Lighting unit for lighting module of motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting unit of a lighting module of a vehicle, the lighting unit comprising:-a first lighting subassembly comprising a first light source (26) configured to emit a plurality of first light rays (28) and a first light collector (15),-a second lighting subassembly comprising a second light source (26) configured to emit a plurality of second light rays (28) and a second light collector (15), -a second light emitting subassembly comprising a second light source (27) configured to emit a plurality of second light rays (30) and a second light collector (16),-an optical projection system (6) comprising an optical axis (17) parallel to the longitudinal direction (L), characterized in that the first light collector (15) and the second light collector (16) are offset relative to one another along the longitudinal direction (L), the first light collector (15) comprising a rear end edge (32), the second light collector (16) comprising a second light source (27) configured to emit a plurality of second light rays (30), and the second light collector (16) comprising a second light source (27) configured to emit a second light ray (30). The rear end edge (32) is arranged between a projection lens (6) and an optical focal point (33) of the projection lens (6).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to the field of motor vehicle lighting modules and in particular lighting and / or signalling modules and more particularly to a lighting unit incorporated into such a lighting module.

[0002] The field of luminous lighting for motor vehicles is subject to regulations that require that each motor vehicle be able to perform lighting functions that meet specific safety standards. More specifically, a motor vehicle is equipped with: one or more luminous modules dedicated to performing each of these functions within each of these modules; at least one light source powered to emit light that leaves the luminous module through a lens configured to form a lighting or signaling beam required by the regulations.

[0003] In particular for space reasons it is desirable to equip a motor vehicle with a plurality of lighting modules, each of which performs a lighting function, or advantageously performs at least two different lighting functions. Increasing the compactness of such lighting modules in particular makes it possible to limit manufacturing costs due to a reduction in electrical connections or raw materials.

[0004] However, making the lighting modules more compact must not negatively impact the effectiveness and / or uniformity of the beams produced by each of the lighting functions. For example, some beams must be projected to have a clear upper horizontal cut-off point and special attention needs to be paid to the construction of the corresponding lighting modules.

[0005] The invention makes it possible to combine the clarity of the light beam formed and the compactness of the light module by providing a light unit of a light module of a motor vehicle, the light unit comprising:

[0006] - a first light emitting subassembly, the first light emitting subassembly comprising at least a first light source configured to emit a plurality of first light rays and a first light collector configured to collect and reflect the first light rays emitted by the first light source,

[0007] a second light emitting subassembly, the second light emitting subassembly comprising at least a second light source configured to emit a plurality of second light rays and a second light collector configured to collect and reflect the second light rays emitted by the second light source, and

[0008] - an optical projection system configured to project a first light ray reflected by the first light collector and a second light ray reflected by the second light collector, the optical projection system comprising an optical axis parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0009] It is noteworthy that the first concentrator and the second concentrator are offset relative to each other at least along the longitudinal direction, so that the first concentrator is arranged between the second concentrator and the optical projection system, and the first concentrator includes a rear end edge arranged between the optical projection system and the optical focus of the optical projection system.

[0010] Thus, two light-emitting subassemblies are combined in one light-emitting unit so that the light-emitting unit performs a plurality of light functions. Thus, this makes it possible to combine several light functions within the same light-emitting module. The positioning of the optical focus of the optical projection system relative to each of the light collectors and the positioning of the light collectors relative to each other ensures the separate generation of the light beams generated by the first light-emitting subassembly and the second light-emitting subassembly, respectively, and makes it possible to ensure the formation of a light beam with a clear upper cut-off edge by imaging the rear end edge of the first light collector forming the upper part of the light beam projected onto the road.

[0011] For each light-emitting subassembly, the light source is enabled when implementing the lighting function or one of the lighting functions to which the light source is involved. Therefore, the light source mainly emits a plurality of light rays in the direction of the light collector. The light collector has a reflective surface facing the light source associated with it. In addition, the light collector has a shape that exhibits rotational symmetry (elliptical or parabolic) so as to reflect the light in the direction of the optical projection system, regardless of the point of incidence of the light on the reflective surface. For example, the light collector has a shape that exhibits rotational symmetry (elliptical or parabolic) centered on the optical axis of the optical projection system.

