EP2789900B1 - Light module for a motor vehicle lighting device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a light module of a lighting device of a motor vehicle. The light module comprises a light source arrangement having a plurality of separately controllable light sources combined to form an array for emitting light, a plurality of primary optics grouped together to form a primary optic array in the form of converging lenses each having a light entry surface and a light exit surface and also a secondary optics system for imaging the emitted light on a roadway the motor vehicle as the resulting total light distribution of the light module. The primary optics elements are designed to bundle at least part of the light emitted by the light sources and to generate an intermediate light distribution on the light exit surfaces. Moreover, the invention relates to a lighting device with one or more such light modules.

Various approaches are known from the prior art, to realize a glare-free high beam with the help of special light modules, which are designed as projection systems, without adjusting motors. In this case, intermediate images are generated from a plurality of semiconductor light sources (eg LEDs) with the aid of a primary optics array, which are applied via a lens system to the road ahead of the motor vehicle for generating the resulting light distribution of the light module be projected. A corresponding light module is for example from the DE 2008 013 603 A1 known.

Since current projection modules not only bright-dark boundaries, but also dark-bright boundaries are generated, ie there is no determination of which side of the road to be illuminated, einlinsige projection systems can be used only partially due to their color errors. To solve this problem, it is for example from the DE 10 2010 029 176 A1 known to use achromatic, two-lingual systems.

The problem of chromatic aberration in lens systems can be circumvented by using a reflector as the secondary or projection optics. Reflector systems have advantages over lens systems because they have no chromatic aberrations, are easy and inexpensive to produce, especially when large optical surfaces are required, and do not cause stray light by Fresnel reflections. A disadvantage of reflector systems, however, that occur at larger numerical apertures aperture errors, ie different reflector zones have different magnifications. In addition, it comes with reflector systems in off-axis rays to an offset (so-called coma). A square light source is therefore not reproduced as a square but trapezoidally or mushroom-like deformed, whereby the size, position and orientation of the image can depend strongly on the position of the light source in the object field. However, a system which is intended to generate several straight, sharply delimited light distributions with a defined position of the individual light-dark boundaries from a plurality of semiconductor light sources must in principle have imaging properties. A corresponding total light distribution of the light module must therefore be constructed or assembled from identically sized and identically oriented light source images.

In addition, the known matrix high-beam modules usually use single-chip LEDs, in particular SMD (Surface Mounted Device) LEDs, in conjunction with a primary optics array. The primary optics array generates intermediate images on the light exit surfaces of the primary optics elements of the optical array), which are then projected onto the roadway by the secondary optics downstream in the beam path. The areas of the intermediate images (so-called pixels) are quite large due to the distances between the LEDs, which requires projection lenses with a very large focal length. The resulting light modules are therefore relatively bulky, which is disadvantageous for use in motor vehicles, since there is only a relatively limited installation space for the light modules or equipped with these lighting devices available.

With the exception of the two documents cited above, reference is made to the following prior art documents: DE 10 2008 005 488 A1 . DE 10 2007 052 742 A1 . DE 10 2009 053 581 B3 . DE 10 2010 023 360 A1 . EP 2 045 515 A1 . EP 2 388 512 A2 . US 6,758,582 B1 . US Pat. No. 7,055,991 B2 and US 2005/0052751 A1 , Based on the described prior art, the present invention has the object, to design a light module for generating a resulting total light distribution from the light of light-like arranged matrix-like light sources and further that a particularly homogeneous overall light distribution can be achieved. Particular emphasis should be placed on a compact size and a short overall length of the light module. In addition, it should be possible by switching (selective switching on and off) of the different light sources to switch between the different adjacent intermediate light distributions on the light exit surfaces of the primary optics to achieve a glare-free high beam as the resulting total light distribution in a simple manner. The projections of one or more Intermediate light distributions deliberately removed from the areas of total light distribution, where other road users are.

This object is achieved according to the present invention by a light module of a motor vehicle lighting device having all the features of patent claim 1. In particular, it is proposed on the basis of the light module of the type mentioned above that the secondary optics system for imaging the intermediate light distributions on the road ahead of the motor vehicle is focused on at least one of the light exit surfaces of the converging lenses as the resulting total light distribution of the light module.

The light module comprises a plurality of primary optics elements combined to form a primary optic array, each having a light entry surface and a light exit surface. The primary optics elements are designed to bundle at least part of the light emitted by the light sources and to generate intermediate light distributions on the light exit surfaces of the primary optics elements. The secondary optics system is focused on at least one of the light exit surfaces for imaging the intermediate light distributions on the roadway in front of the motor vehicle as the resulting total light distribution of the light module. It is conceivable that the secondary optics not only have one focal point, but a plurality of focal points, wherein a plurality of the focal points may be focused on a plurality of the light exit surfaces. It is not necessary (and in practice also difficult to realize) that the focal point or points of secondary optics are focused on the exit surfaces of all primary optic elements.

The light module thus comprises a semiconductor light source array and a primary optics array, wherein the intermediate light distributions generated on the light exit surfaces of the optical array are projected onto the roadway by the secondary optics system. So there are no images of the Light sources, but only illuminated areas projected onto the road. The combination of the light source array with the primary optics array is also referred to below as a replacement light source array. A light source and the primary optics element associated therewith is also referred to as a substitute light source, wherein a plurality of substitute light sources can be arranged directly next to or above one another to form an array. The primary optic elements arranged side by side in one or more rows form the primary optic array. Since the primary optic elements are generally larger than the light sources respectively associated with the primary optics elements, relatively large distances between the individual light sources result for a replacement light source array.

In contrast to conventional projection systems, in the light module according to the invention, the converging lenses in the object-side Petzval surface of the secondary optics do not produce any images of the light sources. In the light module according to the invention, the light exit surfaces of the converging lenses are merely illuminated. The secondary optics are focused on one or more of these illuminated areas. The collecting lens array has a uniform luminance on the light exit surfaces without maxima. This applies in particular to the light distribution in the sections perpendicular to the light-dark boundaries or pixel boundaries. Secondary optics thus focuses on the exit pupil of the primary optic array.

