Lighting arrangement for illuminating a lighting area in the interior of a vehicle.

Abstract

A lighting arrangement for illuminating a lighting surface (4) in the interior of a vehicle is described. The lighting arrangement comprises a housing (3) and a light source (1) arranged in the housing (3) for generating light with a defined emission characteristic. The housing (3) includes at least one light emission opening so that the light generated by the light source (1) can exit the housing (3) to illuminate the lighting surface (4). The lighting arrangement comprises a number of deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b, 2c), wherein the number of deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b, 2c) includes a number of movable deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b) for generating a variable luminance distribution on the lighting surface (4). Furthermore, a lighting assembly, a lighting system, and a vehicle with the lighting assembly are described.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a lighting assembly. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a lighting assembly for illuminating a lighting surface in an interior of a vehicle.

[0002] Lighting arrangements for illuminating illuminated surfaces in vehicle interiors are known. Lighting arrangements using LEDs (light-emitting diodes) as light sources for generating light patterns on illuminated surfaces are also known. With these known lighting arrangements, the generation of different light patterns or the adjustment of the luminance distribution across the illuminated surfaces, for example, by switching individual LEDs on or off, is only possible to a limited extent.

[0003] An object of the embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide an improved lighting arrangement for illuminating a lighting area in an interior of a vehicle, which allows a high degree of design flexibility when illuminating the lighting area.

[0004] To achieve this object, according to a first aspect, a lighting arrangement for illuminating an illuminated area in the interior of a vehicle is provided. The lighting arrangement comprises a housing and a light source arranged in the housing for generating a light cone with a defined radiation characteristic. The housing has at least one light exit opening so that the light generated by the light source can exit the housing to illuminate the illuminated area.

[0005] The lighting arrangement further comprises a number of deflecting mirrors, wherein the number of deflecting mirrors comprises a number of movably mounted deflecting mirrors for generating a variable luminance distribution on the illumination surface.

[0006] The number of deflecting mirrors can, in particular, comprise one or more movably mounted deflecting mirrors designed to project the deflected light onto the illumination surface such that a desired luminance distribution can be generated on the illumination surface or projection surface. The illumination surface can, in particular, be formed by a surface of an interior element, so that indirect interior lighting or ambient lighting can be realized with the lighting arrangement. The lighting arrangement also allows for dynamic light animation when illuminating the illuminated area. In particular, the resulting luminance distribution can be modified as needed by changing the position of the deflecting mirror.In particular, the deflecting mirrors can be designed at least partially based on the radiation characteristics of the light source, so that a defined luminance distribution or a defined light pattern or partial light pattern can be generated by the respective deflecting mirror. By means of appropriately designed deflecting mirrors or mirror optics, defined light patterns can also be generated on a flat or unstructured illuminated surface, thereby enabling better use of installation space in the vehicle.

[0007] The number of movably mounted deflecting mirrors can, in particular, comprise two or more movably mounted, individually and / or group-controlled deflecting mirrors. Through targeted control of the deflecting mirrors, light patterns provided by individual deflecting mirrors, in particular predefined ones, can be combined with one another and / or displayed sequentially. By combining the light patterns attributable to individual deflecting mirrors, the design freedom and flexibility in generating light patterns on the illuminated surface can be further increased.

[0008] In some embodiments, the number of movably mounted deflecting mirrors includes a number of rotatably or pivotably mounted deflecting mirrors. By rotating the deflecting mirrors, the light pattern or partial light pattern attributable to the respective deflecting mirror can be moved across the illuminated area in a controlled manner, particularly by means of an electric motor.

[0009] The number of rotatably mounted deflecting mirrors can comprise a number of deflecting mirrors mounted with one or more bearings around a fixed pivot point or a fixed axis of rotation. The respective pivot point or axis of rotation can, in particular, be located substantially inside and / or outside the lighting arrangement or the housing. The respective pivot point can, in particular, be positioned in an application-specific manner with respect to the housing. This is because the positioning of the pivot point or axis of rotation of a deflecting mirror can, in particular, influence the range of movement of the corresponding light pattern across the illuminated area.

[0010] At least one movably mounted deflecting mirror can be designed to be pulled out or rotated out of the light cone, in particular essentially completely. By pulling the deflecting mirror out of the light cone, it is possible to easily switch between different light pattern displays.

[0011] The deflecting mirrors can comprise one or more planar and / or curved segments or mirror segments. Using the mirror segments, individual areas of the illuminated surface can be specifically illuminated in order to achieve the desired luminance distribution or mirror-related partial luminance distribution. Using the differently curved segments of a deflecting mirror, light patterns can be created by deliberately varying the luminance of the illuminated surface at specific points on the illuminated surface. By focusing the light using the deflecting mirrors, clearly perceptible illumination or visible illumination patterns can be created, even when the illuminated surface is illuminated by other light sources, such as the sun.

