FR3108705A1 - Automotive vehicle lighting device incorporating a mobile light module - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle comprising a mobile light module and a drive system arranged to move the mobile light module, in which the drive system comprises a first crank connected to the mobile light module and an actuation system comprising an actuator and being able to drive the first crank in rotation about an axis of rotation between a start-of-travel position and an end-of-travel position, characterized in that the actuation system comprises a locking member arranged to hold the first crank in at least one of the start and end positions. Figure to be published with the abstract: FIG. 7

Description

Motor vehicle lighting device incorporating a mobile light module

The invention relates to the field of automobile lighting. More specifically, the invention relates to the field of motor vehicle lighting devices incorporating mobile light modules.

The lighting devices of motor vehicles, and in particular the front headlights, contribute greatly to the aesthetic appearance of these vehicles. In particular, car manufacturers are now designing the style of these lighting devices so that their luminous appearance makes it possible to differentiate them from other manufacturers thanks to a light signature produced by the various lighting and signaling modules when they are are on.

This need for a light signature is opposed by regulatory constraints defining not only the photometry of the light beams, whether for signaling or lighting, but also the period, night or day, during which these light beams must be emitted. . This is how, for example, a distinction is made between the signaling function of the daytime running light type, also called DRL for the English Daytime Running Light, which must be switched on during the day and the crossing type lighting function which must be switched on during the day. night. These two functions cannot therefore be activated simultaneously.

In order to be able to achieve a constant light signature, whether day or night, a motor vehicle lighting device has thus been devised comprising a mobile signaling module as well as a fixed lighting module, and in which the signaling module can be activated during a daytime period and can be retracted during a nighttime period to reveal the lighting module which, when activated, replaces the luminous aspect of the signaling module.

In order to be able to retract the mobile signaling module, a lighting device has for example been imagined in which the mobile signaling module is moved by means of a drive system comprising a crank connected to the mobile signaling module and driven in rotation by an actuation system.

However, motor vehicles are subject to mechanical disturbances of the vibration and shock type, in particular due to irregularities in the road. These disturbances can be propagated to the lighting device and its drive system, and can thus cause a movement of a crank, which would cause an untimely movement of the mobile signaling module which could harm the desired aesthetics.

There is thus a need for a motor vehicle lighting device comprising a mobile light module that can be moved by a crank drive system to a stable position and that can be maintained in this stable position in the presence of mechanical disturbances. The present invention falls within this context and aims to meet this need.

For these purposes, the subject of the invention is a lighting device for a motor vehicle comprising a mobile light module and a drive system arranged to move the mobile light module, in which the drive system comprises a first crank connected to the mobile light module and an actuation system comprising an actuator and being able to drive the first crank in rotation about an axis of rotation between a start of travel position and an end of travel position, characterized in that the actuation system comprises a locking member arranged to hold the first crank in at least one of the start and end of travel positions.

Thanks to the invention, the first crank can be stabilized by the locking member in one and/or the other of the start and end of travel positions, so that only a force from the actuator can unlock. Consequently, the forces induced by the mechanical disturbances on the lighting device and likely to be exerted on the drive system will be insufficient to move this crank, so that the mobile light module is effectively locked in the position corresponding to the start or end position of the driving crank.

For example, the locking member can be arranged to hold the driving crank until the actuator exerts a force on the first crank greater than a given threshold.

Advantageously, the locking member is arranged to hold the first crank in each of the start and end of stroke positions.

Advantageously, the drive system comprises two stops defining the start and end of travel positions of the first crank and the locking member comprises a spring connected on the one hand to said first crank and on the other hand to a point of the lighting device so as to define an unstable equilibrium position of the spring associated with a position of the first crank located between its start and end of travel positions. In other words, when the first crank is driven by the actuation system from the start of stroke position to the end of stroke position, the spring creates a torque on the first crank opposing its stroke, until until it reaches the position in which the spring is in unstable equilibrium. In this position, the spring does not create any torque. Beyond this position, the first crank is then driven in the same direction as the torque created by the spring, which thus presses the first crank against the stop defining the end-of-travel position and therefore locks the crank in the end position. In order to unlock the first crank, the actuator must then create a torque on the crank greater than that of the spring.

For example, the fixed point to which said spring is connected is arranged on a straight line passing through the center of rotation of the first crank and through the connection point between said spring and the first crank when said crank adopts an intermediate position, in particular a position median, between its start and end positions. If desired, the fixed point can be arranged above the axis of rotation of the first crank, relative to the first crank.

If desired, said spring is a tension spring.

Advantageously, the mobile light module can be a first mobile signaling module and the lighting device can comprise a lighting module, the first mobile signaling module being able to adopt a concealing position in which it conceals the lighting module and a retracted position in which the lighting module is visible. If necessary, the drive system can be arranged to move the first mobile signaling module to one or the other of the concealing and retracted positions along a curved and convex trajectory.