Advantageously, in the light module according to the invention - in contrast to the conventional projection systems - the shaping of the light distribution, ie the vertical and / or horizontal course of the pixels, to realize the total light distribution of the light module at least partially by the secondary optics. Preferably, the shaping of the light distribution takes place completely or almost completely by the secondary optics. This is in particular in the case of a primary optic array in the form of a collecting lens array, since no appreciable illuminance differences can be produced in the exit pupil of the primary optics. In this case, the light shaping can thus be almost completely by an example. Toric secondary optics.

The light sources are advantageously designed as semiconductor light sources, in particular as LED light sources, LED arrays, as single-chip LEDs or as SMD LEDs.

1. 1. als Parabelreflektor, insbesondere als ein facettierter Parabelreflektor,
2. 2. als eine Sammellinse, insbesondere als eine aplanatische Sammellinse,
3. 3. als ein Achromat mit einer Kombination aus einer Sammellinse mit kleiner Farbdispersion und einer Zerstreuungslinse mit großer Farbdispersion,
4. 4. als eine Kombination eines hyperbolischen Reflektors mit einer Sammellinse, wobei ein objektseitiger Brennpunkt der Sammellinse und ein bildseitiger Brennpunkt des Hyperbelreflektors zusammenfallen, oder
5. 5. als eine Kombination eines elliptischen Reflektors mit einer Zerstreuungslinse, wobei ein objektseitiger Brennpunkt der Zerstreuungslinse und ein bildseitiger Brennpunkt des Ellipsoidreflektors zusammenfallen.

The secondary optics may be designed according to various preferred embodiments of the invention as follows:

1. 1. as a parabolic reflector, in particular as a faceted parabolic reflector,
2. 2. as a condenser lens, in particular as an aplanatic condenser lens,
3. 3. as an achromatic with a combination of a condensing lens with small color dispersion and a diverging lens with large color dispersion,
4. 4. as a combination of a hyperbolic reflector with a condenser lens, wherein an object-side focal point of the condenser lens and an image-side focal point of the hyperbolic reflector coincide, or
5. 5. as a combination of an elliptical reflector with a diverging lens, wherein an object-side focal point of the diverging lens and an image-side focal point of the ellipsoidal reflector coincide.

1. 1. Als ein Sammellinsenarray, insbesondere als ein Array aus Plankonvexlinsen. Besonders vorteilhaft ist ein Linsenarray mit torischen Linsenflächen.
2. 2. Als ein Reflektorarray, insbesondere mit mehreckiger Querschnittsfläche, vorzugsweise mit quadratischem, rechteckigem oder dreieckigem Reflektorquerschnitt. Die Reflektorflächen werden vorzugsweise als ebene Spiegelflächen oder als zylindrische Hyperboloidflächen ausgebildet.
3. 3. Als ein Lichtleiterarray, wobei die einzelnen Lichtleiter vorzugsweise als konische Lichtleiter mit einer von ihrer Lichteintrittsfläche zu ihrer Lichtaustrittsfläche hin zunehmenden Querschnittsfläche. Die Lichtleiter haben vorzugsweise einen mehreckigen, vorzugsweise einen dreieckigen, rechteckigen oder quadratischen Querschnitt. Eine Lichteintrittsfläche eines Lichtleiters wird vorteilhafterweise als ebene Fläche ausgebildet, die orthogonal zur Hauptabstrahlrichtung der ihr zugeordneten Halbleiterlichtquelle, insbesondere parallel zur Flächenerstreckung eines Halbleiterchips, angeordnet ist. Eine Lichtaustrittsfläche eines Lichtleiters weist vorzugsweise eine konvexe Wölbung auf.
4. 4. Als ein Lichtleiterarray mit mehreren scheibenförmigen Lichtleitern. Die Lichtleiterscheiben weisen jeweils eine Lichteintrittsfläche, eine Lichtaustrittsfläche, eine Reflektorfläche und zwei Transportflächen auf, an denen in den Lichtleiter eingekoppeltes Licht mittels Totalreflexion zu der Lichtaustrittsfläche transportiert wird. Die Reflektorfläche ist vorzugsweise zwischen den Lichteintritts- und Lichtaustrittsflächen angeordnet. Die Lichteintritts- und Lichtaustrittsflächen bilden vorteilhafterweise in Verbindung mit der Reflektorfläche zwei Brennlinien, die dem Abbildungsgesetz gehorchen. Das bedeutet, dass die optischen Wege zwischen der objektseitigen und der bildseitigen Brennlinie gleiche optische Weglängen aufweisen: Die Summe_i (s_i x n_i) = konstant.

The primary optic array may be formed as follows:

1. 1. As a collection lens array, in particular as an array of plano-convex lenses. Particularly advantageous is a lens array with toric lens surfaces.
2. 2. As a reflector array, in particular with a polygonal cross-sectional area, preferably with a square, rectangular or triangular reflector cross-section. The reflector surfaces are preferably formed as flat mirror surfaces or as cylindrical hyperboloidal surfaces.
3. 3. As an optical waveguide array, the individual optical waveguides preferably being conical light guides having a cross-sectional area increasing from their light entry surface to their light exit surface. The light guides preferably have a polygonal, preferably a triangular, rectangular or square cross section. A light entry surface of a light guide is advantageously formed as a flat surface which is orthogonal to the main emission of the associated semiconductor light source, in particular parallel to the surface extension of a semiconductor chip arranged. A light exit surface of a light guide preferably has a convex curvature.
4. 4. As a light guide array with several disc-shaped light guides. The optical waveguide disks each have a light entry surface, a light exit surface, a reflector surface and two transport surfaces, at which light coupled into the optical waveguide is transported to the light exit surface by total reflection. The reflector surface is preferably arranged between the light entry and light exit surfaces. The light entrance and light exit surfaces advantageously form in combination with the reflector surface two focal lines that obey the imaging law. This means that the optical paths between the Object side and the image-side focal line have the same optical path lengths: The sum _i (s _i xn _i ) = constant.

