Side marker light for mounting on a side wall of a vehicle and vehicle with at least one side marker light

The dual LED side marker light system addresses the visibility issue by integrating yellow-orange and white lighting for enhanced vehicle contour visibility, improving safety in low-light conditions without additional structural support.

DE202026100128U1Active Publication Date: 2026-04-09IGOR DÜRNBERGER AUTOMOTIVE LIGHTS GMBH
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Utility models
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2026-01-09
Publication Date
2026-04-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing side marker lights on commercial vehicles do not adequately enhance vehicle visibility, especially in low-light conditions, failing to provide sufficient contour lighting for maneuvering and visibility of the vehicle's outline.

Method used

A side marker light system with dual LED configurations, where first LEDs emit predominantly yellow-orange light for conventional marking and second LEDs emit white light downwards or obliquely downwards for contour lighting, integrated into a single unit without additional structural support, enhancing visibility along the vehicle's side and ground area.

Benefits of technology

Improves vehicle visibility and maneuvering safety by providing both conventional marking and contour lighting, especially in darkness or poor visibility, without requiring separate structural support for additional lighting.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Side marker light (10-1 to 10-5, 14, 58, 78) for mounting on a side wall of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle (2), wherein the side marker light (10-1 to 10-5, 14, 58, 78) comprises: - a case back (18, 66, 82), - a light disk (16, 60, 80) which is connected to the housing rear (18, 66, 82), wherein the light disk (16, 60, 80) has a first light emission area (28), - at least one first LED (40, 70, 92) which is mechanically connected to the housing rear (18, 66, 82) and is designed to emit first light into a first solid angle area through the first light emission area (28), wherein the first light emitted from the first light emission area (28) is entirely or predominantly yellow-orange light, - a second light emission area provided in the lower part of the side marker lamp (10-1 to 10-5, 14, 58, 78), and - at least one second LED (44, 72, 94) which is mechanically connected to the rear of the housing (18, 66, 82) and is designed to emit second light through the second light emission area into a second solid angle area directed downwards or obliquely downwards.
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Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to a side marker light for mounting on the side wall of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle. The invention further relates to a vehicle having at least one side marker light.

[0002] Side marker lights are mounted on the sides of commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, or trailers. They serve to identify the vehicle, especially in darkness or poor visibility. Side marker lights increase road safety by making the vehicle's width, length, and movements visible to other road users. This helps prevent accidents, such as those caused by blind spots on large vehicles, particularly for cyclists and pedestrians. The problem underlying the invention

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a side marker light and a vehicle that makes it possible to make the contour of the vehicle more visible, especially in darkness and poor visibility. Inventive solution

[0004] The problem is solved by a side marker light for mounting on the side of a vehicle, particularly a commercial vehicle. The side marker light comprises a housing back and a lens connected to the housing back, the lens having a first light emission area. The side marker light also includes at least one first LED, which is mechanically connected to the housing back and is designed to emit light through the first light emission area into a first solid angle, the light emitted from the first light emission area being entirely or predominantly yellow-orange light.The side marker light also includes a second light emission area provided in the lower part of the side marker light, and at least one second LED which is mechanically connected to the rear of the housing and is designed to emit second light through the second light emission area into a second solid angle area directed downwards or obliquely downwards.

[0005] This application uses terms such as "lower area," "downward," and "diagonally downward" to describe the side marker light. These terms refer to a side marker light that is mounted in its intended position on the side of a vehicle. This usage of terms does not contradict the fact that the side marker light, as long as it is not yet mounted on the vehicle, can be in any position and orientation.

[0006] The at least one first LED of the side marker light is designed to emit light through the first light emission area, the light emitted from the first light emission area being entirely or predominantly yellow-orange in color. This light emission fulfills the function of a side marker light. In particular, it makes the dimensions of the vehicle visible to other road users. In addition to the at least one first LED, the side marker light according to embodiments of the invention comprises at least one second LED, which is designed to emit light through a second light emission area into a second solid angle area directed downwards or obliquely downwards. This emitted second light serves, for example, to illuminate an area along the side wall of the vehicle, such as an area of ​​the ground along the side wall of the vehicle.This provides contour lighting for the vehicle, improving visibility along the vehicle's side. This allows the driver, for example, to better see their own vehicle and the area immediately to the side when reversing and maneuvering. Especially in darkness and poor visibility conditions, such as rain or fog, this additional contour lighting significantly facilitates maneuvering and reversing. In addition to the vehicle itself, objects in the immediate vicinity of the side, such as tree branches and bushes, can also be seen more clearly than before.