Thanks to these characteristics, the lighting device employs a drive system capable of driving the first mobile signaling module along a trajectory that is on the one hand curved, which makes it possible to avoid jamming phenomena and thus to increase the reliability of the lighting device, and on the other hand convex, which makes it possible to move the first mobile signaling module first towards the rear and thus avoid encountering the bonnet or the bumper of the vehicle, even when the clutter is small.

The term "curved and convex trajectory" means a convex trajectory, and for example circular, with respect to the front of the motor vehicle, and in particular with respect to the lens of the lighting device. More specifically, said trajectory can advantageously be substantially a translation along an arc of a circle, in which the overall direction of light emission from the first mobile signaling module remains substantially constant during the movement of the first mobile signaling module along said trajectory. Furthermore, the term "obscuring position" means a position in which the first mobile signaling module at least partially obscures the lighting module from the point of view of a user located outside and in front of the motor vehicle. .

In one embodiment, the lighting device comprises at least one controller arranged to control the drive system, for example according to instructions received from a computer of the motor vehicle, so that the first mobile signaling module borrows the blackout position in daytime conditions and the retracted position in nighttime conditions. In other words, the controller controls the drive system so that the concealed position is a daytime position and the retracted position is a nighttime position. If necessary, the lighting device can be arranged so that in retracted position, the first mobile signaling module is at least partially, or even completely, invisible to the eyes of a user located outside and in front of the motor vehicle. If desired, the controller can be arranged to control the switching on and off of the first signaling module and of the lighting module so that in the blackout position, the first signaling module is on and the lighting is off, and in the retracted position, the first signaling module is off and the lighting module is on. For example, the first signaling module can be arranged to emit a light beam able to participate in the realization of a daytime running light function (also called DRL for English Daytime Running Lamp) and the lighting module can be arranged to emit a light beam capable of participating in the performance of a road lighting function, such as for example crossing-type lighting or road-type lighting.

In one embodiment of the invention, the drive system comprises at least a first drive subsystem comprising said first crank mounted in the lighting device in rotation about an axis of rotation, the system of actuation being capable of driving said first crank in rotation around said axis of rotation. For example, the first crank can be mounted, via a pivot point, directly on a housing of the lighting device or alternatively on an intermediate plate mounted in a housing of the lighting device. If necessary, the position of the pivot point can be freely chosen, without any particular placement constraint, and in particular with respect to the center of the curved and convex trajectory. Thanks to these characteristics, the positioning of the various elements of the drive system is free, so that the design of the lighting device is substantially independent of the vertical and longitudinal bulk constraints of this device. If desired, the first crank can be connected directly or indirectly to the first mobile signaling module and the actuation system can be capable of directly or indirectly driving the first crank in rotation. The actuation system may be capable of driving said first crank in rotation over a stroke of at most 200°, in particular at most 180°, or even at most 90°. If necessary, the drive system may include stops defining start and end positions of the first crank, these positions corresponding respectively to the concealing and retracted positions of the first mobile signaling module.

Advantageously, the first drive subsystem comprises a second crank mounted in the lighting device in rotation about an axis of rotation and a first connecting rod, the first and second cranks being connected by said first connecting rod to the first module of mobile signage. Preferably, the first drive subsystem can be arranged so that the rotation of the first crank driven by the actuation system causes the rotation of the second crank and a displacement of each point of the first connecting rod along said trajectory curved and convex.

Preferably, the first crank and the second crank are arranged so as to be parallel to each other and so that the distances between the center of rotation of each crank and the point of connection of this crank to the first connecting rod, called "center distance" , are identical.

Advantageously, the first and second cranks and the first connecting rod are arranged on one side of the first mobile signaling module. For example, the first connecting rod can be connected to the first signaling module at a lateral end of said first module. Where appropriate, the first drive subsystem comprises third and fourth cranks each mounted in the lighting device in rotation about an axis of rotation and a second connecting rod, the third and fourth cranks being connected by said second connecting rod to the first mobile signaling module, and the third and fourth cranks and the second connecting rod being arranged on the other side of the first mobile signaling module. For example, the second connecting rod can be connected to the first signaling module at another opposite side end of the first module.

Advantageously, the third and fourth cranks are arranged so as to be parallel to the first and second cranks and/or so that the center distances of the third and fourth cranks are identical, and optionally equal to those of the first and second cranks.

If desired, at least one of the first and second cranks is connected by a transmission shaft to one of the third and fourth cranks, in particular so that the rotation of the first crank driven by the actuation system causes a rotation of the third and fourth cranks. Alternatively, the third crank can be connected to the actuation system. As a further variant, the lighting device may comprise a second actuation system arranged to drive the third crank in rotation.

In one embodiment of the invention, the lighting device comprises a second mobile signaling module that can adopt a concealing position in which it conceals the lighting module and a retracted position in which the lighting module is visible. If necessary, the drive system is arranged to move the second mobile signaling module towards one or the other of the concealed and retracted positions according to a curved and convex trajectory substantially symmetrical to the trajectory of the first signaling module, in particular with respect to a substantially horizontal plane. Advantageously, the lighting device can be arranged so that in the obscuring position, the first and second signaling modules are contiguous and in the retracted position, the first and second signaling modules are at a distance from one of the other.

