Optical module and vehicle lamp

Abstract

The utility model provides an optical module and an automobile lamp, and relates to the technical field of automobile illumination, the optical module comprises a light emitting element, and the light emitting element is provided with a first light incident surface and a light emitting surface. A low beam III area forming structure is arranged on the edge of the first light incident face in the vertical direction, the low beam III area forming structure is provided with a second light incident face, and part of light emitted by the light source enters the second light incident face firstly and then exits through the light emergent face, so that a low beam III area light type meeting the requirements of laws and regulations is formed. Besides, the low beam III area forming structure is arranged at the edge position of the light emitting element, especially in a visual blind area of human eyes, so that the visibility of the structure on the appearance of the automobile lamp is effectively avoided, and the overall aesthetic feeling of the appearance of the automobile lamp is kept. The design of the edge layout not only avoids the problem of aesthetic property caused by exposure of the surface microstructure of the light emitting element in the traditional design, but also can ensure the realization of the functionality of the low beam III area, and meets the dual requirements of modern automobiles on functionality and aesthetic property.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of automotive lighting technology, and more specifically, to an optical module and a vehicle lamp. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous advancement of industrialization, automobiles have become an indispensable means of transportation in people's daily lives. As a core component of the automotive lighting system, headlights play a vital role in enhancing vehicle performance and safety. Consumers are increasingly demanding design requirements for headlights, demanding not only excellent lighting effects but also minimal space consumption to accommodate the compact design of modern vehicles. Currently, high and low beams in headlights are often integrated and arranged horizontally to accommodate the narrow aperture requirements of headlights. The low beam pattern design includes a critical area known as "Zone III." This area, located above the cutoff line, primarily illuminates objects above the road surface, such as signs, allowing drivers to view these signs and other information.

[0003] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in Figure 1, existing low beam Zone III features are typically achieved by creating a micro-structured pattern beneath the low beam lens. This design creates a sharp contrast between the low beam lens's micro-structure and the high beam lens's smooth surface, disrupting the overall harmony and aesthetics of the lens and affecting the headlight's design. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide an optical module and a vehicle lamp to address the deficiencies in the above-mentioned prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solutions adopted in the embodiments of the present application are as follows:

[0006] In one aspect of an embodiment of the present application, an optical module is provided, including a light emitting element, the light emitting element having a first light incident surface and a light emitting surface, a low beam zone III forming structure is arranged at the edge of the first light incident surface along the vertical direction, the low beam zone III forming structure has a second light incident surface, part of the light emitted by the light source is incident on the second light incident surface and is emitted through the light emitting surface to form a low beam zone III light pattern.

[0007] Optionally, the low beam zone III forming structure is located at the upper edge of the first light incident surface.

[0008] Optionally, the low beam zone III forming structure is located at the lower edge of the first light incident surface.

[0009] Optionally, the second light incident surface is a curved surface, or the second light incident surface includes a plurality of planes sequentially spliced ​​in a vertical direction, and two adjacent planes have an angle.

[0010] Optionally, the light emitting element and the low beam zone III form a detachable structure, or the light emitting element and the low beam zone III form an integrally formed structure.

[0011] Optionally, a dimension of the second light incident surface along the vertical direction is 0.3 mm-2 mm.

[0012] Optionally, a transverse dimension of the second light incident surface is equal to a transverse dimension of the first light incident surface.

[0013] Optionally, a distance between a lower edge of the second light incident surface and an upper edge of the first light incident surface is less than or equal to 3 mm.

[0014] Optionally, a distance between an upper edge of the second light incident surface and a lower edge of the first light incident surface is less than or equal to 3 mm.

[0015] Optionally, the light emitting element is a low-beam light emitting element, and the optical module further includes a high-beam light emitting element, and the low-beam light emitting element and the high-beam light emitting element are arranged in the horizontal direction.