If two- or multi-part secondary optics are used, the image-side focal point, the primary optics in the emission direction coincides with the object-side focal point of the subsequent secondary optics. Both optics have the same optical axes (axes of rotation of lenses and reflectors). A secondary optic with several reflectors or mirrors connected in series allows the optical path to be folded, which considerably shortens the overall length of the light module.

• Das Lichtquellen- bzw. Ersatzlichtquellenarray strahlt unter einem spitzen Winkel vorzugsweise entgegen der Fahrtrichtung des Fahrzeugs oder schräg dazu in den Reflektor, d.h. der Strahlengang wird durch den Reflektor in einem spitzen Winkel gefaltet. Ferner ist der Reflektor vorzugsweise derart facettiert, dass alle Facettenflächen etwa gleich große Abstände zu einem gemeinsamen Brennpunkt des Reflektors aufweisen. Alle von der optischen Achse (Rotationsachse) des Lichtmoduls abgewandten Facettenkanten haben größere Abstände zu dem gemeinsamen Reflektorbrennpunkt als die Facetteninnenkanten, die auf der Seite der optischen Achse liegen. Vorzugsweise verlaufen die Facettenkanten senkrecht zu den Hell-Dunkel-Grenzen der resultierenden Gesamtlichtverteilung (z.B. vertikale Hell-Dunkel-Grenze beim Streifenfernlicht → horizontale Facettenkanten). Auch konzentrisch um die optische Achse angeordnete kreisringförmige Reflektorfacetten sind vorteilhaft.

The focal point of the secondary optics is preferably located on a light exit surface of the replacement light source array and forms this on the roadway. In order to achieve a good image quality, the secondary optics are designed so that all optical paths between the focal point and the (infinitely distant) pixel are the same length. When using reflectors as primary optics and / or secondary optics (paraboloid, hyperboloid or ellipsoidal reflectors), this is achieved, for example, with the following measures:

• The light source or replacement light source array radiates at an acute angle, preferably counter to the direction of travel of the vehicle or obliquely in the reflector, ie, the beam path is folded by the reflector at an acute angle. Furthermore, the reflector is preferably faceted such that all facet surfaces have approximately equal distances to a common focal point of the reflector. All facet edges facing away from the optical axis (rotation axis) of the light module have greater distances to the common reflector focal point than the facet inner edges, which lie on the side of the optical axis. Preferably, the facet edges are perpendicular to the light-dark boundaries of the resulting total light distribution (eg vertical cut-off for the stripline → horizontal facet edges). Also concentric about the optical axis arranged annular reflector facets are advantageous.

The following is a list of different combinations of light sources, primary optics and secondary optics. All those combinations which are the subject of the present invention are indicated by an X. Those combinations which are also interesting solutions both from a technical point of view and from the achievable result are marked with X ': Light source or replacement light source LED array without intent optics LEDs with lens array LEDs with reflector array LEDs with fiber optic array LEDs with fiber optic disks secondary optics projection lens X X ' Achromat (two-liners) X X ' parabolic reflector X X ' X ' X ' Ellipsoid and diverging lens X ' X X ' X ' X ' Hyperboloid / plane mirror and condenser lens X ' X X ' X ' X ' Hyperboloid / plane mirror and paraboloid X ' X X ' X ' X '

Fig. 1

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul gemäß einer ersten bevorzugten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 2

Lichtquellen zur Verwendung in einem erfindungsgemäßen Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 3

Ersatzlichtquellen zur Verwendung in einem erfindungsgemäßen Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 4

verschiedene Ansichten von Ersatzlichtquellen nach Fig. 3;

Fig. 5

verschiedene Ansichten von alternativen Ersatzlichtquellen zur Verwendung in einem alternativen Lichtmodul;

Fig. 6

verschiedene Ansichten von alternativen Ersatzlichtquellen zur Verwendung in einem alternativen Lichtmodul ;

Fig. 7

verschiedene Ansichten von alternativen Ersatzlichtquellen zur Verwendung in einem alternativen Lichtmodul;

Fig. 8

eine Seitenansicht und eine Draufsicht auf eine Ersatzlichtquelle vom Typ der in Figur 7 gezeigten Ersatzlichtquellen;

Fig. 9

einen Ausschnitt aus Fig. 8a mit beispielhaft eingezeichneten Strahlverläufen;

Fig. 10

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht mit beispielhaft eingezeichneten Strahlverläufen;

Fig. 11

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht mit beispielhaft eingezeichneten Strahlverläufen;

Fig. 12

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht mit beispielhaft eingezeichneten Strahlverläufen;

Fig. 13

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht mit beispielhaft eingezeichneten Strahlverläufen;

Fig. 14

ein erfindungsgemäßes Lichtmodul gemäß einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht mit beispielhaft eingezeichneten Strahlverläufen; und

Fig. 15

einen Ausschnitt aus einer Ersatzlichtquellenanordnung zur Verwendung in einem Lichtmodul gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent with reference to the figures from the following description. In this case, the light module according to the invention may also have the features and advantages specified with respect to the various embodiments also individually or in any other combination than explained in the exemplary embodiments. Show it:

Fig. 1

an inventive light module according to a first preferred embodiment;

Fig. 2

Light sources for use in a light module according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment;

Fig. 3

Replacement light sources for use in a light module according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment;

Fig. 4

different views of replacement light sources Fig. 3 ;

Fig. 5

different views of alternative replacement light sources for use in an alternative light module;

Fig. 6

different views of alternative replacement light sources for use in an alternative light module;

Fig. 7

different views of alternative replacement light sources for use in an alternative light module;

Fig. 8

a side view and a plan view of a spare light source of the type in FIG. 7 shown spare light sources;

Fig. 9

a section from Fig. 8a with exemplified beam paths;

Fig. 10

an inventive light module according to a preferred embodiment in a side view with exemplified drawn beam paths;

Fig. 11

an inventive light module according to a preferred embodiment in a side view with exemplified drawn beam paths;

Fig. 12

an inventive light module according to a preferred embodiment in a side view with exemplified drawn beam paths;

Fig. 13

an inventive light module according to a preferred embodiment in a side view with exemplified drawn beam paths;

Fig. 14

an inventive light module according to a preferred embodiment in a side view with exemplified drawn beam paths; and

Fig. 15

a section of a replacement light source arrangement for use in a light module according to the present invention.

