Lighting device comprising a holding module and a detachably fastened lighting module, holding module and lighting module

Abstract

The invention relates to a light emitting device (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising a light emitting module (2) and a holding module (3). The light emitting module (2) comprises at least one semiconductor light source (5) and a base body (4). The light emitting module (2) and the holding module (4) are also claimed separately from each other, they are precisely positioned relative to each other and are releasably connected to each other.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to German patent application 10 2023 135 249.0 dated December 14, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a light-emitting device, particularly a light-emitting device for motor vehicles, the light-emitting device comprising a light-emitting module, the light-emitting module including at least one semiconductor light source and a holding module, wherein the light-emitting module and the holding module are detachably connected to each other. Furthermore, this invention relates to a corresponding light-emitting module and a corresponding holding module. Background Technology

[0004] In the field of vehicle lighting, replaceable light-emitting mechanisms have proven to be essential components, particularly in terms of simple and cost-effective replaceability in case of failure. Typical light-emitting mechanisms, such as halogen and xenon lamps, allow vehicle owners to quickly and easily restore lighting functionality as needed. However, LED-based light-emitting mechanisms are increasingly being used in vehicle lighting. LED-based light-emitting mechanisms are characterized by their high energy efficiency, luminous intensity, and low failure probability. Especially due to their low failure probability, LED-based light-emitting mechanisms have, to date, been designed so that the entire vehicle lighting unit, such as the entire headlight, must be replaced in case of failure. Correspondingly, there is a lack of standardized solutions in this field for manually replacing LED-based light-emitting mechanisms.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to provide a light-emitting device, particularly a light-emitting device or mechanism for motor vehicles, that addresses at least one of the problems mentioned. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The requirements are considered using the subject matter of the independent claims. Improvements and design approaches to the proposed principles are described in the dependent claims.

[0007] The inventors propose an LED light-emitting mechanism for, for example, motor vehicle headlights, which, in the event of a malfunction, can be replaced by a layperson without significant expense or the need to visit a workshop. Here, the light-emitting mechanism and its corresponding retaining device are configured such that the retaining device reliably holds the light-emitting mechanism in its designated position during proper use, while allowing the light-emitting mechanism to be easily detached from the retaining device, for example, in the event of a malfunction. The retaining device and the light-emitting mechanism include a support surface, a contact area, and a fastening element, which are configured to prevent the light-emitting mechanism from sliding or tilting relative to the retaining device in the installed state, while allowing for simple and repeatable removal from the retaining device by manipulating one of the fastening elements. Furthermore, the support surface, contact area, and fastening element are configured to enable simple and precise installation and fastening of the light-emitting mechanism.

[0008] According to a first aspect, a light-emitting module is proposed, which is configured to be detachably disposed in a holding module. Furthermore, according to another aspect, a holding module is proposed, which is configured to detachably accommodate the light-emitting module. Additionally, a light-emitting device, particularly for motor vehicles, is proposed, comprising a light-emitting module and a holding module, wherein the light-emitting module and the holding module are detachably connected to each other according to a key-lock principle.

[0009] According to the first aspect, the light-emitting module includes a substrate and at least one semiconductor light source disposed on the substrate. The at least one semiconductor light source may, for example, include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, the light-emitting module may also have multiple semiconductor light sources disposed on the substrate. Correspondingly, the light-emitting module may be an LED-based module.

[0010] The substrate has three support surfaces that are parallel to each other and extend from the bottom side. These three support surfaces can be arranged in the same plane or in parallel, spaced-apart planes. The three support surfaces are configured to be disposed on at least one reference surface of the retaining module. The number of reference surfaces specifically corresponds to the number of different planes on which the support surfaces are disposed. For the case where all three support surfaces are in the same plane, the support surfaces are disposed on the reference surface of the retaining module; for the case where two of the three support surfaces are in the same plane and one of the support surfaces is in parallel, staggered planes, these support surfaces are disposed on two reference surfaces of the retaining module; and for the case where all the support surfaces are in parallel, staggered planes, these support surfaces are disposed on all three reference surfaces of the retaining module. Thus, the light-emitting module can be configured to be statically and definitively disposed on at least one matching reference surface on three defined support surfaces.

[0011] Furthermore, the substrate has at least one contact area on its upper side opposite the lower side, the contact area being configured to interact with at least one first fastening element of the retaining module when a force is applied in a direction perpendicular to the support surface. Specifically, the at least one contact area may be configured to contact at least one first fastening element of the retaining module, such that a force perpendicular to the support surface is applied by the at least one first fastening element. Through the applied force, the light-emitting module can be pressed against the retaining module at three support surfaces.

[0012] Here, the projection of at least one contact area or the connecting line between two contact areas perpendicular to the support surface lies within or intersects with a virtual plane unfolded by the three support surfaces. The at least one or more contact areas are correspondingly arranged such that forces acting in one or more contact areas act in a direction perpendicular to the support surface, uniformly pressing the light-emitting module onto the support surface. This can be achieved by having the projection of at least one or more contact areas perpendicular to the support surface lie within the virtual plane unfolded by the three support surfaces, or by having the projection of multiple contact areas perpendicular to the support surface lie outside the virtual plane unfolded by the three support surfaces, but such that the multiple contact areas are symmetrically arranged around the virtual plane. This prevents possible leverage effects from forces acting outside the virtual plane.

[0013] Furthermore, the substrate has at least one first side, a second side, and a third side, which respectively connect the lower side of the substrate to the upper side of the substrate. The side surfaces can be formed by surfaces extending substantially perpendicular to the upper and lower sides, but can also extend at other angles and / or in a stepped manner. The second and third side surfaces can be formed substantially through opposing outer surfaces of the substrate and extend, in particular, substantially parallel to each other. Conversely, at least one first side can connect the second and third side surfaces. In particular, multiple first side surfaces can be combined to connect the second and third side surfaces.