[0016] Another aspect of the embodiments of the present application provides a vehicle lamp comprising any one of the above-mentioned optical modules.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this application include:

[0018] The present application provides an optical module and a headlight, including a light emitting element, which has a first light incident surface and a light emitting surface. A low beam zone III forming structure is provided at the edge of the first light incident surface in the vertical direction, and the low beam zone III forming structure has a second light incident surface. Part of the light emitted by the light source will first be incident on the second light incident surface, and then be emitted through the light emitting surface, forming a low beam zone III light pattern that meets regulatory requirements. In addition, by arranging the low beam zone III forming structure at the edge of the light emitting element, especially in the visual blind spot of the human eye, the visibility of the structure on the appearance of the headlight is effectively avoided, thereby maintaining the overall beauty of the appearance of the headlight. This edge layout design not only avoids the aesthetic problems caused by the exposure of the microstructure on the surface of the light emitting element in the traditional design, but also ensures the functionality of the low beam zone III, meeting the dual requirements of functionality and aesthetics of modern cars. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments. It should be understood that the following drawings only show certain embodiments of the present application and therefore should not be regarded as limiting the scope. For ordinary technicians in this field, other relevant drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0020] Figure 1This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the light emitting element of the optical module in the prior art;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a second structural diagram of a light emitting element of an optical module in the prior art;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a light emitting element of an optical module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0023] Figure 4 A second structural diagram of a light emitting element of an optical module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of middle A;

[0025] Figure 6 A comparison diagram of the optical paths of an optical module provided in an embodiment of the present application and an optical module in the prior art;

[0026] Figure 7 A schematic structural diagram of a light emitting element of another optical module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 8 A comparison diagram of the optical paths of another optical module provided in an embodiment of the present application and an optical module in the prior art.

[0028] Icon: 100a- low beam lens; 100b- high beam lens; 10- light emitting element; 11- first light incident surface; 12- light emitting surface; 20- low beam III zone forming structure; 21- second light incident surface; 10a- low beam light emitting element; 10b- high beam light emitting element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Generally, the components of the embodiments of the present application described and shown in the drawings herein can be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0030] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the present application as claimed, but merely represents selected embodiments of the present application. It should be noted that, unless there is a conflict, the various features of the embodiments of the present application may be combined with each other, and the combined embodiments are still within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0031] It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters denote similar items in the following drawings, and therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it does not need to be further defined or explained in subsequent drawings.

[0032] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, or are the orientations or positional relationships in which the product of this application is typically placed when in use. These terms are intended only to facilitate the description of this application and simplify the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0033] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not necessarily mean that a component must be absolutely horizontal or overhanging, but rather that it can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but rather that it can be slightly tilted.

[0034] It should also be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "disposed," "installed," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the existing low beam Zone III function is usually achieved by forming a microstructure pattern on the bottom of the low beam lens 100a. This design creates a sharp contrast between the microstructure on the low beam lens 100a and the smooth surface of the high beam lens 100b, disrupting the overall harmony and aesthetics of the lens and affecting the shape of the headlight.

[0036] In one aspect of an embodiment of the present application, an optical module is provided, including a light emitting element 10, the light emitting element 10 having a first light incident surface 11 and a light emitting surface 12, the first light incident surface 11 is responsible for receiving light emitted by a light source, and the light emitting surface 12 is responsible for emitting the light after being regulated to achieve an effective lighting function.

[0037] like Figures 3 to 5As shown, a low-beam zone III forming structure 20 for forming a low-beam zone III light pattern is provided at the vertical edge of the first light incident surface 11 of the light emitting element 10. The low-beam zone III forming structure 20 also has a second light incident surface 21. Part of the light emitted by the light source is incident on the first light incident surface 11 and is emitted through the light emitting surface 12 to form the main low-beam light pattern. Part of the light is incident on the second light incident surface 21 and is emitted through the light emitting surface 12 to form a low-beam zone III light pattern that meets regulatory requirements.

[0038] Furthermore, by positioning the low-beam zone III structure 20 at the edge of the light-emitting element 10, within the human eye's blind spot, the structure's visibility on the headlight's exterior is effectively avoided, thereby maintaining the overall aesthetic appeal of the headlight. This edge layout not only avoids the aesthetic issues associated with exposed lens surface microstructures in traditional designs, but also ensures the functionality of low-beam zone III.

[0039] In general, the optical module provided in the embodiment of the present application not only ensures the low beam lighting effect but also improves the aesthetics of the headlights by improving the structure of the low beam zone III light pattern, avoiding the sense of disharmony caused by the microstructure exposed on the lens surface, thereby meeting the dual requirements of modern automobiles for functionality and aesthetics.

[0040] Alternatively, as Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, light emitting element 10 is a low-beam light emitting element 10a, and the optical module also includes a high-beam light emitting element 10b. The low-beam light emitting element 10a and the high-beam light emitting element 10b are arranged horizontally. This layout not only meets the different functional requirements of the headlight for high and low beam lighting, but also conforms to the narrow opening design requirements of modern vehicles.

