Lighting equipment for motor vehicles

Abstract

A lighting device for a motor vehicle, comprising: a device for emitting a first light beam having a cut-off line along an optical axis, the cut-off line having a substantially horizontal line including a cut-off; the cut-off extending in a coordinate system formed by a horizontal reference axis and a vertical reference axis, the horizontal reference axis being parallel to the first horizontal axis passing through the substantially horizontal line, the vertical reference axis being perpendicular to the horizontal reference axis and the optical axis, the optical axis passing through the center of the coordinate system; a device for emitting a second light beam, the second light beam being horizontally divided into a plurality of selectively activatable light segments capable of illuminating an area positioned across the first horizontal axis, characterized in that the cut-off comprises: a longitudinal proximal end, the longitudinal proximal end being located between 1.25° and 1.5° or between -1.25° and -1.5° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis; and a vertical lower end, the vertical lower end being located at a height of -0.75° or less in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of lighting and / or signalling, in particular for motor vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle and to a method for controlling a lighting device. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles are increasingly equipped with driver assistance systems in order to increase passenger safety. In particular, vehicles may be equipped with lighting devices that allow the implementation of adaptive lighting functions (also known as "adaptive high beam" or ADB).

[0003] In a first example, a vehicle may be equipped with lighting that limits the risk of blinding the driver of a vehicle being overtaken or located ahead while maintaining good road illumination.

[0004] In another example, a vehicle may be equipped with a lighting device that is capable of projecting a light beam that tracks the trajectory of the car when cornering in order to optimally illuminate the road for the driver. The light beam thus performs a dynamic cornering lighting function, also known as "dynamic cornering light" or DBL.

[0005] A first known way of generating such a light beam is to integrate into the lighting device a lighting module which generates a low beam, which has a cut-off line and is movable within the lighting device. The lighting module can then be pivoted depending on the turning angle followed by the vehicle.

[0006] This solution provides the driver with great driving comfort, as it allows the entire beam to pivot. As a result, the cut-off line of the low beam pivots simultaneously with the vehicle and follows the turn. The driver can therefore clearly see the cut-off line move, regardless of the direction of the turn. However, this solution has the disadvantage of using moving parts, which leads to higher costs and greater volume.

[0007] A solution has been found without moving parts, which consists in producing such a beam using the superposition of a low beam with a cut-off line having a first lower horizontal line and an upward bend for illuminating an upper area above the horizontal axis passing through said first line, and a second beam comprising a plurality of selectively activatable light segments spanning the horizontal axis of the cut-off line of the low beam. The light intensity of each light segment can be modulated so that the position of the maximum intensity area of ​​the beam can be changed depending on the turn followed by the vehicle. The maximum intensity area of ​​the beam is then electronically moved after the turn.

[0008] However, due to the high intensity of the low beam at the bend, the light segment of the second beam cannot have too high a light intensity so that the beam formed by the lighting device cannot remain compliant. Therefore, the driver does not clearly perceive the light segment of the second beam. The driver therefore does not fully benefit from the functionality provided by the second beam.

[0009] In addition, when the vehicle turns on the side of the bend of the cut-off line of the low-beam, the bend cannot move. This bend remains fixed relative to the optical axis of the device for emitting a low-beam. The light distribution is modified only by modifying the intensity of the light segment of the second light beam. As a result, the driver does not perceive any movement of the cut-off line of the low-beam lamp, the bend always remaining visible to the driver. Only the maximum intensity area moves.

[0010] One known solution for overcoming the problem of perceiving the function and movement of the cut-off line of the first light beam consists in generating a light beam using the superposition of a first light beam having a horizontal cut-off line and a second light beam comprising a plurality of selectively activatable light segments spanning the horizontal cut-off line of the first light beam. The light intensity of each light segment can be modulated so that the position of the maximum intensity area of ​​the light beam can be changed according to the turn followed by the vehicle. The maximum intensity area of ​​the light beam is then electronically moved after the turn. In addition, since the first light beam has no bend, the light intensity of the light segments of the second light beam can have a higher intensity than in previous solutions. Moreover, regardless of the direction of the turn, the driver clearly perceives the movement of the cut-off line of the overall light beam formed by the superposition of the first and second light beams, since this is formed by the intersection line between the light segments that are turned on and the light segments that are turned off, and the first light beam has no bend superimposed on these light segments. Thus, this cut-off line can be moved.

