Light module for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a light-emitting module (1) comprising: - a first light source (2) configured to emit a first light ray (4), - a second light source (3) configured to emit a second light ray (5), - collimators (6, 7) configured to form a first group (8) of light rays and / or a second group (9) of light rays, and - a microlens array (10), characterized in that the light-emitting module (1) includes a deflection device (15) configured to deflect the group (8, 9) of light rays toward the microlens array (10), the deflection device (15) including a plurality of deflection members (16) including a first deflection region (17) and a second deflection region (18), each deflection member (16) being offset relative to the other deflection members in at least one direction.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to the field of light-emitting modules assembled into motor vehicles, and more specifically to a light-emitting module capable of producing at least two light-emitting functions, which may be a lighting function and / or a signal light function.

[0002] Vehicles, especially motor vehicles, are typically equipped with headlights that produce various light-emitting functions, such as road lighting or signaling to other road users, such as daytime running lights or turn signals.

[0003] In some applications, light emitted by a light source is guided into a microlens array (MLA) device to form a beam that allows the light-emitting function to be performed.

[0004] A microlens array device includes an incident microlens array, an exiting microlens array, and a mask positioned between these arrays, if applicable. The array device is configured to form a light guide channel between one of the incident microlenses and one of the exiting microlenses. The optional mask includes mask portions, each disposed within a corresponding light guide channel. Each mask portion is provided with at least one aperture that allows light to pass from the incident microlens to the exiting microlens. The apertures in the mask are configured to shape the light transmitted by the incident lens array and allow the exiting lens array to project this shape onto a road surface.

[0005] One possible improvement to this light-emitting module is to adapt it so that it can produce two light-emitting functions (which can be produced simultaneously or alternately relative to each other). However, this adaptation must meet certain conditions, such as maintaining the projection quality of the beam associated with each of the light-emitting functions in particular by allowing the projection of two uniform light-emitting functions and addressing reduced space requirements, i.e., accommodating the common lighting surface for both light-emitting functions as much as possible.

[0006] The present invention falls within this context and for this purpose provides a light-emitting module for a motor vehicle, the light-emitting module comprising: - A first light source, configured to emit a first ray of light to perform a first light-emitting function. - A second light source, configured to emit a second ray of light to perform a second light-emitting function. - At least one collimator, the at least one collimator being configured to form a first set of parallel rays from the first rays and / or a second set of parallel rays from the second rays. A microlens array device comprising an incident microlens array, an exiting microlens array, and multiple light guide channels arranged between at least one incident microlens and at least one exiting microlens in a direction defining the optical axis of the array device, the microlens array device including: a first set of channels configured to project a first set of light rays into at least one first light beam; and a second set of channels configured to project a second set of light rays into at least one second light beam. The light-emitting module is characterized by including at least one deflection device, each of the groups of light rays emitted from the collimator being guided toward the at least one deflection device, and the at least one deflection device being configured to deflect the groups of light rays toward the microlens array device. The deflection device includes a plurality of deflection members, at least one of which includes: a first deflection region configured to deflect a portion, and preferably all, of the first group of light rays toward the first group of channels; and a second deflection region configured to deflect a portion, and preferably all, of the second group of light rays toward the second group of channels. The deflection members are each offset relative to each other in at least one direction.

[0007] Therefore, this light-emitting module allows for the implementation of two different light-emitting functions, such as illumination and signaling, while ensuring the compactness and uniformity of the light beams generated by each light-emitting function, with the same illumination surface for each light-emitting function corresponding to the exit surface of the microlens array device.

[0008] Each light source can be a light-emitting diode or an array of light-emitting diodes, wherein one or more diodes are configured to emit light exhibiting brightness and / or color specific to an associated light-emitting function. These light sources are turned on or off depending on whether the associated light-emitting function is required.

[0009] Once turned on, the light source emits its associated rays: a first ray for the first light source and a second ray for the second light source. The rays propagate in all directions. The at least one collimator redirects the first and / or second rays such that the first rays are parallel to each other and / or the second rays are parallel to each other. This makes it possible to form these sets of rays.

[0010] The phrase "at least one collimator" should be understood to mean that the light-emitting module may also include only one collimator to which light from the first light source and the second light source is guided, and which is configured to redirect the first light and the second light; or it may include two collimators, namely a first collimator and a second collimator, to which light from the first light source is guided and which is configured to redirect the first light, and to which light from the second light source is guided and which is configured to redirect the second light.

[0011] Regardless of the configuration of the light-emitting module according to the invention, whether it has one collimator or two collimators, when the corresponding light source is activated, both sets of light rays can be redirected toward the deflection device and its plurality of deflection components. Thus, these sets of light rays are guided by the deflection device to the microlens array device.

[0012] At least one of the deflecting members deflects a portion of a first group of light rays via its first deflection region, and a portion of a second group of light rays via its second deflection region. This set of deflecting members allows all light rays to be deflected toward the microlens array device. According to a particular embodiment of the invention, each of the deflecting members deflects a portion of the first group of light rays via its first deflection region, and a portion of the second group of light rays via its second deflection region; however, it should be noted that some deflecting members, particularly those arranged on one of the edges of the deflecting device, may deflect only one group of light rays.

