Lamp for ambient light system

Abstract

A lamp (100) for an ambient light system or spotlight, in particular for the interior of a vehicle (200), comprising a light source (10) configured to provide polychromatic light along a longitudinal direction (z), a light guide (20) comprising an input (21) connected to the light source (10) to receive the polychromatic light and an output (29) connected to the light source (10) to receive the polychromatic light, and a lens (30) connected to an output end (29) of the light guide (20), where the lens (30) comprises a surface (31) for providing illumination for an environment (E) of the lamp (100) at least in the longitudinal direction (z), where the surface (31) comprises at least two structures (32, 33) configured for diffusion of light. In addition, a vehicle (200) comprising at least one such lamp (100) is disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a lamp having the features of the independent lamp claim and to a vehicle having the features of the independent vehicle claim. Background Art

[0002] Known lamps or lighting devices provide ambient light systems or spotlights. These lamps or lighting devices can be used, for example, in the interior of a vehicle. Thus, the lamp can provide different colors, for example by using multicolor and / or RGB light sources.

[0003] However, lamps known from the prior art have disadvantages. The light intensity (distribution) may be reduced and / or uneven, particularly with respect to the measurement plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (along the optical path). Such lamps also lack optimal directivity. When using a multi-color light source, the different spectra and / or frequencies (e.g., red, yellow, and / or blue) of the light source are unevenly distributed, particularly with respect to the measurement plane (see above). This means that distinct zones for different colors may form, which can be undesirable for lighting purposes, particularly if different colors are available (e.g., for the user / driver). In other words, the color mixing of the lamp (the blending of different colors) is not optimized. This can result in rainbow effects and / or (visible) transitions between colors (e.g., from red to green). This can also produce undesirable light patterns in the measurement plane. Known lamps can also be complex to manufacture, making them complex and / or expensive. Furthermore, changing the optical properties (e.g., for different vehicles and / or distances) may require a complete redesign of the lamp.

[0004] An object of the present invention may therefore be to (at least partially) overcome at least one of the above disadvantages. In particular, an object may be to provide an improved lamp, preferably with improved intensity and / or uniformity of intensity distribution, color mixing, uniformity of color distribution, cost, complexity and / or flexibility. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The aforementioned objective problem is solved by a lamp having the features of the independent patent claim relating to the lamp and a vehicle having the features of the independent vehicle claim. Further features and details of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described with respect to the disclosed lamp also apply to the disclosed vehicle, and vice versa, and therefore, with respect to the disclosure of the various aspects of the invention, reference is always made to or can always be made to one another. In particular, features corresponding to the first aspect of the invention may also be part of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned objective problem is solved by a lamp for an ambient light system or a spotlight, in particular for the interior of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle according to the second aspect of the invention, comprising:

[0007] - a light source configured to provide polychromatic light along the longitudinal direction,

[0008] a light guide comprising an input and an output, wherein the input is connected to the light source to receive the polychromatic light, and

[0009] - a lens connected to the output of the light guide, wherein the lens comprises a surface for providing illumination to the environment of the lamp at least along the longitudinal direction, wherein the surface comprises at least two structures configured for diffusion and / or scattering of light.

[0010] The lamp can be a lighting system configured to provide multi-color illumination, particularly for use in the interior of a vehicle (preferably a car, truck, or bus). The lamp can be oriented along a longitudinal direction and / or an optical path. For illustrative purposes, the longitudinal direction can be the same as the z-direction (up / down). Alternatively, an x-direction and / or a y-direction can be provided that are perpendicular to each other and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Thus, a right-handed coordinate system can be formed by the x-direction, the y-direction, and the longitudinal direction (z-direction). Preferably, the lamp provides and / or generates light that is emitted at least along (parallel to) the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the lamp can also generate light that is emitted at an angle to the longitudinal direction. Thus, the lamp can be configured to provide a uniform intensity distribution at least in a measurement plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (e.g., at a distance of 35 cm from the lamp / lens). The light intensity, intensity distribution, and / or color mixing can be measured using a (suitable and / or multi-layered) detector located in the measurement plane.

