Optical device and vehicle equipped with it

Abstract

Optical device comprising: a light source array configured to emit light; a first lens arrangement positioned in front of the light source array and configured to emit light incident from the light source array forwards; a second lens arrangement positioned in front of the first lens arrangement and is configured to emit light incident from the first lens arrangement forwards; and a light-emitting lens configured to form a beam pattern by using light incident from the second lens arrangement, wherein the first lens arrangement comprises several collimator lenses, each corresponding to a light source of the light source array, and wherein each of the multiple collimator lenses has an aspherical exit surface that protrudes convexly forward.

Description

Reference to related registration(s)

[0001] This application claims priority over Korean patent applications Nos. 10-2025-0083660, 10-2025-0083661, 10-2025-0083662 and 10-2025-0083663, filed on June 24, 2025 with the Korean Patent Office, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference for all purposes. Background 1. Area

[0002] The disclosure relates to an optical device and a vehicle equipped with it, which can reduce manufacturing and assembly costs by simplifying the structure of a vehicle light. 2. Description of the related technology

[0003] Generally, a vehicle is equipped with various lights to emit light forward based on an external environment and time, in order to ensure a driver's field of vision and to inform other vehicles about a route.

[0004] Such lights are classified according to their purpose and include a headlight with the task of illuminating the front area, a turning light with the purpose of ensuring the driver's field of vision and indicating the vehicle's position, a fog light with the task of ensuring the driver's field of vision and indicating the vehicle's position together with the headlight in fog or rain, a reversing light which is switched on when the vehicle is moving backwards, a brake light which is switched on when a driver applies a brake, etc.

[0005] The existing vehicle lighting system has primarily used halogen lamps. When a halogen lamp is used as the light source, a reflector reflects the light emitted by the halogen lamp, and the light reflected by the reflector is then directed forward. While halogen lamps are advantageously inexpensive, they also have disadvantages, such as generating a lot of heat during operation, providing low luminous efficacy relative to the amount of electricity consumed, and having a short lifespan.

[0006] To solve these problems, a vehicle light was developed that uses a light-emitting diode (LED). The LED light has the advantages of high luminosity, a long lifespan, and low power consumption.

[0007] In general, the headlight serves to ensure the driver's forward visibility and is designed to operate in either low beam or high beam mode. The low beam primarily serves to avoid obstructing the view of the driver of another vehicle if that vehicle is in front of the driver, while the high beam provides a clearer view ahead when there is no other vehicle in front.

[0008] However, if the driver manually switches between low and high beam modes while driving, driving safety is compromised. To avoid this problem, adaptive high beam (ADB) technology for headlights has been developed, which can be implemented so that the high beam mode is always activated without dazzling oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead.

[0009] This means that the ADB headlight is a vehicle light in which several LEDs are independently switched on and off to project the high beam except for the area of ​​an oncoming vehicle and a vehicle ahead, which are detected via a front camera, thus improving the driver's visibility.

[0010] However, in this case, the problems arise because light sources for the respective low and high beams must be installed separately, the degree of design freedom is limited due to the complexity of the lens structure, and manufacturing costs increase. Therefore, there is a need for a way to simplify the structure of the ADB headlight while resolving the problems described above. Summary

[0011] The disclosure is based on the provision of an optical device and a vehicle equipped therewith, and in particular the provision of an optical device and a vehicle equipped therewith, which can reduce manufacturing and assembly costs by simplifying the structure of a vehicle light.

[0012] Furthermore, the disclosure is said to provide an optical device and a vehicle equipped with it that can realize a bifunctional light via a lens-shaped form, while LEDs of a light source array are placed on the same plane.

[0013] The technical purposes to be achieved through the disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned technical purposes, and other, unmentioned technical purposes are clearly evident to the person skilled in the field of the disclosure from the following description.

[0014] In a general aspect, an optical device comprises: a light source array configured to emit light, a first lens arrangement positioned in front of the light source array and configured to emit light incident from the light source array forward, a second lens arrangement positioned in front of the first lens arrangement and configured to emit light incident from the first lens arrangement forward, and a light-emitting lens configured to form a beam pattern using light incident from the second lens arrangement, wherein the first lens arrangement comprises multiple collimator lenses, each corresponding to a light source of the light source array, and wherein each of the multiple collimator lenses has an aspherical exit surface projecting convexly forward.

[0015] The first lens arrangement can be designed such that a central section of one of the several collimator lenses is positioned at a position that corresponds to a central section of the second lens arrangement.

[0016] The first lens arrangement can be designed such that a central section between adjacent collimator lenses is positioned among the multiple collimator lenses at a position that corresponds to a central section of the second lens arrangement.