[0012] The deflecting mirrors can each comprise a number of concave and / or convex segments. The concave segments can be designed, in particular, to specifically focus the light generated by the light source on dedicated areas of the illuminated surface in order to achieve a local increase in luminance at the corresponding locations. The convex segments can scatter the light generated by the light source in such a way that local minima of luminance are generated at the illuminated surface or target surface. The luminance can be reduced, in particular, in those areas of the illuminated surface that are exposed to interfering extraneous light or that can generate interfering extraneous light reflections.With segmented deflecting mirrors, it is possible to achieve a more intense illumination of non-critical areas of the illuminated surface, which cause little or no disturbing reflections, than those areas of the illuminated surface where disturbing reflections are more prevalent or which cause disturbing window reflections. With this type of contrast illumination, the disturbing effect of extraneous light reflections and / or window reflections can be reduced or the problem of disturbing reflections can be mitigated.

[0013] The deflecting mirrors can, in particular, be designed as freeform reflectors, at least in some areas. An environmental mirror designed as a freeform reflector can be precisely matched to the radiation characteristics of the light source as well as to the surface to be illuminated or the target surface in order to achieve the desired luminance distribution with high precision.

[0014] The deflecting mirrors can each have a main axis of curvature, whereby the main axis of curvature of the deflecting mirror can be vertical, horizontal, or a combination of both. By orienting the main axis of curvature, the illumination or luminance distribution across the illuminated area can be specifically influenced.

[0015] In some embodiments, the illumination arrangement comprises a pinhole for generating an illumination pattern on the illumination surface. In particular, the pinhole can have translucent and opaque subregions. The pinhole can be used to generate additional light superposition effects or additional light effects or light patterns. In particular, a periodic illumination pattern can be generated on the illumination surface using a periodic aperture or light window arrangement of a pinhole.

[0016] In some embodiments, the housing has an at least partially mirrored interior. In particular, the mirrored interior of the housing can be designed or shaped such that, when all movable deflecting mirrors are withdrawn from the light cone, the light deflected by the mirrored interior of the housing results in a predefined illumination pattern on the illumination surface. With such an illumination arrangement, a pattern can be generated on the illumination surface from a combination of the light generated by the movable deflecting mirrors and the static mirrored housing. The interior of the housing can also be partially blackened in order to prevent light from being directed at certain reflection-critical areas of the illumination surface.

[0017] According to a second aspect, a lighting assembly for a vehicle is provided. The lighting assembly comprises an interior element with an illuminated surface to be illuminated and a lighting arrangement according to the first aspect, wherein the housing of the lighting arrangement is arranged or mounted with respect to the interior element in such a way that a variable luminance distribution can be generated on the illuminated surface by means of the movably mounted deflecting mirrors.

[0018] In some embodiments, the illuminated area includes one or more critical areas that, when illuminated, can cause disturbing reflections, particularly window reflections. During operation, the movable deflecting mirrors can be adjusted to exclude such areas from illumination by the light source and / or to reduce the light intensity in such areas.

[0019] With such contrast lighting, annoying reflections can be suppressed or avoided. The illuminated area can have one or more areas more exposed to extraneous light, such as sunlight or streetlight, in which the extraneous light can cause annoying reflections from the vehicle occupant's perspective. The lighting arrangement can be designed such that such areas are excluded from the illumination by the light source and / or the light intensity in such areas is reduced. With such contrast lighting, the annoying effect of extraneous light reflections can be reduced or the problem of annoying reflections can be mitigated.

[0020] The lighting assembly can be designed as a dashboard assembly. The dashboard with the lighting arrangement is characterized by an attractive design and reduced interference reflections.

[0021] According to a third aspect, a lighting system of a vehicle is provided. The lighting system comprises at least one lighting assembly according to the second aspect, at least one electric drive for driving the number of movable deflecting mirrors of the lighting arrangement, a user interface for detecting user inputs, and a control unit for controlling the at least one electric drive. The control unit is configured to control the at least one drive based on the detected user inputs, so that lighting corresponding to the user inputs can be generated on the lighting surface. In particular, the control unit can be configured to generate various lighting patterns and light animations on the lighting surface based on the user inputs.The lighting system offers a wide range of design options for the vehicle's interior lighting, whereby the lighting area can be illuminated flexibly and dynamically according to the user's wishes.

[0022] According to a fourth aspect, a vehicle is proposed. The vehicle has at least one lighting arrangement according to the first aspect and / or at least one lighting assembly according to the second aspect. The vehicle is characterized by high visual ergonomics, particularly due to the flexibly adjustable interior lighting, and by high road safety, particularly due to the absence or reduction of interfering reflections.

