Lighting device for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a light-emitting device (2) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one housing (4) and a light-emitting module arranged inside the housing, the light-emitting module comprising a projection lens (16) and a light-emitting unit (24), the housing (4) comprising a first part (6) and a second part (8) rigidly connected to each other to delimit an internal space in which the light-emitting unit (24) is housed, the first part (6) of the housing (4) being made of a one-piece assembly formed by the projection lens (16) and a cover (18) configured to engage with the second part (8), the light-emitting unit (24) being movable relative to the housing, and the light-emitting device (2) comprising means for adjusting the position of the light-emitting unit (24) inside the housing (4) in two perpendicular directions.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to the field of light-emitting devices, and more particularly to light-emitting devices intended to be equipped in motor vehicles. More specifically, this invention relates to a light-emitting unit housed within a housing of such a light-emitting device, the light-emitting unit being capable of generating light that exits the light-emitting module through a projection lens fixed relative to the housing, and the light-emitting unit being movable relative to the housing.

[0002] Vehicles, especially motor vehicles, are typically equipped with headlights to produce various light-emitting functions, such as road illumination or vehicle signaling. For this purpose, motor vehicle headlights are equipped with light-emitting modules, each having at least one light source configured to emit light, optical elements associated with the at least one light source for collecting and directing the light, and at least one projection lens configured to shape the light collected and directed by the optical elements and project it toward the headlight and the exterior of the motor vehicle, thereby forming a compliant beam suitable for achieving the light-emitting function.

[0003] Vehicle headlights typically have a housing containing a light-emitting module, and the housing is associated with a transparent closed window (also known as an external closed lens) that encloses the headlight and is designed to provide physical protection for the light-emitting module housed within it. However, this transparent surface has several drawbacks. It can be verified that this transparent surface results in an efficiency loss of approximately 15% in the light-emitting function, particularly through undesirable deviations in the light beams intended to achieve this function. Furthermore, for size or aesthetic reasons, it may be desirable to have an additional transparent surface without a lens facing the light-emitting module.

[0004] Therefore, at least some vehicle production will seek headlights without closed windows.

[0005] This involves sealing constraints to ensure protection for both the light-emitting modules housed within the headlights and the devices also housed within the headlights for adjusting the tilt of these light-emitting modules.

[0006] These adjustment devices are designed to adjust the vertical and lateral orientation of the light-emitting modules within the headlights to ensure that the light beams emitted by the modules are correctly projected onto the road.

[0007] The present invention falls within this context and aims to protect a light-emitting device that does not have a closed window as described above, i.e., a transparent surface other than the projection lens that causes a loss of luminous efficiency; however, such a light-emitting device must ensure optimal sealing of components housed within the headlight housing.

[0008] The present invention falls within this background, and the main subject of the invention is a light-emitting device for a motor vehicle, the light-emitting device comprising at least one housing and a light-emitting module disposed within the housing, the light-emitting module having a projection lens and a light-emitting unit, the light-emitting unit including at least one light source, light emitted by the at least one light source being capable of exiting the light-emitting device through the projection lens, the housing comprising a first part and a second part fixed to each other to define an internal space in which the light-emitting unit is housed, the first part of the housing being manufactured as a monolithic assembly formed on one side by the projection lens and on the other side by a cover configured to cooperate with the second part, the light-emitting unit being movable relative to the housing, and the light-emitting device including means for adjusting the position of the light-emitting unit within the housing in two vertical directions.

[0009] The light-emitting device includes a housing that forms an outer enclosure of the device and defines an internal space in which the light-emitting unit is housed. The housing is formed by two complementary parts, namely a first part and a second part, the first part having a cover and a projection lens. Thus, the housing allows for the definition of the internal space housing the light-emitting unit. It will be readily understood that the projection lens thus participates in the formation of the housing.

[0010] The first part is sealed to the second part to ensure protection of the light-emitting module, especially the light-emitting unit, and any components housed in the housing of the light-emitting device (such as devices for adjusting the position of the light-emitting unit).

[0011] The configuration of the light-emitting device according to the invention eliminates the need for a closed window. The projection lens of the light-emitting module is used both by the light-emitting module to project light emitted by at least one light source into an illumination beam and / or a signal beam, and by the housing to form a sealed outer casing for the light-emitting device.

[0012] It should be understood that since the light-emitting unit can move relative to the housing, it can also move relative to the projection lens, as the projection lens forms part of the housing. Therefore, during the adjustment of the position of the light-emitting unit within the housing by the adjusting device, the housing and thus the projection lens remain fixed.

[0013] The cover and the projection lens (which together form the first part of the housing) are manufactured to form an integral assembly. An integral assembly should be understood here as meaning that the first part is formed inseparably from the projection lens and the cover, i.e., the projection lens cannot be removed from the cover without damaging the first part of the housing.

[0014] A projection lens forms an element of a light-emitting device, through which light can exit the device and be projected in the direction of a road. Therefore, the projection lens is configured to shape light emitted by the at least one light source, optionally collected and directed by one or more optical elements of the light-emitting unit, and project this light toward the outside of the light-emitting device. The projection lens is an element that processes the light to conform to various regulations. More specifically, the projection lens allows for the specific alteration of the light trajectory to generate light beams according to desired parameters, which are emitted by the light-emitting unit and, where appropriate, initially directed by one or more optical elements disposed in the light-emitting unit and positioned upstream of the projection lens.

[0015] As will be understood from the above, a projection lens is an optical element that functions in forming the light-emitting function created by the light passing through it, and without it, it would be impossible to produce a compliant light beam. In other words, a projection lens should not be confused with a transparent outer lens, which is designed to form a mechanical protective element for the optical device housed in the headlight and does not involve any specific optical processing of the light to achieve the compliant light-emitting function.

[0016] Furthermore, the projection lens is positioned at a certain distance from the light-emitting unit and does not form part of the light-emitting unit. The projection lens is configured such that when the light-emitting device is assembled, its object-side focal point is located at the light-emitting unit, for example, at the light source of the light-emitting unit, or at an optical element inserted between the light source and the projection lens. More specifically, the light-emitting unit may include a light collector and at least one light source, the reflective surface of which allows light generated by the light source to be guided in the direction of the projection lens. The object-side focal point of the projection lens is set to be less than 10 mm from the rear edge of the light collector (i.e., the edge furthest from the projection lens).