[0011] The light source is configured to provide polychromatic light along the longitudinal direction. The light source may comprise, for example, one or more LED lamps providing different colors and / or polychromatic light. Polychromatic light may be provided by adjusting the different intensities of channels of different colors (e.g., red, yellow and / or blue). The light source may be oriented along and / or parallel to the longitudinal direction. For example, the light output end of the light source configured to emit light is oriented along the longitudinal direction. The light source may be connected (e.g., via a data transmission line) to an electronic control unit configured to control the light source, in particular for adjusting color and / or intensity (e.g., by providing a certain amount of current and / or voltage). Preferably, a user and / or driver of the vehicle may adjust the (overall) intensity and / or color of the light via at least one input device, which may be connected to the electronic control unit.

[0012] The light guide comprises an input end and an output end, wherein the input end can be mechanically and / or (preferably) optically connected to the light source to receive the polychromatic light. The optical connection can include an intermediate medium configured for propagating the light. The optical connection can preferably include an air gap between the input end and the light source. This can facilitate the production process. The light guide can be (primarily) configured to provide (sufficient) color mixing, in particular achieved along its length and / or by multiple (total) internal reflections of the polychromatic light. Thus, the input end can be in optical contact with the light source so that the light emitted by the light source can be coupled to the input end of the light guide. The light guide can be configured to transmit (due to total internal reflection) the light emitted by the light source in the input end to the output end. The input end and the output end can be oriented in a longitudinal direction. Thus, light can be propagated and / or transmitted through the light guide. Preferably, the interior, in particular the inner surface, of the light guide is configured for (multiple) total internal reflections of the (polychromatic) light. Preferably, (all) light is emitted (only) via the output end of the light guide, and / or no light leakage occurs along the x-direction and / or y-direction. This can be additionally ensured by a bracket (see below) that circumferentially surrounds the light guide. The central area of ​​the light guide can be positioned between the input end and the output end along the longitudinal direction. The light guide can include an elongated and / or longitudinal shape. The (external) shape of the light guide can be (approximately) cylindrical and / or rod-shaped. For example, the light guide can include a circular input end (top surface of the cylinder) and / or a circular output end (bottom surface of the cylinder). The light guide is preferably configured for color mixing, in particular by providing reflection of light at the inner surface (lateral surface of the cylinder), wherein light from the input end propagating inside the light guide can be reflected (multiple times) at the inner surface, thereby providing different azimuthal directions towards the output end. This means that light can be mixed and / or color mixing can be performed. Color mixing can be improved by increasing the length of the light guide along the longitudinal direction. The light guide may comprise transparent polycarbonate (in particular Tarflon or another type of polycarbonate with higher transmittance) and / or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA, in particular PMMA 8N). The light guide may comprise a (constant) length (along the longitudinal direction) of 1-200 mm, in particular 5-100 mm, for example 10-80 mm, preferably 20-70 mm, ideally 25-50 mm. Thus, sufficient color mixing is provided while still providing a length suitable for integration in the interior of a vehicle. Preferably, the length is greater than 25 mm. The light guide may comprise a (variable) diameter (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of 1-20 mm, in particular 3-10 mm, for example 4-8 mm, preferably 5-7 mm, ideally 5.5-6 mm.Thus, sufficient (mechanical) stability may be provided while still saving costs and / or reducing weight.