[0023] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The same reference numerals are used throughout the figures for identical or equivalent parts. Fig. 1 shows a schematic cross-section through a lighting assembly of a vehicle with a lighting arrangement from the prior art, Fig. 2 illustrates the formation of a disturbing reflection in the arrangement according to Fig. 1, Fig. 3 shows a schematic cross section through a lighting assembly of a vehicle with a lighting arrangement according to a first embodiment, Fig. 4 shows an illumination pattern on the illumination surface in the arrangement known from the prior art according to Fig. 1, Fig. 5 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror according to an embodiment, Fig. 6 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror according to another embodiment, Fig. 7 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror according to another embodiment, Fig. 8 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror and with a pinhole according to another embodiment, Fig. 9 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror according to yet another embodiment, Fig. 10 shows a schematic cross section through a lighting arrangement according to a second embodiment in a first mirror position, Fig. 11 illustrates the beam guidance in the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10, Fig. 12 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10 in a second mirror position, Fig. 13 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10 in a third mirror position, Fig. 14 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10 in a fourth mirror position, Fig. 15 shows a schematic perspective view of a movable deflection mirror according to an embodiment, Fig. 16 shows a schematic cross section through a lighting arrangement according to a third embodiment in a first mirror position, Fig. 17 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 16 in a second mirror position, Fig. 18 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 16 in a third mirror position, Fig. 19 shows a schematic perspective view of a mirror assembly of a lighting arrangement according to an embodiment, and Fig. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of a mirror assembly of a lighting arrangement according to another embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 1 shows a schematic cross-section through a lighting assembly of a vehicle with a lighting arrangement from the prior art. The lighting assembly known from the prior art comprises a lighting arrangement (shown enlarged in the detailed view on the left). The lighting arrangement comprises a light source 1 for generating a light cone 1a with a defined radiation characteristic, as well as a housing 3 in which the light source 1 is arranged. The housing 3 is open on one side, towards the bottom in the image, or has a light exit opening so that the light generated by the light source 1 can exit the housing 3.

[0025] Fig. 1 further shows an interior element with a surface to be illuminated or illumination surface 4, wherein the lighting arrangement is configured to illuminate the illumination surface 4. The illumination surface 4 or projection surface can be designed, in particular, as a diffusely light-scattering surface of the interior element, for example, with a plastic and / or fabric coating. The light scattered by the illumination surface 4 can be visually perceived, in particular by vehicle occupants, as lights or light patterns.

[0026] In the Fig. 1 also schematically depicts the windshield 5 and the dashboard 6 of the vehicle, as well as an eye ellipse 7 of a vehicle occupant. The eye ellipse 7 is defined as the spatial area in the vehicle in which the driver's eyes can be located with a certain probability, for example, 85%. In the example shown, this is a so-called inclusive eye ellipse, in which the driver's eyes can be located with a very high probability of 95%. In the example shown, the lighting assembly is designed as a dashboard assembly, with the housing 3 of the lighting arrangement being mounted substantially beneath the dashboard 6.

[0027] The illumination area 4 comprises an invisible area 4a. The invisible area 4a is covered by the dashboard 6 in such a way that it is not accessible to the view of the vehicle occupants, as can be seen from the Fig. 1, the light beam can be seen between the eye ellipse 7 and the illumination area 4. Therefore, vehicle occupants cannot normally see the invisible area 4a.

[0028] In Fig. 1, a first visible area 4b and a second visible area 4c of the illumination surface 4 can be seen. The two visible areas 4b and 4c are accessible to the direct view of the vehicle occupant, whereby the second visible area 4c can also be visually perceived indirectly, as a windshield reflection. This is shown in Fig. 1 is visualized by a beam reflected from the windshield 5.

[0029] As can be seen from the schematically illustrated radiation characteristic or the light cone 1a of the light generated by the light source 1, a significant portion of the light cone (in Fig. 1 shown in dark gray) does not illuminate the visible areas of the illumination surface. In particular, part of the LED light is wasted on illuminating the invisible area 4a, and another part is radiated beyond the target or does not reach the illumination surface 4 at all.

[0030] Fig. 2 illustrates the formation of a disturbing reflection in the arrangement according to Fig. 1. To illustrate the disturbing reflection, Fig. 2, a reflection area 5a of the windshield 5 is shown, where disturbing reflections of the second visible area 4c or the critical windshield reflection area of ​​the illumination surface 4 can occur. The reflection area 5a of the windshield 5 can be determined in particular by means of the two Fig. 2, which extend from the endpoints of the second visible area 4c via the mirror reflection on the windshield 5 to the eye ellipse 7. Light scattered from the second visible area 4c can thus reach the driver's eye via the mirror reflection in the reflection area 5a of the windshield 5, which can cause irritation and fatigue for the driver.

