Lighting module for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting module (1) for a motor vehicle (2), the module comprising:-a set of light sources (41, 42, 43, 44, 45) comprising at least two light sources; -a set of optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) comprising at least two optical elements, each cooperating with a separate light source to generate a light beam (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5); -a support (7) configured to hold the optical elements, characterized in that the optical elements are embedded in the support and they are configured and arranged such that each optical element produces a light beam comprising the same light distribution and the same orientation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a lighting module for motor vehicles. The invention also relates to a method for assembling such a lighting module. Background Technology

[0002] Motor vehicles include lighting modules designed to illuminate the road ahead, enabling driving in darkness. These modules typically produce low beam and / or high beam illumination. The distribution of low and high beam illumination is specifically defined by automotive regulations, such as UNECE R149 in Europe, GBT 30036 in China, and FMVSS 108 in the United States. For example, in the case of low beam, the illumination beam must have a specific asymmetry to avoid dazzling other drivers traveling in the opposite direction.

[0003] Such lighting modules typically include a single light source that works in conjunction with one or more optical elements adapted to shape the emitted light beam according to a desired emission distribution.

[0004] Illumination modules designed to produce low beams are also known, and these modules comprise two separate light-emitting modules. The first light-emitting module includes a first light source that cooperates with a first optical element to produce a first portion of a light beam. The first portion of the light beam is a wide light beam with a horizontal upper cutoff. This first light beam is commonly referred to as a "flat-top" light beam. The second light-emitting module includes a second light source that cooperates with a second optical element to produce a second portion of a light beam. The second portion of the light beam is a narrower light beam with a stepped upper cutoff. This second light beam is commonly referred to as a "bent-angle" light beam. Thus, each light-emitting module is designed to illuminate a specific area of ​​space. The "bent-angle" module is adjustable relative to the "flat-top" module to allow adjustment of the positions of the first and second portions of the light beam. Manufacturing and installing such a lighting module in a motor vehicle requires steps to adjust the relative positions of the light beams produced by each of the light-emitting modules, which is particularly complex and cumbersome. Furthermore, introducing a system for adjusting the position of the "bent-angle" module relative to the "flat-top" module involves cost. Invention Overview The purpose of this invention is to provide a lighting module and a method for assembling such a lighting module, which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and improves upon the lighting modules and assembly methods known in the prior art.

[0006] More specifically, one object of the present invention is a lighting module comprising several light sources, which is particularly easy to assemble and inexpensive. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention relates to a lighting module for a motor vehicle, the lighting module comprising: - A group of light sources, comprising at least two light sources. - A set of optical elements, comprising at least two optical elements, each cooperating with a separate light source to generate a beam of light. - A support member configured to hold these optical elements. These optical elements are fixedly mounted on the support, and these optical elements are configured and arranged to each produce a light beam with the same light emission distribution and the same orientation.

[0008] The emission distribution of the emitted beams can be either low beam or high beam, and these emitted beams preferably each have a luminous flux lower than the legally required luminous flux for performing the low beam or high beam function.

[0009] In particular, the superposition of the light emission distribution generated by all optical elements enables the production of legal low beam or high beam functions.

[0010] The lighting module can be configured to generate an overall luminous beam formed by the superposition of the luminous beams generated by each optical element, and the luminous distribution of the overall luminous beam is the same as the luminous distribution of the luminous beams generated by each optical element.

[0011] Therefore, the light beam generated by the optical element and the overall light beam have the same geometry.

[0012] It should be understood that the light beams generated by the optical elements are superimposed to form a unified light beam. In other words, the light beams generated by the optical elements are combined to form a unified light beam.

[0013] In particular, the light beams generated by the optical elements overlap or merge when projected onto a screen located in front of the lighting module (e.g., 25 m in front of the lighting module).

[0014] "Overlapping or merging of light beams generated by optical elements" refers to the overlap or merging of the outlines of the light distribution of each of the light beams generated by optical elements, especially when they are projected onto a screen located in front of the lighting module (e.g., 25 m in front of the lighting module).

[0015] Therefore, the overall emission distribution of the emitted beam has the same profile as the emitted beam generated by the optical element.

[0016] Therefore, the light beams are not placed side by side to form a whole light beam.

