WO2021204687A1

WO2021204687A1 - Assembly and vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2021204687A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/058663
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephan Schwaiger; Oliver Hering; Jürgen HAGER; Joachim Stöhr; Oliver Woisetschlaeger; Joerg Hagmann
Original assignee: OSRAM CONTINENTAL GmbH
Priority date: 2020-04-08
Filing date: 2021-04-01
Publication date: 2021-10-14
Also published as: DE102020109841A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly for a vehicle. This comprises a vehicle component having a visible surface. The surface has a plurality of light-emitting regions, which are spaced apart from one another. In addition, according to one embodiment, the assembly comprises a plurality of light sources, wherein a respective decoupling surface of a respective light source of at least one portion of the light sources is assigned to a respective one of the light-emitting regions. The assembly also comprises at least one image mask for at least one of the light-emitting regions. Alternatively, according to a further embodiment, the assembly comprises a light guide, which has at least one in-coupling surface and a plurality of decoupling surfaces, wherein a respective decoupling surface of at least one portion of the decoupling surfaces of the light guide is assigned to a respective one of the light-emitting regions. The invention also relates to a vehicle.

Description

ARRANGEMENT AND VEHICLE

DESCRIPTION

The invention is based on an optical arrangement for a vehicle and a vehicle.

In the automotive sector, light design, such as a light design of light functions, for example of signal light functions, is becoming more and more important and elements on the vehicle are also increasingly being illuminated, i. H. provided with active lighting elements that were previously unlit.

In order to realize a light design of the light of previous lights, for example previous signal lights, in the automotive sector, reflectors, diffusers, diffusers, OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes), light guides or other refractive optical elements have mainly been used up to now.

In the case of electric vehicles, it is now possible, for example, to use certain areas of the vehicle that were previously unlit, such as an area of the radiator grille, i.e. an area between the front lights of the vehicle, over a large area or at least to a large extent for lighting, since there is no cooling function due to the inflow Wind through the grille is more necessary. For example, displays or other full-area lighting arrangements can be used for this purpose. However, this is not possible or to a lesser extent in vehicles with internal combustion engines, since it has a cooling effect Air flow through the radiator grille should or must continue to be guaranteed.

It is an object of the invention to provide a simple and inexpensive optical arrangement for illuminating a device

To create a vehicle component for a vehicle that has a high aesthetic appeal. Another object of the invention is to create a vehicle that has a vehicle component that is illuminated with a high aesthetic appeal.

The object with regard to the optical arrangement is achieved according to the features of claim 1 or according to the features of claim 5. Furthermore, the object with regard to the vehicle is achieved according to the features of claim 15.

Particularly advantageous configurations can be found in the dependent claims.

According to the invention, an arrangement for a vehicle according to a (first) independent embodiment is provided, the arrangement having a vehicle component, such as a fender or a radiator grille. The vehicle component has at least one visible surface. This can be perceptible to a viewer from inside the vehicle and / or when viewing the vehicle from the outside. The visible surface of the vehicle component has a plurality or a plurality of light-emitting regions, which in particular form a light pattern. A respective decoupling surface of at least part of the Decoupling areas or a respective decoupling area of all decoupling areas is each assigned to a light-emitting area, so that light can be emitted from the light-emitting area to which a decoupling area is assigned.

The arrangement described above makes it possible to illuminate a vehicle component that has a visible surface, in particular with any shape, for example with a lattice structure, and / or to emit light from the vehicle component. For example, it is possible to provide bumpers or fenders or decorative panels or A, B, C or D pillars or doors or trunk lids or bonnets (etc.) with light-emitting areas in order to illuminate the vehicle component with a high aesthetic appeal. The light guide, which has the plurality of coupling-out surfaces that are assigned to a respective light-emitting region, can be designed to be flexible. Thus, a vehicle component can also be illuminated which, for example, a radiator grille or a ventilation grille, is not designed over the entire surface, but has recesses, for example as air ducts. Another advantage is that the coupling-out surfaces of the light guide, which are each assigned to a light-emitting area, can be flexibly positioned on the vehicle component, depending on the application, so that a free design is possible.

In a further independent (second) embodiment, an arrangement comprises a vehicle component such as for example a fender or a radiator grille or a bumper (etc.) _/ on. The vehicle component has at least one visible surface. The visible surface of the vehicle component has a plurality or a plurality of light-emitting regions, which in particular form a light pattern. The arrangement has a plurality or a plurality of light sources, such as, for example, LEDs (light emitting diodes). A respective decoupling surface of a respective light source of at least some of the light sources or of all light sources are each assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. Thus, light can be emitted from the light emitting area. Furthermore, the arrangement has an image mask for one or at least some of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas. Alternatively, a plurality or multiplicity of image masks can be provided, wherein a respective image mask can be provided for a respective light-emitting area at least for a part of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas.

One advantage of the above-described arrangement for a vehicle with the multiplicity or multiplicity of light sources is that the light sources, the coupling-out surfaces of which are assigned to a respective light-emitting region, can be flexibly arranged on the vehicle component. The light sources can, for example, be wired together (for example in certain chains) or separately (= individually) so that there is no restriction on the positioning with regard to an energy supply. The light emitting areas can be used without limitation their position on the visible surface of the vehicle component be positioned, regardless of a shape of the vehicle component. In other words, the arrangement according to the second embodiment provides maximum flexibility with regard to the design and the number of light sources. In addition, lighting on, for example, comb-like or grid-like vehicle components, such as a radiator grille, can be implemented without problems. Another advantage is that, due to the large number of light sources, a very low light output is sufficient for each light source to illuminate the vehicle component. Therefore, simple and inexpensive light sources can be used and, for example, because of the low power consumption of the light sources with a low light output, cooling can be dispensed with. This can save costs, weight and installation space. Compact, lightweight and inexpensive lighting of a vehicle component can thus be implemented. The image mask or the respective image mask makes it possible for a light image, in particular with information, to be emitted by the arrangement and to be individualized simply and inexpensively. For example, on the basis of the image mask or a respective image mask, at least one photo in the form of a character, for example a logo, in particular a brand logo, can be emitted.

