Lighting device

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting device (1) for emitting light in a predetermined direction of emission, comprising several light sources (2) which have different emission characteristics in the predetermined emission direction, a rangefinder (3) designed to detect the distance between the lighting device (1) and an object (4) located in the predetermined direction of emission, and A control unit (5) is configured to automatically activate a light source (2) or a combination of light sources (2) based on the detected distance. In this way, a lighting device (1) is provided that enables a demand-based and user-independent selection of suitable light characteristics, thereby ensuring improved visibility, increased ease of use, and more efficient energy consumption.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a lighting device for emitting light in a predetermined direction of emission with several light sources which have different emission characteristics in the predetermined direction of emission.

[0002] This concerns, therefore, preferably portable lighting devices, in particular flashlights and headlamps, as typically used outdoors, by rescue services, in the trades, during maintenance work, or in leisure activities. Such lighting devices are sometimes equipped with several light sources that have different lighting characteristics, for example, to produce a wide close-range beam, a medium-range floodlight, or a focused spotlight for greater distances.

[0003] It is known in the prior art that users can manually select between different light modes depending on the application. This requires not only knowledge of the best light source for a given distance, but also active switching by the user, which can be error-prone and inconvenient, especially in darkness, cold weather, or under stressful conditions. Often, therefore, either a less than ideal light source is used, which can lead to insufficient illumination or excessive glare, or the user simply forgoes changing the light mode altogether. Furthermore, manually selecting the light source during operation can be distracting or requires one-handed operation, which can be problematic in safety-critical situations.

[0004] Portable lighting devices with multiple light sources are known from the prior art, allowing the user to manually select between different lighting modes. Some known systems also allow adjustment of brightness, focus, or beam distance, either in steps or continuously. These adjustments are typically made through user interaction via buttons, rotary switches, or touch-sensitive surfaces.

[0005] Some portable lighting devices, especially headlamps, are equipped with automatic brightness control. This technology is a system for automatically adjusting the light output based on the current ambient light conditions. For this purpose, the lamp is equipped with a sensor that continuously measures the reflected ambient light. Depending on the measured brightness, the internal electronics dynamically control the lamp's light output to ensure appropriate illumination at all times.

[0006] Among the advantages of this technology is the increased ease of use, as no manual brightness adjustment is required. This can lead to a significant improvement in visibility and user experience, especially in changing light conditions – for example, when entering buildings or tunnels. Furthermore, the automatic control contributes to energy efficiency, as the lamp only produces as much light as is actually needed. Unwanted glare from other people or reflective surfaces can also be reduced by adjusting the light intensity.

[0007] However, unintended or unexpected changes in brightness can sometimes occur, for example, when the lamp shines on highly reflective objects and the brightness is abruptly reduced. A certain reaction delay can also be perceived as disruptive in dynamic applications such as jogging or cycling, if the light control does not react to changing environments in real time. Such limitations can lead users to deactivate the automatic control in critical situations or to resort to manual control.

[0008] From DE 10 2021 106 300 A1, a method for controlling the light distribution of a luminaire is known, which has at least one or more channels, each with at least one light source. Furthermore, the luminaire includes at least one light sensor that measures the amount of light incident upon it. This light consists of an intrinsic light component, generated by reflections from the light sources of all channels, and an extraneous light component from external light sources. A control unit is provided to calculate and generate a corresponding control signal for each channel, so that the light sources of the respective channels can be operated at a predefinable brightness. In order to adapt the illumination of the field of view as needed, even under changing ambient conditions, a time-varying modulation signal is superimposed onto each control signal of the channels, according to the method described therein.Each channel receives its own modulation signal, distinct from the others, causing the light sources to produce a time-varying brightness. The amount of light incident on the light sensor is continuously measured. Subsequently, taking into account the modulation signal and the temporal progression of the measured light quantity, the respective proportion of intrinsic light and ambient light are calculated separately for each channel. Based on these calculations, the control unit regulates the brightness of the light sources channel by channel, depending on the calculated proportion of intrinsic and ambient light. The document also describes a luminaire designed to implement this method.