[0017] It should be understood that, without departing from the scope of the invention, slight offsets of about 1°, or even less than or equal to 0.5°, or even less than or equal to 0.4°, may exist between the outlines of the luminous beams. In fact, when projected onto the road at a distance in front of the vehicle and therefore at a distance in front of the lighting module, this offset has no effect on the overall projected luminous beam. In fact, the different luminous beams appear to merge to the naked eye.

[0018] All optical elements can have the same shape.

[0019] Optical elements can be attached to the support independently. Therefore, each optical element is attached to the support.

[0020] All optical components can be secured to the support using a clamping mechanism.

[0021] The support may include a first means for positioning each optical element parallel to the optical axis of the illumination module. Each first positioning means includes a first stop and a first elastic tab, the first elastic tab being configured to press the optical element against the first stop.

[0022] The support may include a second means for positioning each optical element parallel to a first transverse axis, which is perpendicular to the optical axis of the illumination module. Each of the second positioning means includes a second stop and a second resilient tab, the second resilient tab being configured to press the optical element against the second stop. Specifically, the support may include a third means for positioning each optical element parallel to a second transverse axis, which is perpendicular to both the optical axis of the illumination module and the first transverse axis. Each of the third positioning means includes a third stop and a third resilient tab, the third resilient tab being configured to press the optical element against the third stop.

[0023] The first and second elastic tabs can form a single elastic tab, which cooperates with the inclined surface of each optical element to press the optical element against the first and second stops.

[0024] The support may include means for locking each optical element to prevent rotation about an axis parallel to the optical axis of the illumination module and / or about an axis perpendicular to the optical axis of the illumination module.

[0025] The light source can be mounted on the same printed circuit board.

[0026] Each optical element may include a reference surface that rests against a printed circuit board to ensure a non-zero distance between each optical element and the light source with which it cooperates.

[0027] Each optical element may include a light projection surface that extends substantially along a portion of the sphere, and the projection surface may be surrounded by a collar designed to diffuse the light.

[0028] This group of light sources may include at least four light sources.

[0029] Each optical element can be a one-piece element, particularly made of transparent polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a first injection mold. The support can be a one-piece element, particularly made of opaque polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a second injection mold.

[0030] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling a lighting module as defined above, the assembly method comprising: - Provides a support structure including a set of housings. - Provide a set of optical elements, then - Each optical element is secured to the support by clamping each optical element into the housing of the support. Attached Figure Description

[0031] These objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be disclosed in detail in the following non-limiting description of specific embodiments given with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a motor vehicle equipped with a lighting module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing a beam of light projected from the lighting module onto a screen positioned in front of the lighting module.

[0033] Figure 3 It is a schematic top view of the light beam projected from the lighting module.

[0034] Figure 4 It is an isometric 3D view of the lighting module.

[0035] Figure 5 It is an isometric 3D view of the support components for the lighting module.

[0036] Figure 6 It is an isometric stereoscopic view of the optical elements of the lighting module as seen from a first-person perspective.

[0037] Figure 7 It is an isometric stereoscopic view of the optical elements of the lighting module as seen from a second perspective.

[0038] Figure 8 It is an isometric 3D view of the lighting module, in which the support components are hidden.

[0039] Figure 9 This is an isometric perspective view seen from the front of the supporting shell.

[0040] Figure 10 This is a first cross-sectional view of the optical element positioned in the support housing.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a second cross-sectional view of the optical element positioned in the support housing.

[0042] Figure 12 It is an isometric perspective view seen from the rear of the supporting housing, without any optical elements intended to be placed in this housing.

[0043] Figure 13 and Figure 12 The view is the same, but the optical elements are in place within the housing.

[0044] Figure 14 This is a front cross-sectional view of the optical element positioned in the support housing. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Figure 1 A lighting module 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. The lighting module 1 is integrated into a motor vehicle 2 and is designed to produce low beams. Low beams are light beams designed to illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle to allow driving in the dark without dazzling oncoming drivers. The light beam is configured to illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle for tens of meters.

[0046] The invention described below can also be applied to any other lighting module for motor vehicles, particularly lighting modules designed to produce high beams, which are more powerful than low beams and are intended for use when there are no oncoming drivers.