[0013] The lens can be mechanically and / or optically connected to the output end of the light guide, for example by bonding and / or gluing. The lens can comprise a (constant) diameter (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of 2-60 mm, in particular 3-15 mm, for example 5-12 mm, preferably 6.5-10 mm, ideally 7.5-9 mm. A larger diameter can improve intensity uniformity, in particular close to the lens. A smaller diameter can reduce the overall build size. Thus, the lens and / or lamp can be arranged in a relatively crowded space or niche. The diameter of the lens can also be increased, in particular linearly, for example from 5 m to 8 m. This can better shape the light towards the surrounding environment. Preferably, the output end of the light guide is flat, which can simplify production. Alternatively, the output end of the light guide can be curved, wherein the connection surface of the lens has a complementary (curved) shape. This can facilitate the connection, assembly and / or production process. The lens can be configured to receive light transmitted from the light guide. Preferably, (substantially) all light emitted by the light source can propagate through the light guide and then through the lens, in particular before the light is emitted by the surface of the lens at least along the longitudinal direction. The lens comprises a surface for providing illumination to the environment of the lamp at least along the longitudinal direction. The surface is preferably oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and / or away from the light source and / or light guide. Preferably, the surface substantially forms the outermost region and / or volume of the lamp along the longitudinal direction. Light emitted by the light source can (ultimately) be emitted via the surface into the (nearby) environment of the lamp and / or surface. Due to the geometry and / or properties of the lens, illumination can also be provided (at least partially) along the x-direction and / or y-direction. The surface comprises at least two (geometric and / or three-dimensional and / or optical) structures configured to (improve) light diffusion and / or light scattering. The at least two structures can have a different geometry compared to the remainder of the surface (e.g., the remainder of the surface is flat and / or (constantly) curved). The at least two structures can be formed on the surface. It is also possible that the at least two structures form part of the surface. Preferably, the at least two structures are convex relative to the surface and / or the longitudinal direction. This can improve the diffusion of light. For example, the structures can include (optical) pillows (see below). Alternatively, the at least two structures can include pyramidal, cubic and / or circular shapes. The at least two structures can be (primarily) configured for scattering light, preferably with no (or only limited) effect on the different wavelengths of (polychromatic) light. It is also possible that the at least two structures (at least partially) form grooves and / or are concave.The size and / or area of ​​the at least two structures may cover at least 20% of the surface, in particular at least 40%, for example at least 60%, preferably at least 80%, ideally at least 95%, optionally 100%. A small coverage area may speed up manufacturing. A large coverage area may improve diffusion, intensity uniformity and / or color mixing. The lens may comprise a length (along the longitudinal direction) of 0.1-50 mm, in particular 0.5-25 mm, for example 1-15 mm, preferably 2-8 mm, ideally 3-5 mm. Thus, sufficient diffusion and / or intensity homogenization is achieved. The lens may comprise polycarbonate (in particular Tarflon or another type of polycarbonate with higher transmittance) and / or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA, in particular PMMA 8N).

[0014] In the context of the present invention, it is possible that the at least two structures are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction.

[0015] It is also possible that the at least two structures are arranged on (or in) at least two, three, four or five rings, wherein the longitudinal direction forms an axis of symmetry and / or wherein the structures of adjacent rings are arranged in a staggered manner. Preferably, the at least two structures (all) have (substantially) the same size.

[0016] It may be provided that the at least two structures each comprise an optical pillow (or a pillow-shaped lens).

[0017] Optical pillows can include convex (extending in the longitudinal direction), elliptical, and / or circular shapes. Adjacent optical pillows can be separated by valleys. These optical pillows can improve the diffusion of (multi-color) light. Combining curved (and / or convex) surfaces with optical pillows can be particularly advantageous. This can improve intensity homogenization and / or improve (overall) coverage.

[0018] It is also possible that the at least two structures include 10-35 (or between) structures, in particular optical pillows. This enables relatively fast (and easy) production and improves the diffusion and / or scattering of light. The size, diameter and / or radius (assuming an approximately circular shape) can be 0.1-10 mm, in particular 0.3-5 mm, preferably 0.5-2.5 mm, ideally 0.8-1.6 mm. Alternatively, micro-pillows can be provided, in particular hundreds, thousands or tens of thousands of micro-pillows. These micro-pillows can (further) improve the diffusion and / or scattering. Preferably, the optical pillow can be manufactured integrally with the lens, in particular by injection molding. Alternatively, the optical pillow can be produced by ablation, in particular laser ablation. The optical pillow can also be produced by etching.