[0012] The reflected light then propagates to an optical projection system, in particular along a propagation direction that is primarily longitudinal, parallel to the optical axis of the optical projection system. The optical projection system projects the light so as to form a beam associated with a given lighting function.

[0013] The first light collector and the second light collector are offset relative to each other along this same longitudinal direction with a minimal offset, so that these light collectors take up as little space as possible in order to ensure the compactness of the lighting unit and the lighting module.

[0014] The longitudinal offset of the collectors relative to each other is such that the first collector is closer to the optical projection system than the second collector. Therefore, the rear end edge of the first collector corresponds to the section of the first collector that is spatially closest to the second collector. There can be direct contact between the rear end of the first collector and the second collector, in particular to prevent light leakage between these collectors. The platform can in particular connect the rear end edge of the first collector and the second collector, and allow a more uniform transition between these light beams by superimposing the light beams formed by the first light-emitting subassembly and the second light-emitting subassembly on each other.

[0015] As already mentioned, the optical focus of the optical projection system is arranged at the rear end edge of the first light collector or in a manner set back from the rear end edge. Such positioning of the optical focus makes it possible to ensure the sharpness of the cut-off edge of the first light beam projected by the first light-emitting subassembly while allowing the formation of the second light beam output by the second light-emitting subassembly. It should be understood that when the rear end end edge does not have a straight shape perpendicular to the optical axis but has a curved profile, the optical focus is positioned at a distance from the optical projection system that is equal to or greater than the distance of the projection of the point of the rear end edge farthest from the optical projection system onto the optical axis from the optical projection system.

[0016] According to one feature of the invention, the optical projection system is formed by a projection lens. The projection lens may be part of a projection unit combining a plurality of projection lenses, each of which is intrinsic to a lighting unit when the lighting module combines a plurality of lighting units.

[0017] According to one feature of the invention, the optical projection system is formed by a projection mirror.

[0018] According to one feature of the present invention, a rear end edge of the first light concentrator contacts a front end edge of the second light concentrator.

[0019] According to one feature of the invention, the optical focus of the optical projection system is arranged at a distance less than or equal to 10 mm from the rear end edge of the first light collector.

[0020] According to one feature of the present invention, the first light collector and the second light collector are offset relative to each other along a vertical direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Since the second light collector is arranged behind the first light collector, the first light collector may potentially hinder the second light from propagating to the optical projection system. In order to remedy this obstruction, the second light collector is offset at least along the vertical direction in addition to being offset relative to the first light collector along the longitudinal direction. In particular, the second light collector is closer to the printed circuit board than the first light collector. The height difference between the two light collectors ensures that the light is propagated from the two light-emitting sub-assemblies to the optical projection system, which needs to be large enough to project all the light despite the offset between the light collectors along the vertical direction.

[0021] According to one feature of the invention, the optical axis of the optical projection system passes substantially through the rear end edge of the first light collector and intersects the second light collector. The light collectors are vertically offset relative to each other so that the rear end edge of the first light collector forms the lowest part of the first light collector, or the lowest part closest to the printed circuit board, and at least a portion of the second light collector extends lower than the rear end edge of the first light collector or closer to the printed circuit board. In this context, the optical axis and therefore the optical focus of the optical projection system are arranged vertically at one end of the first light collector and substantially at the center of the second light collector.

[0022] According to one feature of the invention, the lighting unit comprises a printed circuit board carrying all the light sources of the first and second light sources. This single printed circuit board thus carries at least the first and second light sources mentioned above. The printed circuit board is configured so that it is possible, for example, to control the functions of the light sources following a manual command made by a user of the vehicle and thus to switch one or the other of the light sources on or off. The use of only one printed circuit board for all the light sources makes it possible to reduce the space requirement of the lighting unit and therefore the space requirement of the lighting module in which the lighting unit is incorporated. Furthermore, the use of a single printed circuit board makes it possible to limit the connections and assembly compared to the use of a plurality of printed circuit boards.

[0023] According to one feature of the invention, the printed circuit board has an inclination of between 5° and 15° relative to a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction. This inclination makes it possible to position the light source closer to its corresponding light collector. This then produces the reflection of a greater number of light rays and therefore improves the intensity of the light beam leaving the optical projection system.