[0017] The light-emitting unit is mounted so as to be movable relative to the housing; that is, the light-emitting unit is mounted so as to be movable relative to the projection lens, which is a fixed component of the housing. This architecture of the light-emitting device allows the light-emitting function generated by the light-emitting module to be adjusted without moving the projection lens. Thus, the projection lens can be fixedly positioned relative to the vehicle body shell of the vehicle equipped with the light-emitting device according to the invention.

[0018] The adjustment device consists of two independent adjustment mechanisms. One mechanism is configured to apply a horizontal pushing or pulling motion to the light-emitting unit independently of the housing, and the other mechanism is configured to again apply a pushing or pulling motion along the vertical component independently of the housing. During each of these movements, the light-emitting unit moves inside the housing, while the projection lens remains fixed, just like the housing.

[0019] According to one feature of the invention, the projection lens extends in a main extending plane, and the light-emitting device includes a joining region between a first portion and a second portion of the housing, the joining region extending in a joining plane that intersects a plane perpendicular to the main extending plane of the projection lens. In other words, the joining plane and the extending plane of the projection lens intersect, with the intersection point substantially parallel to the ground on which the vehicle moves, and the two planes are not perpendicular. More specifically, the joining region is located between the edge of the cover that participates in forming the first portion and the edge of the second portion, the edge of the first portion being intended to face the edge of the second portion.

[0020] The plane that primarily extends from the junction area forms the junction plane, which allows the main orientation of the junction area to be defined, particularly the main orientation of the junction area relative to the projection lens. It should be understood that if the edges of the two parts of the housing are not flat, the junction area can extend at multiple levels and multiple contact planes can be identified, and the junction plane is thus defined as a plane whose orientation is the average of the orientations of each contact plane between the parts of the housing of the light-emitting device.

[0021] The mating plane is inclined relative to the longitudinal direction, which is the direction of forward movement of the vehicle when it is equipped with the light-emitting device. Therefore, specifically according to the invention, when the housing is positioned such that the projection lens has a vertical orientation, the mating plane of the two parts of the housing is not horizontal but inclined. This makes it easier to insert the light-emitting unit into the second part of the housing, which forms the base of the housing and is intended to be covered by the first part. The operator can insert the light-emitting unit into the second part by substantially longitudinal movement, since the wall defining the second part at one of its longitudinal ends is configured to form a slit through which the light-emitting unit can be inserted more easily. In particular, the substantially longitudinal insertion movement makes it easier to clamp the light-emitting unit using the adjustment mechanism of the adjustment device already present in the housing.

[0022] According to one feature of the invention, the mating plane forms an angle between 10° and 30° with a plane perpendicular to the main extension plane of the projection lens and parallel to the ground on which the vehicle equipped with the light-emitting device is intended to move. This defines the inclination of the mating plane and thus the size of the cut formed at the longitudinal end through which the light-emitting unit is inserted into the housing. In other words, the inventors have defined that the mating plane advantageously intersects the longitudinal transverse plane at an angle between 10° and 30°, which, when the light-emitting device is mounted on a motor vehicle, can correspond to a horizontal plane. Such a range of values ​​provides a good trade-off between the value required for easier access to the component and the maximum value required to avoid reducing the precision of the light-emitting device at the front. Preferably, the angle has a value between 15° and 20°.

[0023] According to one feature of the invention, the internal space of the housing is formed by a first space defined between the mating plane and the first portion and a second space defined between the mating plane and the second portion, a portion of the light-emitting unit is disposed in the first space, and another portion of the light-emitting unit is disposed in the second space. Inclining the mating plane relative to a plane perpendicular to the main extension plane of the projection lens allows the light-emitting unit to be easily inserted into the housing, wherein the light-emitting unit, once installed, extends into both the first and second spaces.

[0024] According to one feature of the invention, the second portion of the housing includes fastening tabs, comprising a first fastening tab and a second fastening tab disposed on both sides of the light-emitting unit. The first fastening tab is connected to the light-emitting unit at a first pivot point, and the second fastening tab is connected to the light-emitting unit at a second pivot point. The light-emitting unit is rotatable about a pivot axis passing through the first and second pivot points. The first and second fastening tabs enable support for the light-emitting unit, allowing it to pivot about the pivot axis. In particular, each fastening tab may have a forked portion.

[0025] According to one feature of the invention, the projection lens includes connecting tabs, including a first connecting tab connected to the light-emitting unit at a first pivot point and a second connecting tab connected to the light-emitting unit at a second pivot point. The cooperation between the connecting tabs and the fastening tabs allows the light-emitting unit to be blocked relative to the housing while allowing only movement of the light-emitting unit about the pivot axis. In particular, each connecting tab may have a forked portion.

[0026] According to one feature of the invention, the light-emitting unit has pivoting elements that engage with a fastening tab and a connecting tab of the projection lens, respectively, in the second part of the housing. Each pivoting element is in point contact with both the fastening tab and the connecting tab. Specifically, the light-emitting unit may have a first pivoting element that engages with both the first fastening tab and the first connecting tab, and a second pivoting element that engages with both the second fastening tab and the second connecting tab. The first pivoting element is in point contact with both the first fastening tab and the first connecting tab, and the second pivoting element is in point contact with both the second fastening tab and the second connecting tab.

[0027] According to one feature of the invention, the two contacts of each pivot element are diametrically opposed to each other.

[0028] According to one feature of the invention, the adjusting device includes at least one vertical adjusting device connected to the light-emitting unit and the housing, the light-emitting unit being supported in the housing by three support points formed by a first pivot point, a second pivot point, and a connection between the vertical adjusting device and the light-emitting unit.

[0029] According to one feature of the invention, the projection lens and the cover form two separate elements that are fixed to each other in an inseparable and sealing manner. In other words, the projection lens and the cover are manufactured separately, which allows for the application of different materials to the two components, which are then intended to be assembled and subsequently fixed in an inseparable manner. Inseparable should be understood as meaning that the assembly formed after the projection lens has been fixed to the cover cannot be disassembled without damaging the projection lens and / or the cover. This inseparable fixing ensures a seal at the joint of the two components, and it can be achieved, in particular, by adhesive bonding or welding.