[0013] The array device ensures that each group of light rays propagates from the incident microlens array to the exiting microlens array. Therefore, these groups of light rays are deflected towards the array device to enter it. The incident and exiting arrays can be positioned relative to each other such that the image focal point of the microlens in the incident array coincides with the object focal point of the microlens in the exiting array. In this case, the light beams formed at the exit of the exiting array are intended to extend primarily in a direction parallel to or substantially parallel to the optical axis of the array device. It should be understood that a prism effect can be additionally provided, specifically at the exit surface, to deflect the light rays forming these beams.

[0014] Alternatively, all or some of the microlenses of the incident array may be configured to have an image focal point near the microlenses of the exit array, and more particularly outside the array device. It should be understood that "near" means a size less than 10% of the total longitudinal dimension of the array device between the incident and exit microlens arrays.

[0015] The array device may include a mask positioned between an incident array and an exit array. Microlenses of the incident array may be configured to converge light rays within the array device in an area where the mask is disposed. The mask extends across the path of the light rays and includes multiple apertures to ensure light selection. In other words, light rays passing through the apertures continue to propagate to the exit array, while some light rays are blocked and absorbed by opaque portions of the mask. The mask may be positioned to coincide with the image focal point of the microlenses forming the incident array and the object focal point of the microlenses forming the exit array.

[0016] The light-emitting module thus remains efficient and compact, while still providing two light-emitting functions that can be selectively enabled and have a common lighting surface formed by the emitting surface of the array device.

[0017] Each of these channels is formed by multiple optical guide channels, which are each formed by at least one incident microlens and one exit microlens parallel to the optical axis.

[0018] The first optical guide channel participating in the formation of the first set of channels is intended to generate a first light-emitting function, such as an illumination function. As a non-limiting example, the illumination function associated with the first light beam emitted from the first set of channels can be a low-beam illumination function or a high-beam illumination function, and the brightness of the light emitted by the light source varies depending on which illumination function is implemented. In the case of a low-beam illumination function, the aforementioned mask can be disposed within an array device, wherein a mask portion of an appropriate shape is positioned in each of the first optical guide channels.

[0019] The second light guide channel participating in the formation of the second set of channels is intended to generate a second light-emitting function, such as a signaling function. As a non-limiting example, the signaling function associated with the second beam emitted from the second set of channels could be a parking light function, or a daytime running light (DRL) function, or a turn signal function, and the brightness and / or color of the light emitted by the light source would vary depending on which signaling function is implemented.

[0020] Of course, it is possible to propose that the light-emitting module according to the present invention implement two lighting functions or two signaling functions.

[0021] These groups of channels are formed by optical guide channels spaced apart from each other; however, it should be understood that two adjacent optical guide channels can form part of the same group of channels. Advantageously, the first optical guide channel and associated incident microlens belonging to the first group of channels are arranged alternately with the second optical guide channel and associated incident microlens belonging to the second group of channels.

[0022] The deflection of the deflecting members is implemented such that the first set of light rays is deflected toward the incident microlens associated with the first optical guide channel participating in the formation of the first set of channels, and the second set of light rays is deflected toward the incident microlens associated with the second optical guide channel participating in the formation of the second set of channels. Furthermore, by means of the deflection between the deflecting members, it is ensured that the first or second light ray can be guided over the entire range of the array device, wherein the optical guide channels respectively participate in the formation of the first or second set of channels extending uniformly across the entire surface of the array device, so as to form a uniform first or second light-emitting function, without thereby negatively affecting the implementation of the other light-emitting function.

[0023] The light-emitting module may further include one or more of the following features, considered individually or in combination.

[0024] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflection members are offset from each other in at least one direction, which is a transverse direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0025] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflecting members are offset relative to each other in at least two dimensions, including a direction parallel to the optical axis of the array device and a first lateral direction perpendicular to the optical axis. This offset enables the deflecting members to prevent them from capturing and deflecting light intended to fall on other deflecting members, thereby ensuring that the entire array device receives light, and also prevents the deflecting members from propagating light that has been redirected toward the array device by other deflecting members.

[0026] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflection member extends parallel to the microlens array device.

[0027] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, each of the deflecting members comprises: a first deflecting region configured to deflect a portion, preferably all, of a first set of light rays toward the first set of channels; and a second deflecting region configured to deflect a portion, and preferably all, of a second set of light rays toward the second set of channels. A possible exception is some deflecting members located on the periphery of the deflecting device, which may include only one of the first and second deflecting regions. These deflecting members allow the deflecting device to be adapted to certain configurations of the microlens array device, for example, when the first or second set of channels simultaneously exist on two opposite edges of the microlens array device.

[0028] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the first deflection regions of the deflection members have the same shape.

[0029] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the second deflection region of the deflection member has the same shape.

[0030] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the shapes of the first deflection regions of at least some of the deflection members are different from each other.

[0031] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the shapes of the second deflection regions of at least some of the deflection members are different from each other.

[0032] Different shapes enable, for example, a deflection region suitable for the optical guide channel when the optical guide channel has different dimensions.

[0033] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the light-emitting module includes a frame for mechanically holding the reflective member. The deflecting member is thus positioned in the path of the light and mechanically and precisely held such that the light can be deflected toward the corresponding set of channels.