[0011] However, the first light beam does not necessarily form a compliant low beam, in particular with respect to the UNECE R123 regulation applicable to European countries in force as of the filing date of this application. Therefore, the first light beam alone cannot be approved in these countries. The overall light beam resulting from the superposition of the first light beam and the second light beam can only be approved if it meets the compliance requirements (which stipulate that the light intensity of the overall light beam must be above a predetermined value at certain points in the overall light beam and below another predetermined value at other points). This is difficult to achieve. Summary of the invention

[0012] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a lighting device that produces a compliant overall light beam that is simple and makes it possible to perform a dynamic bending lighting function without moving parts, which can be clearly perceived by the driver and provides a level of driving comfort similar to that of a movable module.

[0013] To this end, according to the present invention, there is provided a lighting device for a motor vehicle, the lighting device comprising:

[0014] - means for emitting, along the optical axis, a first light beam with a cut-off having a substantially horizontal line including a cut-off; the cut-off extending in a coordinate system formed by a horizontal reference axis parallel to a first horizontal axis passing through said substantially horizontal line and a vertical reference axis perpendicular to the horizontal reference axis and to said optical axis, said optical axis passing through the centre of the coordinate system;

[0015] - means for emitting a second light beam divided horizontally into a plurality of selectively activatable light segments capable of illuminating an area located across the first horizontal axis,

[0016] The incision includes:

[0017] a longitudinal proximal end which is situated between 1.25° and 1.5° or between -1.25° and -1.5° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis; and

[0018] - a vertical lower end which is situated at a height of -0.75° and below in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis.

[0019] "Longitudinal proximal end" refers to the longitudinal end of the incision closest to the vertical reference axis.

[0020] Thus, by the present invention, the overall beam formed by the superposition of the first beam and the second beam with a cut-off line makes it possible to form a compliant low beam, in particular according to the UNECE R123 regulation in force as of the filing date of the present application. Such an overall beam may also comply with other regulations. When the vehicle is designed for right-hand drive, the cutout should be formed on the right part of the first beam. The longitudinal proximal end of the cutout is located between 1.25° and 1.5° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis. When the vehicle is designed for left-hand drive, the cutout should be formed on the left part of the first beam. The longitudinal proximal end of the cutout is located between -1.25° and -1.5° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis.

[0021] Specifically, by the shape of the cutout, certain points requiring high intensity remain illuminated by both the first light beam and the second light beam having a cutoff line, which makes it possible to reach the intensity value predetermined by the regulations, and other points that were illuminated by both the first light beam and the second light beam having a cutoff line in the prior art are now illuminated only by the second light beam. Therefore, the intensity of these points does not exceed the value predetermined by the regulations.

[0022] In particular, in the case of R123 UNECE, when the vehicle is traveling on the right side, a point 75R located at 1.25° along the horizontal reference axis and at a height of -0.57° along the vertical reference axis in the coordinate system is illuminated by the first light beam and the second light beam having a cutoff line. Therefore, a sufficiently high intensity value can be achieved. In addition, a point Emax located between 1.5° and 2° along the horizontal reference axis and at a height of -0.57° along the vertical reference axis in the coordinate system is illuminated only by the second light beam. Therefore, the intensity of the point Emax does not exceed the predetermined value.

[0023] Thus, for a point illuminated only by the second light beam, the intensity of the light segment of the second light beam illuminating this point can be higher, while keeping the intensity value below the predetermined value. This thus provides a greater amplitude of possible light intensities for the light segment superimposed with the cutout. The movement of the area of ​​maximum light intensity in the second light beam is then more perceptible, since the difference in light intensity between the different light segments can be emphasized.

[0024] Furthermore, the movement of the maximum light intensity area of ​​the second light beam also makes it possible to move the maximum light intensity area of ​​the overall light beam. Therefore, since the movement of the maximum light intensity area in the second light beam is more perceptible, it is also more perceptible in the overall light beam. The driver then better perceives the movement of the maximum light intensity area in the overall light beam, that is, they better perceive the dynamic lighting function.

