary focal line (50) that runs perpendicular to the sagittal plane (22),
   and wherein the light decoupling surfaces (40, 66) lie between the secondary focal line (50) and the secondary lens element (18, 19, 120).
2. The light module (60) according to claim 1, wherein the light conducting sections extend running adjacently to one another, and open into a shared decoupling section (64) of the primary lens element (16), on which the light decoupling surfaces (66, 40) are disposed.
3. The light module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the main reflection surface (42) includes a facet (102) for light scattering.
4. The light module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each semiconductor light source (12, 62) includes a in particular flat light emitting surface (80) bordered by at least one, in particular straight, boundary edge (82), wherein the boundary edge (82) runs on the primary focal line (44) of the light conducting section allocated thereto, or the primary focal line (44) of the allocated light conducting section (14, 14a, 14b) runs through the light emitting surface (80).
5. The light module according the preceding claim, wherein the light coupling surface (38) is flat and is tilted in relation to the light emitting surface (80) such that a spacing gap (88) is formed, having a size that varies over the course of the light emitting surface (80).
6. The light module (60, 70) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the light decoupling surfaces (40) extend perpendicular to the sagittal plane (22) and perpendicular to the main beam direction (20) of the light module (60, 70).
7. The light module (60, 70, 110) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the secondary lens element (18) is a cylindrical lens (19) for concentrating light in sections in or parallel to the sagittal plane (22).
8. The light module (70) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cylindrical lens (19) is a single unit and includes the light conducting sections (14, 14a, 14b).

Images