WO2022129617A1

WO2022129617A1 - Light-emitting device for a motor vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2022129617A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/086660
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yves Gromfeld
Original assignee: Valeo Vision
Priority date: 2020-12-18
Filing date: 2021-12-17
Publication date: 2022-06-23
Also published as: FR3118126A1; CN116685801A; EP4263286A1; FR3118126B1

Abstract

Light-emitting module (1, 5, 7) for a motor vehicle, the module comprising at least one light-emitting assembly (2) able to emit light rays and an optical system (4) placed, on a specific optical axis (100, 500, 700) of the light-emitting module, crosswise to the light rays and configured to project a light beam, the at least one light-emitting assembly (2) being placed in the vicinity of an object focal plane of the optical system (4), characterized in that the optical system (4) forms an element (6) for closing the light-emitting module and in that the light-emitting assembly (2) is mounted on a rotatable carrier (8) that is rotated by a specific drive system (10) independently of the optical system (4).

Description

Luminous device for a motor vehicle

The invention relates to the field of lighting and/or light signaling in the automotive field, and more particularly to systems for adjusting the position of light modules of a light device for a motor vehicle.

The field of lighting and/or light signaling of motor vehicles is subject to regulations which require that each motor vehicle be equipped with lights, fulfilling specific safety functions, and in particular main beam and dipped beam headlights . Dipped headlights allow a motor vehicle to be seen by other users and its driver to properly see the roadway up to 30 meters away, without dazzling the users present on the road scene. The main beam headlights emit more intense light beams so that the driver of the motor vehicle can see the roadway properly, at least 100 meters away in nighttime conditions.

It is known that dipped beam headlights and main beam headlights are implemented by two light modules, each light module being able to comprise an essentially point light source, for example of the light-emitting diode type, and a collector, which comprises a reflecting surface of revolution with an elliptical profile. The light source is then located at a first focal point of the reflecting surface, being oriented so as to illuminate essentially in the direction of said surface. The light rays are reflected in a convergent manner towards a second focus of the reflective surface of the collector, coincident with a focus of an optical system of the light module, such as a lens, configured to project a light beam reflected by the collector towards the pavement.

It is in particular known to have a light device in which a first light module able to generate a dipped beam and in which a second light module is able to generate a complementary beam, which in addition to the dipped beam forms a road beam.

In this context, the second light module can in particular be configured to generate a matrix beam which can be turned off or turned on partially so as not to dazzle road users. And the first light module, intended to form the dipped beam, can comprise two distinct light sources, that is to say respectively associated with different optical systems, with different focal lengths within the same module luminous.

Within a motor vehicle, the light modules allowing the implementation of dipped beam headlights and main beam headlights can be grouped together in the same light device arranged on the front face of a motor vehicle, in particular to facilitate the production of optical continuity when switching from dipped beam to main beam. When the light device is mounted on a motor vehicle, it is necessary to precisely adjust the orientation of each light module, in order to ensure that the light beam projected by each light module correctly illuminates the road in accordance with the regulations and to elsewhere to ensure that the transition from one light to another is as smooth as possible.

It is known for this to use different adjustment systems, including means for moving the modules in translation as a whole within the headlamp or means making it possible to control the pivoting of the light module as a whole and according to different directions of rotation. , and in particular along a substantially horizontal axis of rotation perpendicular to the optical axis of the light devices. Such adjustment systems allow movement of each module as a whole, that is to say of the light source and the associated optical system, within the device, sheltered behind a glass closing the housing in which its received the modules.

Such systems for adjusting light devices can however have the disadvantage of being bulky and complex to use. The adjustments allowed by such systems are all the more complicated as the light modules within the same light device consist of several different types of modules, with different lighting functions.

Furthermore, the movements of the modules as a whole are made possible by a design of the headlamp such that the modules are housed in a box closed by a closing lens, at a distance from which the modules are arranged. However, it may be desired by a car manufacturer to provide a headlamp without lens, that is to say a headlamp in which the optical systems of each light module are visible from the outside of the vehicle, being not covered by a closing glass.

In this context, the invention aims to propose, according to a first aspect, a light module for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one light emission assembly capable of emitting light rays and an optical system arranged, on a specific optical axis of the light module , across the light rays and configured to project a light beam, the at least one light emission assembly being arranged in the vicinity of an object focal plane of the optical system.

According to the invention, the light module is remarkable in that the optical system forms a closing element of the light module and in that the light emission assembly is mounted on a rotary support driven in rotation by a drive system specific, independent of the optical system.

In other words, the present invention proposes a light module inside which the position of the light emission assembly, and in particular of a light source composing it, can be adjusted, by a rotational movement, by with respect to the position of the optical system which moreover participates in forming a closing element of the light module, if necessary visible from outside the vehicle, so that this closing element must remain stationary. It is thus possible to freeze the position of the optical system with respect to a reference which may in particular consist of a headlamp structure or of a structure of the vehicle in which the headlamp is positioned and once this position has been ensured, allow the adjustment of the position of the light emission assembly, and in particular of the light source, with respect to this optical system.