[0017] The second lens arrangement can have an aspherical upper incidence surface that projects convexly to the rear, and a lower incidence surface that forms a continuous surface with the upper incidence surface.

[0018] A curvature in an upward-downward direction from a center of the upper incidence surface and a curvature in the upward-downward direction from a center of the lower incidence surface can differ from each other.

[0019] The lower incidence surface can have an aspherical shape, projecting convexly to the rear or concavely recessed to the front.

[0020] The lower incidence surface may have a curved shape, bent in a forward-backward direction.

[0021] The second lens arrangement can be formed by connecting an upper lens, on which the upper incidence surface is formed, with a lower lens, on which the lower incidence surface is formed.

[0022] The light sources of the light source array can be spaced apart from each other in a left-right direction and arranged on the same plane.

[0023] At least one of the multiple collimator lenses can be inclined to define a path of light incident on the second lens arrangement through its exit surface.

[0024] A collimator lens among the multiple collimator lenses, which lies in an area other than a central section, may be tilted.

[0025] The multiple collimator lenses can be tilted more steeply the further they are positioned from a central section towards both side edges in a left-right direction.

[0026] An incidence surface of a collimator lens among the multiple collimator lenses positioned on a central section can be designed to be stepped in a forward-backward direction.

[0027] The incidence surfaces of the multiple collimator lenses can be designed in such a way that they are stepped.

[0028] The multiple collimator lenses can have different curvatures of their exit surfaces, each of the different curvatures being able to correspond to a distance between an incidence surface of each collimator lens and the light source array, and variations of the distance being able to depend on a step formed on the incidence surface.

[0029] The first lens arrangement can have an incidence surface with an upper section and a lower section with different shapes.

[0030] The upper section of the incidence surface of the first lens arrangement can have a planar shape, while the lower section of the incidence surface of the first lens arrangement can be formed by backward bending.

[0031] The lower section of the incidence surface of the first lens arrangement can have an aspherical shape that protrudes convexly forward.

[0032] The lower section of the incidence surface of the first lens arrangement can have different curvatures at an upper and a lower area thereof.

[0033] In another general aspect, a vehicle may comprise: a vehicle body, a lighting structure positioned on a front surface of the vehicle body, and an optical device embedded in the lighting structure, wherein the optical device comprises: a light source array configured to emit light, a first lens arrangement positioned in front of the light source array and configured to emit light incident from the light source array forward, a second lens arrangement positioned in front of the first lens arrangement and configured to emit light incident from the first lens arrangement forward, and a light-emitting lens configured to form a beam pattern using light incident from the second lens arrangement, wherein the first lens arrangement comprises multiple collimator lenses, each corresponding to light sources of the light source array.and wherein each of the multiple collimator lenses has an aspherical exit surface that projects convexly forward.

[0034] The optical device and the vehicle equipped with it, as disclosed, can reduce manufacturing and assembly costs by simplifying the structure of the vehicle light.

[0035] Furthermore, the bifunctional luminaire can be realized through the shape of the lens, while the LEDs of the light source array are placed on the same plane.

[0036] The effects achievable through revelation are not limited to the aforementioned effects, and other, unmentioned effects will be clearly understandable to the expert in the field of revelation from the following description. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a top view of an optical device according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first lens arrangement and a second lens arrangement in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a view of an upper incidence surface and a lower incidence surface of a second lens arrangement in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is a view of a realization feature of a bifunctional luminaire by an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is a view of a shape in which a central section of a collimator lens is positioned at a position corresponding to a central section of a second lens arrangement in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is a view of a shape in which a central section between adjacent collimator lenses is positioned at a position corresponding to a central section of a second lens arrangement in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 is a view illustrating a feature in which several collimator lenses in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure are inclined. Fig. Figure 9 is a view illustrating a feature in which several collimator lenses in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure are inclined more strongly the further they are positioned from a central section towards both side edges in a left-right direction. Fig. Figure 10 is a view of a shape in which an incidence surface of a collimator lens located on a central section is formed in a stepped manner in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 11 and Fig. Figure 12 are views of shapes in which the incidence surfaces of several collimator lenses in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure are formed in a graduated manner. Fig. 13 and Fig. Figure 14 are views of a feature for defining an optical path through a shape of an incidence surface of a collimator lens in an optical device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. More detailed description

[0037] In the following description of examples or embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which show specific examples or embodiments that can be realized for illustrative purposes and in which the same reference numerals and symbols can be used to designate identical or similar components, even if they are shown in different accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description of examples or embodiments of the disclosure, more detailed descriptions of known functions and components included herein are omitted if it is determined that the description might make the subject matter rather unclear in some embodiments of the disclosure.The names of the individual elements used in the following explanations may only be chosen for the convenience of descriptive language and may therefore differ from those used in actual products. Terms used here, such as "contain," "have," "include," "form," "manufactured from," and "formed from," are generally intended to allow the addition of other components, unless the terms are used with the word "only." In usage herein, singular forms are intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," "A," "B," "(A)," or "(B)" may be used here to describe elements of revelation. Each of these terms does not serve to define the nature, order, sequence, or number of elements, etc., but merely to distinguish the respective element from other elements.