[0019] Within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the surface of the lens is curved.

[0020] Thus, the at least two structures may be arranged on the curved surface. The lens may be cylindrical, wherein the surface pointing along the longitudinal direction is curved. The curved surface may (at least partially) comprise an elliptical and / or circular shape. The surface may be symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction. This may facilitate production and / or improve illumination uniformity and / or light scattering.

[0021] In the context of the present invention, it is possible that the lens, in particular the at least two structures, comprises a texture, in particular a grainy texture and / or a gritty texture.

[0022] This may mean that the surfaces of the at least two structures (themselves) include a texture, a granular texture, and / or a gravel-like texture. The texture (or granular texture) may include ripples and / or protrusions, in particular ripples and / or protrusions perpendicular to the surfaces of the at least two structures. The texture, in particular the individual geometric elements of the texture, may include circular, pyramidal, and / or cubic shapes (in particular for quick and / or easy laser production). For example, the texture may include a checkerboard structure with (isolated) cubes. Preferably, the texture or granular texture (or the individual geometric elements of the granular texture) are smaller than the dimensions of the at least two structures, for example, by at least one order of magnitude, preferably by at least two orders of magnitude, and ideally by at least three orders of magnitude. A suitable and / or optimal matching of the dimensions can be assessed through simulations, for example by optimizing illumination uniformity, color mixing, and / or eliminating artifacts (e.g., rainbow effects) in a measurement plane (e.g., 350 mm from the lens). In other words, the at least two structures, preferably the optical pillow, include a (relatively small and / or fine) texture, in particular a granular texture, on their respective surfaces. This can optimize the properties of the light, in particular the diffusion of the light. In addition, this can (still) make the size of the lens relatively small and / or enable fast production and / or reduce costs. The use of optical pillows can improve the (overall) light distribution (for example in the measurement plane). The use of optical pillows may (slightly) lead to a rainbow effect and / or change (or reduce) the color mixing. The texture can (in addition) further improve the light distribution and / or compensate for potential shortcomings. The texture can (in addition) help to reduce optical artifacts, in particular rainbow effects and / or insufficient color mixing. The inventors have found that the combination of optical pillows and textures can improve the performance overall. Preferably, a combination of curved surfaces (of the lens), optical pillows, and textures can be used. This can further improve the aforementioned technical advantages. The texture can preferably be produced using a laser, in particular using laser ablation. Alternatively, an etching process can be used.

[0023] It may be provided that, relative to the longitudinal direction, the light guide comprises a first diameter and the lens comprises a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter.

[0024] This may improve the scattering and / or diffusion of the (polychromatic) light. Alternatively, the first diameter and the second diameter may be identical, which may increase production speed and / or reduce production costs and / or improve mechanical stability.

[0025] It is also possible that the light guide comprises a cross section (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) having a polygonal shape and at least five, preferably at least eight edges.

[0026] This may mean that the shape of the cross section may have N edges, wherein N is preferably at least 5, in particular at least (or exactly) 8. This may allow for an improved and / or easier mounting (in particular within a bracket and / or housing, e.g. using latching noses and / or grooves). Preferably, the cross section is not (completely) circular. Preferably, the cross section is symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction. This may provide for symmetrical optical behavior and / or properties (e.g. for spreading light). The polygonal shape may preferably be regular, in particular having equal angles and / or side lengths with respect to (different) edges. This may provide for simple and / or low-cost production. Thus, the overall (outer shape) of the light guide may be oriented along the longitudinal direction (equivalent to a cylinder). The light guide may comprise a plurality of faces parallel to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the cross section of the light guide is the same along the longitudinal direction.

[0027] In the context of the present invention, it is possible that the edges (of the cross-section and / or the polygonal shape) comprise a circular shape; in particular, each comprises a circular shape along the longitudinal direction.