The applicant has been able to verify empirically that it is possible, when it is desired to raise the level of the beam projected by a light module placed in a headlamp without lens, to replace a movement in translation of a light module in its together within the device by a displacement in rotation only of the light source, and if necessary of the collector, photometric readings having determined that the beam is adjusted in a similar way by displacing in rotation the source independently of the optical system, since an optimal position of the axis of rotation is found.

By light module, it is necessary to understand a lighting unit comprising at least the light emission assembly and the optical system arranged on the path of the rays emitted by the light emission assembly. Depending on the type of light module, namely a module configured to project a dipped beam or else a module configured to project a driving beam or else a complementary beam capable of forming a driving beam with the dipped beam, the characteristics of light emission set may vary.

A light emission assembly includes at least one light source and may include a collector if necessary. The light-emitting assembly may in particular comprise a light source of the semiconductor type and may consist of a light-emitting diode (abbreviated as LED) or a plurality of light-emitting diodes formed at the level of an object focal plane of the optical system.

As mentioned previously, the light source can be associated in the light emission assembly with a collector, towards which the light source emits its rays and which is configured to collimate or deflect the light rays emitted by the light source by direction of the optical system. The optical system can then be configured to project an image of the reflective surface of the collector. In other words, the image projected on the road scene by the light device consists of a direct image of the collector and the shape of the latter influences the image projected on the road scene.

The module according to the invention may also have one or more of the characteristics mentioned below, taken alone or in combination when these characteristics allow it.

According to a characteristic of the invention, the light source and the collector are fixed on the same rotating support.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the light module is associated with a calculation module configured to communicate control instructions to the drive system. In this context of automated adjustment, the calculation module takes into account the position of the axis of rotation of the rotary support to determine by calculation the angle of rotation to be given and therefore the corresponding displacement of the drive system. It is understood that the calculation module can be housed in a casing delimiting the light module or else be placed in a light device in which the light module is also housed, or even be present in the motor vehicle, at a distance from the light module, as long as it is configured to communicate with the drive system.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the drive system comprises a stepper motor connected to the rotary support via a lever arm of said drive system. In other words, the position of the light emission assembly is adjusted step by step, via the rotary support, by controlling the motor.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the motor and the lever arm are housed in a casing participating in delimiting with the closing element a volume for receiving the light module. In this way, it is possible to provide protection for the motor, and for the drive system as a whole, in a volume closed by the closure element.

According to a characteristic of the invention, the rotary support is made rotatable around an axis of rotation which is perpendicular to the optical axis and at a distance from the light emission assembly. In other words, the system for adjusting the light emission assembly with respect to the optical system is in particular configured to allow adjustment of the attitude of the light device, that is to say the vertical orientation of the beam emitted by this light device with respect to a horizontal line.

According to a characteristic of the invention, the optimal position of the axis of rotation around which the rotary support is made mobile is determined by calculation according to mechanical characteristics of the drive system and/or according to optical characteristics of the light module .

According to a characteristic of the invention, the position of the axis of rotation of the rotary support is in the vicinity of the optical system. By proximity, it is understood that the position of said axis of rotation is in contact with the optical system or separated from the latter by a distance less than or equal to three times, in particular less than or equal to twice the maximum thickness of the optical system. The maximum thickness of the optical system is measured along the direction of the optical axis between the first face of the optical system encountered by the light rays emitted by the light source and the last face of the optical system encountered by said rays before leaving the module luminous. It corresponds to the greatest distance measured, in the direction of the optical axis, between these two faces, when traversing the entire optical system transversely to this axis.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the axis of rotation of the rotary support is arranged on the side of the optical system opposite to the light emission assembly.

According to a feature of the invention, the light module may consist of a module configured to generate a dipped beam.

The light emission assembly may comprise two light sources offset laterally relative to each other so as to be arranged respectively facing a first optical system associated with a first of the two light sources and a second optical system associated with a second of the two light sources, the closure element being formed by the lateral juxtaposition of the first and second optical systems, the two light sources being arranged on different object focal planes with respect to their associated optical system. The light module is remarkable in that the two light sources are driven in rotation around the same axis forming said axis of rotation, independently of the closure element.

In this context of a bifocal light module, that is to say having two focal planes offset relative to each other, a calculation unit configured to calculate an optimal position of the axis of rotation is parameterized with an equation taking into account only the optical characteristics of the module, independently of the mechanical characteristics of the drive system. Thus, it is ensured to find, by a trigonometric calculation in particular, an axis of rotation allowing, during the rotation of the light emission assembly, that the displacement of one of the sources is greater than the displacement of the other source and that these different movements allow uniform adjustment of the two portions of the main beam formed by each light source.

The equation can be written as:

, with :

- D, the distance along the optical axis between the axis of rotation and the light source furthest from the optical system of the light module;

- F1, F2, the distance from the object focal plane for each of the light sources, with F1 the distance associated with the source closest to the optical system of the light module;

- H1, H2, the theoretical adjustment height of each of the light sources, with H1 the height associated with the source closest to the optical system of the light module.