[0039] The shapes, sizes, dimensions (e.g., length, width, height, thickness, radius, diameter, area, etc.), ratios, angles, number of elements, ratios, angles, numbers, and the like, shown in the drawings to describe various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, serve only as examples. Therefore, the disclosure is not limited to the representations in the drawings. Each realization described herein as an "example" is not necessarily to be understood as preferred or advantageous over other realizations.

[0040] The word "exemplary" is used to indicate that something serves as an example or illustration. Embodiments are exemplary embodiments. Aspects are exemplary aspects. Any realization described herein as an "example" is not necessarily "execution." "Forms," ​​"examples," "aspects," etc., should not be construed as preferable or advantageous over other realizations. An embodiment, an example, an exemplary embodiment, an aspect, etc., may refer to one or more embodiments, one or more examples, one or more exemplary embodiments, one or more aspects, etc., unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the term "may" encompasses all meanings of the term "capable."

[0041] When it is mentioned that a first element is "connected or coupled," "contacts or overlaps," etc., with a second element, this should be interpreted to mean that the first element can not only be "directly connected or coupled" to the second element, or "directly contact or overlap," but that a third element can also be "inserted" between the first and second elements, or that the first and second elements can be "connected or coupled," "contact or overlap," etc., via a fourth element. In this context, the second element can belong to at least one of two or more elements that are "connected or coupled," "contact or overlap," etc., with each other.

[0042] When time-related terms such as "after", "subsequent", "next", "before", etc. are used to describe processes or operational sequences of elements or configurations or sequences or steps in operational, processing or manufacturing procedures, these terms may be used to describe non-sequential or non-subsequent sequences or processes unless the term "direct" or "immediately" is used together with them.

[0043] Terms such as "below," "under," "above," "above," etc., can be used here to describe a relationship between elements depicted in the drawings. It is understood that these terms are spatially relative and based on the orientation shown in the drawings.

[0044] When dimensions, relative sizes, etc., are mentioned, it should also be considered that numerical values ​​for elements or characteristics, or corresponding specifications (e.g., level, range, etc.), include a tolerance or error range that may be caused by various factors (e.g., process factors, internal or external influences, noise, etc.), even if no description is provided. Furthermore, the term "can" fully encompasses all meanings of the term "capable."

[0045] Features of different embodiments of the disclosure may be partially or completely coupled or combined and, as is sufficiently known to those skilled in the art, may interact and be technically controlled in various ways. Embodiments of the disclosure may be carried out independently or in mutual dependence on one another.

[0046] The term "or" denotes an "inclusive or" and not an "exclusive or". That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, the expression "x uses a or b" denotes any of the natural inclusive permutations. For example, "a or b" can mean "a", "b", or "a and b". For example, "a, b, or c" can mean "a", "b", "c", "a and b", "b and c", "a and c", or "a, b, and c".

[0047] The phrase "an element (e.g., layer, film, region, component, section, etc.) is provided for," "arranged," etc., within another element can be understood to mean that at least a section of the element is provided for or arranged within another element, or that the entire element is provided for or arranged within another element. The phrase "an element (e.g., layer, film, region, component, section, etc.) contacts," "overlaps," etc., another element can be understood to mean that at least one section of the element contacts, overlaps, etc., at least one section of another element, that the entire element contacts, overlaps, etc., at least one section of another element, or that at least one section of the element contacts, overlaps, etc., the entire other element.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meanings as they are commonly understood by a person skilled in the field of exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, it is understood that terms as defined in common dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent, for example, with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein. For example, the term "part" or "unit" may refer to a separate circuit or structure, an integrated circuit, a computing block of a circuit device, or any structure configured to perform a described function, which should be clear to a person skilled in the art.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of an optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a top view of the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first lens arrangement 120 and a second lens arrangement 130 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a view of an upper incidence surface 131 and a lower incidence surface 132 of the second lens arrangement 130 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, Fig. 5 a view of a realization feature of a bifunctional luminaire by the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] With common reference to Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the optical device 100 can comprise a light source array 110, the first lens arrangement 120, the second lens arrangement 130, and a light output lens 140. The optical device 100 according to the disclosure can be embedded in a lighting structure located on the front surface of a vehicle body and can perform the function of an adaptive high beam (ADB) headlight.