[0007] In the side marker light according to the embodiments of the invention, the side marker light is used as a support structure or mounting point for at least one second LED. The second LEDs are designed to emit a second light through the second light emission area into a second solid angle area directed downwards or obliquely downwards. The at least one second LED can, for example, comprise at least one high-power LED. Thus, the existing side marker lights are used to mount additional light sources on the side wall of the vehicle, emitting light into a second solid angle area directed downwards or obliquely downwards. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide separate support structures for these additional light sources on the vehicle wall, thus minimizing the structural effort.

[0008] The invention also relates to a vehicle which has at least one side marker light as described above. Preferred embodiments of the invention

[0009] Advantageous training and further education programs, which can be used individually or in combination, are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0010] Preferably, the first solid angle region is oriented essentially in a direction perpendicular to the light disk.

[0011] Preferably, the at least one first LED is designed to emit first light through the first light emission area into a first solid angle area oriented essentially perpendicular to the light disk.

[0012] Preferably, the first light is emitted essentially perpendicular to the light disk.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light is designed such that the emission of the first light occurs at least within a range of vertical angles between -10° and +10° relative to the horizontal. More preferably, the side marker light is designed such that the emission of the first light occurs at least within a range of vertical angles between -15° and +15° relative to the horizontal, and more preferably at least within a range of vertical angles between -20° and +20° relative to the horizontal. More preferably, the side marker light is designed such that the emission of the first light occurs at least within a range of vertical angles between -25° and +25° relative to the horizontal, and more preferably at least within a range of vertical angles between -30° and +30° relative to the horizontal.

[0014] The side marker light is preferably designed such that the first light is emitted at least within a range of horizontal angles between -45° and +45°. The side marker light is preferably designed such that the first light is emitted at least within a range of horizontal angles between -50° and +50°. The side marker light is preferably designed such that the first light is emitted at least within a range of horizontal angles between -60° and +60°.

[0015] It is advantageous if the side marker light is designed so that the emission of the second light relative to the horizontal occurs only within a vertical angle range of -45° to -90° obliquely downwards. Furthermore, preferably, the side marker light is designed so that the emission of the second light relative to the horizontal occurs only within a vertical angle range of -50° to -80° obliquely downwards.

[0016] Preferably, the side marker light is designed so that the emission of the second light is directed obliquely downwards relative to the horizontal at least in a range of vertical angles between -60° and -80°.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light is designed so that no secondary light emission occurs within a range of vertical angles between -15° and +45° relative to the horizontal. More preferably, the side marker light is designed so that no secondary light emission occurs within a range of vertical angles between -45° and +45° relative to the horizontal.

[0018] Furthermore, preferably the side marker light is designed so that the emission of second light within a range of vertical angles between -15° and -45° relative to the horizontal occurs with comparatively low brightness, compared to the emission of second light within the range of vertical angles between -45° and -90°.

[0019] It is advantageous if the side marker light is designed so that the emission of the second light occurs at least within a range of horizontal angles between -45° and +45°. More preferably, the side marker light is designed so that the emission of the second light occurs at least within a range of horizontal angles between -60° and +60°. This range of horizontal angles is defined within the solid angle range in which the emission of the second light occurs.

[0020] Preferably, the side marker light is designed so that the emission of the second light only occurs within a horizontal angle range between -70° and +70°.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the second light emission area is provided along a partial section of the lower edge of the light disk.

[0022] Preferably, a recess is provided in the lower area of ​​the light lens in which an at least partially translucent insert is arranged, which serves as a second light emission area.

[0023] Preferably, a recess is provided along a section of the lower edge of the light disc, extending over more than 60% of the width of the side marker light, in which an at least partially translucent insert is arranged, serving as a second light emission area.

[0024] It is advantageous if the insert, which is at least partially translucent, is made of clear plastic, especially clear polyacrylic or clear acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light has a plurality of second LEDs arranged in the lower part of the housing rear along a line that runs substantially parallel to the lower edge of the housing rear.