[0047] The optical axis X is defined as an axis parallel to the central axis of the overall luminous beam F generated by the lighting module 1. The optical axis can be substantially parallel to the direction of straight-line travel of the vehicle 2, or inclined downwards and forwards relative to the direction of straight-line travel of the vehicle 2. The vehicle 2 is assumed to be stationary on a level surface. The Z-axis, or first lateral axis Z, is defined as an axis parallel to the vertical direction. Therefore, the Z-axis is perpendicular to the optical axis X. Finally, the Y-axis, or second lateral axis Y, is defined as an axis perpendicular to both the optical axis X and the Z-axis. Axis X is oriented from the front to the rear of the vehicle 2. The Z-axis is oriented from the bottom to the top. From the driver's perspective of the vehicle 2, the Y-axis is oriented from left to right. It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., do not imply any sequential relationship between the elements they refer to. These terms are only used to distinguish different elements. Therefore, the Y-axis can also be designated as the first lateral axis, and the Z-axis can also be designated as the first lateral axis.

[0048] Figure 2The schematic diagram illustrates the overall luminous beam F generated by the illumination module 1 when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the optical axis X. Figure 3 The diagram schematically illustrates the overall luminous beam F generated by the lighting module 1, projected onto the road 3 on which the vehicle 2 travels, i.e. onto a plane parallel to the optical axes X and Y.

[0049] refer to Figure 1 The lighting module 1 includes a set of light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45, and a set of optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55, each optical element cooperating with a separate light source to generate a light beam. The lighting module 1 includes as many optical elements as light sources. The light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 may, for example, each be formed from one or more light-emitting diodes. The light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 are mounted on the same printed circuit board 6. The lighting module also includes a support 7 configured to hold the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55.

[0050] According to the illustrated embodiment, the lighting module 1 includes five light sources and five optical elements. Alternatively, this number can be any number greater than or equal to two. For example, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six light sources and associated optical elements.

[0051] According to the illustrated embodiment, the light source and optical elements are vertically distributed, i.e., arranged vertically relative to each other along the Z-axis. Alternatively, the spatial distribution of the light source and optical elements can be different. The light source and optical elements can be distributed along an axis parallel to the Y-axis, or along any other axis in space, particularly along the optical X-axis, which includes a non-zero component. The light source and optical elements can be distributed along zigzag lines, along circles or ellipses, or along polygons (such as triangles, squares, rectangles, parallelograms, or rhombuses).

[0052] Optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 are configured and arranged to each generate a light-emitting beam referred to as F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5. The overall light-emitting beam F generated by the illumination module 1 is the sum of the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 generated by each pair of light sources and optical elements. The light intensity of the overall light-emitting beam F is the sum of the light intensities of the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5. Each of the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 has the same light emission distribution and the same orientation. The light emission distribution of the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 represents the spatial distribution of the light rays of this light-emitting beam. In other words, the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 have the same geometry. The light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 are oriented in the same direction corresponding to the optical axis X.

[0053] Figure 2 Five luminous beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 are projected onto a plane perpendicular to the optical axis X. These five projections have the same shape. Individually, each of the five luminous beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 has the same luminous distribution as the overall luminous beam generated by illumination module 1.

[0054] Furthermore, none of the five luminous beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 provide all the luminous flux required to produce sufficient illumination to perform the statutory lighting function. However, the superposition of the luminous distributions produced by all the optical elements provides the flux required for the overall luminous beam F produced by the lighting device to perform the statutory lighting function.

[0055] In the example shown, optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 each generate emission beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5, the emission distribution of which corresponds to the emission distribution of the near beam. Therefore, it can be understood that the geometry, or in other words, the profile, of the emission beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5, and possibly the emission distribution within these emission beams, correspond to the geometry or profile and emission distribution of the near beam.

[0056] Furthermore, the luminous flux of each of the emitted beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 is less than the luminous flux required to perform the legally mandated low beam function. However, due to the contribution of each of the emitted beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 to the overall luminous flux of the emitted beam F, the overall luminous flux of the emitted beam F complies with regulations.