In a further (third) embodiment, it is possible for the arrangements of the first and the second embodiment to be combined. That is, the arrangement according to the (third) embodiment has a vehicle component with a visible surface that is a Has a plurality or plurality of light-emitting regions which in particular form a light pattern. Furthermore, the arrangement according to the (third) embodiment has a plurality of light sources, each of which has a coupling-out surface, and at least one light guide which has a plurality of coupling-out surfaces. The coupling-out surface of a respective light source or a part of the light sources and a respective or a part of the coupling-out surface (s) of the light guide are each assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. Thus, light can be emitted from the light emitting area.

An advantage of the arrangement according to the further (third) embodiment is that the combination of light sources and the light guide means that the light-emitting regions can be arranged or formed as flexibly as possible on the vehicle component. Furthermore, the arrangement of the third embodiment also has the advantages of the arrangement of the first and second embodiments.

The arrangement according to the second embodiment can have at least one optical element. The at least one optical element can be connected downstream of a light source of the optical arrangement. It is also possible that a respective optical element is provided for at least some of the light sources or for all light sources. The respective optical element is preferably a respective light guide. In particular, the or a respective optical element can be between at least one of the light sources and the at least one image mask be arranged. The light that is decoupled from a respective decoupling surface of the plurality of light sources can additionally be directed by the respective light guide. Furthermore, this is advantageous because the light guide or the respective light guide can have a suitable shape so that the image mask or the respective image mask can easily be attached to the light guide.

In one embodiment, the arrangement according to the first embodiment can have an image mask for at least some of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas. Additionally or alternatively, a plurality or multiplicity of image masks can also be provided, wherein a respective image mask can be provided for a respective light-emitting area at least for a part of the light-emitting areas or for all light-emitting areas. The at least one image mask can preferably be arranged on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces of the light guide.

The at least one image mask, which is described below, can be used on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces of the light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment or on the coupling-out surface of at least one of the light sources of the arrangement of the second embodiment and / or on the coupling-out surface of the or a respective optical element , the at least one of the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment, be arranged. Furthermore, the light guide of the arrangement of the first embodiment or one of the light sources of the arrangement of the second embodiment and / or the optical element of the arrangement of the second embodiment is referred to as a component.

The at least one image mask of the arrangement according to the first or the second embodiment can, for example, be cap-shaped. That is to say, the image mask can be designed in the shape of a socket or a socket. In other words, the at least one image mask is designed as a hollow cylinder and has a base which closes one side of the hollow cylinder. This is advantageous since a respective cap-shaped image mask can simply be placed or slipped onto a respective decoupling surface and / or onto the component. In the bottom of the image mask, in particular, a, in particular continuous, cutout can be provided through which the light that is coupled out from the coupling-out surface can radiate. The recess can be shaped, for example, as a sign or logo. The light-emitting area to which the at least one image mask is assigned can thus emit this logo as a light image. However, the cutout can also be "only optically functional", ie for example optically transparent (e.g. by 2K injection molding) although mechanically tight It is also possible for the image mask to have at least two areas with different material thicknesses through which light can radiate with different strengths, see above that these areas appear differently bright to a viewer. A character, for example a logo, can be formed by different material thicknesses of the image mask. It is also possible to perforate the image mask and thus to emit a symbol, in particular a brand logo, through the arrangement as a light image.

Is a respective image mask for a respective one

Provided decoupling surface of the component, these can each be designed differently. It is also possible for at least some of the image masks to be of identical design.

If a common image mask is provided for at least some of the light-emitting areas, it can have, for example, a plurality or multiplicity of cap-shaped or socket-shaped or sleeve-shaped individual image masks and these can be connected, for example via one or more webs (e.g. also up to the grid) . This makes the image masks easy to handle.

The at least one image mask can be designed, for example, as a slide and / or as a gobo (graphical optical blackout). If the image mask or at least one of the respective image masks is designed as a slide, it may be possible for the light-emitting areas to emit light with different colors, gray levels and / or intensities. Through the at least one image mask, the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment can emit a light image that shows at least one character, such as a brand logo. The light image of the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment can thus be individualized, in particular also subsequently, by attaching the image mask and / or the respective image masks. For example, there may be the possibility that a customer, for example an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or vehicle manufacturer, or an end customer who purchases the vehicle, can configure the shape and color of the photo of the arrangement according to his own design requirements. In the tuning area, too, it is possible to easily customize the appearance of the vehicle by exchanging the image masks.