[0051] As previously described, the headlight serves to ensure the driver's forward visibility and is designed to operate in either a low beam or a high beam mode. The low beam primarily serves to avoid obstructing the view of the driver of another vehicle when that vehicle is in front, while the high beam serves to provide a clearer view ahead when there is no other vehicle in front.

[0052] However, if the driver manually switches between low beam and high beam modes while driving, driving safety is compromised. To avoid this problem, ADB headlight technology was developed, which allows the high beam mode to be activated at all times without dazzling oncoming and preceding vehicles.

[0053] This means that the ADB headlight is a vehicle light in which several light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are switched on and off independently of each other to project the high beam, except for the area of ​​an oncoming vehicle and a vehicle ahead, which are detected by a front camera, thus improving visibility for the driver. Furthermore, the disclosed optical device 100 can perform the function of the ADB headlight described above.

[0054] However, in this case, problems arise because light sources for the respective implementation of the low beam and high beam would have to be installed separately, design freedom is limited due to the complexity of a lens structure, and manufacturing costs increase. Therefore, optical device 100, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, aims to simplify the structure of the ADB headlight while simultaneously solving the problems described above.

[0055] In the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the light source array 110 can serve to emit light. Furthermore, the light source can, as described, comprise the LED.

[0056] Furthermore, in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the multiple LEDs of the light source array 110 can be switched on and off independently to perform the function of the ADB spotlight. In addition, each of the multiple LEDs that are switched on and off independently can form a segment pattern.

[0057] Here, the LEDs of the light source array 110 can be spaced apart from each other in a left-right direction (an x-axis direction) and arranged on the same plane, which Fig. Figure 2 shows. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the optical device 100 can additionally have a printed circuit board 150, and the light source array 110 can be mounted on a front surface of the printed circuit board 150.

[0058] Therefore, in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, no light sources need to be installed separately to realize the low beam or high beam, which simplifies the structure of the ADB headlight.

[0059] The first lens arrangement 120 can be positioned in front of (in a z-axis direction) the light source array 110 and serves to emit light incident on the light source array 110 forward (in the z-axis direction). The first lens arrangement 120 can be composed of several collimator lenses 121, each corresponding to the LEDs of the light source array 110. Furthermore, each of the several collimator lenses 121 can have an aspherical exit surface 122 that projects convexly forward (in the z-axis direction).

[0060] Thus, the first lens arrangement 120 can serve to collect light emitted by the light source array 110 and guide the light to the second lens arrangement 130. Additionally, the size of the previously described segment pattern can be determined by each of the multiple collimator lenses 121.

[0061] Furthermore, the second lens arrangement 130 can be positioned in front of (in the z-axis direction) the first lens arrangement 120 and serve to emit light incident from the first lens arrangement 120 forwards (in the z-axis direction). The light-emitting lens 140 can serve to form a beam pattern using light incident from the second lens arrangement 130. This beam pattern can be formed by a combination of the segment patterns generated by independently switching the LEDs of the previously described light source array 110 on and off.

[0062] In the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the second lens arrangement 130 can have an aspherical upper incidence surface 131, which projects convexly backward (in the z-axis direction), and a lower incidence surface 132, which forms a surface continuous with the upper incidence surface 131. Furthermore, the maximum luminous intensity can be determined by the shape of the upper incidence surface 131. In addition, a beam angle of the previously described segment pattern can be determined by a shape of the lower incidence surface 132.

[0063] Therefore, according to Fig. 4 In the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the shapes of the incident surfaces in an upper region A and a lower region B of the second lens arrangement 130 can differ from one another. Furthermore, a curvature in an upward-downward direction (a y-axis direction) from a center of the upper incident surface 131 and a curvature in the upward-downward direction (the y-axis direction) from a center of the lower incident surface 132 can differ from one another.

[0064] Furthermore, in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the lower incidence surface 132 can have an aspherical shape that projects convexly to the rear (in the z-axis direction) or is concavely recessed to the front (in the z-axis direction). In addition, the lower incidence surface 132 can have a curved shape that is bent in a forward-backward direction (the z-axis direction).

[0065] Additionally, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second lens arrangement 130 can be formed by connecting an upper lens 133, on which the upper incidence surface 131 is formed, with a lower lens 134, on which the lower incidence surface 132 is formed.

[0066] In particular, according to Fig. 4. The optical device 100, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, tilts an optical axis L1 of the first lens arrangement 120 and the second lens arrangement 130. The tilting of the optical axis L1 as such can, for example, be realized by means of a structure in which the first lens arrangement 120 or the second lens arrangement 130 is tilted. In addition, according to Fig. 5 the optical axis L1 of the first lens arrangement 120 and the second lens arrangement 130 lie below an optical axis L2 of the light output lens 140.