[0057] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustration shows that the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 have a near-light emission distribution. It should be understood that the light-emitting beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 can also have a far-light emission distribution without falling outside the scope of this invention.

[0058] It should be understood that, according to the invention, the optical element enables the shaping of light emitted by its associated light source, and, for example, produces a light beam with a near-beam or far-beam distribution without any other optical components. In other words, the optical element alone shapes the light emitted by the associated light source to produce a light beam with a near-beam or far-beam distribution.

[0059] In this configuration, since light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 are distributed along the Z-axis, the luminous beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5, which have the same luminous distribution and orientation, are also offset along the Z-axis. The offset of the luminous beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 is essentially equal to the offset of the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 on illumination module 1, with any positioning and / or orientation defects of each optical element added to this offset. Figure 2 In this context, this offset is exaggerated and may actually be on the order of several centimeters. If the emitted beam is projected onto a plane perpendicular to the optical axis X, located a few meters from the illumination module 1, for example, onto a screen located 25 meters in front of the illumination module 1, this offset is invisible to the naked eye. In practice, the different emitted beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 appear to merge to the naked eye. However, the precise positioning and orientation of each optical element within the illumination module is crucial for achieving good spatial coverage of the emitted beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5. As will be seen below, the present invention also proposes an assembly that achieves particularly precise positioning and orientation of each emitted beam F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5.

[0060] The more pairs of light sources and optics there are, the less visible and noticeable the shift between different light beams becomes. Therefore, it has been found that at least four pairs of light sources and optics are preferred for producing low beams that comply with various automotive regulations. For high beams that comply with various automotive regulations, only two pairs of light sources and optics may be sufficient.

[0061] This type of architecture has several advantages: it allows for the production of a particularly powerful overall luminous beam F using a moderately powerful light source. The intensity of the overall luminous beam F can be easily controlled by electronically switching some light sources on or off. If a light source fails, illumination can still be maintained, albeit with less effectiveness, but still preferable to the complete shutdown of an illumination module that originally consisted of only a single light source. Alternatively, the complete shutdown of the luminous module can be achieved. Finally, this type of luminous module also allows for more diverse luminous module designs and the creation of original lighting feature markings.

[0062] Figure 4The light-emitting module 1 is shown in more detail. The support member 7 or housing 7 has a generally rectangular shape. Optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 are arranged vertically on the front of the support member 7. The support member 7 is designed to hold each of the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55, and also to attach the light-emitting module to the vehicle 2. For this purpose, the support member 7 includes fixing interfaces designed to cooperate with the structure of the vehicle 2. In this case, these fixing interfaces include threaded openings 76 that cooperate with fixing screws. In addition, the support member 7 is also designed to hold and protect the printed circuit board 6 to which the light source is attached. Therefore, the light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 are also specifically attached to the support member 7 via the printed circuit board 6. Electrical connectors electrically connected to the printed circuit board 6 are arranged through the side of the support member 7.

[0063] Additionally, the light-emitting module 1 also includes means for cooling the light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45. The cooling means are positioned at the rear of the support member 7 to remain invisible when the lighting module is integrated into the vehicle 2. These cooling means specifically include a cooling plate 81 that extends abutting against the printed circuit board 6 on the side opposite to where the light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, and 45 are located. The cooling means also include cooling fins 82 fixed against the cooling plate 81.

[0064] exist Figure 5 The support 7 is shown separately. The support 7 includes a set of housings 71, 72, 73, 74, and 75. Each housing is designed to accommodate optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55. Each housing 71, 72, 73, 74, and 75 includes multiple positioning devices configured to precisely position and orient the optical elements during attachment to the support 7.

[0065] Preferably, the support 7 is a one-piece component, preferably obtained by injection molding. This manufacturing process allows for very precise and highly reproducible dimensions. The support 7 can be made, for example, of opaque polycarbonate or opaque polymethyl methacrylate.

[0066] Each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 is a component configured to generate light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 having a predetermined emission distribution and orientation from light generated by an associated light source. Preferably, optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 all have the same shape. Each optical element is preferably a one-piece component. Each optical element can be obtained, for example, by injection molding. Therefore, all optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 of the lighting module 1 can be manufactured using the same injection mold. Each optical element can be made, for example, of transparent polycarbonate or transparent polymethyl methacrylate.