[0031] Fig. 3 shows a schematic cross section through a lighting assembly of a vehicle with a lighting arrangement according to a first embodiment. Fig. The lighting assembly shown in Figure 3 largely corresponds to the one shown in Fig. 1, wherein the lighting arrangement of the Fig. 3 additionally comprises a deflecting mirror 2. Furthermore, the light source 1 is mounted on an inner wall of the housing 3 such that it, or the light cone of the light emitted from the light source 1, is directed substantially inward. The housing 3 can, in particular, be designed to be substantially opaque, so that the light can only exit the housing 3 through the light exit opening or light exit window. This can, in particular, prevent the light from the light source 1 from entering the interior of the vehicle in an uncontrolled manner.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 3 is designed in the form of an elongated profile with a longitudinal axis oriented perpendicular to the image plane. The light source 1 is also elongated and extends along the housing. In this embodiment, an LED light source in the form of an LED strip is used as the light source. The deflecting mirror 2 is designed to be movable with respect to the housing 3. In particular, the deflecting mirror 2 is mounted so as to be rotatable or pivotable about a pivot point 8 or axis of rotation fixed with respect to the housing 3. This is described in Fig. 3 is symbolically indicated by a cross. Depending on the design, the pivot point 8 can be located inside or outside the housing.

[0033] In the Fig. In the position of the deflecting mirror 2 shown in Figure 3, the light generated by the light source 1 is captured by the deflecting mirror 2 and emitted in a controlled manner in the direction of the illuminated surface 4. The deflected light or projection light is Fig. 3 visualized by straight projection rays 9.

[0034] In some embodiments, the deflecting mirror 2 comprises one or more planar and / or curved segments. In particular, the deflecting mirror 2 can comprise concave and / or convex segments. The deflecting mirror 2 can in particular have local curvatures, in particular about a longitudinal axis and / or about a vertical axis oriented obliquely or perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the deflecting mirror 2 is designed as a freeform reflector matched to the radiation characteristics of the light source 1 and to the surface to be illuminated. In particular, the appropriate shape of the deflecting mirror 2 can be determined by an optical simulation. The radiation characteristics, the geometry of the illuminated surface 4 and the target distribution of the illuminance on the illuminated surface 4 can be used as input for determining the shape of the deflecting mirror.

[0035] The design of the deflecting mirror 2 allows the projection light and thus also the luminance distribution on the illuminated surface 4 to be influenced or flexibly controlled. In particular, with an appropriately shaped reflector, light patterns can be generated or displayed on the illuminated surface 4 without having to provide the illuminated surface 4 with special relief structures. This allows the effective usable space inside the vehicle to be increased. In particular, installation space for other applications in the vehicle interior, especially in the design of storage compartments, can be better utilized. Furthermore, disruptive or unpleasant-feeling structures in storage areas can be replaced with pleasantly soft, smooth surfaces (cushioned touch feeling).The lighting arrangement can thus achieve improved haptic accessibility of illuminated storage spaces compared to structured projection surfaces.

[0036] In addition, unstructured or flat projection surfaces are easier to provide. Flat or less structured interior elements, for example, can be easily manufactured using an injection molding process without any draft angle.

[0037] By specifically directing the projection light, areas that would be visible as reflections or mirroring in the windows from the occupant's perspective can be excluded from their illumination by light source 1. By excluding such areas or by reducing the irradiation intensity in such critical window reflection areas, unwanted visible and disturbing reflections in the windows can be avoided, particularly in a nighttime situation.

[0038] At the Fig. 3, the projection beams 9 extend to the boundary between the first visible area 4b and the second visible area 4c or critical windscreen reflection area, wherein in the second visible area 4c, in contrast to in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, no projection rays arrive. The light generated by the light source 1 cannot therefore produce any unwanted or disturbing reflections on the windshield 5.

[0039] In some embodiments, the illumination arrangement comprises a pinhole diaphragm, in particular in addition to the movable deflecting mirror 2, for generating an illumination pattern on the illumination surface or for modifying an illumination pattern already generated by the deflecting mirror 2.

[0040] Fig. 4 shows an illumination pattern on the illumination surface in the arrangement known from the prior art according to Fig. 1. In particular, Fig. 4 shows the illumination surface 4 in plan view or from the perspective of a vehicle occupant, wherein the luminance distribution over the illumination surface 4 is recognizable by means of light-dark transitions. For orientation, the position of the housing 3 is indicated by an arrow running along the upper edge of the image. Fig. The illumination shown in Figure 4 has a broad luminance distribution with low contrast and low light intensity, which is mainly due to the lack of focus and the wasted light. In particular, in the arrangement according to Fig. 1 the light generated by the light source 1 is emitted in an unfocused and uncontrolled manner, which leads to such diffuse illumination patterns and to high power losses.

[0041] The light spot extends essentially over the entire visible area of ​​the illumination surface, both to the first visible area 4b and to the second visible area 4c, which can cause disturbing windscreen reflections.

[0042] Fig. Figure 5 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror according to an embodiment. Fig. The illumination or luminance distribution shown in Figure 4 is determined by means of a specially shaped deflection mirror 2 with an arrangement according to Fig. 3. The lighting has a Fig. 4 has a narrow luminance distribution with high contrast and high light intensity. The projection light is essentially limited or focused to the first visible area 4b of the illuminated surface 4. By controlled deflection or focusing of the light with the appropriately positioned deflection mirror 2, the second area 4c is essentially completely excluded from the projection light, so that stray light emanating from this critical area cannot cause disturbing window reflections.