[0030] According to one feature of the invention, the projection lens includes a reference tab configured to position the projection lens at least relative to the cover. When the projection lens and the cover form two separate elements, the reference tab allows for a reduction in the inaccuracy of the positioning of the projection lens relative to the cover prior to the fixing operation.

[0031] According to one feature of the invention, the first and second parts are secured to each other by means of a fastening system. The fastening system is, in particular, a screw fastening system. According to one feature of the invention, at least one screw is disposed in the engagement area between the two parts of the housing, at the end opposite to the projection lens. According to one feature, the fastening system includes at least one bayonet device.

[0032] According to one feature of the invention, the light-emitting device includes a seal inserted between the first portion and the second portion. Bringing the two portions closer together and securing them to each other allows the seal between the first and second portions to be gradually compressed.

[0033] According to one feature of the invention, the seal extends along the mating plane.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling a light-emitting device according to at least one of the features mentioned above, the assembly method being carried out as follows: - At least one first step, during which the light-emitting unit is positioned in the second part of the housing, - At least one second step, during which the first portion is positioned relative to the second portion such that the projection lens of the first portion participating in forming the housing is positioned at a desired distance from the light-emitting unit located in the second portion of the housing. - At least one third step, during which the first part and the second part are secured to each other by means of a fastening system.

[0035] According to one feature of the invention, the light-emitting unit includes at least two tilting elements, and the method is characterized in that, during a first step, one tilting element of the light-emitting unit is accommodated in a first fastening tab, and another tilting element of the light-emitting unit is accommodated in a second fastening tab, the light-emitting device including a pivot axis passing through the tilting elements, the light-emitting unit being capable of pivoting about the pivot axis.

[0036] According to one feature of the invention, in a first step, the light-emitting unit is positioned in the second part of the housing by a first vertical assembly movement. During this first vertical assembly movement, the pivoting element of the light-emitting unit rests on a fork-shaped portion integral with the second part of the housing, and during this first vertical assembly movement, the light-emitting unit is fastened by a snap-fit ​​to a vertical adjustment device, as mentioned above and already present in the second part of the housing, which is held in place by a tool extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of the first assembly movement. The first vertical assembly movement is parallel to the extension plane of the projection lens. In other words, the first vertical assembly movement is perpendicular to a plane perpendicular to the main extension plane of the projection lens.

[0037] According to one feature of the invention, in the second step, the first part is positioned relative to the second part by a second assembly movement that is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the first assembly movement, the second assembly movement positioning the fork-shaped portion integral with the first part against the pivot element, and positioning the engagement edge of the first part against the engagement edge of the second part.

[0038] Other features, details, and advantages of the invention will become clearer by referring to the accompanying illustrative drawings, reading the following description, and studying the exemplary embodiments given in a non-limiting manner, in the drawings: [ Figure 1 A general view of a light-emitting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown; [ Figure 2 A general view of a light-emitting device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown; [ Figure 3 This was shown from another three-dimensional perspective. Figure 2 The light-emitting device in ]; [ Figure 4 ]Schematic illustration Figure 2 and Figure 3 The light-emitting device is visible in the figure, which shows the light-emitting unit housed in the housing and supported by a vertical adjustment device; [ Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 and Figure 3The cross-sectional view of the light-emitting device visible in the image highlights the light-emitting unit being held in place by fastening tabs in the second part of the housing and by connecting tabs through the projection lens. [ Figure 6 The diagram shows the cooperation between the stud of the light-emitting unit and the forked portion of the fastening tab of the second part of the housing on one hand, and the forked portion of the connecting tab of the projection lens on the other hand. [ Figure 7 ] showed [ Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the light-emitting device visible in the image, wherein the second part of the housing is schematically shown, and wherein only the support of the light-emitting unit is shown to make the reference tab of the projection lens visible, which is manufactured separately from the first part of the housing.

[0039] The features, variations, and various embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other in various combinations, provided that they are not mutually incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, it is possible to contemplate variations of the invention that include only the features selected below and described in isolation from the other features described, provided that such selection of features is sufficient to provide a technical advantage or to distinguish the invention from the prior art.

[0040] In the accompanying drawings, elements common to all the drawings retain the same reference numerals.

[0041] In the following detailed description, the terms "longitudinal," "lateral," and "vertical" refer to the orientation of the light-emitting device according to the invention. The longitudinal direction corresponds to the forward movement direction of the vehicle equipped with the light-emitting device, and is parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the reference frames L, V, T shown in the figures. The lateral direction corresponds to a direction in the horizontal plane perpendicular to the forward movement direction of the vehicle equipped with the light-emitting device, and is parallel to the lateral axis T of the reference frames L, V, T, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. Finally, the vertical direction corresponds to a direction parallel to the vertical axis V of the reference frames L, V, T, which is perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis L and the lateral axis T.

[0042] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A light-emitting device 2 is shown, which is intended to be equipped in motor vehicles to ensure illumination functionality. The light-emitting device 2 includes a housing 4 forming an enclosure, and a light-emitting unit 24 (in […]) Figure 4 (As can be seen in the image) is housed within the casing. The casing 4 is formed of a polymer material or a metallic material. In the illustrated embodiment, the casing 4 of the light-emitting device 2 is intended to be directly embedded into the body shell of a motor vehicle.

[0043] The light-emitting device 2 includes a projection lens 16 configured to shape and project light emitted by at least one light source housed in the light-emitting unit onto the road. When a motor vehicle is equipped with the light-emitting device 2, the projection lens 16 is oriented toward the road in a main extending plane intersecting the longitudinal axis, such that the projected light can form a beam pointing toward the road scene, and the projection lens can be inscribed in a plane inclined relative to the lateral and / or vertical directions to be inscribed in the curves of the vehicle body.

[0044] The projection lens 16 forms part of the housing 4, which is fixed relative to the vehicle body in which the light-emitting device 2 is directly embedded. The projection lens 16 and the light-emitting unit 24 together form a light-emitting module.