As described above, the image mask or a respective image mask can be arranged on at least one of the coupling-out surfaces. In one embodiment, a part of a region of the coupling-out surface that is not covered by the image mask can protrude through the cutout over the image mask and / or protrude into the cutout of the image mask. This has the advantage that the part that protrudes over the image mask is visible even when the light-emitting area is viewed from the side, and a 3-D effect can thus be generated. It is particularly advantageous if the part of the coupling-out surface protruding from the image mask has the same shape and size as the recess in the image mask. This embodiment is advantageous because the light image of the arrangement is visible not only when the visible surface is viewed almost from the front, but also when the visible surface of the vehicle component is viewed from the side. Of This also opens up a large number of

Design options. It is also possible for the entire area that is not covered by the image mask to protrude beyond the image mask and / or at least partially protrude into the cutout. In other words, the area of the coupling-out surface that is not covered by the image mask breaks through the image mask at least partially.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the image mask or the respective image mask can be positively connected to at least one of the coupling-out surfaces or to the component, so that they can be connected, for example in the form of two puzzle pieces. In other words, as described above, the coupling-out surface can at least partially protrude over the at least one image mask or into the recess of the image mask and the recess of the image mask can be designed in such a way that it has a negative shape of the part of the coupling-out surface that extends over the image mask protrudes. This is advantageous because the at least one

Image mask can be fastened in a form-fitting manner simply by placing or plugging the image mask onto the coupling-out surface and no further fastening means are necessary. Furthermore, it is possible that the at least one image mask is designed in such a way that it is press-fitted or press-fit with the component

Transitional fit forms. In other words, the image mask can have a slightly smaller inner diameter than the component, for example. The image mask can also be mechanically attached to the component. For example, it can be fixed using a clip mechanism. Furthermore, the image mask can also be glued to the component. Fastening in the form of a clip mechanism is advantageous because the image mask can thus be easily exchanged, for example in the event of a defect.

In addition, the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment can have at least one further element and / or at least one further respective element for at least some of the light-emitting regions. The element or the respective elements can be, for example, an optical element into which light is coupled out at least from the one coupling-out surface of the component. This is advantageous because the light that is coupled out at least from the one coupling-out surface can thus be shaped again. For example, the element or the respective element can be a diaphragm or a scattering geometry that scatters light that is coupled into it. Furthermore, the element or the respective element makes it possible to widen a viewing angle range of the light exiting from the at least one coupling-out surface that couples into the element or the respective element, so that the light that is emitted by the arrangement is emitted visible from a wider viewing angle. Additionally or alternatively, the element or the respective element can be, for example, a lens and / or a refractive optical element in order to influence the light that emerges from at least one of the coupling-out surfaces, so that a plurality of Lighting design options is possible. In the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment, the element of the image mask can be connected upstream or downstream.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the optical element and / or the image mask itself can be, for example, at least partially semitransparent and / or tinted. That is, the element and / or the image mask can be, for example, a diffusing screen and / or a lacquer and / or a perforated / structured lacquer, so that at least some of the light-emitting areas are optically connected upstream of the element in whole or in part, so that these are not visible to a viewer when not switched on, that is to say "hidden", so that they are not visible at first glance. This means that the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment or the light guides of the arrangement according to the first embodiment are hidden and are not visible and the light-emitting areas only become visible when the arrangement is switched on.

In order to generate further light effects, it is also possible that at least one of the coupling-out surfaces can be matted. This makes it possible for at least this coupling-out surface to emit diffuse light. For example, some of the coupling-out surfaces can emit light diffusely, while another part of the coupling-out surfaces does not emit light diffusely. This allows lighting design effects to be achieved. Furthermore, a respective decoupling surface can have any geometric shape. the

The coupling-out surface can, for example, be circular or rectangular or free-shaped. This is another way of customizing the lighting through the arrangement.

The vehicle component preferably has a comb-like or a lattice structure or a lattice pattern or is designed in the form of a lattice or as a lattice structure. For example, the vehicle component can be a radiator grille or a ventilation grille. The grid pattern or the grid shape that the vehicle component has can be, for example, a rectangular grid and / or a honeycomb grid and / or a triangular grid and / or a mixed shape thereof. In particular, the light-emitting areas can be arranged at intersection areas of lattice struts, in other words at lattice points, and / or on the lattice struts. The outer basic shape of the vehicle component is preferably also free-shaped.

The light-emitting areas can be freely, depending on the design requirements, but in particular on

Crossing areas of lattice struts and / or

Grid struts of the grid-shaped vehicle component and / or of the vehicle component can be arranged with a grid pattern. In this case, the light-emitting regions can be arranged on the vehicle component, for example, on part of the visible area or distributed over the entire visible area. The arrangement of the light-emitting regions can, for example be symmetric or periodic or asymmetric or aperiodic. There are therefore a wide variety of options for lighting the vehicle component through the arrangement.

The light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment and / or at least some of the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment is / are preferably integrated in the vehicle component. For example, the vehicle component can be produced by an injection molding process and the light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment or the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment can, for example, be encapsulated by a material, in particular a plastic, in the production process of the vehicle component. In particular, power supply lines, for example cables, which are configured, for example, for power supply and / or for controlling the light source and / or the light sources, can also be integrated into the vehicle component, in particular encapsulated. This is advantageous because it is easy and inexpensive to attach the light source or the light sources. Another advantage is that the light source (s) and / or the cable are thus easily protected from external influences, such as moisture and / or dirt, for example. The light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can also be at least partially integrated into the vehicle component. For example, the vehicle component with the light guide according to the arrangement of the first embodiment in a two-component Injection molding process can be produced and thus costs and time can be saved in the production of the arrangement.

At least one control unit can preferably be provided which controls the light source for the light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment and / or at least some of the light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment. The control unit can range from "supply only" to "supply plus LIN or CAN", depending on its performance. In particular, the control unit can be connected to an app and / or another input device so that an end user and / or a vehicle manufacturer can control the arrangement. For example, it is possible that the light source (s) is dimmed, that the lighting intensity and / or color is changed and / or that the arrangement can be switched on and off. A non-volatile memory can be used to save different, also dynamic, personalized sequences and, if necessary, to assign different actions, such as ignition on, flashing, etc.