[0024] According to one feature of the present invention, the first light collector comprises at least two reflective cavities, which are offset relative to each other along a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the vertical direction. The two reflective cavities offset relative to each other along the transverse direction make it possible to extend the light beam of the first light-emitting subassembly along the transverse direction. Advantageously, in this configuration, the first light-emitting subassembly can include at least two light sources, one light source per reflective cavity.

[0025] According to one feature of the invention, the rear end edge of the first light collector is defined by a continuation of the rear end edge of each of the reflective cavities. The optical focus of the optical projection system is set at each of the points defining the rear end edge of the cavity of the first light collector or in a manner set back from each of these points.

[0026] According to one feature of the invention, the two reflective cavities of the first light collector are connected together by a connection zone parallel to the longitudinal direction. For example, the connection zone is aligned relative to the vertical direction along the optical axis. In order to avoid optical interference between the light collectors, both reflective cavities are offset relative to the second light collector along the transverse direction so that the second light can still propagate correctly despite the first light collector.

[0027] According to one feature of the present invention, the first light-emitting subassembly is configured to cooperate with the optical projection system to generate a first light beam having a cutoff edge formed by imaging the rear end edge of the first light collector, and the second light-emitting subassembly is configured to cooperate with the optical projection system to generate a second light beam different from the first light beam, at least a portion of the second light beam being located above the cutoff edge. The cutoff edge forms an upper cutoff point in the first light beam. The second light beam can particularly have a greater intensity than the first light beam.

[0028] As described above, each light-emitting subassembly can perform its inherent lighting function. Therefore, multiple lighting functions can be performed by a single light-emitting unit and therefore within a single light-emitting module. In particular, in the context that has just been mentioned, the first light-emitting subassembly is capable of generating a light beam that corresponds to a low beam or a portion of a low beam, that is, has a clear cutoff edge that forms an upper cutoff point in the first light beam, and the light beam is particularly such that other road users are not dazzled; while the second light-emitting subassembly is capable of generating a light beam, at least a portion of which is located above the cutoff edge, and the light beam can, for example, be superimposed on the first light beam to form a high-beam type beam, or is an enhancement of the light beam at its center to form a high-beam type beam.

[0029] The present invention also covers a lighting module for a vehicle, the lighting module comprising the lighting unit described above.

[0030] In particular, the present invention covers a lighting module for a vehicle, the lighting module comprising at least one lighting unit as described above.

[0031] According to one feature of the present invention, the lighting module comprises at least a first lighting unit and a second lighting unit, wherein the first lighting unit is as described above. Therefore, the plurality of lighting units enables further multiplication of the lighting function within the same lighting module.

[0032] According to one feature of the present invention, the second lighting unit includes at least one additional lighting subassembly and an additional optical projection system. One or more additional lighting subassemblies can perform lighting functions different from the functions of the lighting subassemblies provided by the first lighting unit.

[0033] The additional optical projection system can be formed by an additional projection mirror or by an additional projection lens.

[0034] According to one feature of the invention, when the optical projection system of the first light-emitting unit is formed by a projection lens, the additional optical projection system may also be formed by a projection lens referred to as an additional projection lens. Where appropriate, the light-emitting module comprises a projection unit divided into a first part defining the projection lens of the first light-emitting unit and a second part defining the additional projection lens of the second light-emitting unit. In other words, the projection unit may be divided into a plurality of optical elements, including the projection lens of the first light-emitting unit and the additional projection lens of the second light-emitting unit, each of the optical elements being attached to its own light-emitting unit. The characteristics of each of the optical elements of the projection unit may vary depending on the purpose to be satisfied by the light beam formed by each of the light-emitting units.