The present invention relates to a light module, which is designated in the figures in its entirety and by the reference numeral 1. The light module 1 is provided for installation in a lighting device (not shown) of a motor vehicle. The illumination device is preferably designed as a motor vehicle headlight. But it can also be designed as a motor vehicle light. It usually comprises a housing with a light exit opening, which is closed by means of a transparent cover. The light module 1 can be arranged rigidly or movably in the housing. By moving the light module 1 relative to the housing, a headlight range control and / or a cornering light function can be realized. Several light modules 1 according to the invention can be arranged in the housing. However, it is also conceivable that the light module 1 according to the invention is arranged in the housing together with other light modules not according to the invention.

The light module 1 according to the invention comprises a light source arrangement 15 (cf. FIG. 2 ) with at least two light sources 16, which are preferably designed as semiconductor light sources, and a common secondary optics 4. In addition, the light module 1 may comprise a primary optics array 17 with a plurality of primary optics elements 18 which focus the light emitted by the light sources 16. In this case, the light source arrangement is also referred to as a spare light source array 2. On the light exit surfaces 25 (see. FIG. 3 ) of the primary optics elements 18, intermediate light distributions are generated, which the secondary optics 4 for generating a resulting total light distribution 5 of the light module 1 on the roadway in front of the vehicle images.

The secondary optics 4 preferably focuses on the light exit surfaces 25 of the replacement light source array 2 and the primary optics elements 18. In the light module 1, the intermediate light distributions generated by the light sources on the light exit surfaces 25 of the primary optics array 17 are preferably combined with each other such that the individual light distributions 6 'are at least partially superimposed or add and thus form the resulting total light distribution 5 of the light module 1. The total light distribution 5 is, for example, a so-called glare-free high beam. In the case of the light module 1 according to the invention, therefore, only the intermediate light distributions on the light exit surfaces 25 of the primary optics elements 18, i. the illuminated surfaces 25, and not images of the light sources 16 from the secondary optics 4 on the roadway imaged. For this purpose, the secondary optics 4 is not focused on images of the light sources 16, but on the light exit surfaces 25 of the primary optics elements 18.

FIG. 15 shows a section of a replacement light source assembly 2 for use in a light module according to the invention 1. It is exemplified one of a plurality of semiconductor light sources 16 in the form of an LED chip. In the light exit direction after the LED chip 16, one of a plurality of converging lenses 18 of the collecting lens array 17 is shown by way of example. A pitch of the lens array 17 is designated T. The division T corresponds the width of the individual collecting lenses 18 and the distance of the centers of adjacent LED chips 16. With B _LED an edge length of the LED chip 16 is designated. A virtual LED chip is designated 16 '. The edge length of the virtual LED chip 16 'is denoted by B' _LED . An object-side focal point of the condenser lens 18 is F and a major point of the lens 18 is H. The principal point H of a lens is defined as the intersection of a principal plane of the lens with the optical axis. The secondary optics 4 of the light module 1 according to the invention is preferably focused on a main point H of one of the converging lenses 18, preferably on the main point H of the converging lens 18 located in the vicinity of an optical axis 7 of the light module 1. The reference f denotes the focal length of the lens 18 and S _F a cross-sectional width of the lens 18. A distance between the LED chip 16 and the light entrance surface of the condenser lens 18 is S ₁ and a distance between the virtual chip image 16 'and the light entrance surface the lens 18 designated S ₂ .

$$\mathrm{0},\mathrm{1}\mathrm{mm}\le {\mathrm{S}}_{\mathrm{1}}\le \mathrm{2}\mathrm{mm}$$

$$\mathrm{1}\times {\mathrm{B}}_{\mathrm{LED}}\le \mathrm{T}\le \mathrm{4}\times {\mathrm{B}}_{\mathrm{LED}}$$

The LED chip 16 is located between the lens 18 and its object-side focal point F. The LED chip 16 is enlarged by the lens 18 so that the (upright) virtual image 16 'of the chip (in the light exit direction in front of the object-side lens focal point F) is the same size as the lens 18, ie B ' _LED ≈ T. Approximately the following relationships apply to the specified quantities: $$\frac{{\mathrm{S}}_{\mathrm{F}}-{\mathrm{S}}_{\mathrm{1}}}{{\mathrm{S}}_{\mathrm{F}}}\approx \frac{{\mathrm{B}}_{\mathrm{LED}}}{\mathrm{T}}\approx \frac{{\mathrm{B}}_{\mathrm{LED}}}{{\mathrm{B\; \text{'}}}_{\mathrm{LED}}}$$

$$\mathrm{0}.\mathrm{1}\mathrm{mm}\le {\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="S"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0009.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">S</figure-callout>}}_{\mathrm{1}}\le \mathrm{2}\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="mm"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0009.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">mm</figure-callout>}$$

$$\mathrm{1}\times {\mathrm{B}}_{\mathrm{LED}}\le \mathrm{T}\le \mathrm{4}\times {\mathrm{B}}_{\mathrm{LED}}$$

The collecting lenses 18 of the lens array 17 are not used to produce real intermediate images of the light sources 16, but form only an illuminated surface on the Light exit side 25 of the converging lenses 18. The light sources 16 are arranged between the light entry surfaces of the lenses 18 and the object focal points F of the lenses 18, that the edges of the light sources 16 are on geometric connections from the focal points F to the lens edges. The emission surfaces of the light sources 16 are arranged perpendicular to the optical axes of the lenses 18. This results in a very uniform illumination of the lenses 18 and on the light exit surfaces 25 of the lenses 18 a particularly homogeneous light distribution, the so-called. Intermediate light distribution. These intermediate light distributions are imaged by the secondary optics assembly 4 for generating the resulting total light distribution of the light module 1 on the road ahead of the vehicle. The optical axes of the individual lenses 18 of the array 17 all run in one plane, preferably they are parallel to one another. The axis of the secondary optics 4 is on the side facing the primary optics 17, parallel to the axis of at least one of the lenses 18th