[0014] At least one first side is configured to cooperate with at least one first reference element of the retaining module to restrict at least one first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the support surface. For example, at least one first side may be configured to cooperate with a first stop of the retaining module, wherein the stop restricts the first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the support surface.

[0015] The second side is configured to cooperate with at least one second reference element of the retaining module to restrict at least one second direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the support surface, perpendicular to the first direction of movement. For example, the second side may be configured to cooperate with a second stop of the retaining module, wherein the stop restricts the second direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the support surface, perpendicular to the first direction of movement.

[0016] The third side also has a first open portion, which is configured to cooperate with the movable second fastening element of the retaining module to restrict the light-emitting module's movement in a plane parallel to the support surface in directions opposite to the first and second movement directions. For example, the first open portion of the third side or the third side can be configured to cooperate with the movable fastening element of the retaining module, wherein the movable fastening element restricts the light-emitting module's movement in a plane parallel to the support surface in directions opposite to the first and second movement directions.

[0017] Correspondingly, the light-emitting module can be configured such that it is fixed via its side side, thereby restricting or preventing the movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the support surface, and simultaneously fixed via its upper and lower sides, thereby restricting or preventing the movement of the light-emitting module perpendicular to a plane parallel to the support surface.

[0018] According to some aspects, at least one first side is configured to interact with at least one first reference element of the retaining module, such that at least one first side is centered relative to at least one first reference element. For example, at least one first side can be formed from a protrusion in the substrate or through a second void in the substrate. Correspondingly, the first reference element of the retaining module can be configured to interact with the protrusion or the second void to achieve centering of at least one side relative to at least one reference element.

[0019] According to some aspects, the substrate is formed of a material with good thermal conductivity and, in particular, forms a cooling body for heat generated in the light-emitting module or at least one semiconductor light source. For this purpose, the substrate may have multiple cooling ribs extending from the upper and / or lower sides. For example, the substrate may be formed of metal and manufactured, for example, by means of bending forming.

[0020] According to some aspects, the substrate is constructed as a single element in one piece; however, the substrate can also consist of multiple components, such as elements made of a material with good thermal conductivity, which form a cooling body for heat generated in the light-emitting module or at least one semiconductor light source, and, for example, an encapsulation portion of the cooling body by means of, for example, plastic. The sides, openings, support surfaces, and contact areas of the substrate can be formed, for example, by the encapsulation portion. However, this should not be construed as limiting, and the substrate can also consist of more than two, and especially of different types, elements, wherein only one element, or multiple different elements, can form the sides, openings, support surfaces, and contact areas of the substrate.

[0021] According to some aspects, at least one semiconductor light source is disposed on the projection perpendicular to the support surface of the connecting line between the two contact areas. For example, at least one semiconductor light source may be disposed on the projection of the rotation axis formed by the two contact areas. This has the advantage that when the light-emitting module rotates about the rotation axis, the position of at least one semiconductor light source with respect to the holding module does not change significantly, but only the emission angle of the light emitted by at least one semiconductor light source changes. This may be preferred because the movement of the position of at least one semiconductor light source relative to the holding module or the reflector module downstream of the light-emitting module may have a significant and undesirable effect on the emission characteristics of the emitted light, while only the change in the emission angle is tolerable.

[0022] According to some aspects, at least one contact area is formed by a void on the upper side of the substrate, or includes at least one additional void. The void can also be used to allow at least one first fastening element to cooperate with the void, such that the fastening element is disposed in the void and holds the light-emitting module in place. Alternatively or additionally, at least one contact area can be formed by or includes at least one protrusion on the upper side of the substrate. The protrusion can, for example, serve as a stop, at which at least one fastening element can be fastened. Conversely, at least one contact area can also be formed by or includes a flat surface that is not significantly different from the upper side of the substrate. At least one contact area can, for example, be defined by an upper contact surface with at least one first fastening element, but is otherwise not significantly different from the upper side of the substrate. Furthermore, according to some aspects, at least one contact area can have a combination of the above embodiments.

[0023] According to some aspects, the light-emitting module includes a fastening mechanism for the reflector module, particularly additional openings in the substrate, which are configured to cooperate with the reflector module to hold the reflector module in place relative to the light-emitting module or vice versa. For example, multiple additional openings may be provided in the substrate, which cooperate with multiple reference elements of the reflector module and define their positions relative to each other. The reflector module may be configured to deflect light emitted by at least one semiconductor light source in a desired direction and / or shape the light.

[0024] According to some aspects, the light-emitting module also includes a plug-in element disposed on the substrate and electrically coupled to at least one semiconductor light source. The plug-in module is configured to cooperate with a corresponding plug-in mating member, by means of which a signal and / or supply current can be provided to the at least one semiconductor light source. A signal and / or supply current for driving the at least one semiconductor light source can be correspondingly provided via the plug-in element. The plug-in element can in particular be designed to cooperate with the corresponding plug-in mating member in a repeatedly detachable manner.

[0025] According to some aspects, the light-emitting module also includes driving circuitry and / or a PCB, which is disposed on a substrate and electrically coupled to at least one semiconductor light source. The driving circuitry can be configured to provide desired control over at least one semiconductor light source. The PCB can be used as a carrier for other electronic devices and / or driving circuitry and / or interposer components and / or at least one semiconductor light source. The PCB can be used particularly for mechanical fastening and electrical connection of the aforementioned components.