Advantageously, the drive system may comprise a second drive subsystem comprising at least one other crank mounted in the lighting device in rotation around an axis of rotation and connected to the second mobile signaling module, the system drive comprising a transmission system connecting a crank, in particular the first crank, of the first drive subsystem to the other crank of the second drive subsystem so that rotation of said crank of the first sub - drive system driven by the actuation system causes rotation of the other crank. If necessary, the rotation of the other crank takes place in the opposite direction to that of the rotation of the first crank. In this way, the actuation system can be simplified to drive a single crank.

Advantageously, the transmission system comprises at least a first portion of toothed wheel mounted on the axis of rotation of the crank of the first drive subsystem and another portion of toothed wheel mounted on the axis of rotation of the another crank and meshed with the first toothed wheel portion. Alternatively, the transmission system may include one or more connecting rods.

In one embodiment of the invention, the actuation system comprises an actuator, a drive crank arranged to be driven in rotation by the actuator around an axis of rotation between a start position and a starting position. limit switch, and a driving rod connected on the one hand to the driving crank and on the other hand to the first crank by a connection point. If necessary, the controller of the lighting device can be arranged to control the actuator, for example according to a constant speed setpoint. If desired, the actuation system may comprise a stop defining the start of travel position, which corresponds to the concealing position of the first signaling module, and a stop defining the end of travel position, which corresponds to the position retracted from the first mobile signaling module. These characteristics make it possible to modulate the speed of rotation of the first crank while controlling the actuator with a constant speed setpoint. Therefore, the actuator control laws can be simplified while avoiding weakening the signaling module, for example by shocks of a crank against a stop.

Advantageously, the actuation system can be arranged so that, in two so-called alignment positions of the drive crank, the connection points of the drive rod with the drive crank and the first crank and the center of rotation of the crank motor are substantially aligned. The alignment positions may be the start and end of travel positions of the driving crank, or even positions close to these start and end of travel positions, for example distant by at most 10° from these positions of start and end of the race. Thanks to this characteristic, the movement of the driving crank when passing from the start position of the race to the end position of the race takes place at the start and at the end of the race perpendicular to the line with which the connection points and the center of rotation are aligned. Consequently, the beginning and the end of the travel of the driving crank only generates small movements of the first crank. Thus, the first crank undergoes a gentle acceleration at the start of travel of the drive crank and a gentle deceleration at the end of travel, which makes it possible to use a low-torque actuator and to avoid shocks of the crank against the stop, to avoid weakening the signaling module.

Advantageously, the actuation system can be arranged so that the travel of the drive crank between its start and end of travel positions is greater than or equal to 180°.

Preferably, the actuation system can be arranged so that, in the positions of alignment of the driving crank, the points of connection of the driving rod with the driving crank and the first crank and the center of rotation of the crank motor are substantially aligned on the same straight line.

Advantageously, the first crank is capable of adopting a start and end of travel position respectively when the drive crank takes its start and end of travel position respectively. Where appropriate, said straight line is substantially perpendicular to the first crank when this first crank adopts an intermediate position, and in particular a median position, between its start and end of travel positions.

If desired, the actuation system may comprise another drive crank arranged to be driven in rotation by the actuator around an axis of rotation between a start of stroke position and an end of stroke position and another driving rod connected on the one hand to the other driving crank and on the other hand to one of the third and fourth cranks.

Advantageously, the drive rods have the same length and the distances between the center of rotation of each drive crank and the point of connection of this drive crank to the drive rod are identical.

For example, the other driving crank can be connected to the actuator by means of a simple cardan joint. This characteristic makes it possible to offset the shaft, so as to be able to keep the lengths of the drive rods identical, despite an offset which would be linked to the curve of the lighting device.

As a variant, provision may be made for the drive rods to have different lengths. Where applicable, the ratio between the length of each drive rod and the center distance of the drive crank to which it is connected must be identical.

In one embodiment of the invention, the lighting module is a mobile lighting module that can adopt a retracted position in which it is at least partially obscured by the first mobile signaling module when the latter adopts the obscuring position and a visible position in which it is visible when the first mobile signaling module adopts the retracted position. If necessary, the lighting device comprises another drive system arranged to move the mobile lighting module synchronously with the movement of the first mobile signaling module.