[0034] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflecting member is a reflecting member, each reflecting member comprising a first reflecting surface and a second reflecting surface corresponding to a first deflection region and a second deflection region, respectively. The reflecting surfaces are divided into two groups to be positioned on the paths of one or the other of these groups of light rays, and these reflecting surfaces are oriented to guide these groups of light rays toward the array device. The reflecting surfaces act as mirrors and are oriented at 45° relative to the propagation direction of the light rays exiting the collimator, so as to guide the light rays substantially parallel to the optical axis in the direction of the array device. More specifically, the first reflecting surface is oriented to guide the first group of light rays toward the incident microlenses of the array device that participate in forming the first group of channels, and the second reflecting surface is oriented to guide the second group of light rays toward the incident microlenses of the array device that participate in forming the second group of channels.

[0035] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflection device is an optical block of transparent material, with deflecting members formed in the material of the optical block from the side of the optical block opposite to the array device, the deflecting members having a concave profile. This is another embodiment of the light-emitting module, wherein the deflection of light occurs within a light guide formed by the optical block via a refracting mirror (formed at the junction of the optical block and the ambient air surrounding the optical block), rather than within a reflective panel. The manufacture and assembly of the transparent material block is simpler than that of multiple deflecting members in multiple parts. The transparent material block is configured to have two different incident surfaces facing respective collimators, and a common exit surface arranged opposite to the array device, the side of the block with the deflecting members arranged between the two incident surfaces and opposite to the exit surface.

[0036] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the incident surface has planar portions through which light rays from the collimator can pass into the optical block, wherein one incident surface is planar and the other incident surface is stepped, having a plurality of planar portions offset relative to each other.

[0037] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflecting member is formed of a prism assembly comprising a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface, respectively. The optical block includes a plurality of first inclined surfaces facing a first set of light rays and a plurality of second inclined surfaces facing a second set of light rays, the inclined surfaces corresponding to the first deflection region and the second deflection region, respectively. The inclined surfaces are preferably inclined at 45° relative to the direction of light propagation within the optical block, both between the incident surface and the inclined surfaces and between the inclined surfaces and a common exit surface.

[0038] Advantageously, the refractive index of the material constituting the optical block is higher than √2. This allows for total internal reflection of light rays arriving at the inclined surface at an angle of incidence substantially equal to 45°. Generally, light rays propagating within the optical block are deflected from their path only by contact with the inclined surface. For example, the material can be a transparent polymer.

[0039] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, a first light source and a second light source are arranged on either side of the deflecting device along a first lateral direction perpendicular to the optical axis. For a deflecting device comprising multiple reflective surfaces or a transparent material optical block in which a prism element with two reflective surfaces is formed, these groups of light rays, after being processed by a collimator, are advantageously deflected at a 90° angle toward the array device between the entrance and exit of the deflecting device. In order for each group of light rays to be specifically deflected toward the channel of the corresponding group, the first group of light rays and the second group of light rays must propagate in opposite directions relative to each other so that the deflecting device deflects to the channel of the correct group. Therefore, the light sources are arranged on both sides of the deflecting device and emit light primarily toward the deflecting device.

[0040] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the light-emitting module includes: a first collimator configured to be arranged in the path of a first light ray and form a first set of light rays; and a second collimator configured to be arranged in the path of a second light ray and form a second set of light rays. Since the light sources are arranged opposite to each other relative to the deflection device, the collimator is associated with each of the light sources to form both the first set of light rays and the second set of light rays. Therefore, both the first and second sets of light rays propagate toward the deflection device while remaining parallel to each other.

[0041] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the deflection device is a segmented lens comprising a plurality of segments corresponding to the deflection member, each segment including an incident surface, a first exiting surface corresponding to a first deflection region, and a second exiting surface corresponding to a second deflection region. Therefore, and in a third embodiment of the light-emitting module according to the invention, these groups of light rays are deflected and shaped by the lens, rather than reflected by the reflective surface. The segmented lens allows the first light rays to converge toward the first exiting surface and allows the second light rays to converge toward the second exiting surface, each of the exiting surfaces facing the corresponding group of channels. Thus, the first light rays exit the segmented lens parallel to each other via one of the segments on the first exiting surface to directly reach the incident microlens forming part of the first group of channels, while the second light rays exit the segmented lens parallel to each other via one of the segments on the second exiting surface to directly reach the incident microlens of the second group of channels.

[0042] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the incident surface is configured to converge a portion of a first set of light rays toward a first exiting surface, and to converge a portion of a second set of light rays toward a second exiting surface. The incident surface has a complex surface capable of deflecting light rays passing through it, and is configured to deflect the first light rays toward the first exiting surface, and to deflect a second light ray arriving at this incident surface at an angle of incidence different from that of the first light ray toward the second exiting surface. In other words, the complex profile of the incident surface such that light rays arriving at the first angle of incidence converge toward the focal point of the first exiting surface, and light rays arriving at the second angle of incidence converge toward the focal point of the second exiting surface, each of the exiting lenses comprising a diverging first or second exiting surface.

[0043] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the first and second light sources are arranged on the same side of the deflection device, near the optical axis of the array device. These two light sources are oriented to emit light primarily in the same direction, and at least one of them is offset relative to the optical axis such that the light emitted by the two light sources reaches the segmented lens at a variable angle of incidence. This third embodiment is advantageous in terms of compactness compared to the first or second embodiment, because in this case it is not necessary to arrange the light sources on both sides of the deflection device. The lenses can be arranged close to each other and facing the segmented lens. More precisely, the light sources can be positioned on both sides of the optical axis of the array device.

