Optical unit and vehicle illumination lamp

Abstract

The utility model provides an optical unit and an illuminating lamp for a vehicle, which can furthest utilize the optical efficiency while furthest reducing the external dimension and the internal dimension at low cost, and flexibly meet the diversified requirements of low beam, high beam and IFS functions. The optical unit includes: a light source unit including a light source substrate and a plurality of light emitting elements disposed on the light source substrate and emitting illumination light; a moving mechanism that periodically moves the light source unit; a projection mechanism that diffuses and projects the illumination light from the light source unit; and a switch controller that independently controls the on / off of each of the plurality of light-emitting elements, each of the plurality of light-emitting elements having a light-emitting surface with a predetermined area and being continuously arranged in one dimension on the light source substrate. The movement mechanism moves the light source unit at least in a direction intersecting a normal direction of the light emitting surface and intersecting an arrangement direction of the light emitting elements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of automotive lighting, and more particularly to a small-sized optical unit implemented using a low-cost solid-state light source, and a vehicle lighting fixture using the optical unit that can realize high beam, low beam and IFS functions. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of automotive lighting, the low beam and high beam functions of headlights, as well as the implementation of IFS (Intelligent Headlight System) functionality, are crucial for driving safety. Low beams are primarily used for illumination when meeting oncoming traffic or following another vehicle, and must avoid glare to other vehicles. High beams are used for long-distance illumination when there is no interference from oncoming vehicles, requiring sufficient intensity and range. The IFS function automatically adjusts the headlights according to road conditions, further enhancing the adaptability and safety of the lighting.

[0003] To achieve these functions, the design of headlight optical systems faces numerous challenges. In particular, to achieve good lighting effects, optical systems often need to increase the number or power of light sources, or require a larger size in the optical path design, ultimately leading to increased lamp costs and the inability to minimize the size (including structural dimensions and opening dimensions), which may affect the aesthetics of the vehicle's appearance.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an optical unit applicable to headlights, and specifically describes "an optical unit (18) comprising: a first light source (20) having a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged in an array; a rotating reflector (22) that rotates while reflecting light emitted from the first light source (20); and a control unit (29) that controls the illumination state of the plurality of light-emitting elements. The rotating reflector (22) is provided with a reflective surface so that a light distribution pattern is formed by scanning the reflected light while rotating as a light source image, and the plurality of light-emitting elements include a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element. The control unit (29) controls the illumination state of the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element such that the illumination time (T1) of the first light-emitting element is longer than the illumination time (T2) of the second light-emitting element (T2>0)."

[0005] By selectively emitting light from the light-emitting element and using a rotating reflector to scan the light from the light-emitting element, the optical unit of Patent Document 1 is able to form a desired light distribution pattern.

[0006] However, considering factors such as vehicle aesthetics and aerodynamic performance, the space inside a vehicle for mounting headlights is limited. Achieving a balance between lighting performance and size—that is, how to flexibly meet the diverse needs of low beam, high beam, and IFS functions without increasing or even decreasing the size of the headlights—is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. Patent Document 1 does not consider this point.

[0007] Existing technical documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: CN 110621539 A Utility Model Content

[0009] As described above, in the technology of Patent Document 1, the shape of the rotating reflector is designed such that the reflected light from the light-emitting element can be scanned in the horizontal direction by rotating it, thereby achieving the desired light distribution pattern by controlling the lighting state of the light-emitting element.

[0010] However, in the technology of Patent Document 1, the light emitted by the light-emitting element needs to be reflected before it enters the projection lens. There is a certain distance between the light-emitting element and the projection lens, and the rotating reflector causes the reflected light to scan while entering the projection lens. Therefore, there is a problem that the size of the optical system of the light-emitting element and the size of the lamp opening cannot be reduced.

[0011] Moreover, in the technology of Patent Document 1, five first light-emitting elements, nine second light-emitting elements, two third light-emitting elements, and four fourth light-emitting elements are provided as light-emitting elements, which also has the problem of a large number of light-emitting elements and high cost.

[0012] The purpose of this invention is to provide a low-cost optical unit that maximizes optical efficiency while minimizing external and internal dimensions, and flexibly meets the diverse needs of low beam, high beam, and IFS functions. Furthermore, this invention also provides vehicle lighting fixtures using this optical unit.