[0026] According to another aspect, the retaining module includes at least one reference surface configured to interact with three support surfaces that are parallel to each other and extend from the lower side of the substrate of the light-emitting module. Depending on whether the three support surfaces of the substrate of the light-emitting module are arranged in the same plane or in spaced planes that extend parallel to each other, the retaining module may have one or more parallel reference surfaces configured to interact with the three parallel support surfaces of the substrate. In particular, the number of reference surfaces corresponds to the number of different planes on which the support surfaces are arranged. For the case where all three support surfaces are arranged in the same plane, the retaining module includes one reference surface configured to interact with the support surfaces; for the case where two of the three support surfaces are arranged in the same plane and one of the support surfaces is arranged in parallel, staggered planes, the retaining module includes two reference surfaces configured to interact with the support surfaces in the same plane; and for the case where all support surfaces are arranged in parallel, staggered planes, the retaining module includes three reference surfaces, each configured to interact with one of the support surfaces. The retaining module can correspondingly have at least one reference surface, on which the light-emitting module can be disposed, particularly such that the light-emitting module or the substrate can be statically and definitively disposed on at least one matching reference surface via three defined support surfaces.

[0027] Furthermore, the retaining module includes at least one first fastening element configured to apply a force perpendicular to at least one reference surface to a contact area on the upper side of the substrate of the light-emitting module, opposite to the lower side. Specifically, the at least one first fastening element may be configured to contact the contact area on the upper side of the substrate, such that a force perpendicular to at least one reference surface is applied to the substrate by the at least one first fastening element. The applied force can press the light-emitting module against at least one reference surface of the retaining module at three support surfaces of the substrate.

[0028] Here, the projection of the connecting line between at least one contact area or two contact areas perpendicular to the support surface lies within or intersects with a virtual plane unfolded by the three support surfaces. The at least one or more contact areas are correspondingly arranged such that the force acting in the contact area(s) acts in a direction perpendicular to the support surface, thereby uniformly pressing the light-emitting module onto the support surface. This can be achieved by having the projection of at least one or more contact areas perpendicular to the support surface lie within the virtual plane unfolded by the three support surfaces, or by having the projection of multiple contact areas perpendicular to the support surface lie outside the virtual plane unfolded by the three support surfaces, but such that the multiple contact areas are symmetrically arranged around the virtual plane. This prevents possible leverage effects from forces acting outside the virtual plane.

[0029] Furthermore, the holding module includes at least one first reference element, configured to interact with at least one first side surface of the light-emitting module to restrict at least one first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference surface. Additionally, the holding module includes at least one second reference element, configured to interact with a second side surface of the light-emitting module to restrict at least one second direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference surface, perpendicular to the first direction of movement. Specifically, the first and second reference elements may form a stop portion for the substrate of the light-emitting module, and the first and second reference elements should restrict or prevent movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference surface along a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0030] Furthermore, the retaining module includes a movable second fastening element, which is configured to cooperate with a first opening in the third side of the light-emitting module to restrict the light-emitting module's movement in directions opposite to the first and second movement directions in a plane parallel to the reference plane. For example, the movable second fastening element can be configured to cooperate with the first opening in the third side of the light-emitting module, wherein the movable fastening element restricts the light-emitting module's movement in directions opposite to the first and second movement directions in a plane parallel to the reference plane.

[0031] Correspondingly, the retaining module can be configured to fix the light-emitting module by means of a reference element and a second fastening element, thereby restricting or preventing the movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference surface, and simultaneously fix the light-emitting module by means of at least one reference surface and at least one first fastening element, thereby restricting or preventing the movement of the light-emitting module perpendicular to a plane parallel to the reference surface.

[0032] According to some aspects, at least one first reference element, a second reference element, and a second fastening element are configured to restrict or substantially prevent rotation of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference surface. In particular, the retaining module can be configured to fix the light-emitting module by means of the reference element and the second fastening element, thereby restricting or substantially preventing rotation of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference surface.

[0033] According to some aspects, at least one reference surface and at least one first fastening element are configured to restrict or substantially prevent rotation of the light-emitting module about an axis in a plane parallel to the reference surface. In particular, the retaining module can be configured to fix the light-emitting module by means of at least one reference surface and at least one first fastening element, thereby restricting or substantially preventing rotation of the light-emitting module about an axis in a plane parallel to the reference surface.

[0034] According to some aspects, at least one first fastening element is configured to be movably, and in particular, elastically movable. Specifically, at least one first fastening element can be configured similarly to a latch, which elastically deforms when the light-emitting module is disposed, thereby applying a force perpendicular to at least one reference surface to the substrate. Depending on the shape of at least one contact area on the upper side of the substrate, at least one first fastening element can be configured to be detachably engaged with at least one contact area on the upper side of the substrate. At least one first fastening element can correspondingly be configured to apply a force perpendicular to at least one reference surface to the substrate and form a form-fitting connection with at least one contact area on the upper side of the substrate.

[0035] According to some aspects, the retaining module includes at least two first fastening elements configured to apply forces perpendicular to at least one reference plane to contact areas on the upper side of the light-emitting module. The at least two first fastening elements may be arranged with respect to a virtual surface extending from the support surface of the light-emitting module, such that their projections perpendicular to at least one reference plane or the projections of the contact areas between the fastening elements and the light-emitting module lie within the virtual surface, or they may be symmetrically arranged around said virtual surface. This serves the purpose that the force applied to the light-emitting module in the direction perpendicular to at least one reference plane results in uniform pressure on the light-emitting module and does not cause tilting of the light-emitting module due to the resulting leverage relationship.