The collector of such a light module may in particular consist here of a reflector, equipped with a reflective surface configured to deflect the light rays emitted by the light source in the direction of the optical system. The reflector has an elliptical or parabolic shape, an elliptical reflector advantageously making it possible to reduce the height of the optical system, consisting for example of a projection lens, provided on the trajectory of the reflected light rays.

The reflector can be configured in order to present an end edge in the vicinity of the light source with a specific profile, for example on a staircase, which contributes to giving the projected image an appropriate profile, and in particular an appropriate cut-off, for achieving a desired optical function.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the light module may consist of a module configured to generate a complementary beam to the dipped beam, to form a high beam beam.

The complementary part of the beam formed by this module can be a matrix beam forming the upper part of the beam and the matrix cutting of this beam makes it possible to switch on or off one of the bands of the beam to avoid dazzling a driver of another vehicle , whether or not one of the sources is switched on.

The light emission assembly may comprise a plurality of light sources arranged in a matrix in which each light source is capable of being powered independently of the other light sources.

In this context of a light emission assembly with a matrix of light sources, a calculation unit configured to calculate an optimal position of the axis of rotation comprises a storage memory in which is stored a database obtained in such a way empirical and taking into account the mechanical characteristics of the drive system.

The collector of such a light module, comprising a light emission assembly with a matrix of light sources, the collector of the light emission assembly may consist of a collimator, crossed by the light rays emitted by the light sources of the matrix which are supplied, said collimator being configured to direct the light rays towards a single optical system of the light module. As mentioned, the light emission assembly is arranged in the vicinity of the object focal plane of the optical system and it is more particularly an output face of the collimator which is arranged on or substantially on this object focal plane of the optical system.

According to characteristics of the invention, the rotary support comprises a printed circuit board on which are fixed the light source, and if necessary the collector.

According to a characteristic of the invention, the optical system consists of a projection lens. The optical system may consist, more specifically in the context of a compact luminous device, of a thin projection lens, having a thickness, that is to say a dimension perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system, which may be less than 8.5mm, and for example of the order of 7mm. In order to reduce the size of a light module and of a light device in which this light module is capable of being integrated, the optical system is particularly arranged close to the light source and, where appropriate, close to the collector of the corresponding module. By way of example, when the module comprises a collector and when the latter has an elliptical shape, the optical system can be interposed between the first focal point and the second focal point of said collector.

The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to a motor vehicle lighting device, comprising a housing and at least two light modules in accordance with what has just been described above and housed in said housing.

In other words, the invention relates to a light device, forming a motor vehicle headlamp, comprising a first light module, the at least one light source of which is able to be made rotatable independently of the optical system of this first module. light and also comprising a second light module, the at least one light source of which is able to be made rotatable independently of the optical system of this second light module. Thus, within the same headlamp, a first light module capable of generating a dipped beam and a second module capable of generating a main beam or a beam complementary to the dipped beam are arranged side by side to form a road, and it is ensured by appropriate means specific to each module that the two beams can be adjusted uniformly when the vehicle leaves the factory, for example.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the closure element of each light module participates in closing the housing of the light device, the closure element of one of the light modules being made in one piece with the closure element of the other light module.

In other words, the light device, or motor vehicle headlamp, has a volume closed by a closing window and inside which the components of each light module are arranged, the optical systems being integrated in the closing window. . The closing window thus comprises in one piece the two optical systems and support portions able to ensure the fixing of the closing window on the housing.

More particularly, the closing window is at least partially transparent, and it is configured to integrate the optical systems of at least two light modules of the light device. By integrating the optical systems, we understand both a configuration in which the closing window integrates the optical systems, that is to say that it is made in one piece with the optical systems, or a configuration in which the closing window carries the optical systems, that is to say that the optical systems are attached to the closing window. The closing window and the optical systems can thus be made of identical materials, for example polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC), or the closing window can be similar to a protective window and be made in a neutral material such as glass or synthetic polymers such as polyetherimide (PEI), in order to carry the optical systems which can themselves be made of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC).

According to one characteristic of the invention, the optical systems consist of defined portions of the closing window, presenting, for example, a convex face facing the light source of the corresponding light module. In other words, the closing window may have an internal face, facing the inside of the case, which is substantially flat, with the exception of the two zones formed by the optical systems integrated in the closing window, which respectively have a domed shape via their convex face.

According to one characteristic of the invention, a first light module conforms to what has been described above with two light sources respectively associated with an optical system, that is to say a bifocal system, and a second light module conforms to what was previously described with a plurality of emitting sources arranged in a matrix.

According to one characteristic of the invention, each light module has an axis of rotation of the at least one light source of this module which is arranged at a distance from the closure element, and the axes of rotation are arranged at distances different from the closure element from one light module to another.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the light module comprises, in addition to the rotation drive system, means for stopping in position making it possible to freeze the position of the light emission assembly once the latter has pivoted from an appropriate angle.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the means for stopping in position comprise an actuating element passing through a wall of the projection device. In this way, the means for stopping in position can be implemented from outside the casing delimiting the volume of the projection device in which the light modules are arranged. The sealing of the luminous device is made easy, the sealing only having to be managed at the level of the passage zones through the housing. It is possible to provide sealing elements around these passage zones, advantageously compressed when the light module stops in position.