[0025] In addition, when the maximum light intensity area moves, the intersection line between the on light segment and the off light segment forming the cut-off line can also move, and the driver can perceive this movement regardless of the direction of movement. In particular, the first light beam does not show any upward bend that hinders the perception of this intersection line. A level of driving comfort similar to that of a movable lighting module is thus obtained.

[0026] The means for emitting the first light beam and the means for emitting the second light beam may be located in the same lighting module. Alternatively, they may each be in a different lighting module. Where applicable, the lighting modules may be integrated into the same headlamp of the vehicle or into separate headlamps.

[0027] The longitudinal proximal end of the cutout is formed by a segment which may be parallel to the vertical reference axis, or by an inclined segment, ie a segment having an inclination relative to the vertical reference axis.

[0028] The position of this longitudinal proximal end along the horizontal reference axis in the coordinate system assumes the level of a substantially horizontal line corresponding to the upper end of the segment forming the longitudinal proximal end of the incision.

[0029] In a first example, the cutout may be limited only by the longitudinal proximal end and the vertical lower end. Then, starting from the longitudinal proximal end, the first beam has a concave portion over its entire width.

[0030] In a second example, the cutout may be defined by a longitudinal proximal end, a vertical lower end and a longitudinal distal end, the longitudinal distal end being the end located furthest from the vertical reference axis.The cutout then forms a notch in the first light beam.

[0031] Advantageously, the lighting device has two adjacent light segments having a line of intersection superimposed on the vertical reference axis. The line of intersection between the two adjacent segments thus makes it possible to produce a cut-off line in the overall light beam at the vertical reference axis.

[0032] Preferably, the light segments of the second light beam include vertical lower ends, and the height of the vertical lower end of each light segment superimposed with the cutout is located below -0.75° in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis, and the height of the vertical lower end of the cutout is approximately the same as the height of the vertical lower end of the light segment having the highest vertical lower end among all the light segments superimposed with the cutout. Approximately the same means that there may be a slight overlap between the light segment and the cutout, so that the overall light beam is uniform. Therefore, the light segment of the second light beam that completely covers part of the cutout will not overlap with the first light beam. Therefore, the light intensity of the light segment that completely covers part of the cutout is not limited by the light intensity of the first light beam having a cutoff line. It is therefore easier to control the light intensity at the cutout, and the light segments can have a higher intensity, which makes them more visible.

[0033] For example, the vertical lower end of each light segment of the second light beam is all located at the same height along the vertical reference axis at and below -0.75°, and the height of the vertical lower end of the cutout is substantially the same as that of the vertical lower ends of the light segments.

[0034] Advantageously, the cut-off line of the first light beam has a second cutout having a longitudinal proximal end which is located at -3° or less when the longitudinal proximal end of the cutout is between 1.25° and 1.5°, or at 3° or more when the longitudinal proximal end of the cutout is between -1.25° and 1.5°, in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis. Thus, the light intensity of the light segments superimposed with the second cutout can be increased, and these light segments can have a greater magnitude of possible light intensity.

[0035] Advantageously, the second cutout has a vertical lower end located at a height of -0.75° or below in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis (VR).

[0036] Advantageously, the height of the vertical lower end of the second cutout is the same as the height of the vertical lower end of the cutout.

[0037] Advantageously, the second light beam can illuminate above the first horizontal axis over the entire width of the first light beam with the cut-off line. Thus, the entire width of the scene that can be illuminated by the first light beam can also be illuminated by the second light beam. Thus, a dynamic lighting function can be realized over the entire width of the first light beam with the cut-off line.

[0038] According to a first variant, all the light segments of the second light beam have the same width taken along the horizontal reference axis. This configuration makes it possible to have the same resolution over the entire width of the second light beam.

[0039] According to a second variant, at least two light segments of the second light beam have different widths taken along the horizontal reference axis.This configuration makes it possible to reduce the number of light segments and thus the cost of the lighting device.

[0040] In particular, the light segments of the second light beam have a width that widens with increasing distance from the vertical reference axis. Thus, the number of light segments is significantly reduced while maintaining better resolution close to the optical axis of the means for emitting the first light beam.

[0041] In a first example, the width of the light segment may increase continuously as the distance from the vertical reference axis increases. In this case, the width of each light segment after the light segment closer to the vertical reference axis is greater than the width of the light segment closer to the vertical reference axis.