[0036] According to some aspects, the second fastening element has a lever configured to repeatedly release the interaction between the second fastening element and the first gap in the third side of the light-emitting module. Specifically, the lever can be configured such that a user holding the module can easily manipulate the lever, for example, with their fingers, to release the interaction between the second fastening element and the first gap in the third side of the light-emitting module. In particular, to release the interaction between the second fastening element and the first gap in the third side of the light-emitting module, no tools are required; a manually applied pressure to the lever is sufficient. Here, the lever can be configured to repeatedly release the interaction, meaning that the release can be performed multiple times without damaging the second fastening element or causing it to lose its function.

[0037] According to some aspects, at least one first reference element is configured to interact with at least one first side of the light-emitting module, such that at least one first side is centered relative to at least one first reference element. For example, the first reference element of the holding module may be configured to interact with a protrusion or a second void on at least one first side to cause centering of at least one first side relative to at least one reference element. For this purpose, at least one first reference element may be formed by at least one pin and / or have another void, which interacts with at least one first side of the light-emitting module to center at least one first side relative to at least one first reference element.

[0038] According to some aspects, the retaining module includes two first reference elements, each formed in particular by a pin. The two first reference elements are configured to interact with at least one first side of the light-emitting module, thereby restricting at least one first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference plane, and at least one first side is centered relative to the two first reference elements. Specifically, the two first reference elements can be configured to interact with two first side surfaces of the light-emitting module, thereby restricting the first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference plane and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the first side is centered relative to the two first reference elements. For this purpose, the first side surfaces can be tapered and converge towards each other in a raised manner between the two first reference elements, such that one side surface interacts with one of the first reference elements. Here, the arrangement of the two first reference elements can cause, on the one hand, the light-emitting module to be restricted in a first direction of movement in a plane parallel to the reference plane and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and on the other hand, the first side surface to be centered relative to the two first reference elements.

[0039] According to some aspects, at least one first reference element includes a notch configured to interact with at least one first side surface of the light-emitting module, thereby restricting at least one first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference plane, and centering the at least one first side surface relative to the at least one first reference element. In particular, the first reference element or another recess thereof can be configured to interact with two first side surfaces of the light-emitting module, thereby restricting the first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference plane and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and centering the first side surface relative to the two first reference elements. For this purpose, the first side surfaces can be tapered and converge towards each other in a raised manner within another recess of the first reference element, such that one side surface of each of the side surfaces interacts with one surface of the recess of the first reference element. Here, the design of the recess and the arrangement of the first reference element can achieve, on the one hand, restricting the first direction of movement of the light-emitting module in a plane parallel to the reference plane and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and on the other hand, centering the first side surface relative to the first reference element.

[0040] According to some aspects, at least one reference surface and at least one first fastening element form a track, said track being configured such that the light-emitting module can be pushed into the track. The track is designed with sufficient clearance to make pushing the light-emitting module easy and feasible. In particular, the track can be configured such that when the light-emitting module or its base contacts at least one reference surface, contact between the module and its base is maintained on the upper side solely by the presence of at least one first fastening element.

[0041] Depending on some aspects, the second reference element is formed by a protrusion or a pin. For example, the second reference element can be formed by a protrusion within a track, which is configured to interact with a second side surface of the substrate of the light-emitting module.

[0042] On the other hand, a light-emitting device, particularly for motor vehicles, is disclosed, comprising a light-emitting module according to the proposed principle and a holding module according to the proposed principle. Here, the light-emitting module and the holding module are connected to or cooperate with each other, such that the light-emitting module is substantially fixed in position relative to the holding module. Furthermore, the light-emitting module and the holding module are configured such that the substantially fixed position can be repeatedly released. Correspondingly, the light-emitting module and the holding module are repeatedly detached from each other. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Other aspects and implementations of the proposed principles are disclosed with reference to different implementations and examples, which are described in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0044] Figure 1An isometric view of a light-emitting device based on the proposed principle is shown;

[0045] Figure 2 A top view of a light-emitting device based on the proposed principle is shown;

[0046] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Two isometric exploded views of a light-emitting device based on the proposed principle are shown.

[0047] Figures 4A to 4C Top views showing the interaction of the light-emitting module and the holding module (multiple) first reference elements according to the proposed principle;

[0048] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An isometric view and a detailed view of the light-emitting device based on the proposed principle are shown.

[0049] Figure 6 A top view and three detailed views of the light-emitting device based on the proposed principle are shown.

[0050] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The restricted movement direction of the light-emitting module relative to the holding module of the light-emitting device is schematically shown in isometric and top views of the light-emitting device according to the proposed principle; and

[0051] Figure 8 The arrangement of the contact area relative to the support surface of the light-emitting module of the light-emitting device is schematically shown in a top view of the light-emitting device according to the proposed principle. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The following embodiments and examples illustrate different aspects and combinations thereof according to the proposed principles. The embodiments and examples are not always to scale. Similarly, different elements may be shown enlarged or reduced in size to emphasize individual aspects. It is self-evident that various aspects and features of the embodiments and examples shown in the figures can be readily combined with each other without thereby compromising the principles of the invention. Some aspects have regular structures or shapes. It should be noted that in practice, slight deviations from the ideal shape may occur; however, this does not contradict the concept of the invention.

[0053] Furthermore, the various figures, features, and aspects are not necessarily shown at the correct dimensions, and the proportions between the elements are not necessarily accurate in principle. Some aspects and features are emphasized by being shown enlarged. However, terms such as "above," "over," "below," "under," "larger," and "smaller" are correctly shown with reference to the elements in the figures. Therefore, it is feasible to deduce this relationship between the elements from the drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 An isometric view of the light-emitting device 1 according to the proposed principle is shown, while Figure 2 A top view of the light-emitting device 1 is shown. Furthermore, Figure 3A and Figure 3B An isometric exploded view of the light-emitting device 1 is shown. The light-emitting device 1, particularly for headlights, taillights, or hazard lights of motor vehicles, includes a light-emitting module 2 and a retaining module 3, which are detachably connected to each other. The light-emitting module 2 and the retaining module 3 are connected to each other or work together such that the light-emitting module 2 is substantially fixed in position relative to the retaining module 3. Furthermore, the light-emitting module 2 and the retaining module 3 are configured such that the substantially fixed position can be repeatedly released. Correspondingly, the light-emitting module 2 and the retaining module 3 are detachably connected to each other.