According to a characteristic of the invention, the position of the light device as a whole, as previously mentioned, with possible independent drive of each of the light modules arranged inside the light device, can be adjusted by a specific adjustment device to the light device. Thus, it is advantageously possible, because of this staggered adjustment with on the one hand an independent adjustment of the light sources of the light modules and on the other hand a simultaneous adjustment of these light modules by a displacement of the housing housing these light modules in its together, to carry out an optimal adjustment in several sequences of adjustments in different places. In particular, it is possible to adjust at the manufacturer of the light device the position of each of the light emission assemblies relative to each other, in order to ensure that in a given position of the light device, the beams projected by the first light module and by the second light module are consistent, then to adjust the position of the light device as a whole when it is mounted on the vehicle.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the closing window comprises at least two fixing portions, for example by gluing, on the housing of the luminous device, said fixing portions being optically neutral. By optically neutral, it is understood that the rays passing through the material considered are not or almost not deflected.

According to one characteristic of the invention, each optically neutral zone of the closing window is arranged superimposed on an opaque wall of the case. In this way, the housing of the light device and the protective glass form a sealed space, configured to protect the light modules from the environment external to the vehicle. These opaque walls make it possible in particular to absorb, at least in part, external light rays, for example emitted by the sun or any artificial source of light external to the motor vehicle, likely to enter the internal volume of the light device.

The presence of the invention also proposes a motor vehicle comprising at least one light device as previously explained, arranged on the front face and/or on the rear face of the motor vehicle.

Other characteristics, details and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows on the one hand, and several examples of embodiment given by way of indication and not limitation with reference to the appended schematic drawings on the other. part, on which:

illustrates a vehicle whose front headlight comprises a light device according to one aspect of the invention;

is a schematic representation of a lighting device according to one aspect of the invention and in particular suitable for equipping the vehicle with the , with a housing housing a first light module and a second light module, each light module being in a first configuration;

is a schematic representation equivalent to that of the , wherein the first light module and a second light module, housed in the housing, are in a second configuration;

is a perspective view of a first light module of the device of FIGS. 2 and 3, comprising two separate light emission assemblies;

is a perspective view of a second light module of the device of FIGS. 2 and 3, comprising at least one matrix assembly of light sources;

is a schematic representation of the first light module of the , illustrating more particularly the means for rotating the first light module, with the position of the axis of rotation which is determined by calculation via an equation taking into account the mechanical characteristics of the drive system;

is a schematic representation of the light module of the , more particularly illustrating the means for rotating the second light module, with the position of the axis of rotation which is determined by means of an equation taking into account only the optical characteristics of the module, independently of the mechanical characteristics of the drive system.

It should first be noted that the figures expose the invention in detail for its implementation, but that said figures can of course be used to better define the invention, if necessary.

By convention, throughout this document, the qualifier "longitudinal" applies to the direction in which the optical axis of at least one of the light modules extends, the qualifiers "transverse" and "vertical" s 'applying respectively to directions substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and mutually perpendicular.

As a reminder, the invention relates in particular to a light module 1 of a motor vehicle, comprising at least one light emission assembly 2 and an optical system 4 arranged across the light rays emitted to project a light beam, with the optical system which forms a closure element 6 of the light module 1 and the light emission assembly which is mounted on a rotary support 8 driven in rotation by a specific drive system 10, independently of the optical system.

Such a light module 1 can in particular be arranged on the front face 12 of the vehicle, in a front headlamp configured to project onto the road scene on which the vehicle is traveling a light beam, whether this is for example a dipped beam or a beam of road.

More particularly, the light module 1 according to the invention can be implemented in a light device 14 of the projector type without lens, as illustrated in the and detailed below.

A headlamp without glass is such that, for at least one light module housed in the headlamp, no optical element, even if it is optically neutral, is arranged between the optical system 4 of this light module 1 and the road on which the beam created by the light module is projected.

Figures 2 and 3 illustrate an embodiment of the invention, with a light device 14 comprising a housing 16 housing a plurality of light modules 1 here two in number.

The box 16 comprises a plurality of walls defining an internal housing 18 open on an end face facing directly towards the roadway, said end face being closed by means of a closing window 20.

The walls defining the case may be opaque in order to absorb any light rays external to the light device. The light modules 1 housed in the housing are thus protected from the environment external to the vehicle, in particular from bad weather, the accumulation of dirt, or the rays of the sun for example, by the assembly formed by the closing window 20 and through box 16.

More particularly, in the example illustrated, the case 16 comprises in particular a partially open front wall 22, with a first opening 24 formed between a central strip 26 and the upper edge of the front wall which is covered by the closing window 20, and a second slot 28 formed between the central strip 26 and the lower edge of the front wall which is covered by the closing window 20.