The present invention is now described using only illustrative examples and in no way limiting the scope of the invention, and from the accompanying illustrations, in which:

The present invention is now described using only illustrative examples and in no way limiting the scope of the invention, and from the accompanying illustrations, in which:

represents, schematically and partially, a side view of a lighting device according to one embodiment of the invention;

schematically and partially represents a front view of the lighting device of [Fig. 1] under daytime conditions;

schematically and partially represents a side view of the lighting device of [Fig. 1] under daytime conditions;

schematically and partially represents a view of the other side of the lighting device of [Fig. 1] under daytime conditions;

schematically and partially represents a side view of the lighting device of [Fig. 1] under night conditions;

represents, schematically and partially, a system for driving the lighting device of [Fig. 1] incorporating a locking member according to a first variant embodiment, in a first position;

represents, schematically and partially, the drive system of the lighting device of [Fig. 6A] in a second position;

represents, schematically and partially, the drive system of the lighting device of [Fig. 6A] in a third position;

represents, schematically and partially, the drive system of the lighting device of [Fig. 6A] in a fourth position;

represents, schematically and partially, the drive system of the lighting device of [Fig. 6A] in a fifth position;

represents, schematically and partially, a system for driving the lighting device of [Fig. 1] incorporating a locking member according to a second variant embodiment; And

represents, schematically and partially, a system for driving the lighting device of [Fig. 1] incorporating a locking member according to a third variant embodiment.

In the following description, the identical elements, by structure or by function, appearing in different figures retain, unless otherwise specified, the same references. In addition, the terms "front", "rear", "up" and "down" should be interpreted in the context of the orientation of the lighting device as it has been represented, corresponding to normal use of the device. lighting, such as when mounted in a motor vehicle.

We represented in , partially and schematically, a side view of a lighting device 1 according to one embodiment of the invention.

The lighting device 1 comprises a housing B closed by a sealing glass G. The lighting device 1 is a front headlight, installed in a motor vehicle, between the bodywork C and the bumper P, which thus frame ice cream g.

The lighting device 1 comprises a first mobile signaling module 21 and a second mobile signaling module 22. The first module 21 is a so-called lower module while the second module 22 is a so-called upper module, arranged above the module lower 21.

The lighting device 1 also comprises a mobile lighting module 3. The mobile modules 21, 22 and 3 are mounted mobile relative to the housing B.

The lighting device 1 further comprises a drive system, which will be described later, arranged to move the signaling modules 21 and 22 as well as the lighting module 3.

More specifically, each of the signaling modules 21 and 22 can borrow, on the one hand, a blocking position P11 (shown in ) in which the signaling modules 21 and 22 are contiguous and visible from the outside of the lighting device 1 and together obscure the lighting module 3, which adopts a retracted position P12 towards the rear of the lighting device. Each of the signaling modules 21 and 22 can borrow, on the other hand, a retracted position P21 in which the signaling modules 21 and 22 are distant from each other and invisible from the outside of the lighting device 1 so that the lighting module 3 is visible from outside the lighting device and can take a visible position P22 towards the front of the lighting device. The drive system is thus arranged to move the signaling modules 21 and 22 to one or the other of the obscuring P11 and retracted P21 positions and the lighting module to one or the other of the retracted positions P12 and visible P22.

In the example described, the signaling modules 21 and 22 are arranged to together perform a daytime running light function, and the lighting module 3 is arranged to perform at least one lighting function, for example crossing-type lighting. . The lighting device 1 thus comprises a controller (not shown) for controlling on the one hand the drive system and on the other hand the emission of light by the modules 21, 22 and 3. More precisely, in daytime conditions , for example when receiving an instruction to issue a daytime running light, the controller controls the synchronous movement, via the drive system, of the signaling modules 21 and 22 towards the obscuring positions P11 and of the module d lighting 3 to the retracted position P12, as well as the lighting of the signaling modules 21 and 22 for the realization of a daytime running light and the extinction of the lighting module 3. In addition, in night conditions, for example during on receipt of an instruction from dipped lighting, the controller controls the synchronous movement, via the drive system, of the signaling modules 21 and 22 towards the retracted positions P21 and of the lighting module 3 towards the position visible P22, as well as the lighting of the lighting module 3 for the realization of dipped lighting and the extinction of the signaling modules 21 and 22.

It should be noted that according to the invention, the drive system is arranged, as will be seen, to move each signaling module 21 and 22 towards one or the other of the concealing positions P11 and retracted P21 according to a circular and convex trajectory T, that is to say backwards and respectively downwards for module 21 and upwards for module 22, so as to avoid jamming in the mechanisms of the drive system and to meet the housing B or the glass G, despite the reduced volume of the lighting device 1. The movement of the lighting module being 3, in the example described, a simple translation, the part of the drive system allowing this translation will not be described.

We have represented, schematically and partially, in a front view of the lighting device 1 in daytime conditions, as shown in [Fig. 1], in [Fig. 3] a side view of this device and [Fig. 4] a view of the other side of this device. Finally, there is shown in [Fig. 5] a side view of the lighting device 1 similar to [Fig. 3] but under nocturnal conditions.

The drive system 4 of the lighting device 1 comprises an actuation system 5, a first drive subsystem 41 for moving the first signaling module 21 and a second drive subsystem 42 for moving the second signaling module 22.

As depicted in , the actuation system 5 comprises an actuator 51, for example of the gearmotor type equipped with a DC motor or a stepper motor. This actuator 51 rotates a driving crank 52 about an axis of rotation X1-X1 between start of stroke and end of stroke positions. The [Fig. 3] shows the driving crank 52 in its start of stroke position, for which the signaling modules 21 and 22 take their concealing positions P11 and [Fig. 5] shows the drive crank 52 in its end-of-travel position, for which the signaling modules 21 and 22 take their retracted positions P21.