[0067] Therefore, it should be understood that optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 are individual components. They must each be individually attached to the support 7, and in particular to the associated housings 71, 72, 73, 74, and 75.

[0068] Now for reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 Describe optical element 51, and remember that the shapes of other optical elements 52, 53, 54, and 55 are the same as those of optical element 51.

[0069] Optical element 51 includes an incident surface 511 or incident refractive surface 511, and a projection surface 512 or exit refractive surface 512. Light emitted by light source 41 is intended to pass through the incident surface 511 into optical element 51, propagate within the body 513 of optical element 51, and may undergo internal reflection on the walls of the body 513 of optical element 51 before being projected onto the projection surface 512. The reflection of light on the walls of optical element 51 is preferably total internal reflection.

[0070] The optical element 51 (also referred to as the refractive element 51) also includes a collimating member 514, which is configured to produce reflection of light received by the incident surface 511 within the optical element.

[0071] To produce the characteristic step R of the low beam headlight, optical element 51 also includes a folder 515 configured to intercept certain light rays generated by light source 41. Folder 515 includes a ridge with two cutoff lines 516 and 517 converging at inflection point 518. Folder 515 shapes the emitted light beam F1 to create a cutoff portion defined by cutoff lines 516 and 517. To produce the characteristic step, or in other words, angular shape of the low beam, an angle exists between cutoff lines 516 and 517 at inflection point 518. The distance between folder 515 and exit refractive surface 512 can be equal to the focal length of exit refractive surface 512. Inflection point 518 can be positioned on the optical axis of optical element 51.

[0072] The projection surface 512 comprises a portion of a sphere. A ray passing through the center of this spherical portion defines the optical axis of the optical element 51. The projection surface 512 is surrounded by a flange 519 designed to diffuse light. The flange 519 has a substantially square shape in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical element 51. As a variation, the flange can be of different shapes. The flange of a given optical element can be attached to the flange of an adjacent optical element. This achieves the continuity of light emission in the illumination module 1. When the illumination module emits light, each projection surface 512 cannot be individually distinguished, but rather appears as a continuous or quasi-continuous light-emitting surface. This makes it possible to produce original light feature markings.

[0073] The outer surface of flange 519 has a surface structure, particularly a set of panels 5110 that are slightly inclined relative to each other, so that light is diffused in all directions. This improves the aesthetic appearance of the lighting module.

[0074] It should be noted that the outer surfaces of the incident surface 511, the projection surface 512, and the flange 519 are transparent to allow light to enter the optical element and then exit. However, the sides of the body 513 of the optical element 51 may be opaque and / or textured to prevent unwanted light leakage.

[0075] Figure 8 The illumination module 1 without the support member 7 is shown. It can be seen that the various optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 extend parallel to each other. Therefore, they have the same orientation. Their corresponding optical axes are parallel. Furthermore, the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 are uniformly distributed along the same axis.

[0076] Advantageously, each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 includes a reference surface 5111 resting against the printed circuit board 6 to ensure a minimum distance between each optical element and the light source with which it cooperates. The reference surface 5111 may be located at the end of a pin 5112 protruding from the collimating element 514. This minimum distance may be, for example, on the order of 0.5 mm. This prevents the optical elements from burning out due to the high power radiated by each light source, while ensuring the position of the optical elements relative to the light source.

[0077] Each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 is attached to the support 7 solely by clamping fasteners. Clamping fasteners refer to a method of securing two parts together after at least one elastic portion of one of the two parts has been temporarily deformed. Clamping fasteners are a particularly simple operation to perform because they do not require special tools or auxiliary securing devices. The release of the elastic portion typically produces a characteristic sound that confirms that the two parts are properly assembled. Furthermore, securing by clamping fasteners achieves excellent positioning and relative orientation of the two assembled parts.

[0078] Therefore, each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 is respectively assembled into the housings 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 of the support member. Now refer to Figures 9 to 14 The fixation of optical element 51 in housing 71 is described, while it is noted that optical elements 52, 53, 54 and 55 are fixed in housings 72, 73, 74 and 75 in the same manner.

[0079] The housing 71 includes means for positioning the optical element 51 in three spatial directions, thereby ensuring accurate and reproducible positioning of the optical element 51.