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of a light module according to the invention 1. The light module 1 has a plurality of separately controllable, combined into an array semiconductor light sources 16 (see. FIG. 2 ) to emit light. In the illustrated example, a plurality of LEDs 16 are arranged in a row next to one another. Of course, the LEDs 16 may be arranged in a plurality of rows one above the other like a matrix. Each of the semiconductor light sources 16 is a primary optic element 18 (see FIG. FIG. 3 ) for bundling at least part of the light emitted by the light source 16 and for generating an intermediate light distribution on the light exit surface 25. The primary optic elements 18 are combined to form a primary optic array 17. The primary optics elements 18 are preferably designed as collecting lenses, which are combined to form a collecting lens array. The primary optics array 17 or the individual primary optics elements 18 may also be referred to as intent optics become. The intermediate light distributions are generated on light exit surfaces of the primary optics elements 18. The intermediate light distributions are imaged by the secondary optics system 4 on the road ahead of the motor vehicle as individual light distributions 6 'for generating the resulting total light distribution 5 of the light module 1. The combination of the semiconductor light source array 15 and the primary optics array 17 is subsequently also referred to as a replacement light source array 2. The semiconductor light sources 16 are arranged on a heat sink 3 for thermal stabilization, in particular for dissipating waste heat arising during the operation of the semiconductor light sources 16, directly or indirectly via a printed circuit board 19 or the like.

The secondary optics system 4 is formed in the illustrated example as a horizontally faceted reflector, in particular parabolic reflector. That in a vertical section of the reflector 4 comprises a plurality of superimposed facets. The secondary optics system 4 focuses on the light exit surfaces 25 of the primary optics elements 18 and the replacement light source array 2. A resulting total light distribution 5 of the light module 1 is shown by way of example on a measuring screen 6 which is arranged at a defined distance from the light module 1. The total light distribution 5 comprises a plurality of individual light distributions 6 ', which are generated by the individual elements 16, 18 of the replacement light source array 2 in cooperation with the secondary optics system 4.

Furthermore, in FIG. 1 an optical axis 7 of the light module 1 located. A sagittal plane 8 has a substantially horizontal surface extension and comprises the optical axis 7. A meridional plane 9 has a substantially vertical extension and likewise comprises the optical axis 7. A section line between the sagittal plane 8 and the measuring screen 6 forms a horizontal HH 10, and a cut line between the meridional plane 9 and the measuring screen 6 forms a vertical VV 11. The optical axis 7 passes through the intersection HV of the horizontal 10 and the vertical 11. It can be clearly seen that the resulting total light distribution 5 both below the horizontal 10 and above the horizontal 10 extends. The total light distribution 5 may be, for example, a so-called matrix main beam or a so-called strip main beam or a part thereof. However, the total light distribution 5 can also form a particularly bright illuminated central area of a high beam (high beam spot).

A focal point of the faceted parabolic reflector 4 is in FIG. 1 denoted by the reference numeral 12. The focal point 12 is located on a light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source array 2 or on a light exit surface 25 of the primary optic array 17, in particular on a centroid of the Ersatzlichtquellenarrays 2. The beam path of a main beam is denoted by the reference numeral 13 and the beam path of a secondary beam by the reference numeral 14. The main beam 13 results from a substantially in Hauptabstrahlrichtung 29 (see. FIG. 8 ) of the light sources 16 emitted light beam, by shaping and possibly deflection by one of the light source 16 associated primary optics 18 and by deflection at the secondary optics system 4. The secondary beam 14 results accordingly by an obliquely to the main emission direction 29 emitted light beam 29 '.

FIG. 2 shows an enlarged view of a light source array 15 of the light module according to the invention 1, which comprises a plurality of, in the illustrated embodiment, five side by side in a straight line arranged LED chips 16. Of course, the individual light sources 16 in other ways than in FIG. 2 be shown, for example. Matrix-like in several rows and columns. In addition, the light source array 15 may have a different number of Single light sources 16 have as in FIG. 2 shown. Furthermore, it would be conceivable to arrange the light sources 16 instead of on a straight line on a sheet or in any other way.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3 For example, the light source array includes a light source array 15 and a primary optics array 17. The light source array 15 includes a plurality of SMD (Surface Mounted Device) LEDs 16, which in the illustrated example are disposed immediately adjacent to one another in a straight line. The primary optics array 17 comprises a plurality of, in the illustrated example, five juxtaposed collecting lenses 18. The LEDs 16 of the light source array 15 are arranged and contacted in a common plane, preferably on a common printed circuit board 19. The combination of the light source array 15 and the primary optics array 17 forms the replacement light source array 2. Each primary optics element 18 is assigned at least one light source 16. Preferably, each primary optics element 18 is associated with exactly one semiconductor light source 16. The arrangement of the collecting lenses 18 in the collecting lens array 17 thus corresponds to the arrangement of the light sources 16 in the light source array 15. The light exit surfaces 25 of the primary optics elements 18 preferably directly adjoin one another. As in the embodiment of the FIG. 3 the primary optics elements 18 are larger than the LED chips or SMD LEDs 16 assigned to them, two distances between the individual semiconductor light sources 16 result in the replacement light source array.

FIG. 4 shows the spare light source array 2 FIG. 3 in different views. The individual primary optics elements 18 are designed as plano-convex converging lenses. In this case, the primary optics array 17 is thus a lens array, which is preferably constructed of plano-convex lenses. The lens array 17 may be made of organic or inorganic glass or of silicone rubber (LSR, Liquid Silicone Rubber). Organic glasses are, for example, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), cycloolefin copolymer (COC), Cycloolefin polymer (COP), polycarbonate (PC), polysulfone (PSU) or polymethacrylmethylimide (PMMI). In the illustrated example, a total of six LEDs 16 are associated with six primary optics elements 18. Although the illustrated primary optics 17 comprises eight primary optic elements 18, the outer two primary optic elements 18 are not assigned to any LED 16.