[0026] Preferably, the at least one first LED is designed to emit predominantly yellow light, in particular predominantly light in the spectral range between 595 nm and 640 nm.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, at least the first light emission area of ​​the light lens consists of entirely or partially translucent, yellow-orange colored plastic.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment, the light lens consists of entirely or partially translucent, yellow-orange colored plastic.

[0029] Preferably, the light lens consists of polyacrylic (PA) that is completely or partially translucent and colored yellow-orange, or of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) that is completely or partially translucent and colored yellow-orange.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the second light emitted from the second light emission area is essentially white light. Preferably, the second light emitted from the second light emission area is essentially white light with a color temperature in the range of 5600 K to 6200 K. More preferably, the second light emitted from the second light emission area is essentially white light with a color temperature in the range of 5800 K to 6000 K.

[0031] Preferably, the at least one second LED is designed to emit white light. More preferably, the at least one second LED is designed to emit white light with a luminous temperature in the range of 5600 K to 6200 K. Even more preferably, the at least one second LED is designed to emit white light with a luminous temperature in the range of 5800 K to 6000 K.

[0032] Preferably, the at least one first LED is at least one signal LED.

[0033] Preferably, each signal LED has a power consumption in the range of 150 mW to 350 mW.

[0034] It is advantageous if the side marker light includes a plurality of first LEDs with a total power consumption of 0.5 watts to 1 watt.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one second LED is at least one power LED.

[0036] Preferably, each high-power LED has a power consumption of more than 300 mW.

[0037] It is advantageous if the side marker light has a plurality of secondary LEDs with a total power consumption in the range of 1 to 6 watts. Preferably, the side marker light has a plurality of secondary LEDs with a total power consumption in the range of 2 to 5 watts. More preferably, the side marker light has a plurality of secondary LEDs with a total power consumption in the range of approximately 3 watts.

[0038] Preferably, at least one second LED is designed to serve as a headlight.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light has a heat sink or a cooling plate for cooling the at least one second LED.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the luminous intensity of the first light emitted by the at least one first LED via the first light emission area is in the range between 4 candela and 25 candela.

[0041] Preferably, the at least one first LED is designed to emit a luminous flux of less than 120 lumens through the first light emission area. Further preferably, the at least one first LED is designed to emit a luminous flux of less than 100 lumens through the first light emission area.

[0042] Preferably, the at least one second LED is designed to emit a luminous flux of more than 200 lumens through the second light emission area. Further preferably, the at least one second LED is designed to emit a luminous flux in the range of 200 to 250 lumens through the second light emission area.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the light lens has at least one retroreflective surface.

[0044] It is advantageous if prisms are formed on the underside of the light disk to create at least one retroreflective surface.

[0045] Preferably, a light optic molded onto the light lens is provided at the first light exit area for the first light.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, a first circuit board is attached to the rear of the housing, on which the at least one first LED is mounted, wherein a second circuit board is attached to the first circuit board or to the rear of the housing, on which the at least one second LED is mounted.

[0047] Preferably, the second circuit board is arranged at an angle of 60° to 90° relative to the first circuit board.

[0048] Preferably, a recess is provided at the lower edge of the light disc in which an at least partially translucent insert is arranged, which serves as a second light emission area, wherein the second circuit board extends along the insert in the lower area of ​​the side marker light.

[0049] According to a further preferred embodiment, a circuit board is attached to the rear of the housing, wherein both the at least one first LED and the at least one second LED are attached to the side of the circuit board facing the light lens, wherein the side marker light comprises a reflector element which is arranged on the side of the circuit board facing the light lens and is designed to deflect the light emitted by the at least one second LED in such a way that it is emitted downwards or obliquely downwards through the second light emission area of ​​the side marker light.

[0050] According to another preferred embodiment, a circuit board is attached to the rear of the housing, wherein the at least one first LED is attached to the side of the circuit board facing the light lens and wherein the at least one second LED is attached to the side of the circuit board facing the rear of the housing, wherein the side marker light comprises a reflector element which is arranged on the side of the circuit board facing the rear of the housing and is designed to deflect the light emitted by the at least one second LED in such a way that it is emitted downwards or obliquely downwards as a second light through the second light emission area of ​​the side marker light.