[0045] More specifically, the position of the projection lens 16 is fixed relative to the housing 4, and the tilt of the projection lens 16 relative to the housing 4 cannot be modified. Since the light-emitting unit is mounted to be movable within the housing, the position of the light-emitting unit can be adjusted relative to the position of the projection lens once the light-emitting device is assembled. It should be noted that this position adjustment is only on the order of a few degrees, and if the relative displacement of the light-emitting unit relative to the fixed lens allows for vertical or lateral displacement of the beam as a whole, this relative displacement has only a limited effect on the shape of the beam and the distribution of light within the beam.

[0046] The housing 4 is formed of two parts that define a recess for at least the light-emitting unit between them, and these two parts can be fastened together to form a sealed housing. More specifically, the housing 4 has a first part 6 and a second part 8, the first part being formed by a projection lens 16 and a cover 18. The first part 6 and the second part 8 are fastened together by a fastening system 10.

[0047] Each part of the shell has a bowl shape defined by lateral walls, the free edges of which turn toward the other part. The edges of each part of the shell (particularly the free edges of the lateral walls of the second part 8 and the free edges of the lateral walls that participate in forming the cover of the first part 6) thus participate in forming the joint area between the two parts.

[0048] More specifically, [ Figure 1 The image illustrates a light-emitting device 2 according to a first embodiment of the invention, wherein a projection lens 16 and a cover 18 are two elements manufactured separately and subsequently fixed to each other in an inseparable and sealed manner to form an integral assembly. In this first embodiment, the projection lens 16 is received in an opening provided in the front portion of the cover 18 and fixed to the cover to form an integral assembly. The projection lens and the cover initially form two separate elements that are attached to each other and irreversibly fastened, for example, by welding.

[0049] [ Figure 2This invention, in itself, demonstrates a light-emitting device according to a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the projection lens 16 and the cover 18 are again formed as an integral assembly, but this time produced in a single-piece manner, particularly highlighting the material continuity between the projection lens 16 and the cover 18 in this case. Variant embodiments may have a cover overmolded onto the projection lens to form such an integral assembly.

[0050] As will be understood from the foregoing, independent of the embodiments of the present invention, the projection lens 16 forms part of the first part 6 of the housing 4 by forming an integral assembly with the cover 18, and participates in sealing the housing 4 in a sealing manner.

[0051] [ Figure 3 This allows the fastening system 10 to be viewed from another perspective, in the case of the second embodiment. However, the description of the fastening system 10 is adapted to the fastening system of the first embodiment with necessary modifications. More specifically, and as will be described in more detail below, the fastening system 10 enables, on the one hand, the first part 6 and the second part 8 to be secured to each other, and on the other hand, it enables the formation of means for compressing the seal disposed between the first part 6 and the second part 8.

[0052] The fastening system 10, in particular, has threaded coupling devices 12 in this case, which are advantageously located at the rear of the light-emitting device 2, at the end opposite to the projection lens 16. The fastening system also has bayonet fastening devices 14 laterally located on each side of the light-emitting device 2 and retaining devices 15 located at the front of the light-emitting device 2. As a result of this embodiment, the light-emitting device has a compact and elegant shape at its front. Specifically, the projection lens 16 protrudes from the second part of the housing 4.

[0053] The bayonet device 14 includes a first connecting element 20 produced on the contour of the first portion 6 (more precisely, the cover 18) and a second connecting element 22 produced on the contour of the second portion 8 of the housing 4. The first connecting element 20 and the second connecting element 22 are complementary, such that the second connecting element 22 can be received in a slot partially defined by the first connecting element 20.

[0054] The retaining device 15 is formed by a plurality of lugs 17 formed in the second portion 8 of the housing 4 and a plurality of orifices 19 formed in the first portion 6 of the housing 4 to engage with the lugs 17. It should be understood that the positions of the lugs 17 and the orifices 19 on the first portion 6 and the second portion 8 can be reversed. It should also be noted that, in alternative embodiments of the invention, the retaining device may be formed by a single lug 17 and a single orifice 19.

[0055] A retaining device 15 arranged in a substantially transverse and vertical wall and a bayonet device 14 arranged in a lateral wall substantially perpendicular to the retaining device allow the two parts to be held in place relative to each other, and are secured by screws 12. These screws 12 function specifically to lock the position of the caps in the mounting direction (i.e., in the mating plane) to prevent the first part of the housing from moving forward relative to the second part. In this way, it is ensured that the projection lens remains properly focused relative to the light-emitting unit, and that the pivot for vertical adjustment of the light-emitting device remains correctly oriented. Furthermore, in conjunction with the retaining device and the bayonet device, these screws contribute to ensuring the desired compression of the two parts against each other and allowing for a sealing closure of the housing.

[0056] [ Figure 4 ]This is shown very schematically in [ Figure 1 The light-emitting device 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is visible in the image. Figure 4 This allows for a more detailed highlighting of the components of the light-emitting device 2, particularly the light-emitting unit 24 housed in the housing 4 and the vertical adjustment device 26 of the adjustment device.

[0057] The light-emitting unit 24 forms an enclosure that houses at least light sources (not shown here) and, where appropriate, means for guiding the light emitted by these light sources. These elements are capable of producing a light-emitting function, particularly an illumination function, to ensure the visibility of the road, especially for vehicle users, in very dark conditions.

[0058] The light-emitting unit 24 is assembled in the housing of the light-emitting device so that it is hinged on one end to the adjustment device of the adjustment device housed in the housing, in this case hinged to the first end 35 of the dynamic actuator 34 of the vertical adjustment device 26, and on the other hand connected to the housing by a pivotal connection. This pivotal connection forming the pivot axis 32 of the light-emitting unit is located at […]. Figure 4 It is illustrated schematically in [ ], and in [ Figure 5 This is shown in more detail in the diagram. It is worth noting that the pivot axis defined theretherein is as close as possible to the projection lens 16, i.e., less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, in order to control the displacement of the light-emitting unit relative to the fixed projection lens and ensure that the light-emitting function is properly realized.