[0044] According to a non-limiting feature of the invention, the light-emitting module includes a collimator shared by the two light sources and disposed between the light sources and the segmented lens. Unlike the first or second embodiment, due to the fact that the light sources are located close to each other, it is not necessary to integrate two collimators. The collimator is shared by the two light sources and positioned between the light sources and the segmented lens. Furthermore, the collimator is configured to orient a first light ray parallel to each other and along a first propagation direction, and to orient a second light ray parallel to each other and along a second propagation direction different from the first propagation direction. By means of the propagation direction, the first set of light rays and the second set of light rays arrive at the incident surface of one of the segments of the segmented lens at a specific incident angle. This incident angle allows the first light ray passing through the incident surface to converge specifically toward a first exit surface and the second light ray to converge toward a second exit surface.

[0045] On the one hand, other features and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the following description, and on the other hand, from the numerous non-limiting exemplary embodiments given in an indicative manner with reference to the accompanying illustrative drawings, in which: [ Figure 1 The first embodiment of the light-emitting module according to the present invention, viewed from the side, is schematically shown. [ Figure 2 The first embodiment of the light-emitting module, viewed from the front, is schematically shown. [ Figure 3 A second embodiment of the light-emitting module according to the present invention is schematically shown. [ Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates a third embodiment of the light-emitting module according to the present invention.

[0046] Figure 1 A light-emitting module 1 according to the present invention is schematically shown. The light-emitting module 1 can be integrated into a motor vehicle to perform at least two different light-emitting functions, which can be illumination functions or signaling functions.

[0047] For this purpose, the lighting module includes at least one first light source 2 and at least one second light source 3, each of the light sources 2 and 3 emitting light intended to perform a light-emitting function specific to it. The light sources 2 and 3 may be, for example, light-emitting diodes, and each light source 2 and 3 has a brightness and / or color specific to it in order to provide the light-emitting function assigned to it, and in accordance with regulations.

[0048] Therefore, the first light source 2 emits multiple first rays 4, while the second light source 3 emits multiple second rays 5. To clarify... Figure 1 In the accompanying figures, the first ray 4 will be depicted in solid lines, while the second ray 5 will be depicted in dashed lines. Rays 4 and 5 propagate in all directions, and some of them are schematically shown in... Figure 1 middle.

[0049] The light-emitting module 1 further includes a first collimator 6 and a second collimator 7, respectively positioned near the first light source 2 and the second light source 3. The first collimator 6 deflects all or some of the first light rays 4 to form a first set 8 of light rays that are parallel to each other. Similarly, the second collimator 7 deflects all or some of the second light rays 5 to form a second set 9 of light rays that are parallel to each other.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, collimators 6 and 7 can be in the form of parabolic elements with reflective inner walls, and each light source 2 and 3 is arranged within said parabolic element. It should be noted that... Figure 1 The shape of the collimator and the positioning of the light source relative to the associated collimator are schematically shown. In practice, the light source can be positioned at the focal length of the collimator and oriented relative to it, so that more or less emitted light is properly processed by the collimator.

[0051] According to the first embodiment, the light rays 4 and 5 of each light source 2 and 3 are deflected by collimators 6 and 7 specific to them.

[0052] The light-emitting module 1 also includes a microlens array device 10. The microlens array device 10, not shown in detail but rather in a manner not shown, includes an incident microlens array into which the light rays of group 8 and group 9 enter, and an exiting microlens array from which light rays exit to form an illumination or signal beam. Each of these arrays includes multiple microlenses. The focal length of each incident and exiting microlens is configured to create a light guide channel formed by at least one incident microlens and at least one exiting microlens.

[0053] The microlens array device 10 is configured to form a first set of channels 11 and a second set of channels 12, each consisting of a plurality of first light guide channels and a plurality of second light guide channels. The first set of channels 11 and the second set of channels 12 are configured to convert a first set of light rays (group 8) into a first beam 13 and a second set of light rays (group 9) into a second beam 14, respectively. The first beam 13 and the second beam 14 propagate out of the light-emitting module 1 to perform a first light-emitting function and a second light-emitting function, respectively. Therefore, depending on the selectively illuminated channels 11 and 12, the two light-emitting functions are performed simultaneously or alternately relative to each other, and this is implemented using a single light-emitting module 1.

[0054] Just like rays 4 and 5, the optical guide channels and microlenses involved in forming the first set of channels 11 are depicted with solid lines, while the optical guide channels and microlenses involved in forming the second set of channels 12 are depicted with dashed lines. According to Figure 1 In the configuration shown, the array device 10 is arranged to alternate between optical guide channels dedicated to the first group of channels 11 and optical guide channels dedicated to the second group of channels 12.

[0055] The light beams 13 and 14 formed at the exit of the array device extend primarily in a direction parallel to or substantially parallel to the optical axis Ax of the array device 10. The incident and exit arrays are configured such that the light propagates within an optical guide channel with appropriate focusing characteristics.