From at least one of the coupling-out surfaces of the at least one component of the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment, light can be partially and / or at least temporarily emitted with a different brightness and / or with a different color than from a further coupling-out surface. If the component is, for example, the light guide according to the first embodiment, it is possible for the arrangement to have at least two light sources that emit light emit different colors. By coupling the light from the light sources via, for example, two different coupling surfaces, light with a different color can be emitted via at least one coupling surface, which is arranged closer to the first coupling surface, than via the at least one coupling surface of the light guide, which is closer to the other coupling surface is arranged. The arrangement of the second embodiment can for example have at least two different light sources which emit light with different colors and / or light with different brightness. This means that further design options can be created. If the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment has a plurality of light sources, then these can be, for example, RGB-LED (red-green-blue LED). For example, this makes it possible to create additional patterns. It is possible for several LEDs to be arranged in one housing. It is also possible for a respective LED to be arranged in a respective housing.

The light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment preferably has a base light guide, which has at least one coupling surface, and a plurality of branch light guides. These each have at least one decoupling surface. The branch light guides preferably branch off from the basic light guide. For example, the light guide can be designed as a whole in the shape of a comb, wherein the prongs can be the branch light guides. That is, the branch light guides can each be at a right angle in the same direction, that is protrude parallel, at regular intervals from one another from the basic light guide. It is also possible for the branch light guides to protrude from the base light guide at a right angle, but in different directions. For example, the branch light guides can have an angle of 5 °, 10 ° or also 20 ° to one another. In a further exemplary embodiment, it is also possible for the branch light guides to protrude from the base light guide in the form of branches. That is to say, the branch light guides can each protrude in any direction from the base light guide and the direction of projection can, for example, have an angle other than 90 ° to the extension direction of the base light guide. The branch light guides can, however, also branch off from one another. That is to say that at least one branch light guide can branch off from the base light guide and from this at least one further branch light guide can branch off.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can have a plurality of base light guides, each of which has a plurality of branch light guides. The basic light guides can be connected, for example, so that a grid-shaped basic light guide is produced, or the basic light guides can be arranged at a distance from one another, for example in series with a parallel distance. Furthermore, the arrangement can have a light source, the light of which flows into the plurality of base light guides through the coupling-in surface of a single base light guide and / or the arrangement can have a plurality of light sources, wherein, for example, a respective light source can be assigned to a respective base light guide. However, it is also possible that a light guide is assigned to a plurality of light sources and / or that a light source is assigned to a plurality of light guides.

It is also advantageous if the light guide of the arrangement of the first embodiment has at least one or a respective decoupling structure for a respective branch light guide of at least a part of the branch light guide. The coupling-out structure is preferably designed in such a way that at least part of the light in the base light guide can be coupled into at least one branch light guide. In particular, a decoupling structure is assigned to a respective branch light guide. The coupling-out structure (s) can be designed in such a way that the brightness of the light that is coupled out from a respective coupling-out surface is uniform. It is also possible that the brightness of the light that is coupled out from the coupling-out surfaces is different. For example, the brightness of the light from one light-emitting area to an adjacent further light-emitting area can be gradually less if the light-emitting areas are arranged in a row, for example. The configuration of the coupling-out structure can produce a large number of different effects. Further it is possible through the respective decoupling structure to direct light specifically to the decoupling surfaces.

The coupling-out structure can, for example, be designed in the manner of a prism. If the coupling-out structure is prism-like, the base light guide can have a respective prism-like coupling-out structure for a respective branch light guide. In particular, the prism-like coupling-out structure is a reflection prism which is introduced into the basic light guide as a recess or is applied to the basic light guide as an additional volume. The at least one prism-like coupling-out structure is preferably formed on the side of a longitudinal side of the base light guide which points away from the side from which the associated branch light guide protrudes. If it is designed as a recess, the coupling-out structure can penetrate at least part of the cross section of the basic light guide. In particular, light from the coupling-out structure that propagates in the basic light guide is at least partially coupled into the associated light guide through the coupling-out structure designed as an optical prism. One advantage of the prism-like coupling-out structure is that the prism shape and / or the prism size can be used to set the direction and the amount of the light coupled out by the prism, which is coupled into a respective associated branch light guide. It is also possible for the respective decoupling structures of the branch light guides to differ from one another. For example, these can have different designs in order to realize homogeneous lighting. The coupling-out structure can also be introduced into the basic light guide with the aid of a laser. In other words, a surface can be created with the aid of a laser. The surface can, for example, be an internal engraving, which can be formed from gas bubbles, for example. In other words, the area introduced by the laser is an area formed in the base light guide, which can be formed, for example, from gas bubbles, in particular air bubbles, which can be introduced into the material of the base light guide by the laser. Because of the material transition and the difference in refractive index between the base light guide and the gas present in the gas bubbles, the air bubbles scatter the light, for example diffusely, and couple the light into the branch light guide. The surface that is incorporated into the basic light guide can be incorporated in a completely free form or 3D geometry. Depending on the position and number and density of the air bubbles in the area, the proportion of the light coupled into the branch light guide can be adjusted. That is to say, there are various options for implementing the coupling-out structure or the respective coupling-out structure, the type of implementation being able to depend, for example, on an intended use of the arrangement. One advantage if the coupling-out structure is introduced by a laser is, for example, that it can be designed very individually, and that no cost-intensive tool changes are necessary for an adaptation. Various decoupling structures can be introduced by the laser. Further decoupling structures (in particular when processing by a laser) can be for example (not exclusive): spherical segments, free form, irregular "roughening". The spherical segments can for example be introduced periodically into the basic light guide can be introduced into the base light guide or generated directly during manufacture of the light guide, for example by injection molding.