[0013] Specifically, a first aspect of this utility model provides an optical unit, characterized in that it comprises: a light source unit including a light source substrate and a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed on the light source substrate for emitting illumination light; a moving mechanism for moving the light source unit; a projection mechanism for diffusing and projecting illumination light from the light source unit; a switch controller for independently controlling the on / off state of each of the plurality of light-emitting elements; and a switcher for outputting a mode switching signal to the switch controller, wherein each of the plurality of light-emitting elements has a light-emitting surface of a predetermined area, the plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged one-dimensionally and continuously on the light source substrate, and the moving mechanism moves the light source unit at least in a direction that intersects the normal direction of the light-emitting surface and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements.

[0014] The optical unit of the second aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of the first aspect, the moving mechanism includes a rotary motor, a transmission mechanism, an electric slip ring, and a light source mounting bracket. The light source mounting bracket is mounted on the rotor of the electric slip ring, and the light source unit is mounted on the light source mounting bracket. The rotational power of the rotary motor is transmitted to the rotor of the electric slip ring through the transmission mechanism, thereby causing the light source unit to rotate on a plane perpendicular to the normal direction of the light-emitting surface. Power from an external power source is supplied to the light source unit via the electric slip ring.

[0015] The optical unit of the third aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of the second aspect, the rotation center of the light source unit is located at the geometric center of the overall light-emitting surface of the plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0016] The optical unit of the fourth aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of the second aspect, the rotation center of the light source unit is offset from the geometric center of the overall light-emitting surface of the plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0017] The optical unit of the fifth aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of any one of the first to fourth aspects, the rotational speed of the rotary motor is 720 RPM or higher.

[0018] The optical unit of the sixth aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of the first aspect, the moving mechanism includes a reciprocating rotary motor, a transmission mechanism and a light source mounting bracket, the light source mounting bracket is installed at the power output end of the transmission mechanism, the rotational power of the reciprocating rotary motor is transmitted to the light source mounting bracket through the transmission mechanism, thereby causing the light source unit to reciprocate on a plane perpendicular to the normal direction of the light-emitting surface, and the rotation angles of the reciprocating rotary motor in the forward and reverse directions are each more than 180 degrees.

[0019] The optical unit of the seventh aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of the first aspect, the moving mechanism includes a reciprocating linear motor and a light source mounting bracket, the light source mounting bracket is directly fixed to or fixed to the power output end of the reciprocating linear motor via a transmission mechanism, the reciprocating linear motor causes the light source unit to reciprocate linearly in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements on a plane perpendicular to the normal direction of the light-emitting surface, and the stroke of the reciprocating linear motor is greater than or equal to the overall length of the light-emitting surfaces of the plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0020] The optical unit of the eighth aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of any one of the first, second, sixth, and seventh aspects, the light source unit is provided with a reflector that causes light from the light-emitting element to be emitted toward the projection mechanism.

[0021] The optical unit of the ninth aspect of this utility model is characterized in that, in the optical unit of the sixth aspect, the light source unit is configured such that the normal direction of the light-emitting surface of each of the plurality of optical elements is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light source unit when it rotates under the action of the moving mechanism.

[0022] This utility model also provides a vehicle lighting fixture, characterized in that it includes: a lamp body having a recessed portion opening towards the front of the vehicle; a transparent front cover that together with the lamp body forms a lamp chamber; and an optical unit disposed in the lamp chamber as described in the first aspect of this utility model.

[0023] As described above, in the optical unit of this invention, the moving mechanism causes the light source unit to move rapidly and periodically, and the illumination range of the illumination light projected from the light source unit through the projection mechanism also moves rapidly and periodically. Therefore, by utilizing the persistence of vision of the human eye, the illumination range at each moment can be superimposed to form a large-scale illumination light. Furthermore, by switching the control mode of the switch controller, the light-emitting elements in the light source unit that are lit / off at each moment can be changed according to the requirements of the low beam, high beam, and IFS function of the vehicle headlights, thereby forming the desired light distribution pattern.

[0024] Moreover, the moving mechanism allows the light source unit to move directly, so there is no need for a rotating reflector and a reflected light path as in Patent Document 1. This shortens the light path from the light source unit to the projection mechanism, thereby reducing the light path size and thus reducing the structural size and opening size of the lamp.

[0025] Therefore, by adopting the optical unit of this invention, it is possible to maximize optical efficiency while minimizing external and internal dimensions at low cost, and flexibly meet the diverse needs of low beam, high beam and IFS functions.

[0026] As a result, vehicle lighting fixtures using this optical unit can reduce costs and improve appearance. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figures 1A-1D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the lighting principle of this utility model.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a light source unit used in one embodiment.

[0029] Figures 3A-3C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of light distribution pattern realization in this utility model.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the module that enables switching of light distribution patterns.