[0056] According to a first embodiment, incident microlenses and exiting microlenses can be configured and positioned relative to each other such that the image focal point of the microlens associated with the light guide channel in the incident array coincides with the object focal point of the microlens associated with the same light guide channel in the exiting array. In this example, almost all light rays entering the light guide channel exit from the same channel to participate in forming a first beam or a second beam. According to a second exemplary embodiment, the array device 10 may include a mask positioned between the incident array and the exiting array. The microlenses of the incident array can be configured to converge light rays within the array device 10 in a region where the mask is disposed, and the microlenses of the exiting array can be configured to image an aperture formed in the mask through which some of the light rays continue to propagate within a dedicated light guide channel. Thus, the mask includes a plurality of openings that ensure the selection of light rays passing through the array device 10 and the specific shape of the beam projected at the exit of the array device 10.

[0057] To implement a compact light-emitting module that allows for the combination of two light-emitting functions, the light-emitting module 1 includes a deflection device 15 that ensures that the groups of 8 and 9 light rays are deflected toward the array device 10, and more particularly toward the associated groups of channels 11 and 12. The deflection device 15 is specifically configured in this case to redirect light rays from a first lateral direction DT1 (in this case, vertical) perpendicular to the optical axis Ax of the array device to the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax. Once the groups of 8 and 9 light rays, which have become parallel to each other via collimators 6 and 7, propagate toward the deflection device 15 along the first lateral direction DT1, the deflection device deflects these two groups of light rays substantially 90° toward the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax. More precisely, the deflection device 15 enables the first group of 8 light rays to be deflected toward the first group of channels 11 and the second group of 9 light rays to be deflected toward the second group of channels 12.

[0058] For this purpose, the deflection device 15 includes a plurality of deflection members 16, and each of these deflection members 16 includes a first deflection region 17 and a second deflection region 18. According to a first embodiment, the deflection device 15 is a reflecting device 19, which includes a plurality of reflecting members 20 acting as deflection members 16, and each of these reflecting members 20 includes a first reflecting surface 21 and a second reflecting surface 22 acting as the first deflection region 17 and the second deflection region 18, respectively. Figure 1As shown, each of the reflective members 20 has a triangular cross-section in a cross-sectional plane including the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax and the first transverse direction DT1 (in this case, the vertical direction).

[0059] The first reflecting surface 21 and the second reflecting surface 22 are respectively arranged to face the first collimator 6 and the second collimator 7, in such a way that the first set of light rays 8 and the second set of light rays 9 reach these reflecting surfaces respectively. Advantageously and as Figure 1 As shown, reflective surfaces 21 and 22 are oriented at a 45° angle relative to the paths of the groups of 8 and 9 light rays, so as to reflect them at an angle of approximately 90°. Furthermore, each reflective surface 21 and 22 also faces the incident array of the first group of channels 11 or the second group of channels 12, such that the first group of 8 light rays are reflected towards the first group of channels 11, and the second group of 9 light rays are reflected towards the second group of channels 12. More specifically, each first reflective surface faces the incident microlens forming a portion of the first group of channels 11, and each second reflective surface faces the incident microlens forming a portion of the second group of channels 12. The term "facing" should be understood as meaning that the projection of the reflective surface onto the array device in the direction of the optical axis substantially corresponds to the corresponding surface of the incident microlens. If such projection of the reflective surface specifically covers the incident microlens associated with the first or second array device, it is because this reflective surface faces the incident array of the first or second group of channels, respectively.

[0060] In the case of multiple sets of light rays distributed on the first and second sets of channels, the result of this feature is a distribution of light rays specific to two different light-emitting functions across the entire array device. Therefore, by means of the deflection device 15, an efficient and uniform orientation of the light rays toward the array device 10 is ensured, allowing both light-emitting functions to operate. In particular, by turning each of the light sources on and off, the two light-emitting functions can be selectively implemented relative to each other.

[0061] The deflection device allows this dual-emission function to be performed on the same array device with a specific configuration of light source and deflection component.

[0062] In the first embodiment, the first light source 2 and the second light source 3 are arranged on both sides of the deflection device 15 along a first lateral direction DT1 perpendicular to the optical axis Ax of the light-emitting module and the array device. Thus, the first group 8 light rays and the second group 9 light rays propagate toward the deflection device 15 in opposite propagation directions, which deflects them toward the array device 10 in the same direction and the same propagation direction.

[0063] As in Figure 1As can be seen, the deflecting member 16 (in this case, the reflecting member 20) has a specific configuration that is offset relative to each other in two dimensions so as to allow multiple first reflecting surfaces 21 to be arranged facing the entire first group 8 of light rays and multiple second reflecting surfaces 22 to face the entire second group 9 of light rays.

[0064] More specifically, the deflection members 16 are offset relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax of the array device, wherein the deflection members are all separated from the array device by a certain distance, which is variable from one deflection member to the other.

[0065] The deflection member 16 is also offset relative to each other with respect to a first lateral direction DT1 (in this case, a vertical direction) perpendicular to the optical axis Ax, which corresponds to the direction of light propagation between the collimator and the deflection device.

[0066] The deflection members are continuously offset relative to each other along these two dimensions, causing them to gradually shift in the same direction. As the distance from the array device along the optical axis Ax decreases, the deflection members move closer to one of the collimators.