[0042] In a second example, the width of the light segment may increase in a step-wise manner as the distance from the vertical reference axis increases. In this case, the light segments are distributed into light segment groups with the same width; and the width of the light segment of each light segment group after the light segment group closer to the vertical reference axis is greater than the width of the light segment of this light segment group closer to the vertical reference axis.

[0043] Advantageously, the light intensity of each light segment can be modulated individually between an off state and a maximum light intensity state. Thus, the maximum light intensity region of the second light beam and, therefore, the maximum light intensity region of the overall light beam can be shifted.

[0044] In particular, the light segments of the second light beam can be activated at 50% or 70% of their maximum light intensity. By activating the light segments at such light intensities, each light segment can have a wide range of possible light intensities, thereby better managing the light distribution of the second light beam while forming a compliant overall light beam.

[0045] Advantageously, the light intensity of the light segment of the second light beam can be modulated so that the overall light beam resulting from the superposition of the first light beam with cut-off and the second light beam forms a low beam compliant according to the UNECE R123 regulation in force as of the filing date of the present application.

[0046] Advantageously, the light intensity of the light segment of the second light beam can be modulated such that the overall light beam resulting from the superposition of the first light beam with the cut-off line and the second light beam forms a dynamic bending light (DBL) beam.

[0047] Advantageously, the second light beam has two overlapping rows of light segments, and the light segments in the lower row can illuminate an area located across the first horizontal axis. The light segments in the upper row can supplement the light distribution formed in the lower row to form another lighting function.

[0048] The invention also relates to a method for controlling a lighting device according to the invention.

[0049] Advantageously, the light intensity of each light segment of the second light beam positioned across the first horizontal axis is modulated so that when the vehicle turns, the position of the maximum light intensity area of ​​the overall light beam formed by the superposition of the first light beam and the second light beam is shifted.

[0050] Advantageously, the displacement of the maximum light intensity area is related to the radius of curvature of the bend. Therefore, the smaller the radius of curvature, the greater the displacement of the maximum light intensity area relative to the optical axis of the first light beam. This ensures optimal illumination of the bend. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the description and accompanying drawings, in which:

[0052] -[ Figure 1 ] is a side view of the front part of a motor vehicle equipped with the device according to the invention;

[0053] -[ Figure 2 ] shows a projection of a first light beam having a cut-off line on a screen according to a first exemplary embodiment;

[0054] -[ Figure 3 ] shows a projection of a first light beam having a cut-off line on a screen according to a second exemplary embodiment;

[0055] -[ Figure 4 ] shows the projection of the second light beam on the screen;

[0056] -[ Figure 5 ] shows the projection of the overall light beam on the screen generated by the superposition of the first light beam with a cutoff line and the second light beam according to the first exemplary embodiment when the vehicle travels in a straight line, the projection of the first light beam in [ Figure 2 ] shows that the projection of the second beam is [ Figure 4 ] is shown;

[0057] -[ Figure 6] shows the projection of the overall beam on the screen generated by the superposition of the first beam with a cutoff line and the second beam according to the first exemplary embodiment when the vehicle turns right, the projection of the first beam in [ Figure 2 ] is shown;

[0058] -[ Figure 7 ] shows the projection of the overall beam on the screen generated by the superposition of the first beam with a cutoff line and the second beam according to the first exemplary embodiment when the vehicle turns left, the projection of the first beam is in [ Figure 2 ] is shown in ]. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Throughout the rest of the specification, the longitudinal direction L refers to the direction in which the vehicle moves, the transverse direction T refers to the direction extending transversely relative to the vehicle and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and the vertical direction V refers to the direction extending from the bottom to the top of the vehicle and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. These directions are given by [ Figure 1 ] is represented by the trihedrons L, V, and T.

[0060] In the following, the term "intensity" used without further explanation will refer to light intensity.

[0061] [ Figure 1 ] schematically shows a motor vehicle 1 equipped with a lighting device 5 according to the invention. The lighting device 5 is fixed relative to the vehicle 1.

[0062] The lighting device 5 comprises a first lighting module 10 and a second lighting module 20, wherein the first lighting module comprises a device for emitting a first light beam 12 having a cut-off line along an optical axis 11, and the second lighting module comprises a device for emitting a second light beam 22. The device for emitting the first light beam 12 and the device for emitting the second light beam 22 are arranged in [ Figure 1 ] are shown as being located in different lighting modules. However, they can be located in the same lighting module.