[0043] Fig. Figure 6 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflecting mirror according to another embodiment. In this example, a segmented deflecting mirror is used such that a striped pattern of alternating light and dark stripes is generated on the illuminated area. In the critical second region 4c, the luminance distribution has a low intensity, so there is little risk of window reflections from the illuminated area 4.

[0044] Fig. Figure 7 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflecting mirror according to another embodiment. The luminance distribution shown is achieved with a different deflecting mirror. The deflecting mirror has finer segments curved around a longitudinal axis, resulting in a fine longitudinal structure or longitudinal stripe structure in the illumination pattern. Furthermore, the deflecting mirror 4 is designed to capture as much of the LED light as possible, especially from the edge regions of the light cone 1a. Compared to Fig. 5, the luminance distribution exhibits a lower contrast or flatter distribution. The luminance dependence across the illuminated area in the transverse direction essentially corresponds to a step function. At the boundary between the first visible area 4b and the second visible area 4c, a smooth light-dark-light transition is visible, creating a special visual 3D effect. This allows a volume effect or the impression of a voluminous structure to be created without having to structure the illuminated area 4.

[0045] Fig. Figure 7 can serve as an example of how specific areas can be specifically illuminated and specific areas can be specifically excluded from the illumination. Thus, the first visible area 4b is illuminated, in particular to provide aesthetic interior lighting. The second visible area 4c is illuminated, for example, to provide functional illumination, e.g., for an interior storage compartment. The unlit area 4b' in the middle of the light-dark transition can be provided, in particular, to avoid disturbing reflections or other negative optical interactions.

[0046] Fig. Figure 8 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror and a pinhole according to another embodiment. In this example, a periodic pattern of light spots arranged along the longitudinal direction is generated on the illuminated surface. The periodic pattern is based on a stripe pattern, similar to that in Fig. 7, superimposed. Such a luminance distribution results when a segmented deflection mirror 2 according to Fig. 7 is combined with a pinhole. The pinhole can in particular be arranged downstream of the deflection mirror, in particular at the light exit opening of the housing 3. The pinhole has a periodic aperture arrangement, whereby the Fig. 8 is created. With such pinholes, aperture arrays, and / or diffraction gratings, the variety of light patterns that can be realized using the illumination arrangement can be further increased.

[0047] Fig. Figure 9 shows simulation results for an exemplary application with a deflection mirror according to yet another embodiment. In this example, the deflection mirror is selected or configured such that a substantially uniform luminance distribution with a downward-fading intensity is achieved.

[0048] The examples shown above are intended to illustrate the possibilities of the lighting arrangement presented here. Compared to the lighting arrangements known from the prior art, the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 3 significantly higher luminance levels for illuminating projection surfaces. The lighting arrangement allows for further optimization of luminance distribution and the realization of innovative light pattern displays, thereby increasing customer satisfaction.

[0049] Due to the movable or rotatable mounting of the deflecting mirror 2, the generated illumination patterns can also be spatially shifted and / or further modified.

[0050] The lighting arrangement is also suitable for modular construction. In particular, several such lighting arrangements can be lined up to illuminate larger or longer projection surfaces. The lighting arrangement also enables targeted control of the luminance distribution, which can be used for aesthetic purposes. If the luminance of conventional systems is sufficient in certain applications, the lighting system described here could achieve the same luminance with fewer LEDs or with lower power, which could reduce costs, power consumption, and heat generation.

[0051] Avoiding or suppressing distracting window reflections improves visual ergonomics and road safety, particularly due to distraction- and fatigue-free driving. The projected light patterns eliminate the need for structured lighting surfaces. Avoiding heavily textured surfaces in skin contact areas of interior storage compartments also improves the haptic experience for vehicle occupants. Avoiding undercuts through effect-generating surface structuring also enables draft-angle-free molding, particularly in injection molding, and simplifies the production of interior elements with illuminated surfaces.

[0052] Fig. 10 shows a schematic cross section through a lighting arrangement according to a second embodiment in a first mirror position. The embodiment of the Fig. 10 essentially corresponds to the embodiment of the Fig. 3, wherein the illumination arrangement comprises a first movable deflecting mirror 2a, a second movable deflecting mirror 2b and a stationary deflecting mirror 2c. The movable deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b are mounted rotatably about a common pivot point 8 or axis of rotation, wherein the second deflecting mirror 2b is further away from the axis of rotation than the first deflecting mirror 2a. The illumination arrangement can in particular be used as part of a lighting assembly with a surface to be illuminated or illumination surface 4 (similar to Fig. 3) in a vehicle. The immovable deflecting mirror 2c is designed as a mirrored inner surface of the housing 3. Similar to the deflecting mirror 2 of the Fig. 3, the deflecting mirrors 2a, 2b, and 2c have a plurality of segments and are each designed to generate a predefined luminance distribution or partial light pattern on the illuminated surface 4. In the mirror position shown, the two movable deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b are located in a central region of the light cone 1a between the light source 1 and the stationary deflecting mirror 2c, with the second deflecting mirror 2b lying substantially in the light shadow of the first deflecting mirror 2a.