[0055] The light-emitting module 2 includes a substrate 4 and a semiconductor light source 5, which is disposed on the lower side 6 of the substrate 4. However, the number of semiconductor light sources 5 is to be understood here as exemplary, and multiple semiconductor light sources 5 may also be disposed on the lower side 6 of the substrate 4. In order to be able to emit light outward, the module is maintained to have an opening that exposes the semiconductor light source 5. However, the shape, size, and position of the opening are to be understood here as exemplary and may be adjusted as needed.

[0056] The base 4 has three parallel support surfaces 7 extending from its lower side 6. Here, the support surfaces 7 are shown only exemplarily in the form of circles or segments with flat keyways to indicate where the support surfaces 7 can be located on the lower side. However, the shape, size, and position should be understood as exemplary only and can be adjusted as needed.

[0057] Here, the support surface 7 is configured to be disposed on the reference surface 8 of the holding module 3. Correspondingly, the holding module 3 includes the reference surface 8, which is configured to interact with three support surfaces 7 that are parallel to each other and extend from the lower side 6 of the base 4 of the light-emitting module 2. In the illustrated case, the holding module 3 includes exactly one reference surface 8, with three support surfaces 7 disposed on said reference surface. However, it is also possible for the three support surfaces 7 to be disposed in different planes that are parallel to each other, and for the holding module 3 to have a correspondingly matching number of reference surfaces 8, such that the light-emitting module 2 can be configured such that all support surfaces 7 are in contact with and completely rest upon the reference surface 8. The shape, size, and position of the illustrated reference surface 8 are again understood as exemplary only and can be adjusted as needed.

[0058] Furthermore, the retaining module has two first fastening elements 11a. The first fastening elements 11a are movably designed, particularly in the form of hooks, which elastically deform when the light-emitting module 2 is placed in the retaining module, thereby applying a force perpendicular to the reference surface 8 to a contact area 10 on the upper side 9 of the base 4 of the light-emitting module 2, opposite to the lower side 6. The base 4 correspondingly has a contact area 10 on its upper side 9, which is configured to cooperate with the first fastening elements 11a of the retaining module 3 when a force perpendicular to the support surface 7 is applied.

[0059] Here, the contact area 10 is specifically designed in the form of two notches or gaps, so that the first fastening element 11a can be detachably engaged with the contact area 10 on the upper side 9 of the substrate 4. In particular, the first fastening element 11a and the contact area 10 are configured such that the first fastening element 11a applies a force perpendicular to the reference surface 8 to the substrate 4 while maintaining the connection between the module 3 and the light-emitting module 2, and forms a detachable shape-fitting connection with the contact area 10 on the upper side 9 of the substrate 4.

[0060] Here, the first fastening element 11a is configured such that a contact area 10 is created on the upper side 9 of the base 4 at a location such that applying a force perpendicular to the reference surface 8 to the base 4 by the first fastening element 11a does not cause the base to tilt. This is achieved by the projection of the contact area 10 or the connecting line 12 between the contact areas 10 perpendicular to the reference surface 8 intersecting with the virtual surface 13 unfolded by the three support surfaces 7 of the light-emitting module 2. This is also exemplarily demonstrated in Figure 8 This is shown in the top view. Especially in Figure 8 The diagram shows the supporting forces F8 acting in the three supporting surfaces 7 in the directions perpendicular to the reference surface 8 and in the direction emerging from the drawing plane, as well as the virtual surface 13 unfolded by the three supporting surfaces 7 or the three supporting forces F8. Here, the force F acting in the direction perpendicular to the reference surface 8 and in the direction entering the drawing plane... 11a The force is positioned outside the virtual surface 13, or more precisely, so that the forces generated by these forces act within the virtual surface 13. Correspondingly, there is no lever relationship due to the force applied outside the virtual surface 13, and the force F acting on the upper side 9 of the base 4... 11a This allows the light-emitting module 2 or the substrate 4 to be pressed onto the reference surface 8 without tilting the light-emitting module 2.

[0061] In addition, Figure 8As shown, the semiconductor light source 5 is positioned on the vertical projection of the connecting line 13 onto the lower side of the substrate. This is because, when there is no contact between all the support surfaces 7 and the reference surface 8, but when there is full contact between the first fastening element 11a and the upper side 9 of the substrate 4, possible tilting of the light-emitting module 2 occurs around the connecting line 13 (or the z-axis). This arrangement of the semiconductor light source 5 on the vertical projection of the connecting line 13 onto the lower side of the substrate essentially only causes tilting of the semiconductor light source 5, without causing a change in the position of the semiconductor light source 5 relative to the holding module 3. Therefore, possible slight tilting of the light-emitting module 2 around the connecting line is permissible because it only causes a change in the emission angle of the light emitted by the semiconductor light source 5, without causing a change in the position of the semiconductor light source 5 relative to other components, such as a reflector module not shown.

[0062] The substrate 4 also includes a first side surface 14a, a second side surface 14b, and a third side surface 14c, which connect the lower side 6 of the substrate 4 to the upper side 9 of the substrate 4, respectively. In the illustrated case, the second and third side surfaces 14b and 14c are formed on opposite sides of the substrate 4, and the first side surface 14a together connects the second and third side surfaces 14b and 14c to each other. Furthermore, the substrate may have one or more fourth side surfaces, which are opposite to the first side surfaces and similarly connect the second and third side surfaces 14b and 14c to each other. In the illustrated case, the first side surface 14a forms the front side of the substrate 4, while the second and third side surfaces 14b and 14c form the sides of the substrate 4.