[0035] Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will also become apparent from the following description and from a number of exemplary embodiments given by way of non-limiting indication, with reference to the attached schematic drawings, in which:

[0036] [ Figure 1 ] is a depiction of a light emitting module according to the present invention,

[0037] [ Figure 2 ] shows a lighting module according to the present invention in a stereoscopic view, which reveals a projection lens, a printed circuit board, and a plurality of light collectors fastened to this printed circuit board,

[0038] [ Figure 3 ] shows a top view of a light emitting module, wherein only the light collector is depicted, and section planes IV-IV, VV are shown,

[0039] [ Figure 4 ] is a light emitting unit according to the present invention incorporated in a light emitting module. Figure 3 A first view of a section on a sectional plane IV-IV in FIG. 1 , which shows by way of example a line of light that can be reflected in a light-emitting unit according to the invention,

[0040] [ Figure 5 ]yes Figure 4 The light-emitting unit in Figure 3 a second view of a section on a section plane VV in FIG. 1 , which shows by way of example a line of light that can be reflected in a light-emitting unit according to the invention,

[0041] [ Figure 6 ] is a view of a light collector of a lighting unit in a section plane perpendicular to the optical axis of a projection lens associated with the lighting unit,

[0042] [ Figure 7 ] shows a light module according to a variant of the invention, showing a projection reflector.

[0043] Figure 1 1 is an overall view of a lighting module 10 according to the invention. The lighting module 10 can be incorporated, for example, into a motor vehicle (for example, into a headlight of a motor vehicle) to perform at least one lighting function when the vehicle is traveling. In this regard, the lighting module 10 can in particular be arranged at the front of the vehicle.

[0044] The lighting module 10 is housed in the hood 2 . The lighting module is configured to perform a plurality of light functions or at least to contribute to the emission of a plurality of lighting functions onto the road. The lighting module ensures the emission and propagation of the light until the light passes through the projection unit 4 .

[0045] As will be described in detail below, the lighting module includes a plurality of lighting units, in particular the lighting units according to the present invention, that perform one or more lighting functions.

[0046] The projection unit 4 is divided into a plurality of parts 4a, 4b, 4c. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , each light unit of the light module 10 comprises a projection lens. Each portion 4a, 4b, 4c is then formed by a projection lens of a light unit of the light module. Alternatively, as will be referred to below Figure 7 As described in detail, each lighting unit of the lighting module 10 may comprise a projection reflector instead of a projection lens. Each part 4a, 4b, 4c of the optical projection unit 4 may then be formed by a projection reflector of a lighting unit of the lighting module.

[0047] The cover 2 is configured to at least partially accommodate the light emitting module 10. The cover 2 has an opening 7 covering the projection unit 4, and the light emitting module is configured to guide the light emitted in the direction of the opening 7.

[0048] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 The light emitting module 10 in FIG. 1 , wherein the mask 2 has been removed. The light emitting module 10 comprises at least one light emitting unit according to the present invention.

[0049] In particular, the lighting module 10 includes a plurality of lighting units 11. Each of the lighting units includes at least one light source, at least one light collector, and an optical projection system.

[0050] exist Figure 2 In the example of , as explained above, the optical projection system of each light emitting unit 11 is formed by a projection lens 6 , 22 , 25 . In this case, each projection lens 6 , 22 , 25 forms one of the parts 4 a , 4 b , 4 c of the projection unit 4 .

[0051] Alternatively, and as Figure 7As shown, the optical projection system of each lighting unit 11 can be formed by projection mirrors 6', 22', 25'. Each projection mirror 6', 22', 25' then forms one of the parts 4a, 4b, 4c of the projection unit 4.

[0052] It will be noted that Figure 7 It is intended only to illustrate an embodiment variant of the lighting module 10 according to the invention, in which the optical projection unit of the lighting unit 11 is formed by a projection reflector. Figure 7 The light emitting module shown is Figures 1 to 6 The light emitting module 10 shown is identical. Figures 1 to 6 All features described apply mutatis mutandis to Figure 7 The lighting module shown is applicable to the projection reflector except that the features described for the projection lens are applicable to the projection reflector. In particular, the features related to the focal position of the projection lens are applicable to the focal position of the projection reflector.

[0053] More specifically, in Figure 2 and Figure 7 In the embodiment, the light emitting module 10 includes a first light emitting unit 11a, a second light emitting unit 11b and a third light emitting unit 11c. Figure 2 and Figure 7 In the figure, the three light emitting units 11 are defined by dotted lines to make it easier for readers to understand.

[0054] The first light-emitting unit 11a is a light-emitting unit 11 according to the present invention. This includes a first light-emitting subassembly 12 and a second light-emitting subassembly 13. Each light-emitting subassembly 12, 13 of the first light-emitting unit 11a includes a light source and a light collector. In addition, each of the light-emitting subassemblies 12, 13 at least partially performs its inherent lighting function within the light-emitting module 10. Therefore, the light-emitting module can perform multiple lighting functions in a manner as compact as possible.