[0059] The light-emitting device 2 includes an adjustment device comprising a lateral adjustment device (not shown here) and a vertical adjustment device 26 that can operate independently of each other. The light-emitting device 2 is adapted to the vertical adjustment device 26 such that potential displacement of the light-emitting unit 24 generated via the lateral adjustment device does not generate stress on the vertical adjustment device 26 and / or the light-emitting unit 24.

[0060] The vertical adjustment device 26 includes a drive mechanism, which in this first embodiment is formed by a dynamic actuator 34. As mentioned above, the light-emitting unit 24 is connected to the dynamic actuator via a first end 35, and the two components are assembled in the second part of the housing during the installation of the light-emitting unit 24 according to a simplified assembly method described below.

[0061] The lateral adjustment device is configured to move the light-emitting unit laterally in a translational manner, which causes a lateral displacement of the light beam.

[0062] In both cases, whether it is the vertical adjustment device 26 or the lateral adjustment device, the position of the light-emitting unit 24 must be adjusted independently of the position of the projection lens 16, which remains fixed relative to the housing 4 of the light-emitting device 2 and more generally relative to the vehicle.

[0063] The vertical adjustment device 26 can modify the vertical orientation of the light-emitting unit 24, that is, its orientation relative to the vertical axis V. In other words, the vertical adjustment device 26 is configured to drive the light-emitting unit 24 to rotate about an axis passing through the first pivot point 32 and the second pivot point, and to perform such rotation by pulling or pushing a region of the light-emitting unit 24 that is a certain distance away from the pivot point.

[0064] The dynamic actuator 34 allows adjustment of the tilt of the light-emitting unit 24 relative to the housing 4 without manual adjustment by the vehicle user. For this purpose, sensors collect information that allows the control unit (not shown) to control the operation of the dynamic actuator 34. For example, the dynamic actuator 34 can be controlled based on a value representing the vehicle's tilt, whether due to excessive load at the rear of the vehicle or due to the vehicle traversing an uneven road.

[0065] As will be understood from the foregoing, the adjustment device is capable of modifying the position of the light-emitting unit 24 relative to the projection lens 16 in two vertical directions. For this purpose, the light-emitting unit 24 should be mounted in the housing in such a way that it cooperates with each of the adjustment devices already present in the second part of the housing. Assembly is performed blindly, and the shape of the housing can be configured to simplify such assembly, particularly by utilizing a specific arrangement of the two parts, as will now be described.

[0066] As mentioned, the light-emitting device 2 includes a junction area 36 between the first portion 6 and the second portion 8. This junction area 36, ​​formed by the edges of the two portions contacting each other, defines a junction plane P at which the first portion 6 contacts the second portion 8 in a sealing manner. In other words, the fastening system 10 allows the first portion 6 to be pressed against the second portion 8 of the housing 4 at the junction plane.

[0067] In the example shown, it should be noted that the light-emitting device 2 is configured to form a single bonding plane, but without departing from the context of the invention, it may have housing portions 6, 8 configured to form stepped bonding areas. It should be understood that the main orientation of the bonding plane will be considered below.

[0068] As mentioned above, the seal is disposed entirely along the mating area between the first portion 6 and the second portion 8. The fastening system 10 allows the first portion 6 to be secured to the second portion 8 by compressing the seal between the two portions 6 and 8, and this ensures a good level of seal between the first portion 6 and the second portion 8. It should be understood that the seal extends over the entire mating area, and for example, over the entire periphery of the second portion 8, to ensure the sealing of the light-emitting device 2.

[0069] Specifically, the seal can be placed in a groove provided for this purpose in the edge of one of the two parts. This can be illustrated by a non-limiting example, such as […]. Figure 5 As can be seen in the image, the seal can be accommodated in the groove 37, which in the illustrated embodiment is formed in the edge of the first portion 6 and a portion of the second portion 8 abuts against the groove.

[0070] Combine [ Figure 4 It is worth noting that the joining plane extends in a plane that intersects with a plane perpendicular to the main extension plane of lens 6. In other words, on the one hand, the joining plane intersects with the extension plane of the projection lens, where the intersection point is substantially parallel to the ground on which the vehicle moves; on the other hand, the two planes are not perpendicular. In this way, the joining plane is inclined relative to a horizontal plane that is parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the extension plane of the projection lens. For each of the two parts of the housing, this results in asymmetry between the front part on the projection lens side and the opposite rear part.

[0071] More specifically, the mating plane and the plane perpendicular to the main extension plane of the projection lens 16 form an angle of at least 20° with each other. Furthermore, the inclination between these planes is oriented such that the height of the second portion of the housing increases with the degree of separation from the end intended to be located on the projection lens side, i.e., with the increase of distance from the front of the device. More specifically, as can be seen in each figure, the inclination of the mating plane causes the front of the housing (i.e., the face facing the front of the vehicle and therefore including the projection lens 16) to be realized by the first portion of the housing. Therefore, the inclination of the mating plane allows the mating plane to be moved rearward relative to the front to minimize the visible height of the headlight mounted on the vehicle, which is likely desirable for automakers.

[0072] This inclination of the engagement plane relative to the longitudinal direction also allows for a simplified housing of the light-emitting unit 24 within the housing 4. The light-emitting unit is inserted substantially vertically, positioned at the front on a fastening tab of the second part of the housing, and snapped fastened at the rear to the ball joint of the dynamic actuator. The inclination of the engagement plane allows for the actuator to be held in place during operation.

[0073] The internal space of the housing 4 is formed by a first space 38 defined between the mating plane and the first part 6 of the housing 4 and a second space 40 defined between the mating plane and the second part 8 of the housing 4. During the assembly of the device, one part of the light-emitting unit 24 is initially disposed in the second space 40, and when the housing 4 is closed with the first part 6 of the housing 4, the other part of the light-emitting unit 24 is disposed in the first space 38.

[0074] As already mentioned, please refer specifically to [ Figure 5 The light-emitting unit 24 is mounted to pivot in the housing, and in this case, this is achieved by the cooperation of a stud integral with the light-emitting unit and a sheath, which is formed on the one hand by the end of a fastening tab 28 integral with the second part 8 of the housing, and on the other hand by a connecting tab 42 integral with the first part 6 of the housing.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the second part 8 of the housing of the light-emitting device 2 includes two fastening tabs 28, wherein the first fastening tab 30 and the second fastening tab are disposed on both sides of the light-emitting unit 24, and the projection lens 16 includes two connecting tabs 42, which are respectively designed to cooperate with one of the fastening tabs 28 to prevent longitudinal and vertical displacement of the light-emitting unit 24 relative to the housing and the projection lens, thereby locking the studs integral with the light-emitting unit.