[0063] The lighting device 5 is capable of projecting an overall light beam 2 resulting from the superposition of the first light beam 12 and the second light beam 22 having a cut-off line.

[0064] Figures 2 to 7 The projection of the first light beam 12 and / or the second light beam 22 with a cut-off line onto a vertical transverse screen 30 located 25 m in front of the vehicle 1 is shown.

[0065] [ Figure 2 ]and[ Figure 3 ] show the projection of a first exemplary embodiment of a first light beam 12 with a cut-off line on the screen 30, and the projection of a second exemplary embodiment of a first light beam 12 with a cut-off line on the screen 30, respectively.

[0066] In each of these exemplary embodiments, the first light beam 12 with a cut-off illuminates a portion bounded in the vertically upward direction by a cut-off line 13. The cut-off line 13 is characterized by a substantially horizontal line 14 including a cut-off 16. The projection of the first light beam 12 with a cut-off extends in a coordinate system formed by a horizontal reference axis HR, parallel to a first horizontal axis H1 passing through the substantially horizontal line 14, and a vertical reference axis VR, perpendicular to the horizontal reference axis HR and perpendicular to an optical axis 11 of the device for emitting the first light beam 12 with a cut-off. The optical axis 11 passes through the center O of the coordinate system.

[0067] The substantially horizontal line 14 is located at a height of -0.57°, and the cutout 16 comprises a longitudinal proximal end 16a located at 1.25° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis HR, and a vertical lower end 16c located at a height of -0.75° in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis VR. The cutout 16 also comprises a longitudinal distal end 16b. The cutout 16 thus forms a notch in the first beam 12.

[0068] In an example not shown, the cutout may include only a longitudinal proximal end and a vertical lower end, so that the cutout is formed over the entire width of the first light beam starting from the longitudinal proximal end.

[0069] The longitudinal proximal end 16a is formed by an inclined segment (i.e. a segment having an inclination relative to the vertical reference axis VR). The position of the longitudinal proximal end 16a in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis HR takes the level of the substantially horizontal line 14 corresponding to the upper end 18 of the segment forming the longitudinal proximal end 16a of the incision 16.

[0070] The longitudinal distal end 16b is also formed by an inclined segment.The vertical lower end 16c is formed by a segment which is parallel to the horizontal reference axis HR and which joins the lower ends of the inclined segments forming the longitudinal proximal end 16a and the longitudinal distal end 16b.

[0071] exist[ Figure 3 ], the cut-off line 13 has a second cutout 15, which includes only a longitudinal proximal end 15a located at -3° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis and a vertical lower end 15c located at a height of -0.75° in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis (that is, the same height as the vertical lower end 16c of the cutout 16). From the longitudinal proximal end 15a, the first light beam 12 is cut off over its entire width.

[0072] The proximal longitudinal end 15c of the second cutout 15 is formed by a section parallel to the vertical reference axis VR.

[0073] In the case where the vehicle 1 is traveling on the left, the projection of the first light beam with the cut-off line will be at [ Figure 2 ]and[ Figure 3] is a mirror image of the projection of the first beam 12 with a cut-off line shown in FIG. 1 relative to the vertical axis VR. The longitudinal proximal end 16a of the cutout 16 will be located at -1.25° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis HR, and, where applicable, the longitudinal proximal end 15a of the second cutout 15 will be located at 3° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis HR.

[0074] [ Figure 4 ] shows the projection of the second light beam 22 on the screen 30. The second light beam 22 is horizontally divided into a plurality of light segments 23a to 23n, which can be selectively activated and form a line 25. The second light beam 22 is aligned with the reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second light beam 22 is here divided into 14 segments 23a to 23n, each segment illuminating a corresponding area on the screen 30. The segments 23a to 23n may overlap slightly laterally to ensure uniform illumination.

[0075] The light segments 23a to 23n have different widths taken along the horizontal reference axis HR. The widths of the light segments 23a to 23n increase gradually with increasing distances from the vertical reference axis VR. The light segments 22a to 23n are distributed into groups of light segments of the same width.