[0067] Therefore, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the LEDs of the light source array 110 can be arranged on the same plane by the shapes of the upper incidence surface 131 and the lower incidence surface 132 of the second lens arrangement 130 and the inclination of the optical axis L1 of the first lens arrangement 120 and the second lens arrangement 130 in order to realize the high beam and the low beam.

[0068] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the optical device 100 can place the LEDs of the light source array 110 on the same plane and realize the high beam and low beam only through the single light output lens 140 via the shape of the second lens arrangement 130, thus realizing a bifunctional lighting structure.

[0069] Fig. Figure 6 is a view of a shape in which a central section C2 of a collimator lens 121b is positioned at a position corresponding to a central section C1 of the second lens arrangement 130 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is a view of a shape in which a central section C3 between adjacent collimator lenses 121e and 121f is positioned at a position corresponding to the central section C1 of the second lens arrangement 130 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0070] As previously based on Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As described in Figure 3, in one embodiment of the disclosure, the first lens arrangement 120 of the optical device 100 can be composed of several collimator lenses 121, each corresponding to the LEDs of the light source array 110. Furthermore, each of the several collimator lenses 121 can have the aspherical exit surface 122, which projects convexly forward (in the z-axis direction).

[0071] In this case, according to Fig. 6 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure the first lens arrangement 120 is configured such that the central section C2 of the collimator lens 121b is positioned at the position corresponding to the central section C1 of the second lens arrangement 130.

[0072] Since, in this case, three collimator lenses 121a, 121b, and 121c influence the average luminous intensity, this results in the formation of a beam pattern with a relatively uniform illuminance. Furthermore, since an optical axis of the collimator lens 121b coincides with an optical axis of the optical device 100 according to the disclosure, it can be advantageous to provide a degree of freedom in the design, e.g., regarding the shapes, sizes, and arrangement of the lenses.

[0073] Furthermore, according to Fig. 7 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure the first lens arrangement 120 is designed such that the central section C3 between the adjacent collimator lenses 121e and 121f is positioned at the position corresponding to the central section C1 of the second lens arrangement 130.

[0074] Since four collimator lenses (121d, 121e, 121f, and 121g) influence the average luminous intensity in this case, a relatively high average luminous intensity can be ensured. Furthermore, if a margin is guaranteed with respect to the maximum luminous intensity required by law or regulations, a margin is also achieved in the power consumption of the LEDs, thus reducing power consumption.

[0075] Even if a problem such as a failure occurs in some of the LEDs corresponding to the four collimator lenses 121d, 121e, 121f and 121g, which influence the average luminous intensity, their influence on the formation of the beam pattern can be minimized. This allows the function of the disclosed optical device 100 to be performed continuously.

[0076] Fig. Figure 8 is a view illustrating a feature in which the multiple collimator lenses 121 in the optical device 100 are inclined according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, Fig. 9 a view to illustrate a feature in which the multiple collimator lenses 121 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure are inclined more strongly the further away they are positioned from a central section towards both side edges in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction).

[0077] As previously based on Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As described in Figure 3, in one embodiment of the disclosure, the first lens arrangement 120 of the optical device 100 can be composed of several collimator lenses 121, each corresponding to the LEDs of the light source array 110. Furthermore, each of the several collimator lenses 121 can have the aspherical exit surface 122, which projects convexly forward (in the z-axis direction).

[0078] Furthermore, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, at least one of the several collimator lenses 121 can be inclined to define a path of light falling on the second lens arrangement 130 via its exit surface 122.

[0079] With common reference to Fig. 8 is a collimator lens 121 located in the central segment, the collimator lens 121 corresponding to a central segment area that influences the average light intensity. Accordingly, several collimator lenses 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, 121h, and 121i can denote collimator lenses 121 located in areas other than the central segment. Furthermore, the number of collimator lenses 121 corresponding to the central segment area that influences the average light intensity can differ from the shape of the first lens arrangement 120, as shown in the figure. Fig. 6 must be greater than one.

[0080] In this case, according to Fig. In the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the multiple collimator lenses 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, 121h and 121i, which are located in regions other than the central section, can be tilted. Thus, a path of light falling onto the second lens arrangement 130 from the exit surface 122 of each of the multiple collimator lenses 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, 121h and 121i can be adjusted.

[0081] This means that in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, each of the several collimator lenses 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, 121h and 121i can be inclined in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction) and adjust the path of the light incident on the second lens arrangement 130 in a latitude direction of the second lens arrangement 130. Therefore, the light output can be increased by increasing the maximum light intensity, and the design freedom, e.g., the shapes, sizes and arrangement of the lenses, can be advantageously ensured.