[0063] exist Figures 1 to 3B In the case shown, the first side 14a is defined by a front region of the base 4 that converges at an angle, the front region having a second void 16b at its tip. The second void 16b is V-shaped here and defines two first side surfaces that converge inward toward the base 4 at an angle.

[0064] The first side surface 14a, particularly the first side surface formed by the second recess 16b, is configured to cooperate with the first reference element 15a of the holding module 3 to restrict at least one first direction of movement of the light-emitting module 2 in a plane parallel to the support surface 7, and, in the illustrated case, also restrict a second direction of movement of the light-emitting module 2 in a plane parallel to the support surface 7, perpendicular to the first direction of movement. Specifically, the holding module has a first reference element 15a in the form of a columnar pin, which serves as a stop for the first side surface 14a formed by the second recess 16b. The first stop is correspondingly formed by the pin, and when the holding module 3 and the light-emitting module 2 are connected, the first stop cooperates with the first side surface 14a formed by the second recess 16b, restricting the first direction of movement of the light-emitting module 2 in a plane parallel to the support surface 7 or parallel to the reference surface 8, and the second direction of movement perpendicular to the first direction of movement.

[0065] Here, the first side 14a, especially the first side formed by the second recess 16b, works in conjunction with the first reference element 15a in the form of a columnar pin to have the following effect: after the light-emitting module 2 is pushed into the holding module 3, the front part of the base 4 and, in particular, the first side 14a, are centered relative to the first reference element 15a. This is because one of the inclined first side 14a and, in particular, the inclined first side 14a, slides along the first reference element 15a until it makes contact with the first reference element 15a in a centered manner within the inclined first side 14a.

[0066] The second side surface 14b is further configured to cooperate with the second reference element 15b of the holding module 3 to restrict the light-emitting module 2 in a second direction of movement perpendicular to the first direction of movement within a plane parallel to the support surface 7. Specifically, the holding module 3 has a second reference element 15a in the form of a semi-circular protrusion, which serves as a stop for the second side surface 14b. The second stop is correspondingly formed by the protrusion, and when the holding module 3 is connected to the light-emitting module 2, the second stop cooperates with the second side surface 14b to restrict the light-emitting module 2 in a second direction of movement perpendicular to the first direction of movement within a plane parallel to the support surface 7 or parallel to the reference surface 8.

[0067] Furthermore, the third side surface 14c has a first empty portion 16a, which is configured to cooperate with the movable second fastening element 11b of the retaining module 3. Specifically, the retaining module includes a second fastening element 11b, which cooperates with the first empty portion 16a in the third side surface 14c of the base 4 of the light-emitting module 2 to restrict the light-emitting module's movement in directions opposite to the first and second movement directions within a plane parallel to the support surface 7 or the reference surface 8. In particular, the second fastening element 11b and the first empty portion 16a are configured such that, in the connected state of the retaining module 3 and the light-emitting module 2, the second fastening element 11b applies a force perpendicular to the third side surface 14c to the base 4 and forms a detachable shape-fit connection with the first empty portion 16a.

[0068] The second fastening element 11b here has a lever configured to repeatedly release the interaction between the second fastening element 11b and the first recess 16a in the third side 14c of the light-emitting module 2. Specifically, the lever can be implemented such that a user of the retaining module 3 can easily manipulate it, for example with their fingers, to release the interaction between the second fastening element 11b and the first recess 16a. The lever can also be implemented such that the release of the interaction can be repeated, meaning that the release can be performed multiple times without damaging the second fastening element 11b or causing it to lose its function.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the reference surface 8 and the first fastening element 11a form a track 18, which is configured such that the light-emitting module 2 can be pushed into the track 18. The track 18 is designed with sufficient clearance to facilitate easy insertion of the light-emitting module 2. Specifically, the track 18 is configured such that when the light-emitting module 2 or its base 4 contacts the reference surface 8, contact between the retaining module 3 and the base 4 of the light-emitting module 2 is achieved at the upper side 9 solely by the first fastening element 11a. The track 18 facilitates easier insertion of the light-emitting module 2 into the retaining module 3 because it has upper and lower limits not only in the direction perpendicular to the support surface 7, but also lateral limits in the plane of the support surface 7. The inclined converging front region of the base 4, and thus the additional first side surface 14a, further aid in easier insertion, as the first side surface serves as a lateral centering aid for insertion into the track 18.

[0070] Furthermore, the substrate 4 is formed of a material with good thermal conductivity and serves as a cooling body for heat generated in the light-emitting module 2 or in the semiconductor light source 5. For this purpose, the substrate 4 has multiple cooling ribs extending from the upper and lower sides.