[0076] On the right side of the vertical reference axis VR, the first right-hand group GR1a includes light segments 23h to 23k, the second right-hand group GR2a includes light segments 23l and 23m, and the third right-hand group GR3a includes light segment 23n. On the left side of the vertical reference axis VR, the first left-hand group GR1b includes light segments 23d to 23g, the second left-hand group GR2b includes light segments 23b and 23c, and the third left-hand group GR3b includes light segment 23a.

[0077] The first right-hand group GR1a and the first left-hand group GR1b are the groups closest to the vertical reference axis VR. The second right-hand group GR2a and the second left-hand group GR2b are respectively behind the first right-hand group GR1a and the first left-hand group GR1b at increasing distances from the vertical reference axis VR. The third right-hand group GR3a and the third left-hand group GR3b are respectively behind the second group GR2a and the second group GR2b at increasing distances from the vertical reference axis VR.

[0078] The width of the light segments 23n of the third right-hand group GR3a is greater than the widths of the light segments 23l and 23m of the second right-hand group GR2a, which in turn are greater than the widths of the light segments 23h to 23k of the first right-hand group GR1a.

[0079] The width of the light segments 23a of the third left-hand group GR3b is greater than the widths of the light segments 23b and 23c of the second left-hand group GR2b, which in turn are greater than the widths of the light segments 23e to 23g of the first left-hand group GR1b.

[0080] Thus, the resolution of the second light beam 22 is adapted according to the interest presented by the illuminated road area. The resolution close to the vertical reference axis VR and therefore close to the optical axis 11 of the means for emitting the first light beam 12 is higher than the resolution at increasing distances from the optical axis 11. In this way, the number of light segments is limited while maintaining a sufficient resolution close to the optical axis 11.

[0081] In a variant not shown, the second light beam 22 has a second row of light segments which are selectively activatable and superimposed on the row 25 of light segments 23a, ..., 23n. These light segments can then supplement the distribution formed by the row 25 to form a high-beam function.

[0082] The light intensity of each light segment 23a to 23n can be modulated individually between an off state and a maximum light intensity state, the intensity being modulatable between these two limits. Each segment 23a to 23n is illuminated, for example, by an associated light emitting diode whose intensity can be controlled individually.

[0083] The light intensity of segments 23a, ..., 23n is limited by the light intensity of the overall beam 32, which must not exceed a predetermined intensity value in order to comply with regulations over the area covered by the second beam 22. For example, the light intensity of the overall beam should not exceed 44 100 cd in this area.

[0084] The light segments 23a to 23n can be activated at 50% of their maximum intensity or at 70% of their maximum intensity without the light intensity of the overall light beam 32 exceeding a predetermined intensity value.

[0085] exist Figures 4 to 7 In the figure, light segments with higher intensity compared to the intensities of other light segments are indicated by hatching. The denser the hatching, the higher the light intensity.

[0086] Therefore, in [ Figure 4 ], the light segment 23h has the highest light intensity, and the area on the screen covered by the light segments 23h to 23k is the maximum light intensity area 24. Therefore, the maximum intensity area 24 is located in the area close to the optical axis 11. By individually modulating the light intensities of the light segments 23a to 23n, the maximum light intensity area 24 of the second light beam 22 can be moved.

[0087] The light segments 23a to 23n have intersection lines with each of their one or more adjacent light segments, and a cutoff line can therefore be formed in the second light beam 22 at each of these intersection lines.

[0088] Adjacent light segments 23g and 23h have a line of intersection 26 superimposed on the vertical reference axis VR. The line of intersection between these two adjacent segments 23g, 23h makes it possible to produce a cut-off line in the second light beam 22 at the vertical reference axis VR.

[0089] [ Figure 5 ] shows the projection of the overall light beam 32 generated by the superposition of the first light beam 12 and the second light beam 22 with a cutoff line according to the first exemplary embodiment on the screen 30 when the vehicle 1 travels in a straight line, the projection of the first light beam in [ Figure 2 ] shows that the projection of the second beam is [ Figure 4 ] is shown in ].

[0090] It is also possible to transform the first light beam 12 having a cutoff line according to the second exemplary embodiment (which is projected on [ Figure 3 ]) and a second light beam 22 (which is projected on [ Figure 4 ] are shown in the superposition.