[0082] Furthermore, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the multiple collimator lenses 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, 121e, 121f, 121g, 121h and 121i can be inclined more strongly the further away from the central section they are positioned towards both side edges in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction).

[0083] With common reference to Fig. 9 In the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the several collimator lenses 121 can be inclined such that the degree of inclination increases from the collimator lens 121e, which is positioned on a relatively central section, to the collimator lens 121i, which is positioned on each side edge in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction).

[0084] In this respect, the slope from the central section to both side edges in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction) can be applied linearly.

[0085] Furthermore, the inclination value can be applied in different ways depending on a beam pattern required by design specifications. For example, the multiple collimator lenses 121 can be divided based on segment areas, and the inclination values ​​of the collimator lenses 121 can be designed to be the same in each segment area.

[0086] In particular, in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the collimator lens 121i, which is positioned at each side edge in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction), can be inclined most steeply, and accordingly, the width in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction) of the light incident on the second lens arrangement 130 can be reduced. This is advantageous from a design perspective, since the second lens arrangement 130 is formed by reducing its width in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction).

[0087] Furthermore, the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure is advantageous in that the curvatures of the previously described upper incidence surface 131 and lower incidence surface 132 can be increased by the second lens arrangement 130, which is designed with the reduced width. This allows the light output to be increased by raising the maximum luminous intensity, and the degree of design freedom, e.g., the shapes, sizes, and arrangement of the lenses, can be advantageously ensured.

[0088] Fig. Figure 10 is a view of a shape in which an incidence surface 1211a of a collimator lens 121a, located on the central section, is formed in a step-like manner in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 views of shapes in which incidence surfaces 1211a, 1211b and 1211c of several collimator lenses 121a, 121b and 121c in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure are formed in a step-like manner.

[0089] As previously based on Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As described in Figure 3, in one embodiment of the disclosure, the first lens arrangement 120 of the optical device 100 can be composed of several collimator lenses 121, each corresponding to the LEDs of the light source array 110. Furthermore, each of the several collimator lenses 121 can have the aspherical exit surface 122, which projects convexly forward (in the z-axis direction).

[0090] In this case, according to Fig. 10 In the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the incidence surface 1211a of the collimator lens 121a, which is located on the central section below the several collimator lenses 121, is designed such that it is stepped in the forward-backward direction (the z-axis direction). The collimator lens 121a located on the central section can be the collimator lens 121a that corresponds to the central segment area that influences the average luminous intensity.

[0091] This means that in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the focal lengths of the several collimator lenses 121, which form the first lens arrangement 120, are not designed to be identical. Rather, the focal length of the collimator lens 121a located on the central section can be designed differently.

[0092] According to Fig. In the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the incidence surface 1211a of the collimator lens 121a located on the central section can be designed such that it is stepped forward (in the z-axis direction). Accordingly, the focal length of the collimator lens 121a located on the central section of the first lens arrangement 120 can be relatively larger than that of a collimator lens 121a located on an outer section of the first lens arrangement 120.

[0093] The reason for this is that the performance of the ADB headlight within a 10-degree range in the left-right direction depends on the center of the formed beam pattern. Therefore, increasing the focal length of the central section of the first lens assembly 120, which forms the beam pattern within approximately 10 degrees, can increase the average light intensity and reduce the width of the segment pattern.

[0094] On the other hand, the light transmission decreases with increasing focal length. In this case, the overall reduction in light transmission can be resolved if the focal length at the outer section of the first lens arrangement 120, where the width of the segment pattern is relatively less important, is made relatively shorter than that at the central section of the first lens arrangement 120.

[0095] Based on the principle described above, the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can thus design the incidence surfaces 1211a, 1211b and 1211c of the multiple collimator lenses 121a, 121b and 121c, which are formed on the central section of the first lens arrangement 120, such that they are stepped forward (in the z-axis direction), which Fig. Figure 11 shows. The steps formed by the incidence surfaces 1211a, 1211b and 1211c of the several collimator lenses 121a, 121b and 121c formed on the central section can be identical.

[0096] That is, the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure can form the steps on the incident surfaces 1211a, 1211b and 1211c of the collimator lenses 121a, 121b and 121c, which correspond to the central segment region that influences the mean light intensity. In this case, as previously described, the focal length at the central section of the first lens arrangement 120 can be increased to increase the mean light intensity and decrease the width of the segment pattern.

[0097] Additionally, the focal length at the outer section of the first lens arrangement 120, where the width of the segment pattern is relatively less important, can be designed to be relatively smaller than a focal length at the collimator lenses 121a, 121b and 121c, which correspond to the middle segment area, so that the overall reduction in light yield can be solved.