The drive crank 52 is arranged on the right side of the lighting device 1. The actuation system 5 comprises a first drive rod 53 connected to the drive crank 52.

Furthermore, as shown in and [Fig. 4], the actuation system 5 comprises another drive crank 56 arranged on the left side of the lighting device 1 and also driven in rotation by the actuator 51 by means of a transmission shaft 54, extending all the way along the lighting device, and comprising a simple universal joint 55, at the end of which is mounted the other driving crank 56. The axis of rotation X2-X2 around which the other driving crank 56 rotates may not be aligned with the axis X1-X1, thanks to the cardan joint 54, which makes it possible to position this drive crank 56 freely. The actuation system 5 comprises another drive rod 57 connected to the other drive crank 56.

The actuator 51 thus rotates each of the driving cranks 52 and 56, themselves causing a movement of the driving rods 53 and 57.

As depicted in , the first drive subsystem 41 comprises a first crank 61, rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation, via a pivot point 61a of a fixed plate of the lighting device (not shown). This first crank 61 includes a central reel 61b rotatably mounted on the pivot point and from which two arms 61c and 61d extend. The arm 61c is connected to the driving rod 53, so that a displacement of the driving rod 53 driven by the rotation of the driving crank 52 causes a rotation of the first crank 61 around its axis of rotation.

The first drive subsystem 41 further comprises a first connecting rod 62 and a second crank 63. The second crank 63 is rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation, via a pivot point 63a of the fixed plate. The first connecting rod 62 is connected to the arm 61d of the first crank 61, to the second crank 63 and to the first signaling module 21. The rotation of the first crank 61 therefore causes a displacement of the first connecting rod 62 and a rotation of the second crank 63.

The arm 61d of the first crank 61 and the second crank 63 are arranged such that they remain parallel to each other when the first connecting rod 62 moves. In addition, their center distances, namely the distance between the pivot point 61a and the point of connection between the arm 61d and the first link 62 and the distance between the pivot point 63a and the point of connection between the second crank 63 and the first link 62, are identical. Consequently, all the points of the first connecting rod 62, including that linking the first connecting rod 62 to the first signaling module 21, are driven along the same trajectory, namely the circular and convex trajectory T of the . In this way, it is ensured that the first signaling module 21 follows the trajectory T during its movement driven by the first drive subsystem 41.

The first crank 61, first connecting rod 62 and second crank 63 assembly of the first drive subsystem 41 is arranged, in the example described, on the same side as the driving crank 52 and driving connecting rod 53 assembly, namely the right side of the lighting device 1. As a result, the first connecting rod 62 is connected to the first signaling module 21 at the level of a lateral end of this module 21.

As depicted in , the first drive subsystem 41 thus comprises a second assembly comprising a third crank 71, a second connecting rod 72 and a fourth crank 73, arranged on the other side of the lighting device 1, on the same side as the another driving crank 56 and driving connecting rod 57 assembly. The third crank 71 is rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation, via a pivot point 71a of the fixed plate and is connected on the one hand, to the driving connecting rod 57 and, on the other hand, to the second connecting rod 72. The fourth crank 73 is also rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation, via a pivot point 73a of the fixed plate, and is connected to the second connecting rod 72. The second connecting rod 72 is also connected to the first signaling module 21, at a side end of this module. Thus, the rotation of the third crank 71, driven by the driving rod 57 and the driving crank, causes a displacement of the second connecting rod 72 and a rotation of the third crank 73.

It should be noted that the arm of the third crank 71 connected to the second connecting rod 72 and the fourth crank 73 remain parallel to each other during the movement of the second connecting rod 72, and that the center distances of this arm and of the fourth crank 73 are substantially equal and identical to the center distances of the arm 61d of the first crank 61 and of the second crank 63.

Similarly to the first drive subsystem 41, the second drive subsystem 42 comprises two sets, left and right, each comprising two cranks, respectively 81 and 83 for the right side and 91 and 93 for the left side. , each mounted in rotation about an axis of rotation via a pivot point of the fixed plate, respectively 81a, 83a, 91a and 93a, as well as a connecting rod, respectively 82 and 92, connecting the two cranks together and also connected at one end of the second signaling module 22.

In order to drive the cranks of the second drive subsystem 42 in rotation, the drive system 4 comprises a transmission system 43 connecting on the one hand the second crank 63 to the crank 81 and on the other hand the fourth crank 73 to the crank 91. This transmission system comprises toothed wheel sectors 43a each rotatably mounted on one of the pivot points 63a, 73a, 81a and 91a integrally with the crank 63, 73, 81 and 91 mounted on this pivot point, so that a rotation of this crank causes a rotation of the toothed wheel sector. Each toothed wheel sector 43a mounted on one of the sides of the first drive subsystem 41 is meshed with the toothed wheel sector mounted on the same side of the second drive subsystem 42. Consequently, the rotation of the cranks 63 and 73 printed by the actuation system 5 is transmitted, via the toothed wheel sectors, to the cranks 81 and 91, so that the actuator 51 alone makes it possible to cause a movement of the two signaling modules 21 and 22.