[0053] Fig. 11 illustrates the beam guidance in the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10. The beam guidance is Fig. 11 is illustrated using two exemplary beams emitted by the light source 1 and deflected by the first deflecting mirror 2a. The first deflecting mirror 2a essentially completely covers the central region of the light cone 1a or the main light cone 1b. The second deflecting mirror 2b and a larger part of the stationary deflecting mirror 2c are shaded by the first deflecting mirror 2a. The housing 3 or the stationary deflecting mirror 2c covers edge regions of the light cone 1a and can thus make a certain contribution to the luminance distribution on the illuminated surface 4.

[0054] In the mirror position shown, the radiation characteristics of the light emerging from the housing 3 are thus determined primarily by the first deflecting mirror 2a. The light pattern generated on the illuminated surface 4 is thus characterized by the partial light pattern attributable to the first deflecting mirror 2a. Depending on the design of the first deflecting mirror 2a, different light patterns can be created, for example, similar to Fig. 5 to 9. The light scattered by the housing 3 or by the stationary deflecting mirror 2c from the edge regions of the light cone 1a can generate diffuse background illumination, for example, to smooth contrast transitions in the luminance distribution. By simultaneously or independently rotating the deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b around the pivot point 8, the luminance distribution can be modified or moved back and forth across the illuminated surface 4.

[0055] Fig. 12 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10 in a second mirror position. In the mirror position of the Fig. 12, the first movable deflecting mirror 2a is located essentially outside the main light cone 1b. The main light cone 1b is essentially only captured by the second movable deflecting mirror 2b and directed to the light exit window. This is illustrated using exemplary light rays. In this mirror position, the second movable deflecting mirror 2b thus significantly determines the luminance distribution on the illuminated surface 4. Depending on the design of the second deflecting mirror 2b, different light patterns can be created, for example, similar to Fig. 5 to 9. The light from the edge region of the light cone 1a captured by the first movable deflecting mirror 2a can also be partially directed toward the light exit window and can, for example, contribute to the targeted illumination of a distant end of the illumination area.

[0056] Fig. 13 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10 in a third mirror position. In the mirror position of the Fig. 13, the two movable deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b are located essentially outside the main light cone 1b and only capture the edge regions of the light cone 1a. The main light cone 1b, on the other hand, is essentially captured by the stationary deflecting mirror 2c or by the housing 3, and the captured light is directed to the light exit window. In this mirror position, the stationary deflecting mirror 2c or the mirrored interior of the housing 3 significantly determines the luminance distribution on the illuminated surface 4. The light captured by the movable deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b from the edge regions of the light cone 1a can also be partially directed toward the light exit window and can, for example, contribute to setting gentle accents in the edge regions of the luminance distribution.

[0057] Fig. 14 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 10 in a fourth mirror position. In this case, the first deflecting mirror 2a lies outside the light cone 1a, and the second deflecting mirror 2b is positioned such that an edge region of the light cone and part of the main light cone 1b is captured by the second deflecting mirror 2b. Another part of the main light cone 1b is captured by the immovable deflecting mirror 2c or by the mirrored inner surface of the housing 3. The luminance distribution or the light pattern on the illuminated surface 4 results in this case from a combination of partial light patterns generated by the second deflecting mirror 2b and the immovable deflecting mirror 2c. The first deflecting mirror 2a is essentially completely eliminated from the beam shaping and cannot, or only slightly, impair the resulting light pattern.

[0058] In some embodiments, all movable deflecting mirrors are designed to be completely withdrawn from the light cone, particularly from the edge regions, as needed. In this case, the luminance distribution on the illuminated surface is essentially determined by the immovable deflecting mirror 2c or the housing 3. The illumination pattern generated by the housing 3 can be used, in particular, as a reference pattern during assembly of the illumination arrangement in order to precisely position the illumination arrangement relative to the illuminated surface 4.

[0059] Fig. 15 shows a schematic perspective view of a movable deflection mirror according to an embodiment. Fig. 15 corresponds to the deflection mirror shown in Fig. 10 to 14. Similar to the housing 3, the deflecting mirror 2b is elongated and has elongated mirror segments. The mirror segments of the deflecting mirror 2b are designed or shaped such that a predefined luminance distribution or a partial light pattern can be generated on the illuminated surface 4 with the deflecting mirror when the deflecting mirror is positioned in the light cone 1a. Mirror suspensions 10 are provided at both longitudinal ends of the deflecting mirror 2b for rotatably supporting the deflecting mirror about the pivot point 8 or axis of rotation. Fig. 15 also schematically shows a drive for generating a rotational movement (symbolized by curved arrows) of the deflecting mirror 2b around the pivot point 8. The mirror mounts 10 of the deflecting mirror 2b can be made, in particular, of plastic, specifically of a thermoplastic and / or thermosetting material. The mirror mounts 10 can, in particular, be designed as attachments to the mirror profile. In particular, the mirror mounts 10 can comprise a curved or segmented receiving channel for receiving the mirror profile or the segmented reflector.