[0098] Furthermore, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the multiple collimator lenses 121 can have different curvatures of their exit surfaces 122, wherein each curvature is determined according to a distance between each incidence surface 1211 and the light source array 110 and the distance varies depending on the step formed on the incidence surface 1211.

[0099] That is, among the several collimator lenses 121, the collimator lenses 121a are in Fig. 12 or Fig. 121a, Fig. 121b and Fig. 121c in Fig. 9, in which the steps are formed on their incidence surfaces 1211, the collimator lenses 121, which correspond to the central segment area that influences the average luminous intensity. Since the step is formed on the incidence surface 1211 and thus the distance between the incidence surface and the light source array 110 increases, the curvature of the exit surface 122 can be relatively smaller.

[0100] Furthermore, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure as described above, the incidence surfaces 1211 of the several collimator lenses 121 can be designed in a step-like manner to increase the focal length at the central section of the first lens arrangement 120 and to cause the focal length at the outer section of the first lens arrangement 120 to become relatively smaller.

[0101] For example, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure according to Fig. 12 the incidence surfaces 1211a, 1211b and 1211c of the several collimator lenses 121a, 121b and 121c, which are formed on the central section of the first lens arrangement 120, are formed in a step-like manner.

[0102] Furthermore, based on the same principle, in an embodiment of the disclosure, the multiple collimator lenses 121 in the optical device 100 can be configured such that their incidence surfaces 1211 are stepped, with the step height decreasing progressively from the collimator lens located at the central section towards the collimator lenses located at both side edges in the left-right direction (the x-axis direction). With this configuration, the focal length at the central section of the first lens arrangement 120 can be made relatively longer, which increases the average luminous intensity and improves the performance of the ADB spotlight.

[0103] Fig. 13 and Fig. Figure 14 are views illustrating a feature for defining an optical path through a shape of the incidence surface 1211 of the collimator lens 121 in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0104] As previously based on Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As described in Figure 3, in one embodiment of the disclosure, the first lens arrangement 120 of the optical device 100 can be composed of several collimator lenses 121, each corresponding to the LEDs of the light source array 110. Furthermore, each of the several collimator lenses 121 can have the aspherical exit surface 122, which projects convexly forward (in the z-axis direction).

[0105] Additionally, according to Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 In the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, each of the several collimator lenses 121 has an incidence surface 1211 with different shapes of an upper section 1211a1 and a lower section 1211b1 and 1211b2. Furthermore, the incidence surface 1211 can define the optical path along which light from the light source array 110 is transmitted to the second lens arrangement. Further details will be described later.

[0106] As previously based on Fig. 13 and Fig. As described in Figure 14, the optical device 100, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, can tilt the optical axis L1 of the first lens arrangement 120 and the second lens arrangement 130. The tilting of the optical axis L1 itself can be achieved, for example, via the structure in which the first lens arrangement 120 or the second lens arrangement 130 is tilted. Additionally, the incident surface 1211, which has a planar shape, can also be tilted.

[0107] This can be done with simultaneous reference to Fig. 14 In the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the upper section 1211a1 of the incidence surface 1211 has a planar shape, and the lower sections 1211b1 and 1211b2 of the incidence surface 1211 can be designed such that they are bent backwards (in the z-axis direction) from the upper section 1211a1. This allows an efficient beam pattern of the ADB spotlight to be formed by controlling the optical path.

[0108] Traditionally, to ensure a legally or regulatory-required upward angle of the beam pattern, a curvature at the lower end of an incident section formed on a second lens was used. In this case, due to the transition between curves at the upper and lower ends of the incident section, it was difficult to control the luminous intensity, resulting in a discontinuity in the formed beam pattern.

[0109] Accordingly, the optical device 100, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, can define the optical path via the shape of the lower section 1211b1 and 1211b2, which is bent backwards (in the z-axis direction) from the upper section 1211a1 of the incidence surface 1211, thereby reducing the luminous intensity in a region C. Fig. 13 is easily controlled. That is, the problem described above can be solved via the shape of the lower section 1211b1 and 1211b2 of the incidence surface 1211 without the determination of the curvature being subject to a restriction caused by the turn between the upper incidence surface 131 and the lower incidence surface 132 of the second lens arrangement 130.

[0110] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the optical device 100 can define the optical path through the incidence surface 1211 with the different shapes of the upper section 1211a1 and the lower section 1211b1 and 1211b2 according to Fig. 6 define, so that the upward angle of the beam pattern in the ADB headlight can be easily ensured.