[0031] Figures 5A-5EThis is a diagram showing the specific structure of an optical unit in one implementation.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the control flow of an optical unit in one implementation.

[0033] Figures 7A-7G This is a schematic diagram illustrating other embodiments of the optical unit of this utility model.

[0034] Figures 8A-8C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the effect of the optical unit of this invention. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0036] For ease of explanation, terms such as "up," "down," "left," "right," and "horizontal" are used below to indicate orientation and positional relationships. However, these terms only define the relative positional relationships between components in a specific posture, such as that shown in the attached diagram. If this specific posture changes, the terms indicating orientation will naturally change accordingly. In addition, the directions "front" and "rear" used in the manual are based on the driver's position while seated inside the vehicle.

[0037] Terms like "parallel" and "perpendicular" used to indicate positional relationships are not limited to strictly parallel or perpendicular situations; they also include roughly parallel and roughly perpendicular situations.

[0038] In the description of this utility model, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, and more, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0039] Furthermore, the specification includes expressions such as "in one embodiment," which can refer to the same embodiment or different embodiments. Without violating common sense in the technology or causing contradictions, all features can be substituted for or combined with each other.

[0040] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual structure of the product. For ease of explanation and understanding, the proportions of the components may not necessarily match those of the actual product. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, all components mentioned in this specification may be manufactured using materials commonly used in the art and employing common manufacturing methods, provided they do not contradict the description in this specification; there are no particular limitations.

[0041] The optical unit of this invention can be used in various vehicle lamps. The following description explains its application in vehicle headlights.

[0042] First, the optical unit of this utility model will be explained from the perspective of its principles.

[0043] Figures 1A-1D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the lighting principle based on the persistence of vision of this invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the planar structure of a light source unit used in one embodiment.

[0044] Figures 1A-1D This indicates the state in which the illumination light emitted from the light source unit 101 is projected onto the road surface 103 through the projection mechanism 102, wherein, Figures 1A-1C These represent the instantaneous states at different times t1, t2, and t3, respectively. Figure 1D This represents the superposition of states over a long period of time t1 to tn.

[0045] Figures 1A-1D Used Figure 2 The light source unit 101 shown is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the light source unit 101 includes a light source substrate 201 and a plurality of light-emitting elements 202 constituting a solid-state light source. The light source substrate 201 is in the shape of a rectangular plate, and each of the plurality of light-emitting elements 202 has a planar light-emitting surface (e.g., a rectangle of a specified area), and they are arranged one-dimensionally and continuously on the surface of the light source substrate 201. In one embodiment, the light source unit 101 uses, for example, a individually controllable 4-chip LED (e.g., a white light chip) developed by Samsung. The dimensions of the light source substrate 201 are 3.6 mm × 6.23 mm, the light-emitting area of ​​a single chip is 1.06 mm², and the total light-emitting area is 4.24 mm². That is, the light-emitting element 202 is, for example, an LED light-emitting chip, and the central axis of the light emitted from the light-emitting chip is along the normal direction of the light-emitting surface and is also perpendicular to the main surface of the light source substrate 201.

[0046] exist Figures 1A-1D In the figures, the light source unit 101 is arranged such that the light-emitting surface of each light-emitting element 202 faces the projection mechanism 102. However, this invention is not limited to this, and it can also be arranged such that the light-emitting surface faces the projection mechanism 102 at an angle. However, it is preferable that the illumination light from the light source unit 101 is incident on the projection mechanism 102 while traveling straight forward.

[0047] exist Figures 1A-1CIn the various figures, the positions of the light source units 101 are different from each other. As detailed later, the light source units 101 move periodically under the action of the moving mechanism (details described later). This movement can be rotation or translation, and it only needs to occur on the surface where the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting element is located. In fact, as long as the state of the illumination light from the light source unit 101 projected onto the road surface 103 by the projection mechanism 102 is different at each moment within a cycle, the persistence of vision of the human eye can be used to expand the illumination range. Of course, it is preferable that the light source unit 101 moves at least in a direction that intersects the normal direction of the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting element 202 and the arrangement direction of the plurality of light-emitting elements 202.

[0048] In one embodiment, the light source unit 101 is located on the surface where the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting element 202 is located, with the geometric center of the entire light-emitting element ( Figure 2 (GO) is the center of rotation ( Figure 2 The RO in the middle rotates periodically.

[0049] like Figure 1A As shown, at time t1, the light source unit 101 is at position A. At this time, the arrangement direction of each light-emitting element 202 is, for example, vertical. The illumination light from the light source unit 101, under the action of the projection mechanism 102, projects an illumination range of S1 onto the road surface 103.