[0076] More specifically, in this case, the projection lens 16 includes a first connecting tab 42 and a second connecting tab, the first connecting tab forming a first sheath with a first fastening tab 30 for a stud forming a first pivot point 32 associated with the light-emitting unit 24, and the second connecting tab forming a second sheath with a second fastening tab for a stud forming a second pivot point associated with the light-emitting unit 24.

[0077] The pins associated with the light-emitting unit are aligned with each other to define a pivot axis around which the light-emitting unit 24 can pivot when the device is assembled. In other words, two pivot points 32 form a pivot axis. This pivot axis is parallel to the extension plane of the projection lens and can be tilted relative to the transverse axis T by an angle less than or equal to 30°, preferably less than or equal to 10°.

[0078] Since these pivot points are formed by the studs of the light-emitting unit cooperating on the one hand with the fastening tabs 28, 30 of the second part 8 of the housing and on the other hand with the connecting tab 42 integrated with the projection lens 16, each stud integrated with the light-emitting unit 24 forms a pivot element 46. The pivot element 46 is more specifically integrated with the support 25 of the light-emitting unit, which allows the light-emitting unit to pivot around the aforementioned pivot axis.

[0079] To ensure the desired pivotal connection between the light-emitting unit 24 and the housing, it is obvious from the content that, in the context of adjusting the position in two vertical directions, a pivotal connection is provided between the housing portion and the stud integral with the light-emitting unit (in this case, integral with the support member 25). The aforementioned sheath allows for the blocking of two translational degrees of freedom, and a third translational degree of freedom parallel to the pivot axis is blocked by the contact between the light-emitting unit and two fastening tabs 28 disposed on both sides of the light-emitting unit. Alternatively, the third translational degree of freedom can be blocked by the contact between the end of the stud forming the pivot element 46 and the lateral wall of the housing portion.

[0080] Figure 5 and Figure 6 It shows [ Figure 2 The light-emitting device 2 according to the second embodiment, as seen in the image, is located at the first fastening tab 30, i.e., when the projection lens 16 is initially formed as a single piece with the cover 18 of the housing 4. It should be noted that the combination of this... Figure 5 The content described After necessary modifications Applicable to the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

[0081] [ Figure 5 This makes it more apparent that once the light-emitting device is assembled, the fastening tab 28 forms a stop for the lateral displacement of the light-emitting unit 24 by abutting against the side wall of the light-emitting unit 24, thus fixing the two displacement directions in the lateral direction by the presence of fastening tabs 28 on both sides of the light-emitting unit. It also makes it possible to show that each stud forming one of the pivot elements 46 associated with the light-emitting unit engages between the fastening tab of the second part of the housing and the connecting tab integral with the projection lens 16.

[0082] [ Figure 6 This provides an illustrative depiction that allows for a better understanding of this cooperation through implementations advantageously adapted to the first or second embodiment; however, this does not limit the invention. In this particular embodiment, the pivoting element 46 cooperates in a specific manner with positioning forks carried by fastening tabs and connecting tabs, respectively.

[0083] Each fastening tab 28 has a first U-shaped fork at its free end, intended to cooperate with one of the pivoting elements 46, the first fork being vertically oriented and opening away from a second portion of the housing. This first fork is formed by a wall of the body of the fastening tab 28 (a stop wall formed in a first direction in the longitudinal direction), a base 280, and a branch 282. The base extends longitudinally from the body to form a stop for the pivoting element 46 in the first direction in the vertical direction, and the branch is formed by a vertical portion that forms a stop for the pivoting element in a second direction in the longitudinal direction. The first U-shaped fork is open to receive the pivoting element 46 when it is vertically abutting against the fastening tab 28. Notably, in this case, the branch 282 and the wall of the fastening tab's body are flared relative to the base 280.

[0084] Complementarily, the connecting tab 42 has a second U-shaped fork, which is longitudinally oriented and faces away from the opening of the projection lens 16. When the pivot element is accommodated in the fork, the first branch 420 of the U-shape specifically allows it to vertically cover the pivot element 46 and block a second displacement direction in the vertical direction, and the base 422 of the U-shape prevents longitudinal displacement by blocking a second translational direction along the axis. Furthermore, the second branch 424 of the U-shape extends towards the first branch 420 of the U-shape. In this case, it is noteworthy that the branch is flared relative to the base 422. In particular, the inner surface of the second branch 424 is inclined relative to the longitudinal direction defining the orientation of the second fork, and this inclination allows the stud to be raised and moved away from the base of the first fork during longitudinal displacement of the projection lens 16 and the second fork, as will be described below.

[0085] The complementarity between the fastening tab 28 and the connecting tab 42 around the pivot element 46 enables a pivotal connection that can accompany the rotational movement of the light-emitting unit 24 within the housing.

[0086] The dimensions of these forked portions (formed on the connecting tab and the fastening tab respectively, and intended to cooperate with the stud forming the pivot element 46) are determined such that once the light-emitting device is assembled, the pivot element 46 has only a single point of contact with each forked portion. More specifically, the width of the U-shaped receiving seat formed by the forked portions is slightly larger than the diameter of the stud to ensure a single point of contact between the stud and each forked portion. When the device is assembled, the stud forming the pivot element 46 contacts the base 422 of the connecting tab 42 on one hand and the body of the fastening tab 28 on the other. Gaps are formed between the stud and the branch 282 and between the stud and the base 280, allowing the stud to rest against the branch and the base before cooperating with the first part 6 of the housing.

[0087] The two contact points of the pivot element are opposite each other in diameter and aligned in the longitudinal direction in this case. The first part 6 of the housing is translated along the longitudinal direction to position itself against the second part 8 of the housing.