[0055] exist Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the light sources are not visible. These are connected to at least one printed circuit board 14. The lighting module 10 may comprise a single printed circuit board 14 carrying all the light sources and in particular the light sources of each lighting unit 11a, 11b, 11c, regardless of the number of light sources. Alternatively, the lighting module 10 may comprise as many printed circuit boards 14 as lighting units 11.

[0056] When the light sources are enabled so as to perform the lighting function in question, each of these light sources emits light in the direction of a light collector inherent to each of these light sources. The light collector or collectors have a reflective surface and a shape such that the light is collected and reflected in the direction of the projection unit 4, which projects each of the light rays so as to form a beam corresponding to the lighting function or functions performed by the light module 10.

[0057] In order to project the light beam generated by the first light emitting subassembly 12 and / or the second light emitting subassembly 13, the first light emitting unit 11a comprises a projection lens 6 incorporated into the projection unit 4. Figure 2 In FIG. 4 , the projection lens 6 corresponds to the first portion 4a of the projection unit 4. The projection lens 6 is arranged to face the light emitted by the first light-emitting subassembly 12 and by the second light-emitting subassembly 13. The projection lens 6 is configured to have an optical axis 17 extending along the longitudinal direction L. Figure 7 In the example in FIG. 4 , the first light emitting unit 11 a comprises a projection reflector 6 ′ which is integrated into the projection unit 4 .

[0058] The first light-emitting subassembly 12 of the first light-emitting unit 11a at least includes Figure 3 The first light source 26 and the first light collector 15 are visible in FIG. 1 , and the second light emitting subassembly 13 includes Figure 3 The second light source 27 and the second light collector 16 are visible in FIG. Each of the light collectors 15 and 16 has the function of collecting and reflecting the light emitted by its own light source. Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16 exhibit an offset relative to each other at least along the longitudinal direction L, wherein the second light collector 16 is arranged behind the first light collector 15. In other words, the distance between the projection lens 6 (or the projection reflector 6') and the second light collector 16 is therefore greater than the distance between the projection lens 6 (or the projection reflector 6') and the first light collector 15. The positioning of the light collectors of the first light emitting unit 11a relative to each other will be described in detail below.

[0059] Each light collector may be divided into one or more reflective cavities. Multiplying the number of reflective cavities within a single light collector and thus within a single light emitting subassembly helps, for example, to enhance the intensity and / or range of the light beam formed upon leaving the light emitting subassembly along one or more given directions. Figure 2 and Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , the first light collector 15 is divided into a first reflection cavity 18 and a second reflection cavity 19 , which are offset relative to each other along a transverse direction T perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. In FIG.

[0060] Thus, the two reflective cavities 18, 19 form a single light collector. Therefore, they both collect and reflect light intended to perform the same lighting function. To this end, the projection lens 6 (or projection reflector 6') (that is to say the first part 4a of the projection unit 4) faces all the reflective cavities of the light collector of the first light emitting unit 11a.

[0061] The reflective surfaces of the first light collector 15 and in particular the reflective cavities 18, 19 of the first light collector 15 and / or the reflective surfaces of the second light collector 16 advantageously have a profile of the elliptical or parabolic type. According to a variant, these reflective surfaces form a surface of revolution around an axis parallel to the optical axis 17. This axis parallel to the optical axis 17 may in particular correspond to the optical axis of the light collector.

[0062] As mentioned above, Figure 2 and Figure 7 The light module 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes three light emitting units 11. Therefore, the second light emitting unit 11b and the third light emitting unit 11c also include one or more light emitting subassemblies, and the lighting functions generated by these light emitting subassemblies are different from or can be different from the lighting functions performed by the first light emitting subassembly 12 and the second light emitting subassembly 13 of the first light emitting unit 11a.

[0063] Therefore, it can be observed that the second lighting unit 11b comprises at least one additional lighting subassembly 20 provided with one or more additional light sources and provided with one or more additional light collectors 21, and Figure 2 The additional projection lens 22 in the example of Figure 7 The additional projection reflector 22' in the example in FIG. The additional light-emitting subassemblies 20 each at least partially perform their inherent lighting function and are arranged to emit light and reflect the light to the corresponding second part 4b of the projection unit 4. Figure 2 The additional projection lens 22 in the example or Figure 7 The additional projection reflector 22' in the example in FIG.