[0050] Next, as Figure 1B As shown, at time t2, the light source unit 101 is at position B, and at this time the arrangement direction of each light-emitting element 202 is, for example, relative to... Figure 1A The illumination from the light source unit 101, tilted, is projected onto the road surface 103 by the projection mechanism 102, resulting in an illumination range of S2. For example... Figure 1B As shown, the illumination range S2 is different from the illumination range S1. To distinguish them, the illumination ranges S1 and S2 are shown together in the figure.

[0051] Then, as Figure 1C As shown, at time t3, the light source unit 101 is at position C. At this time, the arrangement direction of each light-emitting element 202 is, for example, horizontal. The illumination light from the light source unit 101, under the action of the projection mechanism 102, projects an illumination range of S3 onto the road surface 103. Figure 1C As shown, the illumination range S3 is different from the illumination ranges S1 and S2. To distinguish them, the illumination ranges S1, S2 and S3 are shown together in the figure.

[0052] For the human eye, when observing a rapidly moving object, after the image disappears, the eye can retain the image for approximately 0.1 to 0.4 seconds. This is because light stimulation applied to the retina does not disappear immediately but has a brief residual time. Therefore, if the light source unit 101 moves fast enough, the human eye cannot distinguish the changes in the illumination ranges S1, S2, and S3, but instead sees a mixture of them. That is, as... Figure 1D As shown, for the rapidly moving light source unit 101 during the period from time t1 to tn (greater than or equal to one cycle), the mixed illumination range, represented by the illumination range ST, can be seen (for ease of explanation, the light source substrate 201 is shown as transparent here, which will be described later). Figures 3A-3C , Figure 7A (The same applies to the middle). Considering that the maximum number of frames that the human naked eye can distinguish is 24 FPS, the rotation speed should be above 720 RPM when the movement of the light source unit 101 is a rotation of the geometric center of its light-emitting element.

[0053] Therefore, even if the light source unit 101 uses a low-cost, small-sized, and small-quantity LED light source, it can still generate a large area of ​​illumination by utilizing the persistence of vision, thereby improving the efficiency of light utilization.

[0054] The principle of achieving the light distribution pattern of this utility model will be explained next.

[0055] Figures 3A-3C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle by which the optical unit of this invention achieves a light distribution pattern. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the module that enables switching of light distribution patterns.

[0056] In this invention, by controlling the lighting / extinguishing of the multiple light-emitting elements contained therein while moving the light source unit 101, the desired light distribution pattern is formed in response to the vehicle's lighting needs.

[0057] In one implementation, the control of the light-emitting element can be achieved by... Figure 4 The switch controller 401 and mode switcher 402 shown are implemented. The switch controller 401 is connected to each light-emitting element 202, and can control the lighting / extinguishing of each light-emitting element 202. Furthermore, it can switch control modes under the action of the mode switcher 402. This control mode refers, for example, the lighting / extinguishing state of each light-emitting element 202 at each moment during one cycle of movement of the light source unit 101.

[0058] The mode switcher 402 is connected to the control system responsible for vehicle driving control, receives a lighting signal corresponding to the driving condition, and switches the control mode of the switch controller 401 accordingly. Here, each control mode can be preset in the switch controller 401 and switched by the mode switcher 402, or it can be preset in the mode switcher 402, which outputs a timing signal to the switch controller 401 according to the switched control mode, corresponding to the lighting / extinguishing of each light-emitting element 202 at each moment. Such a timing signal can be, for example, a timing pulse signal for each light-emitting element, with a high level representing lighting and a low level representing extinguishing. Since such timing signals are existing technology, they will not be described in detail here.

[0059] In addition, in order to realize the IFS function, a new control mode can be input from the control system responsible for vehicle driving control to the mode switch 402 as needed, and the mode switch 405 will control the switch controller 401 according to the newly input control mode.

[0060] certainly, Figure 4 The schematic diagram shown is merely an example of implementing control functions. The switch controller 401 and mode switcher 402 can be implemented using switches and controllers commonly used in the prior art. They can be independent hardware components or combined into a single hardware structure. For example, in one embodiment, they can be configured together as a lamp controller 400, which, in addition to controlling the individual lighting / extinguishing of the light-emitting elements 202, also controls the movement of the light source unit 101.

[0061] Figures 3A-3C These diagrams illustrate the implementation of high beam illumination, low beam illumination, and IFS functionality, respectively.