The closing window 20 integrates the optical systems 4 of each of the light modules 1 so that, as mentioned above, no optical element is arranged between these optical systems and the roadway. More specifically, each optical system 4 forms both a closing element 6 of the light module 1 to which it belongs, and participates in forming, with the optical system of the other light module, the closing window 20 of the light device 14 in which are housed the at least two light modules 1.

The closing window 20 can, in this context of integration, be made of the same material as that of the optical systems 4, or else be made of a second material distinct from that used to make the optical systems, since this second material has no optical effect. The protective pane 20 and/or the optical systems 4 integrated in the protective pane can be made of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or of polycarbonate (PC). Each optical system, integrated in the closing window, respectively forms part of one of the light modules, so that these optical systems will be described in more detail below.

Closing window 20 also comprises fixing portions 30 intended to be pressed against the internal face of front wall 22, around

slots

24, 26 formed in this front wall. The closing window 20 thus forms a protective physical barrier between the light modules and the environment external to the vehicle.

The light modules 1 are housed inside the casing 16 in such a way that they can be adjusted in rotation inside the internal casing 18 defined by the casing 16 and the closing window 20 of the light device 14 and it is appropriate to note that moreover, this luminous device can be adjustable in position as a whole, with respect to the structure of the vehicle in particular, via a more conventional adjustment device, which can allow movement according to a multiaxial rotational movement of the housing of the device light for example. More particularly, and as shown schematically in Figures 2 and 3, the housing 16 is attached to a structure 32 of the motor vehicle by at least one adjustable fixing member 34 forming this conventional adjustment device as mentioned.

The adjustment in position of the light modules is particular here in that the light emission assemblies 2 of each light module 1 can be pivoted independently of the fixed position of the optical system 4 associated with each of the light emission assemblies 2. In the example shown, the optical systems 4 are fixed with respect to a vehicle frame of reference, and here with respect to the housing 16 of the luminous device 14, being in contact with and directly fixed to the front wall 22 of the housing of the luminous device. Conversely, the light emission assemblies 2 are carried by the housing 16 of the luminous device via a rotary support 8 making it possible to pivot the light emission assemblies 2, and in particular the light sources, with respect to said vehicle reference system and so compared to optical systems 4.

As will be mentioned below, the rotary support 8 thus participates in forming a system for adjusting the position of the associated light source, and stop means in position associated with this rotary support can be provided to make it possible to freeze the position of the rotary support 8 when the adjustment of the position of the light emission assembly is completed. The rotary support 8 is in particular configured to include pivot members participating in forming the axis of rotation and to be linked to a drive system 10 which tends to push on the support to force it to pivot around the axis of rotation. spin.

In the example illustrated, each light module 1 comprises on the one hand a light emission assembly 2, with a light source 36 capable of emitting light rays, and a collector 38, configured to collimate or deflect the light rays emitted by the light source 36 along an optical axis 100 of the light module 1, and on the other hand an optical system 4, arranged on the path of the light rays and configured to form with these rays a regulatory light beam.

For each light module 1, it is the light emission assembly 2, and therefore the light source 36 and, where appropriate, the collector 38, which is secured to the rotary support 8.

Each optical system 4 is specifically part of a light module 1, being specifically associated with a light emission assembly 2, and it is also part, as mentioned above, of the closing window 20 defining with the housing 16 a housing common to both modules.

In the example illustrated, the light device 14 is configured to receive in its housing two light modules 1, and more particularly a first light module 5 and a second light module 7. The first light module 5 is here configured so as to form a first light beam corresponding to regulatory lighting of the dipped beam type and the second light module 7 is here configured to form a second light beam complementary to the first light beam so that the combination of these two beams can form a regulatory beam of the dipped beam type road.

The first light module 5 will now be more particularly described, with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, it being understood that other forms of modules could be implemented when, as mentioned above, at least the emission light of this first light module is configured so that its position can be adjusted by rotation independently of the optical system of this light module.

The light emission assembly 2 here comprises two light sources 36a, 36b of the semiconductor type, or more particularly two groups of light sources, arranged on a printed circuit board 40 fixed to the rotary support 8.

These two groups of light sources 36a, 36b are offset from each other laterally, that is to say along a transverse direction perpendicular to the optical axis 500 of the first light module 5 and included in the plane main elongation of the printed circuit board 40, so as to be arranged respectively opposite one of the two

optical systems

4a, 4b that comprises the first light module 5, these two

optical systems

4a, 4b also being offset laterally l one relative to the other.

The first light module 5 here forms a double focal system, because the two

optical systems

4a, 4b are aligned along a transverse direction perpendicular to the optical axis 500 while the two groups of light sources 36a, 36b are offset longitudinally along the optical axis 500 in addition to their previously mentioned transverse offset. The alignment of the

optical systems

4a, 4b makes it possible to generate a closure element 6 of the first light module which extends substantially in one piece, mainly perpendicular to the optical axis 500, and the longitudinal offset of the groups of light sources 36a, 36b implies a position of a first group at a first focal distance F1 of the associated optical system 4a and a position of a second group at a second focal distance F2 of the associated optical system 4b.