Furthermore, it is possible, in particular with a laser, to roughen a prism surface of the prism-like coupling-out structure. In this way, the light reflected by the roughened prism surface can diffusely reflect and couple into the branch light guide.

At least one light source can be assigned to the light guide according to the first embodiment. However, it is also possible that the light from at least two light sources can be coupled into the light guide through a respective and / or a common coupling surface. If the light sources have a common coupling-in surface, it is advantageous if this is so large that a large part of the light from the light sources can preferably be coupled into the coupling-in surface. If at least two light sources are provided, the light of which is coupled into a common coupling-in surface, then these can be arranged in a common housing. It is also possible that the light sources are a respective one Have housing. The light sources can be controlled differently, for example, so that, for example, different patterns can arise depending on whether the light source is switched on or off.

It is also possible, for example, for a light source to be arranged directly at at least one branch light guide in order to generate further light patterns. For example, light from a light source can be coupled directly into a coupling-out structure. The light from the light source can preferably be coupled in on a side of the base light guide which points away from the side from which the branch light guide protrudes.

The number of branch light guides can be arbitrary. Furthermore, both the shape of the basic light guide and / or the shape of the respective branch light guide can be freely selected. In this way, at least one branch light guide can have a cross section that differs from another branch light guide. Furthermore, a cross section that changes in a longitudinal direction of the branch light guide or the base light guide is possible. For example, the base light guide and / or the branch light guide can have a round cross section, in particular with a flattening on one side, and / or an elliptical cross section or a rectangular cross section and / or a square cross section and / or a "keyhole-shaped" cross section "Keyhole-shaped" cross section preferably has two sections, wherein a first section is rectangular or square or trapezoidal and a further second section is round. However, other polygons or free forms are also conceivable as cross-sections. Furthermore, the arrangement of the first

Embodiment for coupling the light from the light source / s into the light guide have a collimator and / or the light guide can have different and / or one optically active surface / s through which the light from the light source / s effectively enters the

Light guide can be coupled. The design of the coupling surface can be dependent on the application of the arrangement.

The light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment can for example be cabled through a network-like structure and / or individually cabled, that is, each light source has its own power supply, which extends from a power source to the respective light source, and / or is cabled in rows be. The wiring of the

Light sources can each be adapted to the shape of the vehicle component, so that the cabling is not visible, for example, and can be easily integrated into the vehicle component. The arrangement according to the first or second embodiment preferably fulfills a signal light function of a vehicle on which it can be arranged. The signal light function (s) is / are preferably a turn signal function and / or a brake light function and / or a rear light function and / or a daytime running light function and / or a position light function and / or a fog light function and / or a combination of the above and other functions are provided. This is advantageous because, in addition to a design effect, a

Function, for example the position light function, can be fulfilled.

In particular, in an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment, the vehicle component can be at least partially made of, in particular heat-conducting, plastic, for example ABS

(Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer). If the vehicle component is made of plastic, it is particularly advantageous if it is manufactured by injection molding, since the casting process thus results in the

Light source / s and / or the cabling can be easily integrated into the vehicle component. However, it is also possible that the vehicle component is at least partially made of glass or PC (polycarbonate) or PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) or GRP (glass fiber reinforced

Plastic) or metal, for example chrome, or wood or carbon.

The vehicle component is preferably a

Body component or part of an interior lining of a vehicle. The vehicle component is preferably a radiator grille, in particular a radiator grille of a vehicle with an internal combustion engine.

The light sources of the arrangement according to the second embodiment or the at least one light source of the Arrangement according to the first embodiment can in each case as a light-emitting diode (LED), and / or as an organic LED (OLED), and / or as a laser diode and / or as a laser activated remote phosphor (LARP) principle Light sources, and / or as a halogen lamp, and / or as a gas discharge lamp (High Intensity Discharge (HID)), and / or in connection with a projector operating according to a digital light processing (DLP) principle. A respective light source of the arrangement according to the second embodiment or the light source of the arrangement according to the first embodiment can be a matrix LED, ie a single component which has several emitting surfaces that can be individually controlled. This can be an RGB LED, but also a pixellated white light source with, for example, 320 pixels. A large number of alternatives are thus available as a light source for the lighting device according to the invention. Furthermore, a vehicle with the arrangement according to the first or second embodiment is provided. The vehicle can be an aircraft or a water-based vehicle or a land-based vehicle. The land vehicle can be a motor vehicle or a rail vehicle or a bicycle. The vehicle is particularly preferably a truck or a passenger car or a motorcycle. The vehicle can also be designed as a non-autonomous or partially autonomous or autonomous vehicle. An arrangement for a vehicle is provided. This has a vehicle component with a visible surface. The surface has a plurality of light emitting areas that are spaced from one another. Furthermore, according to a first embodiment, the arrangement has an optical waveguide which has at least one simple surface and a plurality of coupling-out surfaces, a respective coupling-out surface of at least part of the coupling-out surface of the optical waveguide being assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. Alternatively, according to a second embodiment, the arrangement has a plurality of light sources, a respective decoupling surface of a respective light source of at least some of the light sources being assigned to one of the light-emitting regions. A vehicle is also provided.