[0041] Among them, the light incident surface of the high-beam light emitting element 10b is usually designed to be a glossy surface. Such a glossy surface design can effectively reduce light loss and ensure that the light can be utilized to the maximum extent after being incident, thereby providing bright and uniform high-beam lighting.

[0042] The first light incident surface 11 of the low-beam light-emitting element 10a is also designed as a smooth surface, ensuring that light entering the system undergoes proper optical processing for efficient low-beam illumination. The low-beam zone III forming structure 20 is cleverly designed at the edge of the first light incident surface 11, ensuring that the low-beam light-emitting element 10a still appears as a smooth surface from the human eye's perspective.

[0043] Since the structure is located at the edge and in the blind spot of the human eye, it will not destroy the overall appearance of the low beam light-emitting element 10a, so that the light surface design of the high and low beam light-emitting elements can maintain good consistency, while also achieving precise control of the low beam zone III light pattern, and the low beam zone III light pattern meets regulatory requirements.

[0044] Optionally, the low beam light-emitting element 10a and the high beam light-emitting element 10b are lenses, which can be made of transparent plastic, commonly PMMA or PC, and are relatively thin overall; the light incident surface and the light emitting surface 12 of the lens are flat, convex or concave, and the light incident surface of the low beam light-emitting element 10a and the light incident surface of the high beam light-emitting element 10b should be an integrated structure.

[0045] Optionally, the second light incident surface 21 is a curved surface, or the second light incident surface 21 includes multiple planes sequentially spliced ​​in the vertical direction, and two adjacent planes have an angle. These two design methods allow the structure of the second light incident surface 21 to be selected and optimized according to specific needs, with more flexibility. In both cases, the curvature of the cross-section of the second light incident surface 21 along the vertical direction is greater than the curvature of the cross-section of the first light incident surface 11 along the vertical direction. This difference in design can affect the angle of incidence of light, thereby adjusting the propagation path of light and the lighting effect.

[0046] Specifically, if Figure 6 and Figure 8 In the light path diagram illustrated by the dashed line, when the low-beam zone III formation structure 20 is not provided, light incident on the edge of the first light incident surface 11 will be emitted forward from the light emitting surface 12 according to the optical design rules of the first light incident surface 11. This light propagation path is suitable for conventional low-beam lighting requirements and can provide a relatively uniform illumination range for the road ahead.

[0047] like Figure 6 and Figure 8 In the light path diagram illustrated by the solid line, when the low-beam zone III structure 20 is introduced into the design, light incident on the edge of the first light-entering surface 11 will pass through the second light-entering surface 21. However, due to the large curvature of the vertical section of the second light-entering surface 21 or the geometric characteristics of the plane splicing, the light will be guided to exit at an angle upward. This adjusted exit angle not only changes the propagation direction of the light but also allows for more precise control of the light distribution, allowing the light to be deflected above the low-beam cutoff line and illuminate high-level objects such as signs, meeting the regulatory requirements for the low-beam zone III light pattern.

[0048] Alternatively, as Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the low beam zone III forming structure 20 is located at the upper edge of the first light incident surface 11, and the second light incident surface 21 protrudes outward from the first light incident surface 11 in a direction away from the light emitting surface 12, thereby effectively changing the propagation path of the light, so that the light originally emitted forward and horizontally is finally emitted at a forward and inclined upward angle after optical adjustment, thereby meeting the regulatory requirements for the low beam zone III light type.

[0049] Specifically, when light enters the second light-entry surface 21, its convex nature changes the incident angle of the light, causing it to exit in a forward and upward tilted direction, rather than a forward and horizontal direction. This allows the optical module to better control the distribution of light and achieve precise light pattern adjustment to meet the requirements of different low-beam lighting areas, particularly in Zone III, where it effectively covers a wider field of view.

[0050] By changing the angle of light emission, the low beam can cover the driver's field of vision more comprehensively, not only illuminating the road ahead, but also clearly illuminating signs and high-level objects, improving driving safety, especially at night or in bad weather conditions, and can enhance the ability to identify the road surface and surrounding environment.

[0051] Optionally, the distance between the lower edge of the second light incident surface 21 and the upper edge of the first light incident surface 11 is less than or equal to 3 mm. This design emphasizes that the low beam zone III forming structure 20 should be as close as possible to the upper edge of the first light incident surface 11, ensuring that it is located within the human eye's blind spot. This ensures that while achieving functional lighting, the low beam zone III forming structure 20 remains visually concealed, thereby avoiding affecting the overall appearance and aesthetics of the headlight.