Furthermore, in FIG. 4 a focal plane of the secondary optics (not shown) designated by the reference numeral 20. A focal point of the secondary optics 4 is designated by the reference numeral 21. A division between two adjacent individual light sources 16 or between two adjacent primary optics elements 18 is denoted by T. In this case, the division T from the center of a light source 16 or a primary optics element 18 to the center of the adjacent light source 16 or of the adjacent primary optics element 18 is indicated.

In FIG. 5 Another example of a replacement light source array 2 for use in a light module 1 is shown in various views. The primary optics elements 18 are designed as reflectors. These have a square cross-section in the example shown. The light exit surfaces 25 of the individual reflectors 18 line up seamlessly and limit the luminous surface with sharp, straight edges. Each light source 16 (comprising at least one LED) is preferably associated with a reflector element 18. If desired, a (perforated) heat shield 22 can be provided between the reflector array 17 and the light source array 15, which protects the back of the reflector array 17 from radiation. The heat shield 22 prevents thermal overload of the reflector material.

The reflectors 18 extend conically from the light entrance to the light exit 25 out. Perpendicular to an optical axis 23 or to the main radiation direction 29 of the light sources 16 (see. FIG. 8a ), the reflectors 18 preferably have triangular, square or rectangular cross sections. Particularly preferably, the reflectors 18 have the geometry of a truncated pyramid. The reflecting surface of the reflectors 18 is preferably made of cylindrical hyperboloids or plane mirrors as a special case of the hyperboloid. The reflector array 17 consists of a metallized, high temperature resistant plastic, in particular of a thermoplastic material. High-temperature-resistant thermoplastics which are suitable are, for example, polyether ether ketone, polyether imide or polysulfone. The metallization consists for example of aluminum, silver, platinum, gold, nickel, chromium, copper, tin or alloys containing at least one of these metals. The metallization is preferably sealed by a transparent layer after application to the reflective surface. Instead of a metallization, a multilayer coating can also be applied to the plastic body. Multilayer coating alternately combines several low- and high-index layers. Under the mirroring metal or multilayer layer, a further metal layer may be provided as a radiation barrier. This metal layer is deposited, for example as a copper or nickel layer on the plastic body of the reflector array 17 and thus forms a protection against the thermal stress by the radiation of the LEDs 16. This metal layer is also capable of heat to the reflector edge in the region of the light exit surface 25 out derive. Preferably, this metal layer is thicker than the metallized mirror layers on the reflective surfaces.

The reflector edges, ie the light exit surfaces 25 of the individual reflector elements 18 follow the course of a Petzval surface of the secondary optics 4 and are thus on a convexly curved shell (if the projection optics 4 is designed as a reflector) or on a concave curved Shell (when the projection optics 4 is designed as a lens).

In FIG. 6 a further example of a replacement light source array 2 is shown, in which the primary optics elements 18 are formed as optical fibers. The light guide array 17 comprises in a straight line juxtaposed light guide 18, each of which widens conically towards the light exit 25. Perpendicular to the optical axis 23 and to the main emission direction 29 of the light sources 16 (see. FIG. 8a ), the light guides 18 are preferably triangular, square or rectangular cross-sections. In the illustrated example, the light guide elements 18 have a rectangular or square cross-section. Preferably, the light guides 18 have the geometry of a truncated pyramid. The light entry surface of the individual light guide elements 18 is preferably flat and runs parallel to a chip surface of the associated light source 16 (comprising at least one LED).

The light exit surface 25 of the individual light guides 18 is preferably convex. The light guide array 17 is made of organic or inorganic glass or silicone rubber (LSR). Organic glasses are for example PMMA, COC, COP, PC, PSU or PMMI. The light exit surfaces 25 of the conical light guides 18 follow a Petzvalfläche the secondary optics system 4 and are thus on a convexly curved shell (in a projection optics 4 with reflector) or on a concave curved shell (in a projection optics 4 with lens).

In the example off FIG. 7 The replacement light source array 2 includes a primary optics array 17 composed of a plurality of disk-shaped light guides 18. The individual light guides 18 each have a light entry surface 24, a light exit surface 25, a reflector surface 26, and two transport surfaces 27, wherein the light entry _and exit surfaces 24, 25 in combination with the reflector surface 26 form two focal lines that obey the imaging law: The optical paths between the object side and the image side focal line 30a, 30b have the same optical path lengths → sum _i (s _i xn _i ) = constant (cf. FIG. 9 ). The image-side focal line 30a is located on the light exit surface 25 of the light guide 18. The lateral transport surfaces 27 of the light guide 18 extend to the light exit surface 25 towards steadily (see. FIG. 7c ). The reflector surface 26 is a control surface. The light entry surface 24 of the light guide 18 is preferably flat and runs parallel to the chip surface of the associated LED light source 16. However, it is also conceivable that the light entry surface 24 is slightly inclined relative to the chip surface of the LED 16, so that both surfaces form a conical air gap, which preferably widens toward the trailing edge of the light guide 18. The trailing edge is the edge facing away from the light exit side 25. The light exit surface 25 of the light guide 18 is slightly curved, in particular convex. The light exit surface 25 of the disc light guides 18 follow the Petzvalfläche 20a of the secondary optics system 4 and are thus on a convexly curved shell (at a secondary optics 4 with reflector) or on a concave curved shell (at a secondary optics 4 with lens). The array 17 with optical waveguide disks 18 is preferably made of organic or inorganic glass or of silicone rubber LSR. Organic glasses are for example PMMA, COC, COP, PC, PSU or PMMI.

In FIG. 8 the main emission direction of a light source 16 is representative of all light sources 16 of the light source array 15 by the reference numeral 29. The main emission direction 29 coincides with the optical axis of the light source 16. Reference numeral 30 denotes a focal line of the light guide 18.

How to use the FIG. 9 can recognize well, the disk-shaped light guide 18 is formed such that equal optical path lengths between the two focal lines (image-side focal line 30a and object-side focal line 30b) of the light guide 18 result: sum _i (s _i xn _i ) = constant for all optical paths, where n _{i are} the refractive indices of the various media passed through (n ₁ = 1 of the air and n ₂ , n ₃ : refractive index of the optical fiber 18). Exemplary are in FIG. 9 The image-side focal line 30a lies on the light exit surface 25 of the light guide 18, the object-side focal line 30b focuses on the light exit surface of the associated LED chip 16.