This arrangement makes it possible to generate a dipped beam with two portions of the beam which are distinct by their concentration of light rays, so as for example to increase the concentration of light rays at the center and at the level of the cut-off of the light beam projected by the first light module.

The fixing of these two groups of light sources 36a, 36b on the same rotary support 8 makes it possible to drive all the light sources 36 in rotation around the same first axis of rotation 101, independently of the closure element 6 .

Each light source 36 is configured to emit light rays in a half-space delimited by the main elongation plane of the printed circuit board, in particular in the direction of the collector 38 associated with each light source.

Each collector 38 has a reflective internal surface configured to deflect the light rays emitted by the light source 36 of the corresponding light module in the direction of the optical system 4 along an optical axis specific to each light module. In this way, the image projected onto the road scene by the light module consists of direct imaging of the collector 38.

Collector 38 is advantageously made of materials with good heat resistance, for example glass or synthetic polymers such as polycarbonate (PC) or polyetherimide (PEI).

In this first light module 5, each collector 38 has a substantially elliptical shape and each light source 36 is particularly arranged at a first focal point of the collector associated with it so that the deflected rays are directed towards a second focal point. of the elliptical collector arranged on the optical axis 100. The optical system 4 is arranged on the optical axis 100 between the two focal points of the elliptical collector, on the path of the deflected light rays, the optical system 4 extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to said optical axis.

The optical system 4 here has the form of a converging lens, the focal point of which is arranged here in the vicinity of the collector 38. The optical system 4 of each light module can in particular consist of a thin projection lens, for example with a thickness of l order of 7mm. It should be noted that such a projection lens configuration is given here only by way of example and that it could be provided, without departing from the context of the invention, a projection lens having a greater thickness and made in several layers.

As seen in Figures 2 and 3, the first light module 5 is pivotable about a first axis of rotation 101 perpendicular to the optical axis 500 so that the optical system 4 of this first light module 5 remains fixed. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate in particular the first light module 5 within the light device 14 in a first position ( ) corresponding to the mounting position, with an optical axis 500 of the first light module 5 which is included in a main elongation plane of the vehicle, substantially horizontal, and in a second position ( ) corresponding to a trim adjustment position, with the optical axis 500 which is angularly offset, around the first axis of rotation 101. More particularly, the light emission assembly 2 and the rotary support 8 on which the light emission assembly is fixed are rotatable around this first axis of rotation 101.

The rotary support 8 of the first light module 5 comprises means for guiding in rotation around this first axis of rotation, an embodiment of which will be described below with reference to the in particular, and it is made mobile by means of a drive system 10. The drive system here comprises a motor 44 whose operation generates the movement of a lever arm 46 bearing against the support rotary. By way of non-limiting example, the motor can be controlled via a calculation module housed in the casing of the light device.

The rotation guide means are configured so that the first axis of rotation 101 is formed at a distance from the light emission assembly 2 of the first light module 5.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in the , the rotary support 8 comprises branches 48 extending longitudinally, on the sides of the light module, as far as the

optical systems

4a, 4b, and the free end of these branches 48, at a distance from the light emission assembly 2, each carries a pivot member 50 participating in forming a pivot connection schematically shown in the figure. It is understood that the rotary support could carry, without this being limiting of the invention, both a male member capable of cooperating with an orifice formed in a casing of the light module or in a wall of the housing of the light device as well as a member female capable of cooperating with a lug present in said casing or said wall.

Furthermore, without this being shown, a different example of embodiment could be envisaged, in which the means for guiding in rotation are formed by a lug forming a lateral projection of the rotary support, at the level of the printed circuit board, capable of translate inside a curved groove, the center of curvature of which is positioned on the axis of rotation of the light emission assembly.

In the previously mentioned context of a bifocal light module, that is to say having two focal planes offset from each other, the position of the first axis of rotation 101 is determined by means of an equation taking into account only the optical characteristics of the first light module, independently of the mechanical characteristics of the drive system 10. Thus, it is possible to find, by a trigonometric calculation in particular, the position of a first axis of rotation 101 making it possible to ensure, during the rotation of the light emitting assembly 2, that the displacement of one of the groups of light sources 4b is greater than the displacement of the other group of light sources 4a and that these different displacements allow uniform adjustment of the two portions of the driving beam formed by each light source.

With particular reference to the , the equation is as follows,

,

D being the distance along the optical axis 500 between the first axis of rotation 101 and the light source 36 farthest from the

optical systems

4a, 4b of the light module. The integration into this equation of structural data of the optical system, such as the distances F1, F2 from the object focal plane for each of the groups of light sources 36a, 36b and its associated

optical system

4a, 4b, and of desired adjustment data such as the vertical displacement H1, H2 of each group of light sources, positive or negative with respect to the optical axis, makes it possible to calculate the distance D and therefore the correct positioning of the first axis of rotation 101. By correct positioning of the axis of rotation , it is understood that it is a question of calculating a position of the first axis of rotation 101 around which the rotary support 8 will rotate and which will allow a pivoting of the light emission assembly 2 of the first light module 5, with the two groups of light sources pivoting simultaneously, keeping the homogeneity of the beam formed by the two portions of beams emitted by each group of light sources and its associated optical system.