[0009] US Patent 2018 / 0192484A1 describes an LED lighting module comprising an LED lamp with multiple light-emitting chips on a substrate, used in conjunction with a single-focal-point optic. The light-emitting chips consist of a central chip aligned on an optical axis and multiple peripheral chips arranged in a ring around the central chip. The lighting module includes a single-focal-point beam-shaping optic positioned above the LED lamp, with the focal point located on the optical axis of the central chip. Light emitted from the central chip is essentially collimated by the optic and output in a focused "spot" beam pattern. In contrast, the light emitted from the peripheral chips produces a more diffuse or divergent "flood" beam pattern.The central chip and the peripheral chips are controlled independently of each other, and the power supplied to them can be regulated separately, so that different light distributions can be generated with the same optics.

[0010] US patent 2022 / 0290832A1 describes a wide-angle headlight comprising multiple light sources that illuminate areas in front of, to the sides of, and below the headlight. The headlight has various operating modes, allowing each light source to be used individually or in combination with one or more of the other light sources. The headlight housing is divided into several illumination chambers, each containing one or more light sources. Each chamber is equipped with an optical lens. By combining the different light sources with their respective lenses, the headlight can illuminate a field of view extending at least to the outer limits of human peripheral vision, i.e., up to 110 degrees to the right and left of the central axis. The total illuminated field of view of the headlight is therefore at least 220 degrees.

[0011] From US patent 2021 / 0160991A1, a portable lamp, such as a headlamp, is known that has at least one light source and an AI unit. The AI ​​unit comprises an activity detection unit and a control unit. The activity detection unit is capable of automatically recognizing the activity currently being performed by the user without requiring any manual adjustments. The control unit is configured to control the light beam of the light source, at least in relation to the detected activity of the user.

[0012] US Patent 2014 / 0146552A1 describes a portable light comprising a transmitter configured to send a signal and a receiver configured to receive the signal transmitted by the transmitter. The light further comprises an electric light source with multiple lighting modes, a power source, and a control unit connected to a circuit containing the transmitter, receiver, light source, power source, and a switch. The control unit is configured to operate the switch and the transition between the different lighting modes based on the signal received by the receiver.

[0013] Finally, EP 3 671 033 A1 describes a lamp with at least one light source and an electrical energy source or a connecting element to an electrical energy source for operating the light source, wherein a distance meter is provided which determines the distance from the distance meter to an object or a surface, and furthermore a control device is provided which is operatively connected to the distance meter and regulates the luminosity of the at least one light source depending on the determined distance.

[0014] The object of the invention is to provide a lighting device that enables a needs-based and user-independent selection of suitable light characteristics, thereby ensuring improved visibility, increased ease of use and more efficient energy use.

[0015] This problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are found in the dependent claims.

[0016] The solution according to the invention avoids typical disadvantages of conventional luminaires, where the user has to manually switch between different light modes – for example, when the distance to illuminated objects changes. This can be cumbersome or impractical, especially in darkness, when wearing gloves, or in safety-critical situations. Furthermore, the automatic adjustment of the light characteristics prevents over- or under-illumination, which improves visibility and reduces glare. In addition, the targeted selection of the required light source contributes to energy savings, as no unnecessary light sources are activated.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the lighting device according to the invention, it comprises a near-field light source, a mid-field light source, and a far-field light source, each configured for the targeted illumination of areas at different distances. The near-field light source is, for example, designed to illuminate an area directly in front of the lighting device—for instance, for reading, fine needlework, or close-range orientation—with broadly diffused, glare-free light. The mid-field light source is, for example, set to a typical working distance, such as that encountered during hiking, work, or inspections. The far-field light source, in turn, is, for example, oriented to produce a highly focused beam of light with a long range, thus serving to identify objects or landmarks at a greater distance.

[0018] The combination of these three light sources, each set to a different distance, enables particularly flexible and needs-based illumination of the surroundings. In conjunction with the distance meter and the control unit of the invention, this results in an automatic selection of the light source best suited to the detected distance. If necessary, several light sources can also be activated simultaneously, for example, when a larger area needs to be illuminated evenly.

[0019] This advanced lighting system significantly improves user comfort, visibility, and energy efficiency. The risk of overexposure or glare at close range is reduced, while simultaneously ensuring sufficient illumination at greater distances. This makes the lighting system particularly well-suited for dynamic applications where the distance to illuminated objects frequently changes – for example, during outdoor activities, rescue operations, or technical inspections.