[0088] Once the light-emitting device is assembled, the pivot element 46 is secured by the fastening system 10 through the positioning of the two contact points mentioned above and the gap between the stud and certain parts of the fork. This creates a gapless pivot connection for optimal guidance of the light-emitting unit. Specifically, it limits vibrations that could cause beam flicker. Furthermore, it ensures the accurate position of the pivot axis relative to the lens, which is important for the proper operation of the entire optical system, particularly by ensuring the position of the focal point, and thus limits the need for travel on the adjustment system.

[0089] [ Figure 7 More specifically, details of the first embodiment are shown, namely, the fact that, as mentioned above, the projection lens 16 and the cover 18 form two elements that are initially separate and then fixed together by a suitable method (e.g., in this case, by laser or ultrasonic welding, or by adhesive bonding). Figure 7 The projection lens 16 and cover 18 forming the integral assembly of the first part 6, the edge of the second part 8 of the housing, and the support 25 of the light-emitting unit are shown in particular, with the rest of the light-emitting unit hidden here.

[0090] The projection lens 16 has a central projection portion 160 and a lateral portion 162. The central projection portion is disposed facing an opening 180 formed in the cover at the front of the device. The lateral portion is disposed around the periphery of the central portion and functions to press against the inner surface of the cover to provide a welding surface area sufficient to properly secure the projection lens and achieve optimal sealing performance.

[0091] The aforementioned welding process ensures that the projection lens 16 is securely fixed to the cover 18 in a sealed manner. To ensure the positioning of the projection lens 16 relative to the cover 18 prior to the welding operation, the projection lens 16 includes a reference tab 44.

[0092] Reference tab 44 extends from the peripheral edge of the lateral portion 162, extending substantially perpendicularly to the projection lens toward its rear, i.e., away from the front of the device. The reference tab 44 has a free end that forms a flat support surface 45 for the reference device within the welding station. The orientation of this support surface 45 is defined relative to the orientation of the flat support surface 47 of the edge of the cover 18, allowing the reference device to simultaneously position the projection lens and the cover in the desired theoretical positions before welding, and ensuring the effectiveness of the weld. In the example shown, the flat support surface 45 extends in the same plane as the flat support surface 47 of the edge of the cover. This plane corresponds to the joining plane P between the first portion 6 of the housing and the second portion of the housing 8 (in […]). Figure 7 (shown as dashed lines in the image). Therefore, this reference tab 44 allows for the limitation of the dimensional chain used for the correct positioning of the projection lens relative to the cover. Specifically, after the parts of the housing have been assembled, the projection lens 16 is aligned directly on the joint plane P between these parts of the housing, and the relative positions of the tabs 28, 42, carried by the lens and the second part of the housing, respectively, are thus more precise.

[0093] Combination Figures 1 to 7 During the first step of the method for assembling the light-emitting device, the light-emitting device 2 is assembled by positioning the light-emitting unit 24 in the second part 8 of the housing 4. As will be understood from the description above, only a portion of the light-emitting unit 4 is positioned in the second space 40 of the second part 8 of the housing 4, while the remainder is positioned in the first space 38. This positioning of the light-emitting unit 24 during the first step is achieved in particular by a substantially vertical translational movement, by which the operator simultaneously positions the pivot element 46, supported by the support 25 integral with the light-emitting unit 24, against the fastening tab 28 integral with the second part 8, and also positions the rear portion of the light-emitting unit 24 against the adjusting device, particularly in this case against the end 35 of the dynamic actuator of the vertical adjusting device 26. During this vertical displacement, the actuator is held in place by means of a tool that can slide horizontally (i.e., substantially perpendicular to the vertical displacement direction of the light-emitting unit) via the front of the light-emitting device, the shape of the second part of the housing allowing access to the tool in this way. As already mentioned, the positioning of the light-emitting unit 24 is thus simplified by the inclination of the engagement plane between the two parts of the housing and the specific shape of the resulting second part of the housing, wherein the front has a smaller height relative to the rear and the front does not interfere with the insertion of the tool used to hold the actuator. During this first step, the pivoting elements 46 are more specifically disposed in the U-shaped seats formed by the forked portions of the fastening tabs 28, and these pivoting elements are respectively rested against the bases 280 of the corresponding forked portions by gravity, the body of the fastening tabs and the branches 282 of the U-shape preventing longitudinal disengagement.

[0094] During the second step of the assembly method, the first part 6 of the housing is attached to the second part 8, in which the light-emitting unit is already in place, so as to specifically position the projection lens 16 and connect the projection lens to the light-emitting unit 24 at the pivot axis. Prior to this second step, it should be noted that, as mentioned above, the projection lens 16 has been manufactured together with the cover to form an integral assembly.

[0095] Specifically, during this second step, the first portion 6 is positioned relative to the second portion 8 such that the lug 17 of the second portion 8 is received in the aperture 19 formed in the first portion 6. Simultaneously, the first connecting element 20 cooperates with the second connecting element 22 of the bayonet device 14 to bring the first portion 6 closer to the second portion 8.

[0096] During this second step, the correct positioning of the projection lens relative to the light-emitting unit is ensured by accommodating one pivot element 46 in the first connecting tab 42 and another pivot element 46 in the second connecting tab to form the cylindrical sheath mentioned above, wherein each pivot element 46 engages between the fastening tab 28 of the second part 8 of the housing and the connecting tab 42 of the first part of the housing.

[0097] More specifically, the first part of the housing is attached to the second part of the housing, and each pin or pivot element 46 associated with the light-emitting unit rests in the bottom of a fork-shaped portion associated with one of the fastening tabs 28 of the second part of the housing. During assembly (blindly performed by the operator), the shape of the fork-shaped portion associated with the projection lens allows the branches of the U-shape of the fork-shaped portion to be positioned on either side of the pin. The projection lens and the first part 6 of the housing to which it is formed are pushed longitudinally until the pin abuts against the bottom of the fork-shaped portion associated with the projection lens 16, i.e., against the base 422. In particular, during this longitudinal pushing, the projection lens 16 tends to move closer to the pin, and the pin slides along the second branch 424 of the fork-shaped portion associated with the projection lens. In this way, due to the tilt of the second branch, the pin moves away from the base 280 of the first fork-shaped portion associated with the fastening tab 28 of the second part of the housing. In the final position, the pin contacts each fork-shaped portion via a single point. In a third step, this position is secured by fastening screws. This final position is specifically achieved through [ Figure 6 This is achieved by using the flared shape of the forked portion visible in the image.