[0071] Figures 4A to 4CTop views are shown of the interaction between the light-emitting module 2 and the holding module 3 (multiple) of first reference elements 15a, according to the proposed principle. Exemplarily, in... Figures 4A to 4C The diagram shows a top view of the light-emitting module 2, which proposes an alternative for centering the first side 14a relative to at least one first reference element 15a. Figure 4A and Figure 4B An embodiment is shown where the substrate does not have a second void, but instead has a raised portion that interacts with the first reference element 15a for centering. Here, the first reference element 15a is exemplarily constructed as a cylindrical pin having a notch 17 with inclined surfaces converging together, into which the raised portion or (multiple) first side surfaces 14a engage. Here, the (multiple) first side surfaces 14a are configured such that, when the light-emitting module 2 is pushed into the holding module 3, the interaction with the notch 17 in the first reference element 15a causes the first side surface 14a to be centered relative to the first reference element 15a. According to... Figure 4A In the embodiment shown, the first side surface 14a, which interacts with the notch 17, can be implemented in a semi-circular or parabolic shape, and is particularly implemented such that when the light-emitting module 2 is pushed into the holding module 3, the first side surface slides along one of the converging surfaces of the notch 17 until the first side surface contacts the two converging surfaces of the notch 17 in a centered manner. According to the embodiment shown, the first side surface 14a interacts with the notch 17 in a centered manner. Figure 4B In the embodiment shown, the first side 14a that interacts with the notch 17 can be implemented in a pointed outward convergence, and in particular, is implemented such that when the light-emitting module 2 is pushed into the holding module 3, one side of the first side slides along one of the surfaces of the notch 17 that converge until the two first side 14a contact the two surfaces of the notch 17 that converge in a centered manner.

[0072] Figure 4C The following embodiment is shown, wherein the holding module 3 has two first reference elements 15a, which work together with the first side surface 14a of the substrate 4 to center the first side surface 14a relative to the first reference elements 15a when the light-emitting module 2 is pushed into the holding module 3.

[0073] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An isometric view of the light-emitting device 1 and a detailed view of one of the first fastening elements 11a, either the light-emitting device 1 or the first fastening element 11a, are shown. Figure 5A The diagram particularly illustrates the force F exerted by the first fastening element 11a on the contact area 10 of the substrate 4 of the light-emitting module at the contact point. 11a and in Figure 5B The detailed view shows a detailed embodiment of the first fastening element 11a. Especially in... Figure 5BThe detailed view shows a configuration of the first fastening element 11a, which resembles a hook. When the light-emitting module 2 is placed in the retaining module 3, the hook elastically deforms, thereby applying a force perpendicular to the reference surface 8 to the contact area 10 on the upper side 9 of the base 4 of the light-emitting module 2, opposite to the lower side 6. The base 4 has a corresponding elongated notch 10 on the upper side 9, which is configured to cooperate with the shape of the first fastening element 11a of the retaining module 3 when a force perpendicular to the support surface 7 is applied.

[0074] Figure 6 A top view of the light-emitting device 1 and three detailed views of the light-emitting device 1 are shown, especially detailed views of the first reference element 15a, the second reference element 15b, and the movable second fastening element 11b. Furthermore, in Figure 6 The diagram schematically illustrates the force F acting perpendicularly to the third side 14c via the second fastening element 11b. 11b .from Figure 6 The detailed view on the left shows how the second fastening element 11b interacts with, or rather, engages with, the first recess 16a. This applies a force along the z-axis to the substrate, restricting movement in the opposite direction, but also restricting movement in the x-axis. Furthermore, the first reference element 15a and the second reference element 15b prevent movement in the opposite direction to the x-axis and in the z-axis direction. The second fastening element 11b correspondingly clamps the substrate between the reference elements 15a and 15b.

[0075] Furthermore, the resulting forces and reaction forces / support forces again... Figure 7A and Figure 7B The image is shown in an isometric view and a top view of the light-emitting device 1. Figure 7A The diagram shows the supporting force F8 and the opposing force F applied through the first fastening mechanism 11a. 11a These forces restrict the movement of the light-emitting module 2 relative to the holding module 3 in the x-axis direction. Furthermore, the forces and reaction forces shown restrict rotation about the z-axis and about the x-axis.

[0076] exist Figure 7B The figure shows the reaction force F acting through the reference element. 15a F 15b And the opposite force F applied by the second fastening mechanism 11b 11b These forces restrict the movement of the light-emitting module 2 relative to the holding module 3 in the x-axis and z-axis directions. Furthermore, the forces and reactions shown restrict rotation about the y-axis.

[0077] List of reference numerals

[0078] 1. Light-emitting devices

[0079] 2. Light-emitting module

[0080] 3. Holding Module

[0081] 4. Matrix

[0082] 5. Semiconductor light source

[0083] 6. Lower side

[0084] 7 Support surface

[0085] 8 Reference planes

[0086] 9 upper side

[0087] 10 Contact Area

[0088] 11a, 11b Fastening elements

[0089] 12 Connecting wires

[0090] 13 Virtual Faces

[0091] 14a, 14b, 14c Side views

[0092] 15a, 15b Reference elements

[0093] 16a, 16b - Blank sections

[0094] 17 Notch

[0095] 18 orbits

[0096] x, y, z directions

[0097] xy, xz, yz plane

[0098] F8 Force

[0099] F 11a F 11b force

[0100] F 15a F 15b force

Claims

1. A light-emitting module (2), the light-emitting module comprising: Matrix (4); as well as At least one semiconductor light source (5) is disposed on the substrate (4); The base (4) has three support surfaces (7) that are parallel to each other and extend from the lower side (6) of the base (4), and the support surfaces are configured to be disposed on at least one reference surface (8) of the retaining module (3). The base (4) has at least one contact area (10) on the upper side (9) opposite to the lower side (6), the contact area being configured to cooperate with at least one first fastening element (11a) of the retaining module (3) when a force is applied in a direction perpendicular to the support surface (7), wherein the projection of the connecting line (12) between the at least one contact area (10) or two contact areas (10) perpendicular to the support surface (7) is located in or intersects with the virtual surface (13) unfolded by the three support surfaces (7); The substrate (4) has at least one first side (14a), a second side (14b), and a third side (14c), which respectively connect the lower side (6) of the substrate (4) to the upper side (9) of the substrate (4). The at least one first side surface (14a) is configured to interact with at least one first reference element (15a) of the retaining module (3) to restrict at least one first direction of movement (x) of the light-emitting module (2) in a plane (xz) parallel to the support surface (7); and The second side surface (14b) is configured to cooperate with at least one second reference element (15b) of the holding module (3) to restrict the light-emitting module (2) in at least one second direction of motion (z) perpendicular to the first direction of motion within a plane (xz) parallel to the support surface (7); and The third side (14c) has a first empty portion (16a) configured to work in contact with a movable second fastening element (11b) of the retaining module (3) to restrict the light-emitting module from moving in the opposite direction to the first and second movement directions (x, z) in a plane (xz) parallel to the support surface (7).