[0067] The offset of the reflective member 20 in two dimensions and continuously (that is, in the same offset direction) enables the light to be distributed across the entire incident microlens array as mentioned, and also enables the reflective member to be prevented from being on the path of light rays 4, 5 that are intended to be deflected by other reflective members 20, or on the path of light rays that have already been deflected by other reflective members.

[0068] Therefore, a single deflection device 15 is sufficient to implement a light-emitting module 1 with two different light-emitting functions, which improves the compactness of the light-emitting module 1 compared to a configuration that implements a deflection device for each light-emitting function.

[0069] Figure 2 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 The first embodiment of the light-emitting module 1 is shown from different angles. Figure 2 Additional structural specificities related to the first embodiment of the light-emitting module 1 are demonstrated.

[0070] exist Figure 2In the view, the array device 10 is shown in the background, while the deflection device 15 (in this case, the reflecting device 19) is shown in the foreground; the view is truncated along the longitudinal axis. Thus, it can be observed that the reflecting members 20 forming the reflecting device extend parallel to each other along the second lateral direction DT2 (which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax of the array device 10 and perpendicular to the first lateral direction DT1, i.e., the direction of light propagation at the collimator exit). More specifically, the reflecting members are in the form of strips extending along this second lateral direction DT2 over the entire range of the array device. Combined with the shape of the collimator, this allows light to be guided along the entire lateral dimension of the reflecting members, making it possible to generate a first beam and / or a second beam uniform throughout the entire second lateral dimension at the exit of the array device.

[0071] From the foregoing content and from Figure 1 and Figure 2 It will be understood that in this embodiment, the reflective member 20 takes the shape of a triangular prism, with the base arranged at each of the ends along the second lateral direction DT2, and the sharp edge 200 forming the portion of the prism closest to the array device 10.

[0072] Therefore, the reflecting device 19 includes a plurality of prisms arranged parallel to each other, with offsets from one prism to another in the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax and in the first transverse direction DT1. It should be noted that the offset of the triangular prism relative to each other is an integral offset as long as the projection of the triangular prism along the longitudinal direction of the optical axis Ax or along the first transverse direction DT1 does not encounter other prisms.

[0073] To ensure that the reflective members are positioned facing the array device, the light-emitting module 1 includes a frame 23 that mechanically holds the reflective members 20. Specifically, these members must be arranged with extreme precision so that the light rays are correctly deflected and directed by the correct reflective members 20 to be correctly oriented toward the correct incident array of the array device 10. The reflective members are attached to the frame 23 via their lateral ends (in this case, the bottom of the prism). The frame 23 may also be mechanically connected to the first collimator 6 and the second collimator 7.

[0074] Figure 3 A second embodiment of the light-emitting module 1 according to the present invention is schematically shown. This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the nature of the deflection device 15.

[0075] According to the second embodiment, the deflection device 15 is an optical block 24 made of transparent material, which forms a light guide instead of a reflective member as in the first embodiment. This optical block 24 has complex-shaped surfaces to create refracting mirrors at the junction between the optical block 24 and ambient air. These surfaces are distributed such that light passing through the optical block 24 can propagate within it, and that every ray of light passing through it encounters a refracting mirror, which allows the light to be reflected in the direction of the optical block's exit surface, which is arranged to face the array device.

[0076] Optical block 24 can be made, for example, of a transparent polymer with a refractive index higher than √2. This refractive index allows for total internal reflection of light at a refracting mirror between optical block 24 and ambient air when light encounters optical block 24 at an incident angle of 45°.

[0077] When the angle of incidence is 0°, that is, when one of the light rays 4 and 5 reaches the refracting mirror between the optical block 24 and the ambient air and is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the surface of the material block, the light beam passes through the surface without being reflected or deflected from its path.

[0078] Optical block 24 is configured such that all light rays from the collimator encounter the optical block at a substantially zero angle of incidence, allowing all light rays to enter the refracting mirror, and ensuring that all light rays propagating within the optical block encounter the refracting mirror arranged to allow total internal reflection. This ensures high luminous efficiency of the light-emitting module equipped with this deflection device.

[0079] The deflection members 16 are formed by refracting mirrors arranged to allow total internal reflection, and all of these deflection members are integrated into the optical block 24 to form a single unit, which is advantageous because it is not necessary to manufacture multiple entities to form the deflection device 15.

[0080] More specifically, the optical block 24 has a first incident surface 241 for light rays arranged facing the first collimator, a second incident surface 242 for light rays arranged facing the second collimator, and an exit surface 243 facing the array device 10. One of the incident surfaces (in this case, the first incident surface 241) is substantially planar and extends continuously over the entire longitudinal dimension of the optical block 24. The other incident surface (in this case, the second incident surface 242) is stepped, wherein planar portions 242a, 242b, 242c move further and further away from the opposite incident surface (in this case, the first incident surface) and decrease in distance from the exit surface 243.

[0081] The optical block 24 includes a plurality of first inclined surfaces 25 corresponding to the first deflection region 17 and a plurality of second inclined surfaces 26 corresponding to the second deflection region 18. The first inclined surfaces 25 are oriented toward the first incident surface 241 and are also arranged to face the first set of channels 11 of the array device 10 to reflect a portion of the first set of 8 light rays toward the first set of channels 11. Similarly, the second inclined surfaces 26 are oriented toward the second incident surface 242 and are also arranged to face the second set of channels 12 of the array device 10 to reflect a portion of the second set of 9 light rays toward the second set of channels 12. In this respect, the first inclined surfaces 25 and the second inclined surfaces 26 have the same arrangement as the first reflecting surface 21 and the second reflecting surface 22 of the first embodiment.