The FIGS. 10 to 14 show various embodiments of a light module 1 according to the invention in section. A large part of the optical surface of the secondary optics 4 has a first object-side focal point and a common image-side focal point at infinity. The secondary optics 4 thus generates an image of the replacement light source arrangement 2 or its light exit surfaces 25 at infinity. The secondary optics system 4 may comprise, for example, a parabolic mirror, in particular a faceted parabolic mirror (cf. FIGS. 1 and 13 ), whose focal point 31 lies on the light exit surface 25 of the primary optic array 17. The parabolic reflector 4 is faceted so that all facet surfaces have approximately the same distances from the common focal point 31. All of the facet edges facing away from the optical axis (rotation axis) 7 of the light module 1 have greater distances from the common reflector focal point 31 than the facet inner edges lying on the side of the optical axis 7. The facet edges are perpendicular to the light-dark boundary of the light distribution 5 (ie vertical light-dark boundary in the striplight → horizontal facet edges), as in FIG FIG. 1 shown. The facet edges can also be circular and concentric around the optical axis 7 (axis of rotation) of the reflector 4, 4 'extend.

The secondary optics system 4 of the light module 1 according to the invention can also comprise a converging lens, which is focused on the light exit surfaces 25 of the primary optics elements 18. The converging lens may be formed as a toric (astigmatic) converging lens, which has different refractive powers in the meridional and sagittal sections 8, 9. The condenser lens can also be designed as an astigmatic condenser lens. Finally, the secondary optics system 4 may also comprise a color correcting two-lingual system (achromat): a low dispersion color condensing lens and a large color dispersion dispersing lens.

In the in FIG. 10 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of a light module 1 according to the invention, the secondary optics system 4 comprises a reflector in the form of a hyperboloid 4 'or a plane mirror as a special case of the hyperboloid with a reflector arranged behind it in the form of a paraboloid 4 ", in particular a facetted paraboloid Hyperboloids 4 'lies on the light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source array 2 and forms the object-side focal point of the entire secondary optical system 4. A image-side focal point 21' of the hyperboloid 4 'coincides with the focal point of the paraboloid 4 "and marks the position of a virtual intermediate image 2' of the light exit surface 25 of the spare light source array 2.

In FIG. 10 the light module 1 is - as stated - shown with a two-part secondary optics system 4, consisting of a plane mirror 4 'and a paraboloid of revolution 4 "The resulting secondary optics system 4 has an optical axis 32 (axis of rotation) The paraboloid 4" focuses on the virtual image 2 'the light exit surface 25 of the Spare light source arrays 2, in particular on the centroid of the light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source array. 2

In the embodiment FIG. 11 Also, there is provided a two-piece secondary optical system 4 having two reflectors 4 ', 4 ".The first reflector 4' of the secondary optics system 4 is formed as a concave (collecting) hyperboloid, thereby resulting in an enlarged virtual image of the substitute light source 2 than in the embodiment FIG. 10 , Furthermore, in FIG. 11 the image-side focal point 21 'of the hyperboloid 4' coincides with the focal point of the paraboloid 4 "and marks the position of the virtual intermediate image 2 'of the light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source array 2.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12 the secondary optics system 4 is likewise designed in several parts, in particular in two parts. The light module 1 comprises a convex hyperboloid 4 '''and a paraboloid 4''The resulting secondary optics system 4 has the optical axis 32 (axis of rotation) The image-side focal point 21' of the hyperbola 4 '''coincides with the focal point of the paraboloid 4 "together. The paraboloid 4 "focuses on the reduced virtual image 2 'of the light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source array 2.

The secondary optics system 4 according to the embodiments of the FIGS. 10 to 12 Thus, two reflectors that are not based on conic sections and no sharp, undistorted intermediate image 2 'of the light exit surface 25 of the spare light source array 2 supply. Rather, the secondary optics system 4 only forms the illuminated area 25 on the roadway. The optical system 1 has an object-side and a image-side Focus on, with the image-side focus is at infinity. Between the two focal points one finds the same optical path lengths (sum s _i = constant).

The hyperboloid reflector 4, 4 '"may also be faceted. In the hyperboloid reflector 4, 4 '", the image 21' of the object-side focal point 21 is not at infinity. Therefore, the arrangement of the reflector facets would differ from a spherical surface. The facets are preferably arranged so that the respective distances to the object and image-side focal points (hyperbola: virtual image) for all reflector facets have the same conditions as possible, so that the same possible image scales are achieved for all reflector zones.

According to the embodiment of a light module 1 according to the invention FIG. 13 the secondary optics system 4 comprises a hyperboloid reflector 4 'and a converging lens 4''''arranged behind the beam path. The hyperboloid reflector 4 'is preferably designed as a horizontally faceted hyperboloid. An object-side focal point 32 of the converging lens 4 "" and an image-side (virtual) focal point of the hyperbolic reflector 4 'coincide. An object-side focal point of the reflector 4 'is designated by the reference numeral 31 and is located on the light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source assembly 2 or on the centroid thereof.

Finally, it is according to another embodiment according to the FIG. 14 it is possible for the secondary optics system 4 to have an ellipsoid reflector 4 '''''and a diverging lens 4''''' arranged behind it. An image-side focal point 32 of the elliptical mirror 4 '''''coincides with a virtual object-side focal point of the diverging lens 4''''''together. An object-side focal point 31 of the ellipsoidal reflector 4 '''''lies on the light exit surface 25 of the replacement light source arrangement 2 or on the Centroid. The diverging lens 4 '''''' focuses on the enlarged image 2 'of the spare light source array 2.