We represented at to [Fig. 6E] a partial view of the drive system 4, showing the drive crank 52, the drive rod 53 and the first crank 61, for different positions of the drive crank 52 along its stroke.

As depicted in , the actuation system 5 comprises two stops 57 and 58, each respectively defining the starting position A1 and end of race A2 of the driving crank 52. These stops can for example be formed on the fixed plate of the device. lighting 1 so that part of the drive crank can bear against these stops.

The stroke of the driving crank 52 between the two stops, materialized by a dotted arc of a circle, is greater than 180°. In the example described, it is 200°, the start position A1 corresponding to a position of the driving crank of -10° and the end position A2 corresponding to a position of the driving crank of +190 °. There thus represents the drive system 4 when the drive crank 52 adopts its start-of-stroke position at −10°, [Fig. 6B] represents the drive system 4 when the drive crank 52 adopts a so-called 0° alignment position, [Fig. 6C] represents the drive system 4 when the driving crank 52 assumes a rest position of 90°, [Fig. 6F] represents the drive system 4 when the drive crank 52 adopts a so-called 180° alignment position, and [Fig. 6E] represents the drive system 4 when the driving crank 52 adopts its end position of +190°.

The central reel 61b of the first crank is provided with a torsion spring 44a mounted in a cylindrical cavity of the central reel 61b extending around the pivot point 61a, the torsion spring having two legs 44b and 44c. The central reel 61b has two slots 61e formed on its periphery in which the lugs 44b and 44c of the spring 44a extend, so that the edges of the slots 61e define two movable stops PM1 and PM2. When the first crank 61 is driven in rotation by the driving crank 52, each of the legs 44b and 44c is capable of coming into contact with one of these mobile stops PM1 and PM2, so as to be driven by the rotation of these stops. PM1 and PM2 around the center of rotation of the first crank 61. In addition, the lighting device comprises two fixed stops PF1 and PF2, for example formed by two edges of a rib formed on the fixed plate in line with the first crank 61. When the first crank 61 is driven in rotation by the driving crank 52, each of the lugs 44b and 44c is capable of coming into contact with these fixed stops PF1 and PF2. It is thus understood that during the rotation of the first crank 61, one of the legs 44b and 44c can be driven by the rotation of one of the movable stops PM1 and PM2 of the driving crank while the other of the legs 44b and 44c comes into abutment against one of the fixed stops PF1 and PF2, the rotation of the first crank 61 thus compressing the spring 44a.

As will be described below, the spring 44a, the movable stops PM1 and PM2 and the fixed stops PF1 and PF2 together form a locking member 44 of the position of the signaling modules 21 and 22 in their concealed or retracted positions.

As depicted in , when the drive crank adopts its start position A1 of -10°, the first crank 61 compresses the spring 44a, the tab 44b being in contact with the movable stop PM1 while the tab 44c is in abutment against the stop fixed PF2. Due to this compression, the restoring force of the spring 44a creates a torque C1 on the first crank 61. This torque C1 generates, via the driving rod 53, a torque C2 on the driving crank 52 which is oriented according to the position of the point of connection 53a between the drive crank 52 and the drive rod 53 vis-à-vis a straight line BB passing through the center of rotation O of the drive crank 52 and the point of connection 53b between the drive rod 53 and the first crank 61.

In the position of the , this couple C2 thus opposes the stroke of the drive crank of this drive crank 52 from its position A1 to the position A2. Consequently, thanks to this torque C2, a mechanical disturbance, such as a vibration or a shock, which would for example apply a force to the driving crank 52, would not make it possible to drive this driving crank 52 in rotation. terms, the driving crank 52 is locked in this position A1, and the signaling modules 21 and 22 are therefore locked in their concealing positions.

As depicted in , when the driving crank 52 is driven by the actuator towards a position close to the start position of the race, in this case a position A of 0° called alignment, the connection points 53a and 53b of the driving rod 53 respectively with the driving crank 52 and with the first crank 61 are aligned with the center of rotation O of the driving crank 52 on the line BB.

Consequently, even if the spring 44a is still compressed (by the action of the mobile stop PM1 on the leg 44b and of the fixed stop PF2 on the leg 44c), and therefore always creates a torque C1 on the first crank 61, this torque C1 does not generate any torque on the drive crank 52. Due to the alignment of the connection points 53a and 53b with the center of rotation O, the force of the drive rod 53 on the drive crank 52 is exerted along the line BB thus passing through the center of rotation O, so that no torque is exerted on this drive crank 52. The drive system is thus in unstable equilibrium when the drive crank adopts this alignment position A (so that in the absence of energy supply to the system, it retains this unstable equilibrium). It is thus understood that when the actuator drives the drive crank 52 towards the start position A1 of the stroke, the torque C1 then generates a torque C2 oriented in the same direction as the stroke of this drive crank 52, i.e. say towards this position A1, so as to bring the driving crank 52 towards the position A1 by pressing it against the stop 57 (as shown in ). Due to the 10° stroke between the alignment position A of 0° and the start of stroke position A1 of -10°, the force necessary to counterbalance the torque exerted by the spring 44a is such that only a force of the actuator greater than this torque unlocks the driving crank 52.