[0028] This can facilitate installation in a bracket (see below). This can also facilitate the production process. Furthermore, this can improve color mixing within the light guide. Alternatively or additionally, the face and / or side of the light guide can comprise (elongated) corrugations, a plurality of (elongated) ridges and / or valleys and / or inclined surfaces (between them), in particular in the longitudinal direction.

[0029] It can be provided that the light guide and the lens are designed as a single piece. This can improve the mechanical stability and / or improve the optical properties, in particular reduce reflections.

[0030] Within the scope of the invention, provision can be made for the light guide and the lens to be produced as an injection-molded component, preferably as one single piece.

[0031] It is also possible that the light guide and the lens comprise the same transparent material, in particular polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate.

[0032] This may speed up and / or facilitate the manufacturing process. This may also reduce costs. Alternatively, the light guide and the lens comprise the same transparent material having a higher transmittance (particularly compared to polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate).

[0033] In the context of the present invention, it is possible that the lamp comprises a holder configured for receiving the light source and the light guide and / or (at least partially) the lens.

[0034] Preferably, the lens, in particular the outer periphery of the lens and / or surface (in the longitudinal direction) is arranged flush with the bracket. This improves mechanical stability, in particular when mounting the bracket and / or lamp. Preferably, the bracket can be configured to receive different light guides and / or lenses, in particular light guides and / or lenses of different sizes. This means that the bracket and / or light source can be used universally, while in particular the light guide and / or lens can be adjusted for specific purposes. This can reduce (overall) manufacturing costs. Preferably, the bracket comprises a form that is complementary to the light source, light guide and / or lens.

[0035] Provision can be made for the light guide to comprise at least one, preferably at least two, latching noses, wherein preferably the latching noses are configured for engagement with at least one, preferably at least two, latching recesses in the holder.

[0036] This may provide for easy, removable and / or robust mounting of the light guide inside the bracket. Preferably, in this way, the light source may also be attached and / or blocked in the bracket. The latching recess may be shaped as a reverse latching nose. Preferably, the latching nose and latching recess comprise complementary shapes.

[0037] It is also possible that the input end of the light guide comprises at least one collimator for connecting the light source to the input end of the light guide.

[0038] This can improve the coupling of light, especially of different colors, and can also aid in installation.

[0039] According to a second aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned objective problem is solved by a vehicle comprising at least one lamp according to the first aspect.

[0040] This means that with the vehicle according to the second aspect the same technical advantages can be achieved as have been described above for the lamp according to the first aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Additional technical features, advantages, and details of the present invention are disclosed by the following description of the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings provide a detailed description of possible embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the features described in the claims and the specification can be implemented individually or in (any) combination. The following exemplary description includes:

[0042] Figure 1 For a kind of lamp;

[0043] Figure 2 For a kind of lamp;

[0044] Figure 3 is a lamp; and

[0045] Figure 4 For a vehicle.

[0046] In the following figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same (or corresponding) features, in particular for different embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 The lamp 100 is shown oriented along the longitudinal direction z. The lamp 100 can be used in an ambient light system or a spotlight, in particular for the interior of a vehicle 200, and comprises:

[0048] a light source 10 configured to provide polychromatic light along a longitudinal direction z,

[0049] a light guide 20 comprising an input end 21 and an output end 29, wherein the input end 21 is connected to the light source 10 to receive the polychromatic light, and

[0050] a lens 30 connected to the output 29 of the light guide 20 , wherein the lens 30 comprises a surface 31 for illuminating the environment E of the lamp 100 at least along the longitudinal direction z, wherein the surface 31 comprises at least two structures 32 , 33 configured for diffusion of light.