The ellipsoidal reflector 4 '''''is preferably formed as a faceted ellipsoid, in particular with horizontal faceting. In the ellipsoidal reflector 4 ''''', the image 32 of the object-side focal point 31 is not at infinity. Therefore, the arrangement of the reflector facets deviates from a spherical surface. The facets are preferably arranged so that the respective distances to the object and image-side focal points (ellipse: real image) for all reflector facets have the same conditions as possible, so that the same possible image scales are achieved for all reflector zones. The secondary optics system 4 has a common optical axis 7. It consists of a plurality of mirrors and / or lenses which do not provide a sharp, undistorted intermediate image 2 'of the replacement light source array 2, but in sum have an object - side focal point 31 which is in a image - side focal point Infinite is pictured. The optical system 1 therefore obeys the mapping law according to which all optical paths between the two focal points are of equal length: sum _i (s _i xn _i ) = constant, where s _i is the path of the beam path i and n _{i is} the refractive indices of the various traversed ones Media are (n ₁ = n ₂ = n ₄ = 1 for air; n ₃ ≠ 1 corresponding to the material of the lens 4 """). In FIG. 14 By way of example, three optical paths s, s' and s "are shown.

Actually, in the light module 1 according to the invention it is intended to provide dynamic cornering light, partial high beam, marker light or the like. to realize as resulting total light distribution 5 by selectively activating or deactivating individual light sources 16 or groups of light sources 16 without mechanically movable parts in the illumination device.

However, it is also conceivable that, alternatively or in addition to the targeted activation or deactivation of light sources 16 for generating dynamic cornering light, partial high beam, marker light as resulting total light distribution 5 or optionally for adjusting the cut-off line, the light module 1, consisting of the Light source array 15, the primary optics array 17 and the secondary optics system 4, motorized about a vertical and / or horizontal axis relative to the housing of the illumination device in which the light module 1 is arranged, can be pivoted. As a result, for example, a dynamic cornering light can be pivoted into the curve. A Teilfernlicht has a high beam distribution from the targeted specific areas are cut out, in which other road users are. In order to be able to follow a movement of the other road users relative to the motor vehicle equipped with the light module 1, it is conceivable to horizontally pivot the light module 1 about the vertical axis, so that the area recessed from the high beam distribution always follows the current position of the other road users. A marker light has a dimmed light distribution with a horizontal light-dark boundary, wherein targeted at least a narrow area above the cut-off line is illuminated to illuminate other road users or objects in this area targeted and the driver's attention with The motor vehicle equipped with the light module 1 can be directed to these other road users or objects. In order to be able to follow a movement of the other road users or of the objects relative to the motor vehicle, so that the illuminated narrow area above the cut-off line is always directed to the other road user or the object, the light module 1 can rotate about the vertical Axis be formed horizontally pivotable. To adjust a vertical cut-off line, the light module 1 can also be pivoted horizontally about the vertical axis and can be fixed in the adjusted position.

Likewise, the light module for adjusting a horizontal cut-off line around a horizontal axis can be pivoted vertically and set in the adjusted position. The adjusted position of the cut-off line then forms the zero point for a curve light function and / or headlight range control function to be performed during the operation of the light module 1.

Claims (13)

1. Light module (1) for a lighting equipment of a motor vehicle comprising a light source assembly with multiple separately controllable light sources (16) combined to an array (15) for emitting light, multiple primary optics elements (18) combined to a primary optics array (17) in the form of collective lenses each of which has a light ingress surface (24) and a light-emitting surface (25), wherein the primary optics elements (18) are designed to bundle at least part of the light emitted by the light sources (16) and to generate intermediate light distributions on the light-emitting surfaces (25), and further comprising a secondary optics system (4) for projecting the emitted light on a road in front of the motor vehicle as resulting overall light distribution (5) of the light module (1), characterized in that the light sources (16) are located between the light ingress surfaces (24) of the collective lenses (18) and that the secondary optics system (4) for projecting the intermediate light distributions on the road in front of the motor vehicle as the resulting overall light distribution (5) of the light module (1) is focused at least on one of the light-emitting surfaces (23) of the collective lenses (18).
2. Light module (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the light sources of the light source array are designed in the form of SMD LEDs and/or LED chips (16).
3. Light module (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the primary optics elements (18) are designed in the form of plano-convex lenses.
4. Light module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the secondary optics system (4) comprises a parabolic reflector, especially a faceted parabolic reflector.
5. Light module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the secondary optics system (4) comprises a collective lens, especially an aplanatic collective lens, which show neither spherical aberration nor coma.
6. Light module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the secondary optics system (4) comprises an achromatic system with a combination of a collective lens having minor color dispersion and a dispersing lens having major color dispersion.
7. Light module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the secondary optics system (4) comprises a combination of a hyperbolic reflector (4') and a collective lens (4"), wherein an object-side focal point (32) of the collective lens (4") coincides with an image-side focal point of the hyperbolic reflector (4').
8. Light module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the secondary optics system (4) comprises a combination of an elliptic reflector (4') and a dispersing lens (4"), wherein an object-side focal point (33) of the dispersing lens (4") coincides with an image-side focal point of the ellipsoid reflector (4').
9. Light module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the secondary optics system (4) comprises at least one reflector (4; 4', 4", 4''', 4''''), wherein the light sources (16) are arranged and/or aligned in the light module (1) in relation to the reflector in such a way that they radiate with their primary beam direction at an acute angle into the reflector (4; 4', 4", 4''', 4'''') against driving direction of the motor vehicle and the beam path is folded by the reflector (4; 4', 4", 4''', 4'''') at an acute angle.
10. Light module (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the reflector (4; 4', 4'''') is faceted, wherein all faceted surfaces have approximately the same distances to a collective focal point (12) of the reflector (4; 4', 4'''').
11. Light module (1) according to Claim 10, characterized in that facet edges of the faceted reflector (4; 4', 4'''') extend perpendicular to the light-dark boundaries of the individual light distributions (6') generated by the light of the individual light sources (16) on the road in front of the motor vehicle.
12. Lighting equipment of a motor vehicle, characterized in that the lighting equipment comprises at least one light module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.
13. Lighting equipment according to Claim 12, characterized in that the lighting equipment comprises a plurality of light modules (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the overall light distributions (5) of several light modules (1) are at least partially superimposed or added to form an overall light distribution of the lighting equipment.

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