In the following, the invention is to be explained in more detail on the basis of exemplary embodiments. The figures show: FIG. 1 a plan view of an arrangement according to a first or second embodiment,

2 shows a perspective view of a light guide of the arrangement according to the first embodiment,

3 shows a perspective view of a light guide according to a further exemplary embodiment,

Fig. 4a is a perspective view of a

Outcoupling structure of the light guide, 4b shows a perspective, semitransparent view of a coupling-out structure according to a further exemplary embodiment of the light guide,

5a shows an exploded view of the arrangement according to the second embodiment,

FIG. 5b shows an arrangement of FIG. 5a in the assembled state,

6 shows a perspective view of a light guide according to a further exemplary embodiment with an image mask, and

7 shows a light image which is emitted by an arrangement according to the first or second embodiment.

Fig. 1 shows an arrangement 1 according to the first or the second embodiment, which is arranged on a vehicle 2, which is indicated here by a dashed line. The arrangement 1 has a vehicle component 4, which in this exemplary embodiment is a radiator grille. The vehicle component 4 has a surface 6 which is visible to an observer and which is visible when the vehicle 2 is viewed from the outside.

The vehicle component 4 has a lattice structure. The vehicle component 4 has a cutout 8 in the center for, for example, a brand logo and / or some other symbol. Lattice struts 10, which extend in a first direction, are adapted to the rounding of the recess 8. That is to say, these are curved, so that lattice struts 10, which are in the vicinity of the recess 8, partially enclose it and have an arcuate design are. The further away from the recess 8 the respective lattice struts 10 are arranged, the less curved they are. Lattice struts 12, which extend perpendicular to the lattice struts 10, are aligned approximately parallel to one another and straight. Preferably, the lattice struts 10 extend approximately in the vertical direction and the lattice struts 12 approximately in the horizontal direction. Of the lattice struts 10, 12 is off

For the sake of clarity, only one lattice strut is provided with a reference symbol.

Where the lattice struts 10, 12 intersect, intersection areas 14 are provided, at each of which a light-emitting area 16 is arranged. For reasons of clarity, only one intersection area 14 and one light-emitting area 16 are each provided with a respective reference number.

The light-emitting regions 16 shown here can each be assigned a respective decoupling surface of a light guide, which is not shown here, and / or a respective light source, which is also not shown here.

FIG. 2 shows a light guide 18 which has a base light guide 20 and, in this example three, branch light guides 22. The basic light guide 20 is cylindrical, in particular with a circular cross section, and extends in a straight direction. The branch light guides 22 are also each designed and extend in the shape of a cylinder, in particular with a circular cross section away from the base light guide 20 in a common direction at a regular distance from one another. The branch light guides 22 extend away from the base light guide 20 at an angle of 90 °. They are arranged at a parallel distance from one another.

The base light guide 20 has a coupling surface 24 into which the light from a light source, which is not shown here, can be coupled. The coupling surface 24 is arranged on one of the base surfaces of the cylindrical base light guide 20. In addition, the base light guide 20 has a further coupling surface 26 which is arranged on the other base surface. Therefore, the coupling-in surface 26 would have to be closed (e.g. also as a mirror to "recycle" the light) or used as a coupling-out surface.

The branch light guides 22 each have a respective decoupling surface 28, which is in this

Embodiment are arranged in a common plane and is arranged in each case on a base surface of the respective cylindrical branch light guide 22. In this exemplary embodiment, the branching light guides 22 are of uniform design. However, there is also the possibility that the branching light guides 22 protrude, for example, in different directions and / or in their direction

Shape are designed differently and / or protrude differently far from the base light guide.

In Fig. 3, a further embodiment of a light guide 30 is shown. This shows you lattice-shaped base light guide 32, with respective branch light guides 36 being formed at respective intersection regions 34 of the lattice-shaped base light guide 32, which protrude perpendicularly from the base light guide 32 in the same direction. The lattice structure of the basic light guide 32 is square and symmetrical. That is, the base light guide 32 has several, here five, grating struts which are arranged parallel to one another and extend at a regular distance from one another in an X direction. Several, here five, more lattice struts, extend perpendicular to the other lattice struts. In addition, they are regularly spaced from one another in a Y direction and are arranged parallel to one another. A respective lattice strut of the basic light guide 32 is, as in the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2, cylindrical, in particular with a circular cross section. That is to say, a respective lattice strut of the lattice-shaped base light guide 32 has a round cross section. The branch light guides 36 are designed in the same way as the branch light guides 22 of FIG. 2. That is to say, these protrude in the shape of a cylinder from the base light guide 32 at the intersection areas.

A coupling surface 38 can be arranged at each end of a respective lattice strut of the lattice-shaped base light guide 32, but here only one coupling surface 38 is provided with a reference number. It is also possible that only part of the ends of the grating struts and / or only one end of a grating strut of the basic light guide is a respective coupling surface 36. The branch light guides 36 have a respective decoupling surface 40 at the end. For reasons of clarity, only one decoupling surface 40 is provided with a reference number.

In this exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, the light guide 30 is designed in such a way that a brightness of the light coupled out from the respective coupling-out surfaces 40 gradually decreases in the Y direction and is constant in the X direction.

FIG. 4a shows part of a base light guide, for example the base light guide 20 of FIG. 2, and a branch light guide, for example the branch light guide 22 of FIG

Base light guide 20 has a round cross-sectional shape with a flattened side, the flattened side being a longitudinal side that is from the side from which the

Junction light guide 22 decouples, points away. By doing

Base light guide 20, a coupling-out structure 41 is formed in the flattened side. This is advantageous since the coupling-out structure 41 can thus be easily introduced.