[0080] exist Figure 9 The image shows a housing 71. It includes a front opening through which the optical element is inserted into the housing, and a projection surface 512 emerges through the front opening. The housing 71 also includes a rear opening through which the incident surface 511 emerges. Thus, the housing 71 includes a through opening defined by the sides of the body 513 surrounding the optical element 51. The through opening is positioned opposite to the light source 41.

[0081] The optical element 51 includes two lateral ribs 5112 extending substantially parallel to the optical axis X from the inner surface of the flange 519. These lateral ribs 5112 are located in two side compartments 713 of the housing 71.

[0082] Each side compartment 713 includes four protrusions 7131, 7132, 7133, and 7134 projecting toward the interior of the side compartment in question. The first protrusion 7131 is parallel to the optical axis X and projects forward. The second protrusion 7132 is parallel to the Z-axis and projects upward. The third protrusion 7133 is opposite to the second protrusion 7132: it is parallel to the Z-axis and projects downward. The fourth protrusion 7134 is parallel to the Y-axis and projects to the left or right depending on the side compartment in question.

[0083] The housing 71 firstly includes a first means for positioning the optical element 51 parallel to the optical axis X. The first positioning means includes a first stop and a first elastic tab 712, which is configured to press the optical element 51 against the first stop.

[0084] The first stop is formed by the first boss 7131 of each side compartment 713. For example, in Figure 10 As can be clearly seen, these first bosses 7131 are supported on the rear end of the side ribs 5112.

[0085] A first resilient tab 712 is formed in the lower part of the housing 71. The first resilient tab 712 is connected to the support 7 via its front edge and has a free rear end. (As shown in...) Figure 11 As can be seen, the first elastic tab 712 cooperates with the nose piece 5113, which forms a downward protrusion from the body 513 of the optical element 51 to press the rear end of the side rib 5112 against the first boss 7131. The nose piece 5113 is arranged below the optical element 51, in front of the collimating member 514.

[0086] The nose piece 5113 includes an upwardly and forwardly extending inclined surface 5114 on which the rear end of the first resilient tab 712 is supported. Therefore, the reaction force Fr1 of the first resilient tab 712 on the inclined surface 5114 tends to push the optical element 51 rearward and upward. Thus, the rearward component of this reaction force Fr1 presses the rear end of the lateral rib 5112 against the first boss 7131. Therefore, the position of the optical element relative to the support along the optical axis X is well defined.

[0087] The housing 71 also includes a second means for positioning the optical element parallel to the Z-axis. The second positioning means includes a second stop and a second resilient tab, the second resilient tab being configured to press the optical element against the second stop.

[0088] The second stop is formed by a fifth boss 7141 disposed on the upper surface 7142 of the housing 71. The fifth boss 7141 rests on the two upper surfaces of the body 513 of the optical element 51. Advantageously, the upper surface 7142 of the housing 71 includes a thickened portion 7143 (especially in...). Figure 12 (as can be seen in the image) to make it particularly rigid and undeformable under the force applied by the second elastic tab. This provides a stable reference for positioning the optical element 51 along the Z-axis. Alternatively, the upper surface of the housing can be reinforced by any other means, such as by means of reinforcing ribs.

[0089] According to the presented embodiment, the second elastic tab actually corresponds to the first elastic tab 712 described above. In fact, the first elastic tab 712 not only defines the position of the optical element 51 relative to the support 7 along the optical axis X, but also defines the position of the optical element 51 relative to the support 7 along the Z axis. The reaction force Fr1 of the first elastic tab 712 against the inclined surface 5114 also includes an upward component. This component tends to push the optical element 51 upward, and thus presses the optical element 51 against the second stop, i.e., against the fifth boss 7141.

[0090] The housing 71 also includes a third means for positioning the optical element 51 parallel to the Y-axis. The third positioning means includes a third stop and a third elastic tab, the third elastic tab being configured to press the optical element 51 against the third stop.