[0064] For its part, the third lighting unit 11c comprises an additional lighting subassembly 23 provided with an additional light source and an additional light collector 24, and Figure 2 The additional projection lens 25 in the example or Figure 7 The additional projection reflector 25' in the example in FIG. The light emitted and reflected by the additional light-emitting subassembly 23 is then directed to the third portion 4c corresponding to the projection unit 4. Figure 2 The additional projection lens 25 in the example of Figure 7 The additional projection reflector 25' in the example in the projection.

[0065] Figure 4 and Figure 5is the light emitting unit 11 according to the present invention (in this case Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the first light emitting unit 11a). Figure 4 The cross section in Figure 3 and defined by the longitudinal direction L and a vertical direction V perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T, and Figure 5 The cross section in Figure 3 Also visible in and relative to Figure 4 The cross-sectional plane is laterally offset from plane VV. Figure 4 The cross section in passes through the second light source 27 associated with the second light collector 16, and Figure 5 The section in passes through the first light source 26 associated with the first light collector 15 .

[0066] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The printed circuit board 14 and some of the light sources it carries can be seen. Figure 4 In particular, the first light source 26 disposed near the first light collector 15 and the second light source 27 disposed near the second light collector 16 as described above are shown. Figure 5 This first light source 26 arranged close to the first light collector 15 is shown.

[0067] Each of the light sources 26, 27 is activated when needed to implement the function associated with the light emitting subassembly in question. Activation and / or deactivation of one or the other of the light sources 26, 27 may be accomplished manually by the driver of the vehicle, or automatically, for example based on data measured by a light detector (not shown).

[0068] exist Figure 5 In the view of FIG. 1 , the propagation of light in the assembly formed by the first light source 26 and the first light collector 15 is particularly illustrated. The first light source 26, when activated, emits first light rays 28, which propagate to the reflective surface of the first light collector 15 and are collected and reflected by said surface. The propagation of the reflected first light rays 28 occurs as far as the projection lens 6, which projects them so as to form a first light beam 29. Figure 4 , similarly, the propagation of light in the assembly formed by the second light source 27 and the second light collector 16 is particularly illustrated. The second light source 27 emits second light rays 30, which are reflected by the reflective surface of the second light collector 16 and propagate to the projection lens 6 and form a second light beam 31 when leaving the lens.

[0069] Each light source 26 , 27 is arranged at the focal point of the reflecting surface of the corresponding light collector so that the light emitted by it is collected and reflected along the optical axis 17 .

[0070] As mentioned above, the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16 are offset relative to each other along the longitudinal direction L. Therefore, considering the main propagation direction of the light within the first light emitting unit 11 a, the first light collector 15 is further forward than the second light collector 16, which means that the first reflecting surface of the first light collector 15 is closer to the projection lens 6 than the second reflecting surface of the second light collector 16.

[0071] The two collectors 15, 16 are considered to be longitudinally juxtaposed to the extent that the rear end edge 32 of the first collector 15 is arranged in direct continuation of the front end edge of the second collector 16. The rear end edge 32 of the first collector 15 is the longitudinal end edge of the first collector 15 farthest from the projection lens 6.

[0072] As in Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen in FIG. 3 , the rear end edge 32 may have a curved profile in the longitudinal and transverse planes, which means that the distance between this rear end edge and the projection lens 6 varies. Figure 4 The assembly formed by the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16 is shown in a cross-sectional view on the above-mentioned plane IV-IV, this cross-sectional plane IV-IV passing through the point of the rear end edge 32 closest to the projection lens 6 and through the light source 27 associated with the second light collector 16, so that the light source associated with the first light collector is not visible, while Figure 5 The same assembly formed by the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16 is shown in a cross-sectional view on the above-mentioned plane VV, but this cross-sectional plane VV passes through the point of the rear end edge 32 farthest from the projection lens 6 and through the light source 26 associated with the first light collector 15. In order to make it easier to understand, it has been shown in the figure. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The cross-sectional axis Figure 3 The light sources are depicted by dotted lines in order to illustrate their respective positions relative to each other, in particular their longitudinal and lateral offsets, and their positions relative to the light collectors associated with them.