[0051] The at least two structures 32, 33 comprise optical pillows 32.1, 32.2 arranged on the (curved) surface 31 of the lens 30. In addition, the lens 30, in particular the at least two structures 32, 33 comprise a texture 33.1, 33.2, in particular a granular texture 33.1, 33.2. In combination, preferred light properties and / or illumination can be provided at least along the longitudinal direction z and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction z. In addition, the light guide 20 comprises at least one, preferably at least two, latching noses 22.1, 22.2, wherein preferably the latching noses 22.1, 22.2 are configured for engagement with a bracket 40 (not shown, see Figure 4) engages at least one, preferably at least two, latch grooves.

[0052] Figure 2 A view along the longitudinal direction z is shown, wherein the lens 30 is located at the bottom (for the sequence, with Figure 1 Here, the light guide 20 is located above the lens 30 and comprises in particular a smaller diameter. The light guide 20 comprises two latching noses 22.1, 22.2 which are symmetrically oriented with respect to the longitudinal direction z.

[0053] Figure 3 (especially relative to Figure 2 ) shows (only) the outer periphery of the light guide 20. The longitudinal direction z is oriented perpendicular to the drawing plane (pointing into the drawing plane).

[0054] Figure 4 A vehicle 200 is shown comprising at least one lamp 100 for providing lighting to the interior of the vehicle at least along a longitudinal direction z. The lamp 100 comprises a bracket 40 comprising a light source 10 , a light guide 20 and / or a lens 30 .

[0055] Reference Signs List

[0056] 10 Light Source

[0057] 20 Light guide

[0058] 21 Input

[0059] 22.1, 22.2 Latch nose

[0060] 29 Output

[0061] 30 lenses

[0062] 31 Surface

[0063] 32, 33 Structure

[0064] 32.1, 32.2 optical pillow

[0065] 33.1, 33.2 texture, granular texture

[0066] 40 bracket

[0067] 100 lights

[0068] 200 vehicles

[0069] E Environment

[0070] z direction

Claims

1. A lamp (100) for an ambient light system or a spotlight, in particular for the interior of a vehicle (200), comprising: a light source (10) configured to provide polychromatic light along the longitudinal direction (z), a light guide (20) comprising an input end (21) and an output end (29), wherein the input end (21) is connected to the light source (10) to receive the polychromatic light, and - a lens (30) connected to the output (29) of the light guide (20), wherein the lens (30) comprises a surface (31) for providing illumination to an environment (E) of the lamp (100) at least along the longitudinal direction (z), wherein the surface (31) comprises at least two structures (32, 33) configured for diffusion of light.

2. The lamp (100) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The at least two structures (32, 33) are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction (z).

3. The lamp (100) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The at least two structures (32, 33) each comprise an optical pillow (32.1, 32.2).

4. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The at least two structures (32, 33) include 10-35 structures (32, 33), in particular optical pillows (32.1, 32.2).

5. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The surface (31) of the lens (30) is curved.

6. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The lens (30), in particular the at least two structures (32, 33), comprises a texture (33.1, 33.2), in particular a granular texture (33.1, 33.2).

7. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that With respect to the longitudinal direction (z), the light guide (20) comprises a first diameter and the lens (30) comprises a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter.

8. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The light guide (20) comprises a cross-section having a polygonal shape and at least five, preferably at least eight edges.

9. The lamp (100) according to claim 8, It is characterized in that The edge includes a rounded shape.

10. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The light guide (20) and the lens (30) are produced as injection-moulded parts, preferably as one single piece.

11. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The light guide (20) and the lens (30) comprise the same transparent material, in particular polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate.

12. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The lamp (100) includes a bracket (40) configured to receive the light source (10) and the light guide (20).

13. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The light guide (20) comprises at least one, preferably at least two latching noses (22.1, 22.2), wherein preferably the latching noses (22.1, 22.2) are configured for engagement with at least one, preferably at least two latching grooves in the bracket (40).

14. The lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The input end (21) of the light guide (20) comprises at least one collimator for connecting the light source (10) to the input end (21) of the light guide (20).

15. A vehicle (200) comprising at least one lamp (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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