[0091] The light segments 23a to 23n illuminate an area spanning the first horizontal axis H1. Each light segment 23a to 23n includes a vertical lower end 23a1 to 23n1 and a vertical upper end 23a2 to 23n2. In order to make the figure easier to read, not all reference numerals are shown. The first horizontal axis H1 is located between the vertical lower end 23a1 to 23n1 and the vertical upper end 23a2 to 23n2 of each light segment 23a to 23n.

[0092] The vertical lower ends 23a1 to 23n1 of the light segments 23a to 23n of the second light beam 22 are all located at the same height at -0.75° along the vertical reference axis. The height of the vertical lower end 16c of the cutout 16 is approximately the same as the height of the vertical lower ends 23a1 to 23n1 of the light segments 23a to 23n. The cutout 16 and the light segments 23a to 23n may overlap slightly to allow good uniformity of the overall light beam 32. Therefore, the light intensity of the light segments 23i to 23l that completely cover the part of the cutout 16 is not limited by the input light intensity of the first light beam 12 with the cutoff line. It is therefore easier to control the light intensity at the cutout 16, and the light segments 23i to 23l can have a higher intensity, which makes them more visible.

[0093] The light intensity of the light segments of the second light beam 22 may be modulated such that the overall light beam 32 forms a low beam in accordance with the UNECE R123 regulation in force as of the filing date of the present application.

[0094] The cut-off line of the low beam is formed by the intersection line between two adjacent light segments; in particular, it can be generated by the intersection line 26 between the light segments 23g and 23h. In this case, the light intensity of the light segments 23a to 23g is zero, while the light intensity of the light segments 23h to 23n is not zero, and the light intensity of these light segments 23h to 23n decreases from the light segment 23h to the light segment 23n.

[0095] The light intensities of the light segments 23 a to 23 n of the second light beam 22 can also be modulated, so that the overall light beam 32 forms a dynamic bending light beam.

[0096] By modulating the light intensity of the light segments 23a to 23n, the maximum light intensity region 24 can be shifted. The maximum intensity region of the overall light beam 32 is then also shifted. The light intensity of the overall light beam 32 can then be adapted according to the direction of the turn taken by the vehicle 1 and the radius of curvature of the turn. In addition, the cut-off line of the second light beam 22 formed by the intersection line between two adjacent light segments can also be shifted.

[0097] The second light beam 22 illuminates above the first horizontal axis H1 over the entire width of the first light beam with cutoff 12. The entire width of the scene illuminated by the first light beam with cutoff 12 can thus be illuminated by the second light beam 22. A dynamic lighting function can then be realized over the entire width of the first light beam with cutoff 12.

[0098] exist[ Figure 5 ], the vehicle 1 is traveling in a straight line. The maximum intensity region 24 is located close to the optical axis 11.

[0099] [ Figure 6 ] shows the situation where the vehicle 1 makes a right turn. The maximum intensity area 24 is relative to [ Figure 5 ] is shifted to the right. The maximum intensity region 24 is formed here by the light segments 23l, 23m having the highest light intensity among all the light segments 23a, ..., 23n. The cut-off line of the second light beam 22 is also shifted. It is formed by the intersection line between the adjacent light segments 23k and 23l. The light intensity of the light segments 23a to 23k is zero, while the light intensity of the segments 23l to 23n is not zero, and the intensity of these light segments 23l to 23n decreases from the light segment 23l to the light segment 23n.

[0100] [ Figure 7 ] shows the situation where the vehicle 1 makes a left turn. The maximum intensity area 24 is relative to [ Figure 5 ] is shifted to the left. The maximum intensity region 24 is formed here by the light segments 23b, 23c having the highest light intensity among all the light segments 23a, ..., 23n. The cut-off line of the second light beam 22 is also shifted. It is formed by the intersection line between the adjacent light segments 23a and 23b. The light intensity of the light segment 23a is zero, while the light intensity of the light segments 23b to 23n is not zero, and the intensity of these light segments 23b to 23n decreases from the light segment 23b to the light segment 23n.

[0101] The displacement of the maximum intensity region 24 relative to the optical axis 11 of the first light beam 12 is related to the radius of curvature of the bend. The smaller the radius of curvature, the greater the displacement of the maximum intensity region 24 relative to the optical axis 11. The bend is then optimally illuminated.