[0051] Preferably, the lens is permanently attached to the rear housing. More preferably, the rear housing and the lens are bonded and / or ultrasonically welded together. Even more preferably, the rear housing and the lens are bonded and ultrasonically welded together.

[0052] It is advantageous if the side marker light has one or more mounting holes extending through the lens and the rear of the housing, each mounting hole being designed to accommodate a fastening means, in particular a screw, for attaching the side marker light to a side wall of the vehicle.

[0053] Preferably, the side marker light, in its intended mounting position on a side wall of a vehicle, has a height in the range of 80 mm to 150 mm and a width in the range of 25 mm to 50 mm.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light comprises separate power supply lines for the at least one first LED and the at least one second LED, wherein the at least one first LED and the at least one second LED can be switched on and off independently of each other via the separate power supply lines.

[0055] Preferably, the side marker light has a connecting cable via which a supply voltage can be supplied to the at least one first LED and the at least one second LED.

[0056] Preferably, the connecting cable is designed as a connection cable that is permanently molded into the back of the housing.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the connecting cable has at least three conductors, which include at least: - a first conductor via which a first supply voltage can be provided for at least one first LED, - a second conductor, via which a second supply voltage can be provided for at least one second LED, - a third conductor, via which a ground can be provided for at least one first LED and / or at least one second LED.

[0058] It is advantageous if the first supply voltage provided by the first wire for at least one first LED and the second supply voltage provided by the second wire for at least one second LED can be switched separately.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light comprises a receiver unit for wireless communication, in particular a WLAN or Bluetooth receiver unit, which is designed to switch the at least one second LED of the side marker light on and off by means of a radio signal.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light is designed to illuminate an area of ​​the ground on the side wall of the vehicle when mounted in its intended position on the side wall of the vehicle.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment, the side marker light is designed, in its intended mounting position on a side wall of a vehicle, to illuminate a lower area of ​​the side wall below the height at which the side marker light is mounted, as well as an area of ​​the ground on the side wall of the vehicle.

[0062] Preferably, the at least one side marker light is mounted on at least one side wall of the vehicle at a height between 250 mm and 2100 mm.

[0063] Preferably, at least one of the side marker lights is arranged in the middle third of the vehicle. Preferably, the side marker light furthest forward on the vehicle is no more than 3 m from the foremost point of the vehicle. Further preferably, the distance between two adjacent side marker lights is no greater than 3 m. Even more preferably, the distance between the rearmost side marker light and the rearmost point of the vehicle is no greater than 1 m.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one side marker light is designed to illuminate an area of ​​the ground on the respective side wall of the vehicle.

[0065] Furthermore preferably, the at least one side marker light is designed to illuminate a lower area of ​​each side wall of the vehicle below the height at which the respective side marker light is mounted, as well as an area of ​​the ground on the respective side wall of the vehicle.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment, the vehicle comprises a plurality of side marker lights attached to a first side wall of the vehicle.

[0067] Preferably, the majority of side marker lights are designed to illuminate an area of ​​the ground along the first side wall of the vehicle, extending from the front to the rear of the vehicle.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment, the vehicle includes separate power supply lines for the at least one first LED and the at least one second LED of the at least one side marker light, wherein the at least one first LED and the at least one second LED of the at least one side marker light can be switched on and off independently of each other via the separate power supply lines.

[0069] Preferably, the vehicle is designed to switch on at least one second LED of at least one side marker light, at least when reverse gear is engaged. Brief description of the drawings

[0070] Further advantageous embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to several exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, to which, however, the invention is not limited.

[0071] It shows schematically: Fig. 1 a side wall of a truck to which several side marker lights are attached. Fig. 2 A representation of a side marker light which additionally provides a headlight for contour lighting of the vehicle. Fig. 3 Another view of the side marker light from a different angle. Fig. 4 Another view of the side marker light. Fig. 5 A longitudinal section view of a side marker light mounted in a designated mounting position on the side wall of a vehicle. Fig. 6A the emission characteristics of the yellow-orange light viewed from the side. Fig. 6B the emission characteristics of the yellow-orange light viewed from above. Fig. 7A the emission characteristics of the white light viewed from the side. Fig. 7B the emission characteristics of white light viewed from above. Fig. 8 a side view of the in Fig. 1. Truck shown with contour lighting switched on. Fig. 9 a second embodiment of a side marker light in which all LEDs are arranged on a common circuit board. Fig. 10 a third embodiment of the invention in which the first and second LEDs are arranged on different sides of a common circuit board. Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

[0072] In the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, the same reference numerals denote identical or comparable components.