[0020] In a further embodiment of the lighting device, the areas covered by the near-field, mid-field, and far-field light sources overlap at least partially. This means that the respective light cones are not strictly separated from one another, but rather merge in transition zones. This design enables particularly uniform illumination across different distance zones and prevents abrupt changes in brightness or dark areas when switching between light sources.

[0021] The overlapping beam areas allow the control unit to effectively activate combinations of multiple light sources to achieve a harmonious and seamless light distribution – for example, when an illuminated object is located in a transition zone between near and mid-range lighting. This enables adaptive light control with smooth transitions, resulting in a particularly pleasant and natural visual experience.

[0022] Furthermore, this measure contributes to increased operational safety, as the user always has a uniformly illuminated field of vision, regardless of the exact distance. This is particularly advantageous for moving users, such as those walking, running, or working in cluttered environments. The overlap also allows for energy-efficient control, as the intensity of the individual light sources in the overlap area can be specifically adjusted without creating unnecessary overall illuminance.

[0023] According to a particularly practical design of the lighting device, the near-field light source is configured to produce a reading light, the mid-field light source to produce a floodlight, and the far-field light source to produce a focused spotlight. Each of these light sources is specifically adapted to its respective application area with regard to its light characteristics, beam angle, and luminous intensity.

[0024] The reading light from the near-field light source is characterized by a wide, diffuse light distribution with low intensity, providing even, glare-free illumination in the immediate vicinity. It is particularly suitable for activities such as reading, studying maps, assembly work, or searching for objects in dark environments, without dazzling other people or the user.

[0025] The floodlight of the mid-range light source provides broad, evenly bright illumination of the mid-range distance, such as is typical when walking, hiking, or working at arm's length. The wide beam angle allows for good visibility of the surroundings without the user having to constantly readjust the light beam.

[0026] Finally, the spotlight of the far-field light source is highly focused and designed for maximum range. It serves to illuminate distant objects, provide orientation over longer distances, or locate markings in the distance. The narrow beam angle concentrates a high light intensity onto a small target area.

[0027] These clearly differentiated light modes make the lighting device highly suitable for a wide variety of applications. Combined with automatic distance sensing and control, this results in a system that always provides the appropriate type of light without the user having to manually switch between modes. This not only increases ease of use but also improves the efficiency, safety, and quality of illumination under changing conditions.

[0028] In one embodiment, the rangefinder of the lighting device is designed as a laser-based rangefinder. Such rangefinders typically use the time-of-flight method or a phase comparison method to determine the distance to an object located in the direction of emission with high accuracy and in real time. The use of laser light enables particularly precise, directional, and fast measurement, even over greater distances or in poor lighting conditions.

[0029] By integrating a laser-based sensor into the lighting device, distance measurement can be performed with high repeatability and resolution, enabling particularly reliable and dynamic control of the light sources. Even minor changes in distance – such as those caused by walking or moving objects – can be detected and used to adjust the light output.

[0030] Another advantage lies in the compact design and low energy consumption of modern laser distance sensors, making them particularly suitable for integration into portable devices such as headlamps or flashlights. Furthermore, the narrow measuring beam enables precise distance measurement in the direction of the light cone, without significant environmental influences distorting the measurement result.

[0031] Overall, the use of a laser-based distance meter significantly contributes to the precision, reaction speed and reliability of the automatic light control and thus supports the objective of the invention to enable demand-based and user-independent illumination.

[0032] In a further embodiment, the control unit of the lighting device is configured to repeatedly or continuously monitor the distance detected by the rangefinder and, in the event of a change in distance, to dynamically adjust the selection of the activated light source or combination of light sources. The lighting control thus occurs virtually in real time and continuously adapts to changing environmental conditions or user movements.

[0033] This function enables particularly adaptive and reactive light control: As the user moves towards or away from an object, the control unit detects the change in distance and automatically selects a suitable light characteristic for the new distance. This ensures consistently good illumination of the target area – regardless of whether the illuminated objects or the user themselves are moving.

[0034] A particular advantage of this dynamic adjustment lies in the increased ease of use, as no manual switching of light modes is required. This is especially beneficial in situations with frequently changing distances – such as terrain reconnaissance, search and rescue operations, or technical inspections. At the same time, activating only those light sources required for the current distance contributes to improved energy efficiency and longer battery life.