Claims

1. A lighting device (5) for a motor vehicle (1), include: - means for emitting a first light beam (12) with a cut-off line along an optical axis (11), the cut-off line (13) having a substantially horizontal line (14) including a cut-off (16); the cut-off line extends in a coordinate system formed by a horizontal reference axis (HR) parallel to a first horizontal axis (H1) passing through the substantially horizontal line (14) and a vertical reference axis (VR) perpendicular to the horizontal reference axis (HR) and the optical axis (11), the optical axis (11) passing through the center of the coordinate system; - means for emitting a second light beam (22) which is horizontally divided into a plurality of selectively activatable light segments (23a, ..., 23n) which are capable of illuminating an area located across the first horizontal axis (H1), Characterized in that the incision (16) comprises: a longitudinal proximal end (16a) situated between 1.25° and 1.5° or between -1.25° and -1.5° in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis (HR); and - a vertical lower end (16c) which is situated at a height of -0.75° or less in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis (VR).

2. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The lighting device has two adjacent light segments (23g, 23h) having a meeting line (26) superimposed on the vertical reference axis (VR).

3. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The light segments (23a, ..., 23n) of the second light beam (22) include vertical lower ends (23a1, ..., 23n1), and the height of the vertical lower end (23i1, ..., 23l1) of each light segment (23i, ..., 23l) superimposed with the incision (16) is located at -0.75° or below in the coordinate system along the vertical reference axis (VR), and the height of the vertical lower end (16c) of the incision (16) is approximately the same as the height of the vertical lower end (23i1, ..., 23l1) of the light segment having the highest vertical lower end among all the light segments (23i, ..., 23l) superimposed with the incision (16).

4. The lighting device according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The vertical lower ends (23a1, ..., 23n1) of each light segment (23a, ..., 23n) of the second light beam (22) are all located at the same height at or below -0.75° along the vertical reference axis (VR), and the height of the vertical lower end (16c) of the cutout (16) is approximately the same as the height of the vertical lower ends (23a1, ..., 23n1) of these light segments (23a, ..., 23n).

5. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The cut-off line (13) of the first light beam (12) has a second cutout (15), which has a longitudinal proximal end (15a). When the longitudinal proximal end (16a) of the cutout (16) is between 1.25° and 1.5°, the longitudinal proximal end (15a) of the second cutout is located at -3° or less in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis (HR), or when the longitudinal proximal end (16a) of the cutout (16) is between -1.25° and -1.5°, the longitudinal proximal end (15a) of the second cutout is located at 3° or more in the coordinate system along the horizontal reference axis (HR).

6. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that All light segments (23a, . . . , 23n) of the second light beam (22) have the same width taken along the horizontal reference axis (HR).

7. The lighting device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized in that At least two light segments of the second light beam (22) have different widths taken along the horizontal reference axis (HR).

8. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The light segments (23a, . . . , 23n) of the second light beam (22) have widths that widen as the distance from the vertical reference axis (VR) increases.

9. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The light intensity of each light segment (23a, ..., 23n) can be individually modulated between an off state and a maximum light intensity state.

10. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The light segments (23a, . . . , 23n) of the second light beam (22) can be activated at 50% or 70% of their maximum light intensity.

11. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The light intensity of the light segments (23a, ..., 23n) of the second light beam (22) can be modulated so that the overall light beam (32) generated by superposition of the first light beam (12) with a cut-off line and the second light beam (22) forms a compliant low beam.

12. The lighting device (5) as claimed in claim 1, It is characterized in that The light intensity of the light segments (23a, ..., 23n) of the second light beam (22) can be modulated so that the overall light beam (32) generated by the superposition of the first light beam (12) with a cut-off line and the second light beam (22) forms a dynamic bending light (DBL) beam.

13. The lighting device (5) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The second light beam (22) has two superposed rows (25) of light segments, the lower row of light segments (23a, . . . , 23n) being capable of illuminating an area positioned across the first horizontal axis (H1).

14. A method for controlling a lighting device (5) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The light intensity of each light segment (23a, ..., 23n) of the second light beam positioned across the first horizontal axis (H1) is modulated so that when the vehicle (1) turns, the position of the maximum light intensity area (24) of the overall light beam (32) formed by the superposition of the first light beam (12) and the second light beam (22) is shifted.

15. A method for controlling a lighting device (5) according to claim 14, It is characterized in that The displacement of the maximum light intensity region (24) is related to the radius of curvature of the turn.

Images