[0052] Specifically, by positioning the low-beam III zone-forming structure 20 at the upper edge of the first light-entering surface 11 and precisely controlling its curvature, it effectively guides a portion of the light entering the second light-entering surface 21 to form a low-beam III zone light pattern that complies with regulatory requirements. By coordinating the position and curvature of the low-beam III zone-forming structure 20, it meets lighting requirements without affecting the overall shape of the headlight, ensuring the compactness and aesthetics of the optical system.

[0053] In addition, the low beam zone III forming structure 20 is set in the upper edge area of ​​the first light incident surface 11. Only the light incident on the upper edge of the first light incident surface 11 will enter the second light incident surface 21. This ensures that the main light still passes through the first light incident surface 11 to form the main low beam light pattern, thereby ensuring the lighting effect of the road in front of the vehicle. At the same time, the light at the upper edge is guided upward through the second light incident surface 21, forming a light pattern that complies with the low beam zone III regulations and is used to illuminate signs or high-level objects on the road. This light diversion design can optimize the utilization efficiency of light, so that it can meet the lighting needs of both the road directly in front and the signs and high-level objects.

[0054] Alternatively, as Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the low beam zone III formation structure 20 is located at the lower edge of the first light incident surface 11, and the second light incident surface 21 is recessed inwardly from the first light incident surface 11 in a direction approaching the light exiting surface 12. In this solution, light originally emitted forward and horizontally is optically adjusted by the recessed second light incident surface 21, ultimately being emitted forward and obliquely upward, thus meeting the regulatory requirements for the low beam zone III light pattern.

[0055] Specifically, if Figure 8 As shown by the middle dotted line, the propagation path of the light on the first light incident surface 11 is usually forward and horizontal. If it is not changed, it cannot meet the light type requirements of low beam zone III. Figure 8 As shown by the solid line, the concave design of the second light-entry surface 21, through its appropriate curvature and geometry, changes the incident angle of the light and adjusts the original horizontal propagation path of the light, effectively adjusting the light's exit angle, directing the light from a forward, horizontal emission to a forward, oblique, upward emission. This oblique, upward light emission ensures that the light reaches the high-level area required for low-beam Zone III, thereby meeting the lighting requirements of signs and high-level objects.

[0056] In summary, placing the low-beam III zone-forming structure 20 at the lower edge of the first light-entering surface 11 not only effectively controls light and precisely generates the desired low-beam III zone pattern, meeting the lighting requirements of the headlight system, but also ensures a compact and discreet structure, minimizing the impact on the overall appearance of the headlight. Furthermore, it provides greater flexibility in optical module design, making it applicable to a wider range of scenarios.

[0057] Optionally, the distance between the upper edge of the second light incident surface 21 and the lower edge of the first light incident surface 11 is less than or equal to 3 mm. This design emphasizes that the low beam zone III forming structure 20 should be as close as possible to the lower edge of the first light incident surface 11, ensuring that it is located within the human eye's blind spot. This ensures that while achieving functional lighting, the low beam zone III forming structure 20 remains visually concealed, thereby avoiding affecting the overall appearance and aesthetics of the headlight.

[0058] Specifically, by positioning the low-beam III zone-forming structure 20 at the lower edge of the first light-entering surface 11 and precisely controlling its curvature, it effectively guides a portion of the light entering the second light-entering surface 21 to form a low-beam III zone light pattern that complies with regulatory requirements. By coordinating the position and curvature of the low-beam III zone-forming structure 20, it meets lighting requirements without affecting the overall shape of the headlight, ensuring the compactness and aesthetics of the optical system.

[0059] In addition, the low beam zone III forming structure 20 is set in the lower edge area of ​​the first light incident surface 11. Only the light incident on the lower edge of the first light incident surface 11 will enter the second light incident surface 21. This ensures that the main light still passes through the first light incident surface 11 to form the main low beam light pattern, thereby ensuring the lighting effect of the road ahead of the vehicle. At the same time, the light at the lower edge is guided upward through the second light incident surface 21, forming a light pattern that complies with the low beam zone III regulations and is used to illuminate signs or high-level objects on the road. This light diversion design can optimize the utilization efficiency of light, so that it can meet the lighting needs of both the road ahead and the signs and high-level objects.

[0060] Optionally, a dimension of the second light incident surface 21 along the vertical direction is 0.3 mm-2 mm.