[0073] The installation regulations for vehicle lighting and light-signalling devices are laid down in ECE Regulation No. 48 of the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UN / ECE). ECE R48 specifies, in particular, how and where headlights, indicators, brake lights, and other lights must be fitted to motor vehicles (cars, trucks, trailers) to ensure road safety. Vehicles longer than 6 meters are required to have one or more side marker lights mounted on the side of the vehicle.

[0074] As an example, in Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view of a three-axle truck 2. The truck 2 comprises a driver's cab 4 and a cargo area 6. Furthermore, in Fig. 1. The wheels 8 are recognizable. To mark the side wall of the truck 2, a total of five side marker lights 10-1 to 10-5 are mounted along the side wall. These side marker lights 10-1 to 10-5 are designed to emit yellow-orange light in order to mark the side wall of the vehicle.

[0075] The regulations regarding the arrangement of these side marker lights can be found in section 6.18.4 of ECE R48. For the in Fig. Regarding the height 12 of the side marker lights 10-1 to 10-5 above the ground 13, the side marker lights must be mounted at a height of at least 250 mm and at most 1500 mm above the ground 13. If the vehicle's shape does not permit compliance with the 1500 mm value, the side marker lights may exceptionally be mounted at a height of up to 2100 mm. With respect to the longitudinal arrangement of the side marker lights 10-1 to 10-5, at least one side marker light must be located in the middle third of the vehicle. The side marker light 10-1 mounted furthest forward on the vehicle must not be more than 3 m from the foremost point of the vehicle. The distance between two adjacent side marker lights must not exceed 3 m, although this distance may be increased to 4 m if the vehicle's shape does not permit compliance with this requirement.The distance between the rearmost side marker light 10-5 and the rearmost point of the vehicle must not be greater than 1 m.

[0076] The following will be used as an example to illustrate the Fig. 2 to 5 a novel side marker light 14 is presented, which is suitable for mounting on a vehicle, in particular on a commercial vehicle such as the one in Fig. The truck shown is suitable. In the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows the side marker light 14 from different angles. The side marker light 14 comprises a lens 16 and a housing back 18. The lens 16 is made entirely or partially of transparent plastic, preferably yellow-orange tinted transparent plastic. For example, plastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polyacrylic (PA) can be used as the material for the lens 16. The housing back 18 is also made of plastic, preferably opaque plastic. To create a stable mechanical connection between the lens 16 and the housing back 18, the lens 16 can, for example, be bonded and ultrasonically welded to the housing back 18.

[0077] The side marker light 14 is designed to be mounted on the side wall of a vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle. For this purpose, a feedthrough 20 is provided or molded onto the rear housing 18, which is intended to be inserted into a corresponding mounting opening in the side wall of the vehicle. A multi-core connection cable 22 runs inside the feedthrough 20, supplying the side marker light 14 with power. As shown in the Fig. As can be seen from Figures 2 to 4, the lens 16 has first mounting holes 24, while corresponding second mounting holes 26 are provided on the rear housing 18. After the side marker light 14 has been inserted into the mounting opening in the side wall by means of the guide 20, the side marker light 14 can be screwed to the side wall of the vehicle using suitable screws via the mounting holes 24, 26.

[0078] A first light emission area 28 is provided on the front side of the lens 16, from which yellow-orange light is emitted during operation of the side marker lamp 14. A retroreflective surface 30 is provided on the front side of the lens 16, which is designed to reflect incident light back in the same direction in which it strikes the retroreflective surface 30. As shown in particular in the Fig. As can be seen in the enlarged section shown in Figure 2, a light optic 32 can also be molded onto the light disk 16, which is designed to focus the emitted light appropriately. The enlarged section also shows that the retroreflective surface 30 can be realized, for example, by means of prisms 34 molded onto the underside of the light disk 16.