[0035] Furthermore, the automatic and continuous light adjustment also increases safety, as sufficient visibility is ensured at all times and the risk of under- or overexposure, glare, or dark areas is minimized. This dynamic control makes the lighting device particularly suitable for demanding or unpredictable applications.

[0036] According to another advantageous embodiment, the control unit of the lighting device is adjustable via a user interface, allowing the user to individually configure the allocation of light sources to specific distance ranges. The user interface can be implemented, for example, as buttons, a rotary control, a touch panel, or a wireless connection to a mobile app or device.

[0037] This function allows the user to customize the automatic light control to their personal preferences or specific application scenarios. For example, they can define the distance at which a particular light source should be activated or deactivated, or in which transition zones a combination of multiple light sources should be used. This allows for flexible adaptation to individual visual habits, environmental conditions, or tasks.

[0038] A particular advantage of this advanced training lies in the increased user control while maintaining the convenience of automatic operation. The automatic function is retained in principle, but is tailored to the specific needs of the user within defined parameters. For example, a user who primarily works at close range can reduce or completely deactivate the sensitivity for switching to far-field illumination, while another user who frequently switches between near and far vision can define wider transition zones.

[0039] Furthermore, such configurable control logic can also be used to improve energy efficiency or extend battery life by selectively activating light sources only when they are actually needed from the user's perspective. This individual configurability makes the lighting device particularly versatile and allows for application-specific adaptation while maintaining high user-friendliness.

[0040] In one embodiment, the lighting device is designed as a headlamp or handheld lamp. These two designs are among the most frequently used variants of portable light sources and are characterized by their compact design, ease of use, and diverse applications. Integrating the automatic light control according to the invention into these established housing designs allows the invention to be implemented in a particularly practical and user-friendly manner.

[0041] The headlamp design offers the advantage of leaving both hands free, which is particularly beneficial for manual tasks, outdoor activities like hiking or climbing, and rescue and search operations. Because the lamp is always directed towards the user's line of sight, the automatic adjustment of the light pattern directly affects the field of vision, thus improving orientation and safety at varying distances to illuminated objects.

[0042] The handheld version, on the other hand, offers maximum flexibility in terms of beam direction. The user can illuminate different areas precisely, regardless of their viewing direction or posture. Here, too, the automatic light control proves advantageous, as it eliminates the need for manual switching between light modes and allows the lamp to dynamically adjust to changing distances.

[0043] Both embodiments also benefit from the compact integration of the distance sensor and the control electronics, without requiring any significant changes to the external form or operation. The functionality according to the invention can thus be integrated into existing product lines or further developed as a new, intelligent generation of lighting. This makes the invention a technological upgrade of common lamp types with direct added value for the end user.

[0044] In one embodiment, the light sources of the lighting device are designed as light-emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs have become established as the preferred lighting technology in portable lighting systems due to their high energy efficiency, long lifespan, compact design, and robust construction. Their low power consumption makes them particularly suitable for battery-operated devices such as headlamps or handheld lamps, where long operating times with limited energy availability are crucial. Furthermore, the use of LEDs allows for the precise design of different light characteristics. For example, LEDs with various beam angles, color temperatures, and brightness profiles can be combined to create targeted near-field, mid-field, and far-field light sources, as provided in the lighting device according to the invention.Furthermore, LEDs can be very easily controlled and dimmed electronically, which makes their integration into an automatic control logic particularly simple and reliable.

[0045] Another advantage lies in the mechanical robustness of LEDs, as they are shock and vibration resistant and contain no delicate filaments or glass housings. This makes them ideal for use in harsh conditions, such as outdoors, in rescue operations, or in industrial applications. Their low heat generation compared to conventional light sources also contributes to greater safety and protects the materials used.

[0046] In combination with the inventive automatic light source control based on distance measurement, LEDs offer the ideal technical platform to realize a compact, reliable and highly functional lighting device with intelligent adaptability.

[0047] According to the invention, the control unit of the lighting device is coupled with a motion sensor and configured such that the light sources are only switched when the lighting device is held in a stable orientation for a predetermined period of time. The motion sensor – for example, in the form of an accelerometer or gyroscope – serves to detect changes in position or vibrations of the lamp.

[0048] This measure prevents unwanted or unstable switching during rapid movements or brief, unfocused glances in different directions. Instead, the light characteristics only change when the user holds the lamp steady, directed at an object or area for a defined period. This increases the reliability and predictability of the automatic control and avoids distraction or irritation caused by constant light changes in dynamic situations.