[0062] Figure 3A This indicates the state of achieving high beam illumination, and a magnified view shows the state of the moving (e.g., rotating) light source unit 101. Figure 3A In the indicated state, the control mode of the switch controller 401 is the first control mode, which illuminates all the multiple light-emitting elements 202. In this specification, "illuminate" includes both cases where a DC signal is supplied to the light-emitting elements to make them continuously emit light, and cases where a pulse signal is supplied to the light-emitting elements to make them periodically emit light at a frequency imperceptible to the human eye. Thus, as shown in the enlarged view of the light source unit 101, as the light source unit 101 moves, the persistence of vision causes the overall luminous range of each light-emitting element 202 of the light source unit 101 as seen by the human eye to form a first range 301 that is approximately circular, represented by a solid black line. Correspondingly, the illumination range after the illumination light is projected by the projection mechanism is... Figure 3AThe HB in the diagram shows the light distribution pattern of the high beam illumination corresponding to the first range 301.

[0063] Figure 3B This indicates the state of achieving low beam illumination, and a magnified view shows the state of the moving light source unit 101. Figure 3B In the indicated state, the control mode of the switch controller 401 is the second control mode, which causes multiple light-emitting elements 202 to switch between on / off states as the light source unit 101 moves. Specifically, as shown in the enlarged view of the light source unit 101, during each cycle of the movement of the light source unit 101, the light-emitting elements 202 within the second range 302 (represented by the solid black line with a fan-shaped (e.g., a fan-shaped gap ranging from 45° to 180°) circle that are located as the light source unit 101 moves are illuminated, while the light-emitting elements 202 located outside the second range 302 that are located as the light source unit 101 moves are extinguished. Correspondingly, the illumination range after the illumination light is projected by the projection mechanism is... Figure 3B The LB in the diagram shows the light distribution pattern of the low beam illumination corresponding to the second range 302.

[0064] then, Figure 3C This indicates the state of IFS functionality, specifically the situation where, when meeting oncoming vehicles, a portion of the headlights are dimmed to avoid dazzling the drivers of the oncoming vehicles. Figure 3A , Figure 3B Similarly, a magnified view shows the state of the moving light source unit 101. Figure 3C In the indicated state, the control mode of the switch controller 401 is the third control mode, which causes multiple light-emitting elements 202 to switch between on / off states as the light source unit 101 moves. Specifically, as shown in the enlarged view of the light source unit 101, during each cycle of the movement of the light source unit 101, the light-emitting elements 202 located within the third range 303 (represented by the solid black line with a fan-shaped annular notch) that move with the light source unit 101 are illuminated, while the light-emitting elements 202 located outside the third range 303 that move with the light source unit 101 are extinguished. Correspondingly, the illumination range after the illumination light is projected by the projection mechanism is... Figure 3C The IFS shown in the diagram corresponds to the light distribution pattern of the IFS function in the third range 303.

[0065] Therefore, based on the aforementioned lighting principles and light distribution pattern implementation principles, the light source unit 101 can maximize optical efficiency while minimizing external and internal dimensions at low cost, and flexibly meet the diverse needs of low beam, high beam, and IFS functions. Furthermore, Figures 3A-3C The first range 301 to the third range 303 shown in each control mode are for illustrative purposes only. Their shapes can be specifically designed according to actual conditions such as the movement mode of the light source unit.

[0066] Next, the specific structure of the optical unit of one embodiment of this utility model will be described.

[0067] Figures 5A-5E This is a diagram showing the specific structure of an optical unit 500 according to one embodiment, wherein, Figure 5A This is a 3D view of optical unit 500. Figure 5B Is Figure 5A A partial perspective drawing of the lieutenant general. Figure 5C It is an exploded exploded diagram. Figure 5D This is a diagram showing the view from the front, including a magnified view of the opening. Figure 5E yes Figure 5D A cross-sectional view of line AA in the diagram.

[0068] Combination Figure 5A , 5B , Figure 5C , Figure 5E As can be seen, the optical unit 500 of one embodiment includes, from back to front (from left to right in the figure), a motor 501, a transmission gear (set) 502, an electric slip ring 503, a fixed bracket 504, an LED module 505, a TIR lens 506, a TIR lens bracket 507, an INR lens 508, an INR lens bracket 509, and a frame 510.

[0069] The LED module 505 corresponds to the aforementioned light source unit 101, and includes an LED light source and a corresponding PCB board.

[0070] The electric motor 501 and the transmission gear 502 constitute the moving mechanism in this invention, used to move the light source unit 101, i.e., the LED module 505, quickly. In one embodiment, the electric motor 501 is, for example, a rotary electric motor, whose rotational power is transmitted to the LED module 505 through the transmission gear 502, which serves as a transmission mechanism, causing it to rotate in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis.