If the actuator drives the driving crank 52 from the alignment position A of 0° towards the end-of-travel position A2, the torque C1 then generates a torque C2 oriented in the same direction as the stroke of this driving crank 52 , that is to say towards this position A2.

During the stroke of the driving crank 52, the leg 44c of the spring 44a ceases to bear against the fixed stop PF2 to come to bear against the movable stop PM2, while the leg 44b remains in contact with the movable stop PM1 . Consequently, the spring 44a ceases to exert a torque C1 on the first crank 61 and therefore a torque C2 on the drive crank 52. Thus, during an intermediate range of its travel, the drive crank 52 is in a so-called rest position . We represented in an example of the rest position of the driving crank 52, for a position of 90°. As indicated, in this position, the lugs 44b and 44c of the spring 44a bear against the mobile stops PM1 and PM2, so that no torque is generated by the spring 44a on the first crank 61.

At the other end of this intermediate range, the leg 44b of the spring 44a ceases to be supported on the mobile stop PM1 to come to bear against the fixed stop PF1, while the leg 44c remains in support against the mobile stop PM2 . The spring 44a therefore begins again to exert a torque C1 on the first crank 61 and therefore a torque C2 on the drive crank 52 oriented in the opposite direction to the travel of this drive crank 52, thus advantageously braking this drive crank.

Symmetrically to and [Fig. 6A], the drive crank 52 then passes through the 180° alignment position A, in which the roles of the legs 44b and 44c of the spring 44a are reversed, the leg 44c being driven by the mobile stop PM2 and the leg 44b coming into abutment against the fixed stop PF1, causing a compression of the spring 44a generating a torque on the first crank 61 oriented in a direction opposite to that of [Fig. 6A] and [Fig. 6B].

As depicted in , when the driving crank 52 borrows the 180° alignment position A, the connection points 53a and 53b and the center of rotation O are again aligned with the straight line BB, so that no torque is generated on the driving crank 51, the system being again in unstable equilibrium.

Finally, as shown in , when the driving crank 52 borrows the limit position A2 of 190°, the torque C1 generates, via the driving rod 53, a torque C2 on the driving crank 52 which is oriented according to the position of the connection point 53a between the drive crank 52 and the drive rod 53 vis-à-vis the line BB, that is to say towards the position A2. This torque C2 thus opposes the stroke of the driving crank of this driving crank 52 from its position A2 towards the position A1, so that the driving crank 52 is locked in this position A2 against the stop 58, and the modules of signaling 21 and 22 are therefore locked in their retracted positions.

It will be noted that when the first crank 61 takes an intermediate position, and in particular median, between its start and end of stroke positions, the arm 61c of the first crank 61 is then perpendicular to the line B-B defined for the alignment positions A of 0 and 180° (thus passing through these two points A). The race of the driving crank 52 extending over 180° between the alignment positions A of 0 and 180°, the movements at the start of the race and at the end of the race of the driving crank 52, in particular in the vicinity of the positions of alignment A of 0° and 180° of the drive crank 52, are therefore substantially perpendicular to this straight line B-B defined for these alignment positions A, so that they only generate small movements of the first crank 61 , the latter thus undergoing a gentle acceleration at the start of the race (in particular from the alignment position A of 0°) and a gentle deceleration at the end of the race (in particular up to the position A of 180°).

We represented in an alternative mode to the embodiment of [FIG. 6], although it is possible to combine the two modes. The [Fig. 7] thus represents the first crank 61 of the drive system 4. Similarly to the previous embodiment, this crank 61 is mounted in rotation around a pivot point 61a, for example of the fixed plate of the lighting device . It comprises two arms 61c and 61d, the arm 61c being connected to the actuation system 5, for example to the drive rod 53 and the arm 61d being connected to the first signaling module 21, for example via the first connecting rod 62.

The drive system 4 comprises two stops 101 and 102 each defining a start of race 103 and end of race 104 position between which the actuation system 5 can drive the first crank 61. Each of the start and end positions stroke 103 and 104 correspond respectively to the concealing positions P11 and retracted P21 of the first signaling module 21.

In order to allow the locking of the first crank in each of these positions 103 and 104, and therefore that of the module 21 in the concealing positions P11 and retracted P21, the drive system 4 comprises a locking member in the form of a tension spring 105.

This spring 105 is connected on the one hand to one end of the arm 61d of the first crank 61 and on the other hand to a fixed point 106 of the lighting device, for example formed on the fixed plate of the lighting device.