By way of example, for a light module in which the first focal distance F1 is of the order of 65mm and in which the second focal distance F2 is of the order of 95mm, it is possible to determine via this equation the position of the axis of rotation and the angle of rotation to be given to the rotary support of the first light module so that the light sources are moved in rotation with an effect on the beam which is similar to a translational movement of the light sources. For theoretical adjustment heights H1, H2 of each of the light sources, with H1 the height associated with the source closest to the optical system of the light module, we obtain a distance D of the order of 112mm and we deduce trigonometrically a value of the angle of rotation α of the order of 2.1°.

The second light module 7 will now be more particularly described, with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, it being understood that other forms of modules could be implemented when, as mentioned above, at least the emission assembly light of this second light module is configured so that its position can be adjusted by rotation independently of the optical system of this light module.

The light emission assembly 2 of the second light module 7 may comprise a plurality of light sources 36 arranged in a matrix in which each light source is capable of being powered independently of the other light sources. In the example illustrated, the light sources are arranged in two rows 52 arranged one above the other. As seen on the , the light sources can be divided into two groups of light sources 36a, 36b, with a matrix of two rows for each of the groups. Each light source may in particular consist of a light-emitting diode, controllable independently of the other light sources in order to be able to be switched off or on independently of the switching on of the neighboring sources and thus participate in forming a light pattern with portions of the beam, in particular in the form of strips , off or on. The complementary part of the beam formed by this module can be a matrix beam forming the upper part of the beam and the matrix cutting of this beam makes it possible to switch on or off one of the bands of the beam to avoid dazzling a driver of another vehicle , whether or not one of the sources is switched on.

Each light source 36 is arranged on a printed circuit board 40, here substantially perpendicular to the optical axis 700 of the second light module 7 and this printed circuit board participates in forming the rotary support 8 which will drive the assembly in rotation. light emission 2. If necessary, as may also be the case for the printed circuit board of the first light module, the printed circuit board and the rotary support may be integral with a body of the light module, forming for example a heatsink configured to dissipate heat generated by the operation of the light source array.

Each light source 36 is here configured to emit light rays in a half-space delimited by the main elongation plane of the printed circuit board, in particular in the direction of the collector 38.

The collector 38 here has the form of a collimator, with an input face through which all the rays emitted by the light sources penetrate and an output face 54 which forms an image obtained by the addition of the various rays emitted. This image may in particular include dark bands due to the extinction of such and such light sources opposite the input face of the collector. The output face 54 of the collector 38 is arranged on the focal plane Pf, or in the vicinity of the focal plane, of the optical system associated with this second light module. Collector 38 is advantageously made of materials with good heat resistance, for example glass or synthetic polymers such as polycarbonate (PC) or polyetherimide (PEI).

In accordance with what has been described previously, the optical system 4 of the second light module 7 comprises a projection lens capable of being integrated into the closing window 20 common to the two

light modules

5, 7. In the example illustrated, it should be noted that an additional lens 56 is positioned upstream of the lens with respect to the direction of circulation of the light rays.

As seen in Figures 2 and 3, and similarly to what has been described for the first light module, the second light module 7 is pivotable about a second axis of rotation 102 perpendicular to the optical axis so that the optical system 4 of this second light module 7 remains fixed. More particularly, in this second light module 7, the light emission assembly 2 and the rotary support 8 on which the light emission assembly is fixed are rotatable around this second axis of rotation 102. And it is note that the second axis of rotation 102 is distinct, and more particularly parallel and at a distance, from the first axis of rotation 101.

The rotary support 8 of the second light module 7 comprises means for guiding in rotation around this second axis of rotation, an embodiment of which will be described below with reference to the in particular, and it is made mobile by means of a drive system 10. The drive system here comprises a motor 44 whose operation generates the movement of a lever arm 46 bearing against the support rotary.

The rotation guide means are configured so that the second axis of rotation 102 is formed at a distance from the light emission assembly 2 of the second light module 7.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in the , the rotary support 8 comprises at least one branch 48 which extends longitudinally, on one side of the light module, as far as the optical system, and the free end of this branch, at a distance from the light emission assembly, is extended by a lever arm 46 on which the motor 44 of the drive system 10 is able to push. More particularly here, without limitation, the motor is a linear stepper motor.

In this context of a light module with a single focal optical system and a light emission assembly arranged on this single focal plane, here via the collimator arranged facing the matrix of light sources, the position of the second axis of rotation 102 is determined via a database obtained empirically and taking into account the mechanical characteristics of the drive system 10.

These mechanical characteristics may in particular be one or more of the following values, namely the angular precision of the stepper motor 44, the maximum travel distance of the output shaft of the stepper motor 44 and the length of the lever 46, and the distance of the second axis of rotation 102 with respect to the focal plane is then defined as a function of these values and of the desired theoretical height of displacement in order to adjust the attitude of this light module.