[0060] Fig. 16 shows a schematic cross section through a lighting arrangement according to a third embodiment in a first mirror position. In contrast to the previous embodiments, the lighting arrangement of the Fig. 16 several deflecting mirrors 2a, each movably mounted about a pivot point 8. The deflecting mirrors 2a are arranged next to one another and mounted in such a way that they can cover essentially the entire light cone 1a. The pivot points 8 or axes of rotation are so close to one another that the deflecting mirrors 2a can form a coherent deflecting mirror, essentially as mirror segments.

[0061] In the embodiment shown, the deflecting mirrors 2a each have a convex mirror surface and a concave mirror surface opposite the convex mirror surface. Fig. In the mirror position shown in Figure 16, the deflecting mirrors 2a are facing the light source 1 with their concave mirror surfaces. The luminance distribution on the illuminated surface is thus essentially determined by the light reflection at the concave mirror surfaces of the deflecting mirrors 2a.

[0062] Fig. 17 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 16 in a second mirror position. The Fig. The mirror position shown in Figure 17 essentially corresponds to the mirror position of the Fig. 16, wherein the deflecting mirrors 2a face the light source 1 with their convex mirror surfaces. Even in this mirror position, essentially the entire light cone 1a is captured by the deflecting mirrors 2a. The luminance distribution on the illuminated surface is thus essentially determined by the light reflection from the concave mirror surfaces of the deflecting mirrors 2a.

[0063] Fig. 18 shows a schematic cross section through the lighting arrangement according to Fig. 16 in a third mirror position. In the third mirror position, the deflecting mirrors 2a are aligned essentially parallel to the primary light rays emanating from the light source. Due to the parallel alignment of the deflecting mirrors 2a with respect to the primary light rays, the portion of the light cone 1a captured by the movable deflecting mirrors 2a is reduced, so that a significant portion of the primary light generated by the light source 1 can reach the stationary mirror 2c or the housing 3. The resulting luminance distribution on the illuminated surface is accordingly determined primarily by the reflection from the stationary deflecting mirror 2c.

[0064] Fig. Figure 19 shows a schematic perspective view of a mirror assembly of a lighting arrangement according to an embodiment. The mirror assembly shown comprises three movable deflecting mirrors 2a, which are similar to the deflecting mirrors 2a of the Fig. 16 to 18 shown lighting arrangement. In Fig. Figure 19 shows the convex mirror surfaces of the deflecting mirrors 2a, as well as the respective pivot points 8 and dedicated drives 11 of the individual deflecting mirrors 2a. Due to the dedicated drives 11 of the deflecting mirrors 2a, the deflecting mirrors 2a can be individually aligned independently of one another, allowing the luminance distribution on the illuminated surface to be flexibly modified as needed.

[0065] Fig. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of a mirror assembly of a lighting arrangement according to another embodiment. In the embodiment of Fig. 20 also shows a mirror assembly with three movable deflection mirrors 2a. Similar to the Fig. In the mirror assembly shown in Figure 19, the deflecting mirrors 2a are each mounted so as to be rotatable about a pivot point 8 or axis of rotation and can be rotated individually and independently of each other with a dedicated drive 11. In contrast to Fig. 19, the mirror assembly comprises a further drive 11a, which is designed to rotate the entire assembly of three deflecting mirrors 2a around a common pivot point 8a. This configuration of the mirror assembly thus enables both individual alignment of the individual deflecting mirrors 2a and overall alignment of the mirror group formed from multiple deflecting mirrors. For example, if individual deflecting mirrors are adjusted to generate a specific luminance distribution, the position of the resulting light pattern can be shifted or moved back and forth by rotating the entire assembly of deflecting mirrors 2a, without having to readjust the individual deflecting mirrors.

[0066] In some embodiments, the illumination arrangement comprises a plurality of differently designed deflecting mirrors. The individual deflecting mirrors can be designed in particular to generate a predefined luminance distribution or a partial light pattern on the illumination surface. In particular, the illumination arrangement can comprise a plurality of first movable deflecting mirrors and a plurality of second, third or further movable deflecting mirrors arranged downstream of the first deflecting mirrors. With the differently designed deflecting mirrors, the luminance distribution on the illumination surface can be further flexibly designed. In some embodiments, the illumination arrangement comprises, similar to the embodiment of the Fig. 3, a pinhole. The pinhole can be configured, in particular, in addition to different deflecting mirror configurations for generating an illumination pattern on the illuminated surface or for modifying an illumination pattern already generated by the deflecting mirror 2.