[0049] Especially during outdoor activities, running, or working in noisy environments, this function significantly enhances user comfort by aligning automatic control with the user's actual lighting intentions. Simultaneously, it increases energy efficiency, as short-term measurements irrelevant to the lighting task do not trigger the activation of another light source. This combination of distance and motion detection allows for more context-sensitive control of the lighting device, giving the system a particularly intuitive and user-friendly behavior that reflects real-world usage.

[0050] In a further embodiment, the control unit of the lighting device is configured to automatically adjust the illuminance of a single light source or multiple light sources based on the distance detected by the rangefinder. In addition to switching between different light sources, this allows for continuous or stepwise control of the light intensity, so that the brightness can be flexibly adjusted to the distance to the illuminated object.

[0051] This dynamic adjustment of the illuminance ensures consistent visual perception across varying distances. When an object is closer to the lighting device, the light intensity is automatically reduced to prevent glare and conserve energy. For objects further away, the light intensity can be increased accordingly to guarantee sufficient illumination despite the greater distance.

[0052] This function significantly contributes to visual comfort and user-friendliness, as the user does not need to intervene in the control process and yet always receives lighting adapted to the situation. Furthermore, energy efficiency is improved, since only the light output required for the respective distance is provided. The automatic brightness adjustment thus complements the distance detection and light source selection of the device according to the invention with an additional control component that can be of great practical use, especially in dynamic operating environments.

[0053] The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred embodiment and with reference to the drawings.

[0054] The drawings show Fig. 1 schematically a lighting device in the form of a headlamp according to an embodiment of the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of the lighting device Fig. 1 with its various components and Fig. 3 schematically the light distributions of the different light sources of the lighting device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0055] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows an embodiment of a lighting device 1 according to the invention. The lighting device 1 is designed as a headlamp in this case, but can also be a flashlight. In both versions, the compact design and ease of use result in high practicality, with both of the user's hands remaining free, particularly in the headlamp version, which is especially advantageous in many applications – such as in crafts, outdoor activities, or rescue operations. For this purpose, the lighting device 1 has a headband 12 with which it can be attached to the user's head.

[0056] Three light sources 2, each with different emission characteristics and aligned in the predetermined emission direction, are arranged in a housing 11. The lighting device 1 in the housing 11 also includes a distance meter 3, which is designed to detect the distance between the lighting device 1 and an object 4 located in the emission direction.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the lighting device 1 is equipped with a near-field light source 6, a mid-field light source 8, and a far-field light source 7, which are designed to illuminate different distance ranges. This functional separation enables targeted illumination in the near, mid-field, or far-field range, with the near-field light source 6 being particularly suitable for work in the immediate vicinity of the lamp—such as reading, studying maps, or assembly work. The mid-field light source 8 is designed for typical working distances, e.g., when walking, hiking, or working at arm's length. The far-field light source 7, on the other hand, is designed for greater distances and serves for the focused illumination of distant objects or landmarks.

[0058] As schematically in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the near-field light source 6 produces a reading light, selectable at 50% of the maximum illuminance for a distance of approximately 0.5 m and at 100% of the maximum illuminance for a distance of approximately 1 m. The mid-field light source 8 produces a wide-beam floodlight for typical ranges of 1 to 3 m, and the far-field light source 7 produces a focused spotlight with a long range extending well beyond 3 m. These light types can be combined, as illustrated below by the combination of floodlight and spotlight. The individual light cones of the three light sources 2 are designed for such a combination so that their illuminated areas overlap at least partially. This enables uniform illumination in transition zones between near, mid-field, and far fields, without abrupt changes in brightness or dark areas.At the same time, it is also possible to activate combinations of several light sources simultaneously to create a harmonious and cohesive lighting effect. This ensures a pleasant and consistent light perception, especially when distances change – for example, when the user moves.

[0059] In the embodiment described here, the distance meter 3 is a laser-based sensor that operates according to the time-of-flight principle or a phase comparison method. Such sensors are characterized by high measurement accuracy, short response times, and a compact design. They are particularly suitable for portable applications because they deliver precise results even under difficult lighting conditions and can be precisely aimed at an illuminated object.