[0071] In one embodiment, the speed of the motor 501 is 720 RPM or higher.

[0072] The slip ring 503 serves to supply power to the LED module 505 while it moves. It has a cylindrical stator 511 and a columnar rotor 512 located within the stator, electrically connected via conductive brushes. For example, electrical signals from the aforementioned mode switcher 402 and switch controller 401 are input to the stator 511 side of the slip ring 503, transmitted via the slip ring 503 to the rotor 512 side, and further connected to the LED module 505 via conductive cables. The inventors' tests show that for a 50V, 4000RPM product, no heat dissipation structure is required, which helps reduce size. In one embodiment, the slip ring 503 uses a product manufactured by MOOG Corporation, model AC3757. The slip ring 503 is surrounded by a slip ring housing 513, which serves as a fixing structure for the stator 511 housing and also protects the rapidly rotating gear set, for example, from the flange portion fixed to the front end of the stator 511 from the rear.

[0073] A fixing bracket 504 is installed at the front end of the rotor of the slip ring 503 to fix the LED module 505. The fixing bracket 504 rotates together with the rotor 512 of the slip ring 503, thereby driving the LED module 505 fixed thereon to rotate. The fixing method between them can adopt any fixing method in the prior art, and this utility model is not limited in this respect.

[0074] The TIR (Total Internal Reflection) lens 506 is used to collect and organize the light emitted from the LED module 505. Based on the phenomenon of total internal reflection, the TIR lens changes the direction and distribution of light propagation through special optical design and geometry, so that the light can be emitted more concentratedly and orderly, thereby improving the efficiency and effect of lighting.

[0075] As shown in the figure, the TIR lens holder 507 has two support portions 514 extending rearward from both sides of the LED module 505, and a protrusion 515 (with an internal cavity) protruding forward from the front end of the support portions 514. The rear end of the support portion 514 can be fixed to the front end face of the slip ring housing 513, and the space between the two support portions 514 forms a space for housing the LED module 505. The protrusion 515 has a shape corresponding to the TIR lens 506, and its hollow internal space forms a space for housing the TIR lens 506.

[0076] The INR (inner) lens 508 further refines the illumination light emitted from the TIR lens 7, causing it to diffuse and project. The INR lens 508 is mounted at the front opening of the protrusion 515 of the TIR lens holder 507 and is fixed to the TIR lens holder 507 by the INR lens holder 509.

[0077] TIR lens 506 and INR lens 508 constitute the main optical part of the projection mechanism of this utility model. However, the projection mechanism of this utility model is not limited to including TIR lens 506 and INR lens 508. Other optical structures can be used instead, such as including a reflector or a typical thick-walled lens, as long as it can organize the light from LED module 505 and make it diffuse and project.

[0078] The frame 510 assists in fixing the optical unit 500 within the lamp housing of the headlight and also serves to obscure the rear structure for aesthetic purposes. In one embodiment, the headlight has a lamp body (not shown) formed by a recessed portion that is recessed rearward and open forward, and a transparent front cover (not shown) installed in the opening of the lamp body and forming the lamp housing together with the lamp body. The frame 510 has a flat main body 516 and a protrusion 517 extending forward from the main body. The main body 516 serves to fix the optical unit and obscure the optical unit 500 when viewed from the front for an aesthetic effect. The shape of the protrusion 517 corresponds to the shape of the protrusion 515 of the TIR lens holder 507. By inserting the protrusion 515 of the TIR lens holder 507 into the protrusion 517 of the frame 510 and fixing the main body 516 of the frame 510 to the inner wall of the lamp housing, the optical unit 500 can be fixed in place. Furthermore, the main body 516 is described here as being flat, but it is not limited to this. It can be presented in different shapes according to different appearance requirements, such as being configured as a curved surface.

[0079] As shown in this example, when viewed from the front, the optical unit 500 of this invention... Figure 5C As shown, a smaller opening size can be achieved.

[0080] The control process of optical unit 500 is described below.

[0081] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the control flow of an optical unit 500 in one embodiment.

[0082] like Figure 6 As shown, for example Figure 4 The lamp controller 400 receives a lamp-lighting signal from an external source (step S601).

[0083] Next, the lamp controller 400 drives the moving mechanism (e.g., motor 501) to work (step S602), and the mode switch 402 in the lamp controller 400 determines which control mode of the switch controller 401 the input lighting signal corresponds to (step S603).