[0111] Additionally, based on the same principle, in the optical device 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the lower sections 1211b1 and 1211b2 of the incidence surface 1211 can have an aspherical shape that is convexly recessed forward (in the z-axis direction). The curvatures of an upper region 1211b1 and a lower region 1211b2 can differ from each other.

[0112] For example, according to Fig.14 the curvature of the lower region 1211b2 may be greater than the curvature of the upper region 1211b1. This allows the luminous intensity and the securing of the upward angle to be more easily controlled, and the efficient beam pattern of the ADB headlight can be formed by controlling the optical path.

[0113] Additionally, in the optical device 100 according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the incidence surface 1211 can have a curved shape, in which the curvatures of the upper section 1211a1 and the lower sections 1211b1 and 1211b2 differ from one another. For example, the curvature of the lower sections 1211b1 and 1211b2 can be greater than the curvature of the upper section 1211a1. Thus, the lower sections 1211b1 and 1211b2 can be bent more strongly backward (in the z-axis direction) than the upper section 1211a1, so that, as described above, the luminous intensity and the upward angle can be more easily controlled, and the efficient beam pattern of the ADB spotlight can be formed by controlling the optical path.

[0114] In summary, the optical device and the vehicle equipped with it, as disclosed, can reduce manufacturing and assembly costs by simplifying the structure of the vehicle light. Furthermore, the bifunctional light can be achieved through the shape of the lens, while the LEDs of the light source array are positioned on the same plane.

[0115] The foregoing description is intended to enable a person skilled in the art to implement and utilize the technical concept of the disclosure and has been presented in connection with a specific application and its requirements. Various modifications, additions, and substitutions of the described embodiments will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the fundamental concept and scope of protection of the disclosure. The foregoing description and the accompanying drawings serve only as an illustration of the technical concept of the disclosure. That is to say, the disclosed embodiments are intended to illustrate the scope of protection of the technical concept of the disclosure. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] KR 10-2025-0083660,

[0001] KR 10-2025-0083661,

[0001] KR 10-2025-0083662 and

[0001] KR 10-2025-0083663

[0001]

Claims

[1] Optical device comprising: a light source array configured to emit light; a first lens arrangement positioned in front of the light source array and configured to emit light incident from the light source array forwards; a second lens arrangement positioned in front of the first lens arrangement and is configured to emit light incident from the first lens arrangement forwards; and a light-emitting lens configured to form a beam pattern by using light incident from the second lens arrangement, wherein the first lens arrangement comprises several collimator lenses, each corresponding to a light source of the light source array, and wherein each of the multiple collimator lenses has an aspherical exit surface that protrudes convexly forward. [2] Optical device according to claim 1, wherein the first lens arrangement is configured such that a central section of one of the multiple collimator lenses is positioned at a position corresponding to a central section of the second lens arrangement. [3] Optical device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second lens arrangement comprises: an aspherical upper incidence surface that projects convexly to the rear; and a lower incidence surface that forms a continuous surface with the upper incidence surface. [4] Optical device according to claim 3, wherein a curvature in an upward-downward direction from a center of the upper incidence surface and a curvature in the upward-downward direction from a center of the lower incidence surface are distinct from each other. [5] Optical device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the second lens arrangement is formed by connecting an upper lens, on which the upper incidence surface is formed, with a lower lens, on which the lower incidence surface is formed. [6] Optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the multiple collimator lenses is inclined to define a path of light incident on the second lens arrangement through its exit surface. [7] Optical device according to claim 6, wherein one collimator lens among the multiple collimator lenses, which is located in a region other than a central section, is inclined, wherein the multiple collimator lenses are inclined more strongly the further they are from a central section towards both side edges in a left-right direction. [8] Optical device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein an incidence surface of a collimator lens among the multiple collimator lenses positioned on a central section is stepped in a forward-backward direction. [9] Optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first lens arrangement has an incidence surface with an upper section and a lower section having different shapes, wherein the upper section of the incidence surface of the first lens arrangement has a planar shape and wherein the lower section of the incidence surface of the first lens arrangement is formed by backward bending. [10] Vehicle which features: a vehicle body; a lighting structure positioned on a front surface of the vehicle body; and an optical device embedded in the luminaire structure, the optical device comprises: a light source array configured to emit light; a first lens arrangement positioned in front of the light source array and is configured to emit light incident from the light source array forwards; a second lens arrangement positioned in front of the first lens arrangement and configured to emit light incident from the first lens arrangement forward; and a light-emitting lens configured to form a beam pattern by using light emitted from the second lens arrangement comes to mind wherein the first lens arrangement comprises several collimator lenses, each corresponding to a light source of the light source array, and wherein each of the multiple collimator lenses has an aspherical exit surface that protrudes convexly forward.

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