As previously, once the distance to which the axis of rotation of the focal plane of the second light module extends, it is possible trigonometrically to deduce therefrom the angle of rotation to be given to the second light module 7 so that the adjustment of the emission of the rays is similar to a movement in translation or rotation of the light module as a whole. The second angle of rotation β thus associated with the rotational movement of the light emission assembly of the second light module 7 may have a value equal to or different from that of the first angle of rotation α associated with the rotational movement of the assembly d light emission of the first light module 5, it being understood that an independent adjustment is carried out for each set of light emission of the light modules.

For each of the light modules, a mounting and position adjustment method is equivalent, with the rotation of the light emission assembly independently of the optical system participating in forming the light module with the emission assembly light, the rotation of the light emission assembly taking place around an axis of rotation formed at a distance from the light emission assembly.

The movement of the light emission assembly must be understood in each of these cases as a specific movement of the light source, and of the associated collector if applicable, relative to a fixed frame of reference which notably includes the optical system. In this way, when pivoting the light source, the optical system remains fixed. It is therefore necessary to find an advantageous position of the axis of rotation so that the pivoting of the light source makes it possible to preserve the passage of the majority of the light rays emitted through the optical system.

The means of stopping in position mentioned above make it possible to freeze the position of the light emission assembly after rotation around the determined axis of rotation. These means for stopping in position may consist of mechanical means, and in particular comprise a tapped hole, made in a casing of the light module or in the housing of the light device, a circular arc bore made in the rotary support, and a tightening screw which can be left permanently in the tapped hole by being more or less tight or can be added when the desired position is obtained. The stop-in-position means can also consist of electronic means for securing the stop position of the motor provided for driving the light module in rotation. In the case of mechanical means, sealing members can advantageously be provided on one side of the housing of the light module and/or on one side of the housing of the light device.

It is understood on reading the foregoing that the present invention proposes a light device for a simplified and compact motor vehicle, comprising at least two light modules housed in a housing of the device whose closing window is common with the optical systems of the modules, and which allows adjustment of the position of at least one of the light modules independently of at least the other light module, with a corresponding rotation of the light source independently of the optical systems.

The invention cannot however be limited to the means and configurations described and illustrated here, and it also extends to any equivalent means or configuration and to any technical combination operating such means. In particular, the number of light modules may be modified without harming the invention, insofar as the light device, ultimately, fulfills the same functions as those described in this document.

Claims

Motor vehicle light module (1, 5, 7), comprising at least one light emission assembly (2) capable of emitting light rays and an optical system (4) arranged on an optical axis (100, 500, 700 ) specific to the light module, across the light rays and configured to project a light beam, the at least one light emission assembly (2) being arranged in the vicinity of an object focal plane of the optical system (4), characterized in that the optical system (4) forms a closing element (6) of the light module and in that the light emission assembly (2) is mounted on a rotary support (8) driven in rotation by a system of specific drive (10), independent of the optical system (4).
Light module (1, 5, 7) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the rotary support (8) is made rotatable around an axis of rotation (101, 102) which is perpendicular to the optical axis ( 100, 500, 700) and remote from the light emission assembly (2).
Light module (1, 5, 7) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the position of the axis of rotation of the rotary support (8) is in the vicinity of the optical system (4).
Light module (1, 5) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the light emission assembly (2) comprises two light sources (36a, 36b) laterally offset from one another another so as to be arranged respectively facing a first optical system (4a) associated with a first of the two light sources and a second optical system (4b) associated with a second of the two light sources, the closing element (6) being formed by the lateral juxtaposition of the first and second optical systems, the two light sources being arranged on different object focal planes with respect to their associated optical system, the light module (5) being characterized in that the two sources lights (36a, 36b) are driven in rotation around a same axis forming said axis of rotation, independently of the closure element (6).
Light module (1, 7) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the light emission assembly (2) comprises a plurality of light sources (36) arranged in a matrix in which each light source is able to be powered independently of other light sources.
Motor vehicle light device (14), comprising a casing (16) and at least two light modules (1, 5, 7) in accordance with one of the preceding claims and housed in said casing.
Motor vehicle light device (14) according to the preceding claim, in which the closure element (6) of each light module (1, 5, 7) contributes to closing the housing (16), the closure element of one of the light modules being made in one piece with the closing element of the other light module.
A motor vehicle lighting device (14) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a first lighting module (5) is according to claim 4 and a second lighting module (7) is according to claim 5.
Luminous device (14) according to one of Claims 6 to 8, in which each luminous module (1, 5, 7) has an axis of rotation of the at least one luminous source of this module which is disposed at a distance of the closing element (6), and characterized in that the axes of rotation (101, 102) are arranged at different distances from the closing element (6) from one light module to another.
Motor vehicle comprising at least one light device (14) according to any one of Claims 6 to 9 and provided on the front face and/or on the rear face of the motor vehicle.