The fixed point 106 is located on the other side of the first crank 61 with respect to the arm 61d, on a straight line passing through the center of rotation of the first crank 61, at the level of the pivot point 61a and through a median position 107 of the end of the arm 61d of the first crank 61 between the start and end positions 103 and 104.

It is thus understood that when the first crank 61 takes the middle position 107, the spring 105 takes an unstable equilibrium position in which it exerts no force on the first crank 61. On the other hand, when the actuation system 5 causes the first crank 61 in a direction oriented towards one of the start and end positions 103 and 104, the spring 105 exerts a force oriented in the same direction. The spring 105 thus presses the arm 61d against the stop 101 or 102, thus causing a locking of the first crank 61 in the position associated with this stop and therefore of the first signaling module in the corresponding concealed position P11 or retracted P21. Only a contrary force provided by the actuation system 5 greater than the torque exerted by the spring 105 on the first crank 61 can unlock it.

We represented in an alternative mode to the embodiments of [Fig. 6] and [Fig. 7], although it is conceivable to combine several of these modes or even all of these modes. The [Fig. 8] shows a top view of the first signaling module 21 as well as a locking member 110 of the drive system 4 making it possible to lock this signaling module 21 in the concealing position P11 or in the retracted position P21.

This locking member 110 comprises a first sub-member 111 comprising two assemblies each formed of a ball 112a, 112b mounted on a spring 113a, 113b, each spring being mounted fixed in the lighting device 1 at a position 114a, 114b respectively associated with the concealing position P11 and the retracted position P21. Each spring 113a and 113b extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the tangent of the trajectory T of the first signaling module 21 at said associated concealing position P11 or retracted P21.

The locking member 110 also comprises a second sub-member 115 comprising a cavity 116 formed on the side of a plate of the first signaling module 21 and surrounded by a sloping surface 117.

In the example described, the first signaling module 21 uses the blocking position P11. The position 114a of the ball 112a, spring 113a assembly is such that the ball 112a is received in the cavity 116 of the first signaling module 21, the signaling module coming to compress the spring 113a. Thus, the first signaling module 21 is locked in this obscuring position P11. Only an effort of the actuation system 5 exerted on the first signaling module 21 makes it possible to unlock the module.

When the drive system 4 causes the first signaling module 21 to move from the concealed position P11 to the retracted position P21 along the trajectory T, the plate of the module 21 comes into contact with the ball 112b at the level of the sloping surface. 117. This sloping surface 117 thus performs a function of damping the movement of the first signaling module 21, by progressively compressing the spring 113b until the ball 112b is received in the cavity 116.

The foregoing description clearly explains how the invention makes it possible to achieve the objectives it has set itself, namely to propose a lighting device having a constant light signature day and night, using a mobile signaling module between day and night positions and which remains stable in these positions, including in the presence of mechanical disturbances, by providing a crank and connecting rod drive system which incorporates a locking member.

In any event, the invention cannot be limited to the embodiments specifically described in this document, and extends in particular to all equivalent means and to any technically effective combination of these means. It is possible in particular to envisage other structures of the drive system than that described, other variants of the locking member and in particular variants integrating compression or traction springs, or even other light functions than those quoted.

Claims (7)

Lighting device (1) of a motor vehicle, comprising a mobile light module (21, 22) and a drive system (4) arranged to move the mobile light module, in which the drive system comprises a first crank (61) connected to the mobile light module and an actuation system (5) comprising an actuator (51) and being capable of driving the first crank in rotation around an axis of rotation (61a) between a start position of stroke (103) and an end-of-stroke position (104), characterized in that the actuation system comprises a locking member (105) arranged to hold the first crank in at least one of the start and limit switch. Lighting device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the drive system (4) comprises two stops (101, 102) defining the start and end positions (103, 104) of the first crank ( 61) and in which the locking member comprises a spring (105) connected on the one hand to the said first crank and on the other hand to a fixed point (106) of the lighting device so as to define a position of unstable balance of the spring associated with a position (107) of the first crank located between its start and end positions. Lighting device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the fixed point (106) to which the said spring (105) is connected is arranged on a straight line passing through the center of rotation (61a) of the first crank (61) and by the point of connection between said spring and the first crank when said crank adopts an intermediate position (107) between its start and end positions. A lighting device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said spring (105) is a tension spring. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the mobile light module (21, 22) is a first mobile signaling module, the lighting device comprising a lighting module (3), and in which the first mobile signaling module can adopt a concealing position (P11) in which it conceals the lighting module and a retracted position (P21) in which the lighting module is visible. Lighting device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the drive system (4) is arranged to move the first mobile signaling module (21) towards one or the other of the concealing and retracted positions (P11 , P21) along a curved and convex trajectory (T). Lighting device (1) according to one of Claims 5 or 6, the device comprising a controller arranged to control the drive system (4) so that the first mobile signaling module (21) adopts the obscuring position ( P11) in daytime conditions and the retracted position (P21) in nighttime conditions.