[0084] Based on the judgment result, when the lighting signal indicates high beam illumination, the mode switcher 402 switches the control mode of the switch controller 401 to the first control mode, so that all the multiple light-emitting elements 202 are lit up (step S604).

[0085] When the lighting signal indicates low beam illumination, the mode switcher 402 switches the control mode of the switch controller 401 to the second control mode, causing the light-emitting element 202 located within the second range 302 among the multiple moving light-emitting elements to light up (step S605).

[0086] When the lighting signal indicates IFS lighting, the mode switcher 402 switches the control mode of the switch controller 401 to the third control mode, causing the light-emitting element 202 located within the third range 303 among the multiple moving light-emitting elements to light up (step S606). The specific control content of the third control mode can be included in the lighting signal.

[0087] Therefore, the light source unit 101 of this utility model can maximize optical efficiency while minimizing the external and internal dimensions, and flexibly meet the diverse needs of low beam, high beam and IFS functions.

[0088] The following describes other embodiments of this utility model.

[0089] Figures 7A-7G Other embodiments of the optical unit of this utility model are shown.

[0090] The above description illustrates the case where the motor 501 of the moving mechanism is a rotary motor. However, in another embodiment, the motor 501 may also be as follows: Figure 7A , Figure 7B The image shows a reciprocating rotary motor 701 or a reciprocating linear motor 702.

[0091] In this case, the aforementioned slip ring 503 can be omitted, and the fixing bracket 504 can be connected directly or via a transmission gear to the output end of the motor, thereby further reducing the internal size of the optical unit. For example, in order to form the same size illumination range as in the case of using a rotary motor, the following method is preferred: Figure 7A As shown in the enlarged view of the light source unit, when using the reciprocating rotary motor 701, the rotation angle in both directions is more than 180 degrees. For example, during operation, it can first rotate 180 degrees forward, then rotate 180 degrees backward to return to its original position, and then rotate 180 degrees forward again, thus repeatedly achieving reciprocating rotation. Figure 7BAs shown in the enlarged view of the light source unit, when a reciprocating linear motor 702 is used, the light source unit 101 performs reciprocating linear motion in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements, and the stroke of the reciprocating linear motion is greater than or equal to the length of the entire long side of the light-emitting surface of the multiple light-emitting elements. Figure 7B (Length L in the middle). For example, during operation, it can first travel forward in a straight line for a length L, then travel in the reverse direction for a length L to return to its original position, and then travel forward again for a length L, thereby repeatedly achieving reciprocating linear motion.

[0092] In another embodiment, the number of light-emitting elements in the light source unit 101 may be two, three, or five or more, instead of four.

[0093] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the rotation center RO of the light source unit 101 when it rotates under the action of the moving mechanism may not be the geometric center GO of the entire light-emitting element, but rather... Figures 7C-7E The deviation from the geometric center GO is shown.

[0094] Furthermore, in another embodiment, considering that the light emitted by the light-emitting element 202 is not a parallel emitted light like a laser but also includes divergent light, the light source unit 101 may include a collimating element that collimates the light emitted from the light-emitting element 202. Such a collimating element may be, for example, as shown in the example... Figure 7F The image shows a parabolic or freeform reflector 703 positioned around the light-emitting element 202. Alternatively, it could be a transmission collimating element (not shown) with a parabolic outer peripheral surface positioned directly in front of the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting element 202. In this case, for example... Figure 7F As shown, the light source unit 101 is configured such that when it rotates under the action of the moving mechanism, its rotation axis can be along the normal direction of the light-emitting element and along the direction of propagation of the collimated light.

[0095] Furthermore, in another embodiment, such as Figure 7G As shown, the light source unit 101 is provided with, for example, a parabolic reflector 704 to reflect light from each light-emitting element 202, and the rotation axis of the light source unit 101 when it rotates under the action of the moving mechanism can be parallel to the main surface of the light source substrate 201 of the light source unit 101 and along the direction of travel of the reflected light.

[0096] Based on the above description, the optical unit of this utility model can be summarized as follows:

[0097] An optical unit includes: a light source unit comprising a light source substrate and a plurality of light-emitting elements disposed on the light source substrate for emitting illumination light; a moving mechanism for periodically moving the light source unit; a projection mechanism for diffusing and projecting illumination light from the light source unit; and a switching controller for independently controlling the on / off state of each of the plurality of light-emitting elements, wherein the switching controller is input with a timing signal indicating that each of the plurality of light-emitting elements is on / off at each moment, each of the plurality of light-emitting elements having a light-emitting surface of a predetermined area, the plurality of light-emitting elements being arranged one-dimensionally in a continuous manner on the light source substrate, and the moving mechanism moving the light source unit at least in a direction intersecting the normal direction of the light-emitting surface and the arrangement direction of the light-emitting elements.