2. The light-emitting module according to claim 1, The at least one first side (14a) is configured to work in conjunction with the at least one first reference element (15a) of the holding module (3) to center the at least one first side (14a) relative to the at least one first reference element (15a).

3. The light-emitting module according to claim 2, The at least one first side (14a) is formed by a ridge from the substrate (4).

4. The light-emitting module according to claim 2, The first side (14a) is formed by a second void (16b) in the substrate (4).

5. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The substrate (4) is formed of a material with good thermal conductivity and, in particular, a coolant.

6. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The at least one semiconductor light source (5) is disposed on the projection of the connecting line (12) between the two contact areas (10) perpendicular to the support surface (7).

7. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The at least one contact area (10) is formed by a notch or other opening on the upper side (9) of the substrate (4).

8. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The light-emitting module also includes a fastening mechanism for the reflector module, and in particular, additional openings in the substrate (4) for fixing the reflector module.

9. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The light-emitting module further includes a plug-in element disposed on the substrate (4) and electrically coupled to the at least one semiconductor light source (5), wherein the plug-in element is configured to work together with a plug-in, and the plug-in is configured to provide a signal and / or supply current to the at least one semiconductor light source (5).

10. The light-emitting module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The light-emitting module further includes a driving circuit and / or a PCB, the PCB being disposed on the substrate (4) and electrically coupled to the at least one semiconductor light source (5).

11. A holding module (3), the holding module comprising: At least one reference surface (8) is configured to work together with three support surfaces (7) that are parallel to each other and extend from the lower side (6) of the base (4) of the light-emitting module (2); At least one first fastening element (11a) is configured to apply a force perpendicular to the at least one reference surface (8) to a contact area (10) on the upper side (9) of the base (4) of the light-emitting module (2) opposite to the lower side (6), wherein the contact area (10) together with the at least one first fastening element (11a) or the connecting line (12) between two contact areas (10) together with the projection of the two first fastening elements (11a) perpendicular to the reference surface (8) lies within or intersects with the virtual surface (13) unfolded by the three support surfaces (7) of the light-emitting module (2); At least one first reference element (15a) is configured to interact with at least one first side surface (14a) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2) to restrict at least one first direction of motion (x) of the light-emitting module (2) in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8), the at least one first side surface connecting the lower side (6) of the substrate (4) to the upper side (9) of the substrate (4); At least one second reference element (15b), the second reference element being configured to interact with a second side surface (14b) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2) to restrict the light-emitting module (2) in at least one second movement direction (z) perpendicular to the first movement direction in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8), the second side surface connecting the lower side (6) of the substrate (4) to the upper side (9) of the substrate (4); and A movable second fastening element (11b) is configured to work in conjunction with a first empty portion (16a) in the third side surface (14c) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2) to restrict the light-emitting module (2) from moving in the opposite direction to the first and second movement directions (x, z) in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8). The third side surface connects the lower side (6) of the substrate (4) to the upper side (9) of the substrate (4).

12. The holding module according to claim 11, The at least one first reference element (15a), the second reference element (15b) and the second fastening element (11b) are configured to restrict the rotation of the light-emitting module (2) in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8).

13. The holding module according to claim 11 or 12, The at least one reference surface (8) and the at least one first fastening element (11a) are configured to restrict the rotation of the light-emitting module (2) about an axis in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8).

14. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 13, The at least one first fastening element (11a) is configured to be movable, and in particular elastically movable.

15. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 14, At least two of the first fastening elements (11a) are configured to apply a force perpendicular to the at least one reference surface (8) to the contact area (10) on the upper side (9) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2).

16. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 15, The second fastening element (11b) has a lever configured to repeatedly release the interaction between the second fastening element (11b) and the first empty portion (16a) in the third side (14c) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2).

17. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 16, The at least one first reference element (15a) is configured to work together with the at least one first side (14a) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2) such that the at least one first side (14a) is centered relative to the at least one first reference element (15a).

18. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 17, The at least one first reference element (15a) is formed by a pin.

19. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 18, The holding module includes two first reference elements (15a), which are formed, in particular, by means of pins, wherein the two first reference elements (15a) are configured to cooperate with at least one first side surface (14a) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2) to restrict at least one first direction of movement (x) of the light-emitting module (2) in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8), and to center the at least one first side surface (14a) relative to the two first reference elements (15a).

20. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 19, The at least one first reference element (15a) includes a notch (17) configured to interact with the at least one first side surface (14a) of the substrate (4) of the light-emitting module (2) to restrict at least one first direction of motion (x) of the light-emitting module (2) in a plane (xz) parallel to the reference surface (8) and to center the at least one first side surface (14a) relative to the at least one first reference element (15a).

21. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 20, The at least one reference surface (8) and the at least one first fastening element (11a) form a track (18) configured to push the light-emitting module (2) into the track (18).

22. The retaining module according to any one of claims 11 to 21, The second reference element (15b) is formed by a protrusion or a pin.

23. A light-emitting device (1), particularly for use in motor vehicles, said light-emitting device comprising: The light-emitting module (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and the holding module (3) according to any one of claims 11 to 22, wherein the light-emitting module (1) and the holding module (3) are repeatedly detached from each other.

Images