[0091] The third stop is formed by a sixth boss 7144 disposed on a first side surface 7145 of the housing 71. The sixth boss 7144 rests on the first side surface of the body 513 of the optical element 51. Advantageously, the sixth boss 7144 extends from its first side surface 7145 of the housing with a thickened portion 7146 to make it particularly rigid and non-deformable under the force applied by the third elastic tab. This provides a stable reference for positioning the optical element 51 along the Y-axis. Alternatively, this side surface of the housing can be reinforced by any other means, such as by means of reinforcing ribs.

[0092] The third elastic tab is formed by a second side 7147 of the housing 71 opposite to the first side 7145. The second side 7147 has lower stiffness than the first side 7145. The second side 7147 is provided with a seventh boss 7148, which applies pressure to the second side of the body 513 of the optical element 51 by means of the seventh boss. The sixth boss 7144 and the seventh boss 7148 are positioned substantially opposite to each other.

[0093] Finally, due to the cooperation of the first positioning device, the second positioning device and the third positioning device, the optical element 51 is precisely positioned relative to the support member 7 in three spatial directions defined by the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis.

[0094] Additionally, support 7 includes means for locking the optical element in the sense of rotation about the optical axis X, about the axis Y, and about the axis Z. The rotation locking means prevents the optical element from tilting because the aforementioned stops are relatively far from the center of gravity of the optical element.

[0095] like Figure 14 As shown, the optical element is locked to prevent rotation about the optical axis X through the cooperation of the lower and upper sides of the lateral rib 5112 with the second boss 7132 and the third boss 7133, respectively. The contact point between the right lateral rib 5112 and the bosses 7132 and 7133 of the right compartment 713 is spaced along the Y-axis from the contact point between the left lateral rib 5112 and the bosses 7132 and 7133 of the left compartment 713. This prevents the optical element from rotating about the optical axis X.

[0096] The optical element is prevented from rotating about the Y-axis through the cooperation of the lower and upper sides of the lateral rib 5112 with the second boss 7132 and the third boss 7133, respectively, and through the cooperation of the end of the elastic tab 712 with the inclined surface 5114. In fact, the contact point between the lateral rib 5112 and the bosses 7132 and 7133 is positioned towards the front of the optical element 51, while the contact point between the inclined surface 5114 and the rear end of the first elastic tab 712 is further positioned towards the rear of the optical element 51. Therefore, these different contact points are offset along the optical axis X, which prevents the optical element 51 from rotating about the Y-axis relative to the support 7.

[0097] On the one hand, the cooperation between the lateral rib 5112 and the fourth boss 7134, and on the other hand, the cooperation between the side surfaces of the optical element body 513 and the sixth boss 7144 and the seventh boss 7148 respectively, prevents the optical element from rotating around the Z-axis. The contact point between the lateral rib 5112 and the boss 7134 is positioned towards the front of the optical element 51, while the contact point between the side surfaces of the body 513 and the bosses 7144 and 7148 is further positioned towards the rear of the optical element 51. Therefore, these different contact points are offset along the optical axis X, which prevents the optical element 51 from rotating around the Z-axis relative to the support 7.

[0098] Finally, once clamped to the support 7, each optical element is thus locked in place in three spatial directions, and in a sense of rotation about those three spatial directions. Therefore, each optical element is fixedly mounted to the support 7. In other words, each optical element is fixed to the support 7 in a non-adjustable manner. In fact, once an optical element is mounted on the support, it cannot move relative to the support 7. The positioning and orientation of each optical element are defined in a precise and easily reproducible manner, which avoids the need for adjustment elements to position the optical element relative to the support, while achieving high precision in the orientation of the emitted light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 generated by each optical element. The thus defined support allows for dispersion of the orientation of the emitted light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 to be less than or equal to 1°, or even less than or equal to 0.5°, or even less than or equal to 0.4°.

[0099] Therefore, thanks to the positioning device, the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 can be correctly and accurately positioned on the support 7 and positioned relative to each other, so that the light beams they produce overlap without any subsequent adjustment to their positions.

[0100] Therefore, the overall luminous beam generated by the superposition of all the luminous beams formed by the illumination module and produced by optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54 and 55 has the same luminous distribution, i.e. the same geometry, as the luminous beams produced by optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54 and 55.