[0060] As schematically in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the detected distance is processed by a control unit 5, which is configured to automatically activate a suitable light source 2 or a combination of light sources 2. This allows the light characteristics to be adapted to the specific usage situation in real time, without requiring manual intervention from the user. This not only improves ease of use but also increases safety and energy efficiency, as only the light source required for the given situation is activated. Furthermore, the risk of over- or under-illumination is minimized, which is particularly advantageous in safety-critical or high-activity situations.

[0061] Furthermore, the control unit 5 is configured to continuously or at regular intervals monitor the detected distance. When the distance changes, the selection of the light source(s) 2 is automatically and dynamically adjusted. This function enables adaptive lighting control that seamlessly adjusts to changing conditions, such as those typically encountered in mobile applications. Even with moving target objects or user movements, the illumination remains consistently appropriate and comfortable.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 2, the control unit 5 can be configured via a user interface 9. This allows the user to make individual settings – for example, defining thresholds for distance ranges or selecting specific light source combinations for particular situations. The user interface can be implemented as a keypad, rotary control, touch panel, or via a wireless connection to an external device such as a smartphone or tablet. The possibility of user configuration significantly increases the flexibility and adaptability of the lighting device without compromising the advantages of automatic control.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the light sources 2 are implemented as light-emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs offer numerous advantages for portable lighting systems, including high energy efficiency, low heat generation, long lifespan, and good controllability. Their compact design allows them to be easily integrated into a wide variety of housing shapes. Furthermore, they enable a precise definition of light characteristics—for example, by selecting suitable beam angles or color temperatures—which is particularly advantageous for creating differentiated lighting zones in the device according to the invention.

[0064] As well Fig.The lighting device 1, which can be removed from section 2, is equipped with a motion sensor 10 that is coupled to the control unit 5. The control unit is configured so that the light sources only switch when the device is held in a stable orientation for a defined period of time. This measure prevents unwanted switching, such as that caused by rapid head movements, vibrations, or when briefly pointing the light at different objects. A switch only occurs when the user deliberately and steadily points the light at a specific area. This significantly increases the reliability and user-friendliness of the automatic control.

[0065] Finally, the control unit 5 is also designed to automatically adjust the illuminance of individual light sources 2 or combinations of light sources to the detected distance. Depending on the distance, the light intensity can be increased or decreased to ensure adequate illumination at all times, avoid glare, and maximize energy efficiency. This additional control parameter expands the functionality of the automatic lighting control and allows for particularly fine-tuned and context-sensitive adjustment of the lighting conditions to changing operating conditions. Reference symbol list 1 lighting device 2 light sources 3 rangefinders 4 objects 5 Control unit 6 Near-field light source 7 Far-field light source 8 Mid-range light source 9 User Interface 10 motion sensors 11 cases 12 Headband

Claims

Lighting device (1) for emitting light in a predetermined direction of emission, comprising several light sources (2) which have different emission characteristics in the predetermined direction of emission, a distance meter (3) which is configured to detect the distance between the lighting device (1) and an object (4) located in the predetermined direction of emission, and a control unit (5) which is configured to automatically activate one of the light sources (2) or a combination of the light sources (2) on the basis of the detected distance, wherein the lighting device (1) is equipped with a motion sensor (10) coupled to the control unit (5), wherein the control unit (5) is configured to switch the light sources (2) only when the lighting device (1) is aligned in a stable orientation for a predetermined period of time. Lighting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the light sources (2) comprise a near-field light source (6) for illuminating an area closer to the lighting device (1), a far-field light source (7) for illuminating an area further away from the lighting device (1), and an intermediate-field light source (8) for illuminating an area between the near-field and the far-field area. Lighting device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the areas overlap at least partially. Lighting device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the near-field light source (6) is configured to produce a reading light, the mid-field light source (8) is configured to produce a floodlight and the far-field light source (7) is configured to produce a focused spotlight. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rangefinder (3) is a laser-based rangefinder. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (5) is configured to repeatedly or continuously monitor the distance and to dynamically adjust the selection of the light source (2) or light sources (2) when the distance changes. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (5) is adjustable via a user interface (9) to configure the assignment of light sources (2) to distance ranges. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lighting device (1) is designed as a headlamp or hand lamp. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the light sources (2) are designed as light-emitting diodes. Lighting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (5) is configured to automatically adjust the illuminance of one or more light sources (2) on the basis of the detected distance.

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