[0067] The lighting arrangement, equipped with several individually and / or group-controlled movable deflecting mirrors, enables a combination of individual light patterns. By combining the individual light patterns or partial light patterns, the variety of dynamic animation options for the interior lighting can be further increased. In some embodiments, one or more deflecting mirrors are at least partially translucent or transparent and / or diffusely scattering. This can further increase the lighting design freedom of the interior lighting.

[0068] In the above embodiments, some mirror positions were shown as examples. It goes without saying that the movable deflecting mirrors can also assume various intermediate positions, whereby the partial light patterns can be combined to form further light patterns. For example, in the embodiment according to Fig. 10, the deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b are designed such that, in an intermediate position of the two deflecting mirrors 2a and 2b, a double and / or multiple reflection occurs at the deflecting mirrors. In this case, light rays are alternately deflected by the deflecting mirrors before leaving the housing 3. By deliberately positioning the deflecting mirrors in such an intermediate position, in which the double or multiple reflections occur, the light patterns can be specifically influenced.

[0069] Different lighting systems can be implemented using the lighting arrangements described here. For example, a lighting system can comprise an assembly with an interior element having an illuminated surface to be illuminated and one or more lighting arrangements according to the first aspect. The lighting system can further comprise at least one electric drive for driving a rotational movement of the deflecting mirrors, a user interface for detecting user inputs, and a control unit for controlling the at least one electric drive.

[0070] The control unit can, in particular, be configured to control the drive based on the detected user inputs, so that illumination corresponding to the user inputs can be generated on the illuminated surface. The drive can, in particular, comprise at least one electric motor, in particular one or more stepper motors, which can be controlled by the control unit. The electric motors convert electrical energy into rotational movement, so that the movement or rotation of the movable deflecting mirrors can be controlled by the control unit.

[0071] In particular, the control unit can comprise an interface, a processor, and a memory unit. The interface can be configured to capture user inputs entered via the user interface. The memory unit can contain data and machine-readable instructions for the processor. In particular, the memory unit can contain instructions for the processor to evaluate the user inputs and control the electric drive based on the user inputs. The lighting system offers a wide range of design options for the vehicle's interior lighting, with the illuminated area being able to be illuminated flexibly and dynamically according to user requirements. The user interface can be configured to be accessible to the driver and / or vehicle occupants, for example, on the vehicle's center console or implemented in the menu of a touchscreen display.

[0072] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been shown in the foregoing description, various changes and modifications may be made. The recited embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing description provides those skilled in the art with a road map for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment; numerous changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Furthermore, multiple modules or multiple products may be connected together in accordance with the principles described herein to obtain additional functions. List of reference symbols 1 light source 1a light cone 1b Main light cone 2,2a,2b,2c deflecting mirror 3 housings 4 Lighting area 4a invisible area 4b first visible area 4b' unlit area 4c second visible area 5 Windshield 5a Reflection area 6 Dashboard 7 Eye ellipse 8.8a pivot point 9 Projection beam 10 Mirror suspension 11,11a Drive

Claims

[1] Lighting arrangement for illuminating a lighting surface (4) in an interior of a vehicle, comprising: - a housing (3), and - a light source (1) arranged in the housing (3) for generating a light cone with a defined radiation characteristic, wherein the housing (3) has at least one light exit opening so that the light generated by the light source (1) can exit the housing (3) to illuminate the illumination surface (4), and wherein the illumination arrangement comprises a number of deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b, 2c), wherein the number of deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b, 2c) comprises a number of movably mounted deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b) for generating a variable luminance distribution on the illumination surface (4). [2] Lighting arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the number of movably mounted deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b) comprises two or more movably mounted, individually and / or group-controlled deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b). [3] Lighting arrangement (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the number of movably mounted deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b) comprises a number of rotatably or pivotably mounted deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b). [4] Lighting arrangement according to claim 3, wherein the number of rotatably mounted deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b) comprises a number of deflecting mirrors mounted with one or more bearings around a fixed pivot point (8). [5] Lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one movably mounted deflecting mirror (2a, 2b) is designed to be pulled out of the light cone (a1). [6] Lighting arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b, 2c) comprise one or more planar and / or curved segments. [7] Lighting arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflecting mirrors (2, 2a, 2b) comprise a number of concave and / or convex segments. [8] Lighting assembly of a vehicle, comprising an interior element with a lighting surface (4) to be illuminated, and a lighting arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (3) of the lighting arrangement is arranged with respect to the interior element in such a way that a variable luminance distribution can be generated on the lighting surface by means of the movably mounted deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b). [9] Lighting system of a vehicle, comprising at least one lighting assembly according to claim 8, at least one electric drive (11) for driving the number of movable deflecting mirrors (2a, 2b) of the lighting arrangement, a user interface for detecting user inputs and a control unit for controlling the electric drive (11), wherein the control unit is configured to control the at least one drive (11) based on the detected user inputs, so that lighting corresponding to the user inputs can be generated on the lighting surface. [10] Vehicle, wherein the vehicle comprises at least one lighting arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 7 and / or at least one lighting system according to claim 9.

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