[0101] Advantageously, for assembling the lighting module 1 as described above, the following steps are sufficient. First, a support member 7 and optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 are provided. As mentioned above, these elements can be easily manufactured by plastic injection molding. Next, each optical element is specifically secured to the support member by clamping. Each optical element is inserted from the front of the support member into the corresponding housing 71, 72, 73, 74, and 75.

[0102] When the optical element is pressed into the support 7, the first elastic tab 712 flexes under pressure from the lower end of the nose 5113. When the optical element is fully pushed in, the end of the first elastic tab 712 passes in front of the lower end of the nose 5113, allowing it to partially relax. The first elastic tab 712 then rests on the inclined surface 5114. A reaction force Fr1 from the end of the first elastic tab 712 then presses the optical element against the first and second stops. Simultaneously, a reaction force Fr2 applied to the body of the optical element by the second side 7147 presses the optical element against the third stop. The operation of assembling the optical element into the support is particularly simple. This operation requires no specific tools or adjustment steps.

Claims

1. A lighting module (1) for a motor vehicle (2), the lighting module comprising: - A set of light sources (41, 42, 43, 44, 45), wherein the set of light sources comprises at least two light sources. - A set of optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55), the set of optical elements comprising at least two optical elements, each optical element cooperating with a separate light source to generate a light beam (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5). - Support member (7), the support member being configured to hold the optical element. The optical elements are characterized in that they are fixedly mounted on the support and are configured and arranged to each produce a light beam having the same light emission distribution and the same orientation.

2. The lighting module (1) as described in the preceding claim, characterized in that, The emission distribution of the emission beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F4, F5) is a near beam or a high beam emission distribution, and the emission beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) preferably each have a luminous flux lower than the legal luminous flux required to perform the near beam or high beam function.

3. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The illumination module is configured to generate a total luminous beam (F) formed by the superposition of the luminous beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) generated by each optical element (51, 52, 53, 54, 55), the luminous distribution of the total luminous beam (F) being the same as the luminous distribution of the luminous beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) generated by each optical element.

4. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All of the optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) have the same shape.

5. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All of the optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) are secured to the support (7) by clamping fasteners only.

6. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support includes a first means for positioning each optical element parallel to the optical axis (X) of the illumination module, each of the first positioning means including a first stop (7131) and a first elastic tab (712), the first elastic tab being configured to press the optical element against the first stop.

7. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support includes a second device for positioning each optical element parallel to a first transverse axis (Z), which is perpendicular to the optical axis (X) of the illumination module. Each of the second positioning devices includes a second stop (7141) and a second elastic tab (712), the second elastic tab being configured to press the optical element against the second stop. In particular, the support includes a third means for positioning each optical element parallel to a second transverse axis (Y), which is perpendicular to the optical axis (X) of the illumination module and perpendicular to the first transverse axis (Z). Each of the third positioning means includes a third stop (7144) and a third elastic tab (7147), which is configured to press the optical element against the third stop.

8. The lighting module (1) as described in claim 6 and claim 7, characterized in that, The first elastic tab and the second elastic tab form a single elastic tab (712), which cooperates with the inclined surface (5114) of each optical element to press the optical element against the first stop and the second stop.

9. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support (7) includes rotation locking devices (7131, 7132, 7133, 7134) for each optical element about an axis parallel to the optical axis of the lighting module and / or about an axis perpendicular to the optical axis of the lighting module.

10. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The light source is fixed on the same printed circuit board.

11. The lighting module (1) as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that, Each optical element includes a reference surface that rests against the printed circuit board to ensure a non-zero distance between each optical element and the light source to which it mates.

12. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each optical element includes a light projection surface (512) that extends substantially along a portion of the sphere, and the projection surface is surrounded by a flange (519) designed to diffuse the light.

13. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The set of light sources (41, 42, 43, 44, 45) includes at least four light sources.

14. The lighting module (1) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each optical element (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) is a one-piece component, specifically made of transparent polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection molding in a first injection mold. And / or the support (7) is a one-piece element, particularly made of opaque polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a second injection mold.

15. A method for assembling a lighting module as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The method includes: - Provide a support member (7) comprising a set of housings (71, 72, 73, 74, 75). - Provide a set of optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55), then - Each optical element is secured to the support by simply clamping each optical element into the housing of the support.

Images