[0073] Where appropriate, in particular Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the platform 156 connects the rear edge 32 of the first light collector 15 to the front edge of the second light collector 16. This platform 156 makes it possible to prevent light leakage between the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16 in the area where the rear edge is closer to the projection lens. In addition, it allows the light from the second light collector 16 to be reflected again. The light from the second light collector 16, which is then reflected by this platform 156, overlaps with the first light beam 29, thereby creating a more uniform transition between the first light beam 29 and the second light beam 31.

[0074] According to the invention, the two light collectors 15, 16 are thus at least longitudinally juxtaposed and offset, wherein the first light collector 15 is closer to the projection lens 6 than the second light collector 16, and the projection lens 6 is configured such that the optical focus 33 of this projection lens is arranged longitudinally between the two light collectors 15, 16, or in other words, behind the rear end edge 32 of the first light collector 15 with respect to the main propagation direction of the light rays along the optical axis. In other words, again, the optical focus 33 of the projection lens 6 is at a distance from the projection lens that is greater than or equal to the distance between the projection lens 6 and the rear end edge 32 of the first light collector 15.

[0075] exist Figure 7 In the example of FIG. 6 , it will be understood that the focal point of the projection mirror 6 ′ is arranged longitudinally between the two light collectors 15 , 16 .

[0076] The optical focus 33 is considered to be near the rear edge of the first light collector, because the distance between the rear edge 32 and the optical focus 33 is less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0077] As a result of this arrangement, at least some of these reflected rays have an inclination in the vertical plane relative to the optical axis 17 of less than or equal to 25°, preferably less than or equal to 10°, so as to be in so-called Gaussian conditions, making it possible to obtain anti-astigmatism (that is to say, sharpness of the projected image). These rays are advantageously rays reflected by the rear portion of the reflective surface of each of the light collectors, and in particular rays reflected near the rear edge 32 of the first light collector 15.

[0078] This specific position of the optical focus 33 relative to the rear edge 32 of the collector (in the context of the two collectors being longitudinally juxtaposed one behind the other) makes it possible to improve the overall clarity and uniformity of the projected images of the first light beam 29 and the second light beam 31.

[0079] In addition to the offset between the first light concentrator 15 and the second light concentrator 16 along the longitudinal direction L, the second light concentrator is also offset relative to the first light concentrator 15 along the vertical direction V, the second light concentrator 16 being closer to the printed circuit board 14 than the first light concentrator 15. This offset allows the propagation of the reflected second light rays 30 without being blocked by the first light concentrator 15.

[0080] In the example shown, the printed circuit board 14 has an inclination relative to a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction. The printed circuit board 14 has an inclination angle 34 between 5° and 15° relative to the plane. This inclination makes it possible to orient the first light source 26 and the second light source 27 further towards the curved portion of the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16, respectively, in order to promote the reflection of the light.

[0081] As in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the first light beam 29 generated by the first light-emitting subassembly is directed below the optical axis, that is to say towards the road. This is the light beam associated with the lighting function, which needs to be precise and sharp, in particular at its upper cut-off edge formed by the imaging of the rear end edge 32. When the light-emitting module 10 is oriented in the installed position, the front end edge 32' of the first light collector 15 (that is to say the edge closest to the projection lens 6) defines the lower part of the light image formed and projected onto the road, and the rear end edge 32 defines the upper part of said image.

[0082] The second light beam 31 generated by the second light emitting subassembly is a light beam associated with a lighting function, at least a portion of which is located above the cut-off edge of the first light beam 29. The second light beam 31 can, for example, be superimposed on the first light beam 29 so as to form a beam of high beam type. Alternatively, the second light beam 31 can be an enhancement of the light beam, for example an enhancement at the center of this light beam, so as to form a beam of high beam type. Therefore, the second light beam 31 does not require as much contour definition as the lighting function performed by the first light beam 29. As already described and illustrated, the position of the light collectors 15, 16 relative to each other and the position of the optical focus 33 relative to the rear end edge 32 makes it possible to provide a light unit 11a according to the invention, as well as a light module, which combines compactness and realizes a light beam with a cut-off point that requires clarity, and the positioning of the optical focus near the rear end edge makes it possible to form the cut-off edge in a clear manner by imaging the rear end edge.