[0098] The third step of the assembly method involves fastening the first part 6 and the second part 8 together by means of the fastening system 10. Threading the first part 6 onto the second part 8 allows the two parts to be fastened together and also allows for compression of the seal. Thus, the seal is compressed over its entire periphery, compressed laterally by the bayonet device 14, compressed at the front (i.e., near the projection lens) by the retaining device 15, and compressed at the rear by the fastening screw 12.

[0099] It should be noted that this assembly method positions the light-emitting unit within the housing portion by vertical displacement and closes the two housing portions onto each other by substantially vertical movement.

[0100] Therefore, the present invention does indeed achieve its intended purpose by proposing a sealed architecture for a light-emitting device, wherein the projection lens of the light-emitting device participates in forming the housing and is fixed relative to the light-emitting unit, which is housed in the housing and can change its orientation independently of the orientation of the projection lens.

[0101] However, the invention is not limited to the devices and configurations described and shown herein, but extends to any equivalent devices and configurations and any technically operable combinations of such devices.

Claims

1. A light-emitting device (2) for a motor vehicle, the light-emitting device comprising at least one housing (4) and a light-emitting module disposed within the housing, the light-emitting module having a projection lens (16) and a light-emitting unit (24), the light-emitting unit (24) comprising at least one light source, light emitted by the at least one light source being capable of exiting the light-emitting device (2) through the projection lens (16), the housing (4) comprising a first part (6) and a second part (8), the first part and the second part being fixed to each other to define an internal space, the light-emitting unit (24) being housed in the internal space, the first part (6) of the housing (4) being manufactured as a monolithic assembly, the monolithic assembly being formed on one side by the projection lens (16) and on the other side by a cover (18), the cover being configured to cooperate with the second part (8), the light-emitting unit (24) being movable relative to the housing, and the light-emitting device (2) comprising means for adjusting the position of the light-emitting unit (24) within the housing (4) in two vertical directions.

2. The light-emitting device (2) as described in claim 1, wherein, The projection lens (16) extends in a main extension plane, and the light-emitting device (2) includes a junction area (36) between a first part (6) and a second part (8) of the housing (4), the junction area (36) extending in a junction plane that intersects a plane perpendicular to the main extension plane of the projection lens (16).

3. The light-emitting device (2) as described in claim 2, wherein, The joint plane forms an angle between 10° and 30° with the plane of the ground on which the vehicle equipped with the light-emitting device is intended to move, which is perpendicular to the main extension plane of the projection lens (16) and parallel to the plane of the ground on which the vehicle is intended to move.

4. The light-emitting device (2) as described in any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein, The internal space of the housing (4) is formed by a first space (38) defined between the joint plane and the first part (6) and a second space (40) defined between the joint plane and the second part (8), a part of the light-emitting unit (24) is disposed in the first space (38) and another part of the light-emitting unit is disposed in the second space (40).

5. The light-emitting device (2) as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The second part (8) of the housing (24) includes a fastening tab (28), which includes a first fastening tab (30) and a second fastening tab disposed on both sides of the light-emitting unit (24). The first fastening tab (30) is connected to the light-emitting unit (24) at a first pivot point (32), and the second fastening tab (28) is connected to the light-emitting unit (24) at a second pivot point.

6. The light-emitting device (2) as described in claim 5, wherein, The projection lens (16) includes a connecting tab (42), which includes a first connecting tab connected to the light-emitting unit (24) at the first pivot point (32) and a second connecting tab connected to the light-emitting unit (24) at the second pivot point.

7. The light-emitting device (2) as described in any one of claims 5 and 6, wherein, The light-emitting unit (24) has a pivot element (46) that engages with the fastening tab (28) of the second part (8) of the housing and the connecting tab (42) of the projection lens (16), respectively. Each pivot element (46) is in point contact with the fastening tab (28) and the connecting tab (42).

8. The light-emitting device (2) as described in any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The adjustment device includes at least one vertical adjustment device (26) connected to the light-emitting unit (24) and the housing (4). The light-emitting unit (24) is supported in the housing (24) by three support points, which are formed by the first pivot point (32), the second pivot point, and the connection between the vertical adjustment device (26) and the light-emitting unit (24).

9. The light-emitting device (2) as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The projection lens (16) and the cover (18) form two separate elements, which are fixed to each other in an inseparable and sealed manner.

10. The light-emitting device (2) as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The projection lens (16) includes a reference tab (44) configured to position the projection lens (16) at least relative to the cover (18).

11. The light-emitting device (2) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The light-emitting device (2) includes a seal inserted between the first part (6) and the second part (8).

12. A method for assembling a light-emitting device (2) as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, the assembly method being carried out as follows: - At least one first step, during which the light-emitting unit (24) is positioned in the second part (8) of the housing (4), - At least one second step, during which the first portion (6) is positioned relative to the second portion (8) such that the projection lens (16) participating in forming the first portion (6) of the housing is positioned at a desired distance from the light-emitting unit (24) located in the second portion (8) of the housing. - At least one third step, during which the first part (6) and the second part (8) are secured to each other by means of a fastening system (10).

13. The assembly method as described in claim 12, wherein, In the first step, the light-emitting unit (24) is positioned in the second part of the housing by a first vertical assembly movement. During the first vertical assembly movement, the pivot element (46) of the light-emitting unit rests on a fork-shaped portion integral with the second part of the housing. During the first vertical assembly movement, the light-emitting unit is fastened by a snap fastening to a vertical adjustment device (26) as described in claim 8 and already present in the second part of the housing. The adjustment device (26) is held in place by a tool extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of the first assembly movement.

14. The assembly method as described in claim 13, wherein, In the second step, the first part (6) is positioned relative to the second part (8) by a second assembly movement that is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the first assembly movement. The second assembly movement positions the fork portion integral with the first part (6) against the pivot element (46) and positions the engagement edge of the first part (6) against the engagement edge of the second part (8).

Images