The coupling-out structure 41 is a prism-like or wedge-shaped or ramp-shaped recess which is designed as an optical prism or reflection prism. The coupling-out structure is formed in the base light guide 20 on a longitudinal side which points away from the side from which the branch light guide 22 protrudes. The coupling-out structure 41 has at least one prism surface, from which the light, which is emitted via the coupling-in surface 24, which is not shown here, is at least partially is reflected, so that this at least partially couples into the branch light guide 22. For this purpose, this prism surface extends from the flattened side of the base light guide 20 into the base light guide 20 in the direction of the branch light guide 22. The coupling-out structure 41 is designed in particular such that light that is coupled into the coupling-in surface 24 partially strikes the prism surface. Therefore, the coupling-out structure 41 can in particular only penetrate a part of the cross section of the basic light guide 20. That is, the coupling-out structure 41 makes it possible for light to be coupled from the base light guide 20 into the branch light guide 22. Depending on the configuration of the coupling-out structure 41, i.e. how far the prism surface protrudes in the direction of the branch light guide 22 and what angle the prism surface has to the flattened side of the base light guide 20, a different amount of light can couple into the branch light guide 22.

4b also shows the base light guide 20 from which the branch light guide 22 protrudes. In this exemplary embodiment, the basic light guide 20 has a coupling-out structure 42. The coupling-out structure has a surface 46 from which the light in the base light guide 20 is partially reflected. The surface 46 extends from a side of the base light guide 20, which points away from the longitudinal side from which the branch light guide 22 protrudes, in the direction of the branch light guide 22. The surface 46 is generated, in particular by a laser. By the laser For example, the surface 46 can be made in the base light guide 20 as an internal engraving. The internal engraving can, for example, be formed from a multiplicity of gas bubbles and thus form a scattering center. Because of the material transition and the difference in refractive index between the base light guide and the gas bubbles, light can be reflected from them. That is to say, light which strikes the surface 46 is diffusely reflected from it and coupled into the branch light guide 22. The surface 46 does not extend through the entire cross section of the base light guide 20 to the branch light guide 22, so that not all of the light impinges on the surface 46.

FIG. 5a shows a light source 50 which is part of the arrangement 1 shown in FIG. In this exemplary embodiment, the light source 50 is an LED on a printed circuit board 54. The light source 50 has a coupling-out surface 56 which is assigned to one of the light-emitting regions 16 shown in FIG. In this exemplary embodiment, the light that is emitted from the coupling-out surface 56 is coupled into a light guide 58, which represents an optical element. The light guide 58 is cylindrical and extends straight and perpendicular to the decoupling surface 56 of the light source 50. The light that is coupled into the cylindrical light guide 58 is guided through it to a decoupling surface 60 of the light guide 58. The light that is decoupled from the decoupling surface 60 can couple into an element that is in particular optically active and in this case is a diffuser 62. The cylindrical diffuser 62 has a circular shape Cross-sectional area and has the same diameter as the cylindrical light guide 58 and is arranged on the coupling-out surface 60. The diffuser and the light guide 58 are arranged coaxially with one another.

Furthermore, an image mask 64, which in this exemplary embodiment is designed as a cap, is arranged in FIG. 5a. That is, the image mask 64 is hollow cylindrical with a bottom and can be placed or pushed over the light guide 58 and the diffuser 62. A recess 66 through which the light exits is provided in the image mask 64. The recess 66 is formed in the bottom of the image mask 64. In other words, the image mask 64 is designed in the form of a cover, the recess 66 being provided in a cover base.

In FIG. 5b, a further exemplary embodiment, in contrast to FIG. 5a, of an image mask 67 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of light-emitting regions 16 are preferably arranged next to one another on the visible surface 6, which is shown in FIG. 1. A light source 50 can be assigned to each light-emitting region 16. In order to facilitate and accelerate assembly of the image mask 67, the image mask 67 can have a plurality of caps, these being designed like the image mask 64 of FIG. 5a. The caps are connected by webs so that they have a predetermined and suitable spacing in order to be easily attached to the light guides 58, which are arranged next to one another, or to hold the light guides (if, for example, the grid 4 or 14 already contains the caps 67 or the caps 67 are part of the component 4). In Fig. 5b only one light source 50 with a light guide 58 is shown for reasons of simplicity. 6 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a light guide 68 which has a base light guide 70 and a branch light guide 72. Of the

Base light guide 70, which has an essentially cylindrical basic shape with a circular cross-section, is on its of the

Branch light guide 72 flattened long side pointing away. The branch light guide 72 is cylindrical. A decoupling surface 74 of the branch light guide 72 has an elevation 76 which, in this exemplary embodiment, is star-shaped. Furthermore, an image mask 78 is provided, which is designed like the image mask 66 of FIG. 5a. That is to say, the image mask 78 also has a cutout 80. This is designed in a star shape. The image mask 78, which is in the form of a cap, can be placed or plugged over the coupling-out surface 74 of the light guide 72 and the star-shaped elevation 76 then protrudes through the star-shaped recess 80 over the image mask 78. 7 shows an example of a light image that can be emitted by an arrangement that has, for example, the light guide 30 of FIG Figures 5a and 5b are provided to emit the respective star-shaped light images.