[0061] Specifically, the dimensions of the second light-entry surface 21 should complement the curvature of its vertical section. The appropriate curvature allows light to propagate along a predetermined path upon incident, ensuring that the light is optimally adjusted upon entering the second light-entry surface 21, thereby achieving a more ideal low-beam Zone III pattern. Furthermore, this combined design ensures that light is effectively focused upon passing through the second light-entry surface 21, forming a clear low-beam Zone III pattern that complies with regulatory requirements.

[0062] This design not only provides enhanced lighting but also enhances the driver's awareness of their surroundings while driving. The ideal light pattern effectively illuminates obstacles and road signs, reducing blind spots during nighttime driving and thus improving driving safety. Furthermore, this design also takes aesthetics into consideration, resulting in a more harmonious appearance for the headlights, meeting consumers' aesthetic expectations for modern automotive design.

[0063] Alternatively, as Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the lateral dimensions of the second light-entering surface 21 are equal to those of the first light-entering surface 11, meaning their ends are flush in the transverse direction. This design principle not only optimizes optical performance but also enhances visual consistency, ensuring that the low-beam Zone III pattern matches the main low-beam pattern across the vehicle width, effectively avoiding driver blind spots that can arise from inconsistent light patterns. Producing uniform illumination is crucial, especially when driving at night or in inclement weather. This not only improves road visibility but also enhances driving safety.

[0064] Optionally, the light emitting element 10 and the low beam zone III forming structure 20 are detachably connected, or the light emitting element 10 and the low beam zone III forming structure 20 are integrally formed.

[0065] The detachable connection design between the light emitting element 10 and the low-beam zone III forming structure 20 provides high flexibility and maintainability. In this solution, the light emitting element 10 and the low-beam zone III forming structure 20 are assembled through a mechanical connection, allowing users to remove or replace them when needed. This allows independent operation of each component, simplifying the subsequent maintenance and replacement process.

[0066] The integrated design of the light emitting element 10 and the low-beam zone III structure 20 emphasizes integrity and structural stability. This technical feature allows the light emitting element 10 and the low-beam zone III structure 20 to be designed and manufactured as a single unit through mold forming or other manufacturing processes. This integrated design reduces gaps between components, minimizing light loss and deviation, thereby improving the efficiency of the optical system.

[0067] Another aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle lamp comprising any of the above-mentioned optical modules. Since the vehicle lamp adopts the above-mentioned optical module, it also has the same beneficial effects as the optical module, which will not be described in detail here.

[0068] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Various modifications and variations are possible for those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. An optical module, characterized in that: The invention comprises a light emitting element (10), wherein the light emitting element (10) has a first light incident surface (11) and a light emitting surface (12), a low beam zone III forming structure (20) is provided at an edge of the first light incident surface (11) in a vertical direction, and the low beam zone III forming structure (20) has a second light incident surface (21), and part of the light emitted by the light source is incident on the second light incident surface (21) and is emitted through the light emitting surface (12) to form a low beam zone III light pattern.

2. The optical module according to claim 1, wherein: The low beam zone III forming structure (20) is located at the upper edge of the first light incident surface (11).

3. The optical module according to claim 1, wherein: The low beam zone III forming structure (20) is located at the lower edge of the first light incident surface (11).

4. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The second light incident surface (21) is a curved surface, or the second light incident surface (21) comprises a plurality of planes sequentially spliced ​​in a vertical direction, and two adjacent planes have an included angle.

5. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The light emitting element (10) and the low beam zone III forming structure (20) are detachably connected, or the light emitting element (10) and the low beam zone III forming structure (20) are integrally formed.

6. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The size of the second light incident surface (21) along the vertical direction is 0.3 mm-2 mm.

7. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The dimension of the second light incident surface (21) along the transverse direction is equal to the dimension of the first light incident surface (11) along the transverse direction.

8. The optical module according to claim 2, wherein: The distance between the lower edge of the second light incident surface (21) and the upper edge of the first light incident surface (11) is less than or equal to 3 mm.

9. The optical module according to claim 3, wherein: The distance between the upper edge of the second light incident surface (21) and the lower edge of the first light incident surface (11) is less than or equal to 3 mm.

10. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The light emitting element (10) is a low-beam light emitting element (10a), and the optical module further comprises a high-beam light emitting element (10b). The low-beam light emitting element (10a) and the high-beam light emitting element (10b) are arranged in a transverse direction.

11. A vehicle lamp, characterized in that: The optical module comprises the optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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