[0082] The prism element formed by the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 26 is produced by removing material from the optical block on the surface opposite to the exit surface.

[0083] Therefore, each prism assembly formed is associated with a planar portion of the stepped incident surface (in this case, the second incident surface 242). Considering the first lateral direction DT1 (i.e., the direction perpendicular to both incident surfaces), the projection of the prism assembly and the projection of the associated planar portion of the stepped incident surface are substantially the same, and they do not interfere with the projection of other prism assemblies or planar portions.

[0084] As described for the deflection member in the first embodiment, the prism elements formed by the first inclined surface 25 and the second inclined surface 26 extend along a dimension DT2 in the second transverse direction, which is substantially equal to the corresponding dimension of the array device.

[0085] As in Figure 3As can be seen, this produces the following light trails. Before being reflected by the inclined surfaces 25 and 26, the group of 8 and the group of 9 light rays enter the material of the optical block 24 via one or the other of the incident surfaces 241 and 242, perpendicular to the intersecting surfaces, and are therefore not deflected. Notably, for light rays reaching the stepped incident surface side, the prism element is covered by one of the planar portions 242a, 242b, and 242c of the incident surface, respectively, such that the light rays of the corresponding group encounter the stepped incident surface at a zero angle of incidence. Therefore, each light ray propagating within the optical block propagates primarily along the first transverse direction DT1, such that it encounters one of the inclined surfaces. The light rays in the first group of 8 all encounter the first inclined surface 25 and are completely reflected by 90° to be guided toward the portion facing the first set of channels 11 towards the exit surface 243, and the light rays in the second group of 9 all encounter the second inclined surface 26 and are completely reflected by 90° to be guided toward the portion facing the second set of channels 12 towards the exit surface 243. As for the material entering the optical block 24, the light passes through the exit surface 243 at a zero angle of incidence, so that the light does not deflect when passing through the refracting mirror formed by the exit surface 243.

[0086] Without limiting the invention, the emitting surface 243 may be provided with optical elements. These optical elements (e.g., in the form of pads that diffuse the light beams) may be arranged to selectively face strips of either the first or second deflection region, particularly to diffuse the light when dedicated to generating a signal. However, it should be noted that these optical elements should be substantially convergent to ensure that optical elements arranged to face the deflection region dedicated to one light-emitting function do not participate in sending light to a set of channels dedicated to another light-emitting function.

[0087] Since the remaining structural and functional elements are the same as those already described with respect to the first embodiment, reference will be made to... Figure 1 Description of elements shared by the two embodiments.

[0088] Figure 4 A third embodiment of the light-emitting module 1 according to the present invention is shown. In the aforementioned embodiment, the light-emitting module 1 includes two light sources 2 and 3, each participating in implementing a different light-emitting function and emitting light rays 4 and 5. The light-emitting module also includes at least one collimator and a deflection device 15, which allows the light rays from the group 8 and the group 9 to be deflected toward the group of channels 11 and the group of channels 12 of the array device 10 to generate light beams 13 and 14.

[0089] One of the special features of the third embodiment of the light-emitting module 1 is that the deflection device 15 is a segmented lens 27 centered on the optical axis Ax. This configuration firstly allows the light sources 2 and 3 to be positioned axially along the optical axis, rather than positioned laterally on both sides of the deflection device 15 as in the embodiments described above. Therefore, compared to the first and second embodiments, the third embodiment enables a reduction in the space requirement of the light-emitting module 1 in the lateral direction perpendicular to the optical axis Ax of the array device.

[0090] More specifically, the first light source 2 and the second light source 3 are positioned on both sides of the optical axis 28.

[0091] Secondly, this configuration allows the use of a collimator 29 shared by the two light sources 2 and 3. The common collimator 29 is therefore positioned between the light sources 2 and 3 and the segmented lens 27.

[0092] The common collimator 29 enables the deflection of the first ray 4 into a first group of 8 rays and the deflection of the second ray 5 into a second group of 9 rays. The first group of 8 rays consists of first parallel rays 4 emitted from the collimator 29 and has a first propagation direction different from the second propagation direction applied to the second group of 9 rays, which consists of second parallel rays 5 emitted from the collimator 29.

[0093] Depending on whether the first or second light source is enabled, positioning the light source on both sides of the optical axis Ax (with the common collimator centered on this optical axis) allows for the management of two groups of light rays with different orientations (i.e., group 8 and group 9) at the exit point.

[0094] The segmented lens 27 includes a plurality of segments 30 corresponding to the deflection member 16. Each segment 30 includes an incident surface 31, a first exit surface 32, and a second exit surface 33. The incident surface 31 is configured to guide light rays (in this case, a first set of light rays 8) that encounter the segment 30 at a first angle toward the first exit surface 32 to form a first deflection region 17 as defined in the present invention, and to guide light rays (in this case, a second set of light rays 9) that encounter the segment 30 at a second angle toward the second exit surface 33 to form a second deflection region 18 as defined in the present invention.