[0083] Figure 6 is a cross section of the first light collector 15 on a plane defined by the transverse direction T and the vertical direction V. Therefore, the first light collector 15 on the first plane and the second light collector 16 behind the first light collector 15 can be seen. Figure 5 The offset between the first light collector 15 and the second light collector 16 along the vertical direction V can be seen in particular.

[0084] This figure makes it possible to see in particular the specific shape of the rear end edge of the first light collector 15 , which in this case has a kink 35 extending mainly in the vertical direction V. The kink 35 makes it possible in particular to form, by imaging, a stepped upper cut-off edge of the first light beam.

[0085] Furthermore, the first reflection cavity 18 and the second reflection cavity 19 of the first light collector 15 are connected together by a connection area 36 , which is parallel to the longitudinal direction and can be aligned with respect to the vertical direction V along the optical axis.

[0086] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples that have just been described and many modifications may be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0087] As has just been described, the invention clearly achieves its stated purpose and makes it possible to provide a lighting unit of a lighting module that combines multiple lighting functions and combines compactness and uniformity of said lighting functions. Variants not described here can be implemented without departing from the context of the invention, provided that, according to the invention, these variants comprise a lighting unit according to the invention.

Claims

1. A light-emitting unit (11) of a light-emitting module (10) of a motor vehicle, the light-emitting unit comprising: - a first light emitting subassembly (12), the first light emitting subassembly comprising at least a first light source (26) configured to emit a plurality of first light rays (28) and a first light collector (15) configured to collect and reflect the first light rays (28) emitted by the first light source (26), - a second light-emitting subassembly (13), the second light-emitting subassembly comprising at least a second light source (27) configured to emit a plurality of second light rays (30) and a second light collector (16) configured to collect and reflect the second light rays (30) emitted by the second light source (27), and an optical projection system (6, 6') configured to project the first light ray (28) reflected by the first light concentrator (15) and the second light ray (30) reflected by the second light concentrator (16), the optical projection system (6, 6') comprising an optical axis (17) parallel to the longitudinal direction (L), Characterized in that the first light collector (15) and the second light collector (16) are offset relative to each other at least along the longitudinal direction (L) so that the first light collector (15) is arranged between the second light collector (16) and the optical projection system (6, 6'), and the first light collector (15) includes a rear end edge (32) arranged between the optical projection system (6, 6') and an optical focus (33) of the optical projection system (6, 6').

2. The light emitting unit (11) according to claim 1, wherein: The optical projection system (6) is formed by a projection lens.

3. The light emitting unit (11) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The rear edge (32) of the first light concentrator (15) contacts the front edge of the second light concentrator (16).

4. The lighting unit (11) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The optical focus (33) of the optical projection system (6, 6') is arranged at a distance less than or equal to 10 mm from the rear end edge (32) of the first light collector (15).

5. The lighting unit (11) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first light concentrator (15) and the second light concentrator (16) are offset relative to each other along a vertical direction (V) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L).

6. The lighting unit (11) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The optical axis (17) of the optical projection system substantially passes through the rear end edge (32) of the first light collector (15) and intersects the second light collector (16).

7. The lighting unit (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a printed circuit board (14) carrying all of the first and second light sources (26, 27).

8. A lighting unit (11) according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 4, wherein: The printed circuit board (14) has an inclination of between 5° and 15° relative to a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction (V).

9. The lighting unit (11) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first light-emitting subassembly (12) is configured to cooperate with the optical projection system to generate a first light beam (29), the first light beam having a cutoff edge formed by imaging the rear end edge (32) of the first light collector, and the second light-emitting subassembly (13) is configured to cooperate with the optical projection system to generate a second light beam (31) different from the first light beam (29), at least a portion of the second light beam being located above the cutoff edge.

10. A lighting module (10) for a vehicle, the lighting module comprising at least a first lighting unit (11a) and a second lighting unit (11b), the first lighting unit (11a) being as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

11. The lighting module (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The second light-emitting unit (11b) comprises at least one additional light-emitting subassembly (20) and an additional optical projection system (22, 22').

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