[0098] Therefore, the optical unit of this invention can maximize optical efficiency while minimizing external and internal dimensions at low cost, and flexibly meet the diverse needs of low beam, high beam and IFS functions.

[0099] Figures 8A-8C This is a diagram illustrating the effect of the optical unit of this utility model.

[0100] in, Figure 8A and Figure 8B This illustrates the results of comparing the aperture size and structural dimensions of an optical unit of one embodiment applied to a vehicle headlight with those of a prior art vehicle headlight.

[0101] like Figure 8A As shown, the opening size of existing vehicle headlights (high beam and low beam) is about 85mm wide and 17mm high, while the vehicle headlight of one embodiment of the present invention can be reduced to about 15mm wide and 15mm high.

[0102] like Figure 8B As shown, the three-dimensional dimensions of existing vehicle headlights are approximately 130mm wide × 65mm high × 155mm deep, while the vehicle headlight of one embodiment of this utility model can be reduced to approximately 74mm wide × 55mm high × 222mm deep.

[0103] Figure 8C This represents simulated light distribution data for a vehicle headlight according to one embodiment. Based on... Figure 8C It is known that using one vehicle headlight of this utility model can meet the light distribution requirements of the high beam regulations.

[0104] The present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make many modifications under the guidance of the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and these modifications are all within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An optical unit, characterized by Comprising: a light source unit including a light source substrate and a plurality of light emitting elements configured on the light source substrate to emit illumination light; a moving mechanism to move the light source unit periodically; a projection mechanism to diffuse and project the illumination light from the light source unit; and a switch controller to independently control lighting / off of each of the plurality of light emitting elements, wherein the switch controller is inputted with a timing signal indicating lighting / off of each of the plurality of light emitting elements at each time, each of the plurality of light emitting elements has a light emitting surface of a prescribed area, the plurality of light emitting elements are arranged one-dimensionally continuously on the light source substrate, and the moving mechanism moves the light source unit at least in a direction intersecting with a normal direction of the light emitting surface and intersecting with an arrangement direction of the light emitting elements.

2. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism includes a rotary motor, a transmission mechanism, an electric slip ring, and a light source holder, the light source holder is mounted to a rotor of the electric slip ring, the light source unit is mounted to the light source holder, a rotary power of the rotary motor is transmitted to the rotor of the electric slip ring through the transmission mechanism, thereby rotating the light source unit in a plane perpendicular to the normal direction of the light emitting surface, and power is supplied to the light source unit via the electric slip ring.

3. The optical unit according to claim 2, wherein a center of rotation of the light source unit is located at a geometric center of the light emitting surfaces of the plurality of light emitting elements as a whole.

4. The optical unit according to claim 2, wherein a center of rotation of the light source unit is deviated from a geometric center of the light emitting surfaces of the plurality of light emitting elements as a whole.

5. The optical unit according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein a rotation speed of the rotary motor is 720 RPM or more.

6. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism includes a reciprocating rotary motor, a transmission mechanism, and a light source holder, the light source holder is mounted to a power output end of the transmission mechanism, a rotary power of the reciprocating rotary motor is transmitted to the light source holder through the transmission mechanism, thereby reciprocating the light source unit in a plane perpendicular to the normal direction of the light emitting surface, and a rotation angle of the reciprocating rotary motor in each of a forward direction and a reverse direction is 180 degrees or more.

7. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism includes a reciprocating linear motor and a light source holder, the light source holder is directly fixed to or fixed to a power output end of the reciprocating linear motor via a transmission mechanism, the reciprocating linear motor reciprocates the light source unit in a plane perpendicular to the normal direction of the light emitting surface in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the light emitting elements, and a stroke of the reciprocating linear motor is greater than or equal to a length of the light emitting surfaces of the plurality of light emitting elements as a whole in a long side direction.

8. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein the light source unit is provided with a mirror to make light from the light emitting elements incident on the projection mechanism. ​ 9. The optical unit according to claim 8, characterized in that: the light source unit is configured such that a normal direction of the light emitting surface of each of the plurality of light emitting elements is perpendicular to an axis of rotation when the light source unit is rotated by the action of the moving mechanism.

10. A vehicle lighting fixture, characterized by comprising: comprising: a lamp body having a recess that opens to the front of the vehicle; a transparent front cover that constitutes a lamp chamber together with the lamp body; and the optical unit according to claim 1 disposed in the lamp chamber. ​

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