[0095] As described above, each first exit surface 32 of the segment that participates in forming the first deflection region 17 is arranged to face the first set of channels 11, while each second exit surface 33 of the segment that participates in forming the second deflection region 18 is arranged to face the second set of channels 12.

[0096] Incident surface 31 and exit surfaces 32 and 33 are schematically shown in Figure 4In order to perform the above functions, the incident surface 31 has a complex shape designed to cause the light rays entering the corresponding segment 30 to converge at the focal point of one or the other of the exit surfaces 32 and 33, depending on their angle of incidence upon entering the segment. These exit surfaces are configured such that their respective focal points are arranged between the segmented lens 27 and the array device 10, thus forming a diverging lens such that the light rays arriving at the exit surfaces are oriented parallel to the optical axis in the direction of the set of channels directly facing the exit surfaces.

[0097] Therefore, the first beam 13 and the second beam 14 can subsequently be formed by the first set of channels 11 and the second set of channels 12, respectively, to implement one and / or another of the light-emitting functions associated with the light-emitting module 1.

[0098] As just described, the present invention does indeed achieve its stated objectives and makes it possible to provide a light-emitting module capable of performing two light-emitting functions while maintaining efficiency and compactness. Variations not described herein may be implemented without departing from the context of the invention, provided that, according to the invention, these variations include a light-emitting module according to the invention.

Claims

1. A light-emitting module (1) for a motor vehicle, the light-emitting module comprising: - A first light source (2), configured to emit a first ray (4) to perform a first light-emitting function. - Second light source (3), the second light source is configured to emit a second light ray (5) in order to perform a second light emission function, - At least one collimator (6, 7, 29), said at least one collimator being configured to form a first set (8) of parallel rays by the first ray (4) and / or to form a second set (9) of parallel rays by the second ray (5), - A microlens array device (10) comprising an incident microlens array, an exiting microlens array, and a plurality of light guide channels, wherein the plurality of light guide channels are arranged between at least one incident microlens and at least one exiting microlens in a direction defining the optical axis (Ax) of the array device (10), the microlens array device (10) comprising: a first set of channels (11) configured to project the first set of (8) light rays into at least one first beam (13); and a second set of channels (12) configured to project the second set of (9) light rays into at least one second beam (14). The light-emitting module (1) is characterized in that it includes at least one deflection device (15), each of the groups of light rays emitted from the collimator is guided to the at least one deflection device, and the at least one deflection device is configured to deflect the groups (8, 9) of light rays toward the microlens array device (10). The deflection device (15) includes a plurality of deflection members (16), at least one of the deflection members (16) including: a first deflection region (17) configured to deflect a portion of the first group (8) of light rays toward the first group channel (11); and a second deflection region (18) configured to deflect a portion of the second group (9) of light rays toward the second group channel (12). The deflection members (16) are each offset relative to each other in at least one direction.

2. The light-emitting module (1) as described in claim 1, wherein, The deflection members (16) are offset relative to each other in at least two dimensions, including a direction parallel to the optical axis (Ax) of the array device and a first lateral direction (DT1) perpendicular to the optical axis (Ax).

3. The light-emitting module (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The deflection member (16) is a reflection member (20), and each reflection member (20) includes a first reflection surface (21) and a second reflection surface (22) corresponding to the first deflection region (17) and the second deflection region (18), respectively.

4. The light-emitting module (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The deflection device (15) is an optical block (24) of transparent material, and the deflection member (16) is located in the material of the optical block from the side opposite to the array device (10), and the deflection member has a concave profile.

5. The light-emitting module (1) as described in the preceding claim, wherein, The deflection member (16) is formed by a prism assembly that includes a first tilted surface (25) and a second tilted surface (26), respectively. The optical block (24) includes a plurality of first tilted surfaces (25) facing the first group (8) of light rays and a plurality of second tilted surfaces (26) facing the second group (9) of light rays. The tilted surfaces (25, 26) correspond to the first deflection region (17) and the second deflection region (18), respectively.

6. The light-emitting module (1) as described in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein, The first light source (2) and the second light source (3) are arranged on both sides of the deflection device (15) along the first lateral direction (DT1) perpendicular to the optical axis (Ax).

7. The light-emitting module (1) of the preceding claim includes a first collimator (6) configured to be arranged in the path of the first light ray (4) and form the first group (8) of light rays; and a second collimator (7) configured to be arranged in the optical path of the second light ray (5) and form the second group (9) of light rays.

8. The light-emitting module (1) as described in claim 1, wherein, The deflection device (15) is a segmented lens (27), which includes a plurality of segments (30) corresponding to the deflection member (16). Each segment (30) includes an incident surface (31), a first exit surface (32) that participates in forming the first deflection region (17), and a second exit surface (33) that participates in forming the second deflection region (18).

9. The light-emitting module (1) as described in the preceding claim, wherein, The incident surface (31) is configured to converge a portion of the first group (8) of light toward the first exiting surface (32) and a portion of the second group (9) of light toward the second exiting surface (33).

10. The light-emitting module (1) as described in claim 9 or 10, wherein, The first light source (2) and the second light source (3) are arranged on the same side of the deflection device (15) and near the optical axis (Ax) of the array device (10).

11. The light-emitting module (1) as claimed in the preceding claim includes a collimator (29) shared by two light sources (2, 3) and disposed between the light sources (2, 3) and the segmented lens (27).

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