REFERENCE LIST

Arrangement 1

Vehicle 2 Vehicle component 4 Visible surface 6 Recess 8 Grid strut 10,

Crossing area 14 light emitting area 16

Light guides 18, 30, 68

Base light guides 20, 32, 70 branch light guides 22, 36, 72 coupling surface 24, 26, 38 coupling surface 28, 40, 56, 74 intersection area 34 coupling structure 41, 42 surfaces 44, 46 light source 50 printed circuit board 54 Light guide 58

Decoupling side 60 diffuser 62

Image mask 64, 67, 78 recess 66, 80

Survey 76

Claims

EXPECTATIONS

1. An arrangement for a vehicle (2), wherein this has a vehicle component (4) with a visible surface (6), the visible surface (6) having a plurality of light-emitting regions (16) which are spaced apart, the

Vehicle component (4) has a plurality of light sources (50), a respective decoupling surface (56) of a respective light source (50) of at least part of the light sources (50) being assigned to one of the light-emitting areas (16) in order to remove light from the light-emitting Emitting area (16), characterized in that the

Arrangement has an image mask (64, 67) for at least some of the light-emitting areas (16) and / or a respective image mask (64, 67) for a respective light-emitting area (16) of at least some of the light-emitting areas (16) shield at least part of the light that is coupled out from a respective light-emitting area (16) in order to emit at least one symbol.

2. Arrangement according to claim 1, wherein it has at least one optical element (58) which is connected downstream of the coupling-out surface (56) of at least one of the light sources (50).

3. Arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the at least one image mask (64, 67) on the coupling-out surface (56) at least one of the light sources (50) is arranged or the at least one image mask (64, 67) is arranged on at least one coupling-out surface (60) of the at least one optical element (58), and the image mask (64, 67) has at least one recess (66) ), at least a part of the coupling-out surface (56, 60) at least partially in the

Recess (66) protrudes and / or at least partially protrudes from the image mask (64, 67) via the recess (66).

4. Arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one image mask (64, 67) form-fitting with at least the decoupling surface (56) at least one of the light sources (50) and / or with the

Outcoupling surface (60) of the at least one optical element (58) and / or with at least one of the

Light sources (50) and / or is connected to the optical element (58).

5. Arrangement for a vehicle (2), this one

Vehicle component (4) with a visible surface (6), the visible surface (6) having a plurality of light-emitting regions (16) which are spaced from one another, the arrangement (1) at least one light guide (18, 30, 68 ) which has at least one coupling-in surface (28, 26, 38) for light from at least one light source and a plurality of coupling-out surfaces (28, 40, 74), with a respective coupling-out surface (28, 40, 74) of at least part of the coupling-out surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18, 30, 68) is assigned to one of the light-emitting areas (16) in order to emit light from the light-emitting area (16), characterized in that the arrangement includes an image mask (78) for at least part of the light-emitting areas (16) and / or a respective image mask (78) for a respective light-emitting area (16) of at least part of the light-emitting areas (16) in order to at least part of the light emitted from a respective light-emitting area (16) decoupled, shield to emit at least one character.

6. Arrangement for a vehicle (2), this having a vehicle component (4) with a visible surface (6), the visible surface (6) having a

Has a plurality of light-emitting regions (16) which are spaced from one another, wherein the arrangement (1) has a plurality of light sources (50) and wherein the arrangement (1) has at least one light guide (18, 30, 68) having at least one

Coupling surface (28, 26, 38) for light from at least one further light source and a plurality of coupling-out surfaces (28, 40, 74), with a respective coupling-out surface (56) of a respective light source (50) of at least some of the light sources (50) and a respective decoupling surface (28, 40, 74) of at least part of the

Outcoupling surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18,

30, 68) each to one of the light-emitting areas (16) is assigned to emit light from the light-emitting region (16), characterized in that the arrangement has a

Image mask (78) for at least some of the light-emitting areas (16) and / or a respective image mask (78) for a respective light-emitting area (16) of at least one

Part of the light-emitting areas (16) has to shield at least part of the light that is coupled out from a respective light-emitting area (16) in order to emit at least one symbol.

7. Arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the at least one image mask (78) on at least one of the decoupling surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18,

30, 68) is arranged and the at least one

Image mask (78) has at least one recess (80), at least part of the coupling-out surface (28, 40, 74) at least partially protruding into the recess (80) and / or at least over the recess (80) from the image mask (78) partially protrudes.

8. Arrangement according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the at least one image mask (78) form-fit with at least one of the decoupling surfaces (28, 40, 74) of the light guide (18, 30, 68) and / or with the

Light guide (18, 30, 68) is connected.

9. Arrangement according to one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the light guide (18, 30, 68) is a base light guide

(20, 32, 70), the at least one coupling surface

(28, 26, 38), and a plurality of

Branch light guides (22, 36, 72) which have a respective decoupling surface (28, 40, 74), the branch light guides (22, 36, 72) branching off from the base light guide (20, 32, 70).

10. The arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the light guide

(18, 30, 68) at least one or a respective one

Outcoupling structure (41, 42) for one or for a respective branch light guide (22, 36, 72) has at least a part of the branch light guides (22, 36, 72), the outcoupling structure (41,

42) is designed such that at least part of the light in the base light guide (20, 32, 70) in at least one or a respective

Branch light guides (22, 36, 72) of the part of the branch light guides (22, 36, 72) can be coupled in.

11. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the vehicle component (4) has a comb structure or lattice structure, the light-emitting areas (16) at intersection areas (14) of lattice struts (10, 12) and / or on comb struts or the lattice struts (10, 12) are arranged.

12. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the light sources (50) is integrated into the vehicle component (4).

13. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the vehicle component (4) is a radiator grille or other ventilation grille on the vehicle.

Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 13, the at least one image mask (64, 67, 78) being part of the vehicle component (4).

15. Vehicle with the arrangement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14.