[0079] Inside the side marker light 14, a first circuit board 36 is arranged and screwed to the rear housing 18 by means of mounting screws 38. One or more first LEDs 40, preferably designed as surface-mount devices (SMDs), are mounted on the first circuit board 36. The first LEDs 40 are designed to generate the light that emerges from the first light emission area 28 as characteristic yellow-orange light. The first LEDs 40 are preferably designed to emit predominantly yellow spectral light, particularly in the wavelength range between 595 nm and 640 nm. This light then passes through the light lens 16, which is made of yellow-orange tinted transparent plastic, thus acquiring the characteristic yellow-orange color. Preferably, the light lens 16 is made of yellow-orange tinted polyamide (PA) or yellow-orange tinted ABS. The yellow-orange light emerges from the first light emission area 28 of the light lens 16.When the side marker light 14 is mounted in its installation position on the vehicle wall, the yellow-orange light is emitted on the side of the vehicle.

[0080] The first LEDs 40 are preferably configured as signal LEDs, each signal LED having a power consumption in the range of 150 mW to 350 mW. The luminous intensity of the first light emitted by the one or more first LEDs 40 via the first light emission area 28 is preferably in the range between 4 candela and 25 candela. Preferably, a plurality of first LEDs 40 are arranged on the first circuit board 36, which, for example, can have a total power consumption in the range of 0.5 watts to 1 watt. The yellow-orange color of the light emitted by the side marker light 14 is prescribed in the regulations ECE R48 sections 6.18 and 5.15 in conjunction with UN R148 for side marker lights.

[0081] In addition to the first circuit board 36, the one in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 5, a second circuit board 42 is provided, which is arranged at an angle of approximately 70° to 90° relative to the first circuit board 36. One or more second LEDs 44, preferably designed as surface-mount devices (SMDs), are mounted on this second circuit board 42. Preferably, one or more of the second LEDs 44 are designed as high-power LEDs, each of which has a power consumption of more than 300 mW. Preferably, a plurality of second LEDs 44 are arranged on the second circuit board 42, which, for example, can have a total power consumption in the range of 1 watt to 6 watts. More preferably, the total power consumption is in the range of 2 watts to 5 watts. The second LEDs 44 are designed to emit white light, preferably cool white light, for example, light with a color temperature between 5600 K and 6200 K, more preferably between 5800 K and 6000 K.

[0082] A recess 46 is provided in the side wall of the light lens 16, into which an insert 48 made of transparent plastic is inserted. This transparent insert 48 serves as a second light emission area for the white light emitted by the second LEDs 44. In contrast to the light lens 16, which is preferably made of yellow-orange tinted transparent plastic, the transparent insert 48 consists of untinted clear transparent plastic, preferably clear PA or clear ABS.

[0083] When the side marker light 14 is mounted in its intended position on the vehicle wall, the transparent insert 48 is located on the underside of the side marker light. In this mounting position on the vehicle wall, the second LEDs 44 emit bright white light through the second light emission area into a solid angle directed downwards or obliquely downwards towards the ground. The one or more second LEDs 44 can, for example, be designed to emit a luminous flux of more than 200 lumens, preferably in the range of 200 to 250 lumens, through the second light emission area. The second LEDs 44 then function as a headlight.

[0084] The side marker light 14 thus fulfills the function of a conventional side marker light and, in addition, provides a headlight that emits light downwards or diagonally downwards towards the ground, illuminating the lower area of ​​the vehicle wall and / or an area of ​​the ground along the vehicle wall. This provides contour lighting of the vehicle, enabling the driver to clearly see the vehicle's outline along its entire length, particularly when reversing and maneuvering.

[0085] The recess 46 and the transparent insert 48 preferably extend over more than 60% of the width of the side marker light 14. Inside the side marker light 14, the second circuit board 42 with the at least one second LED 44 is arranged such that the second LEDs 44 are arranged along the transparent insert 48. The second circuit board 42 is preferably aligned parallel to the insert 48. Preferably, a plurality of second LEDs 44 are arranged on the second circuit board 42 along a line that runs parallel to the insert 48.

[0086] Fig. Figure 5 shows the side marker light 14 in a designated mounting position on the side wall 50 of the vehicle, with the side marker light 14 shown in longitudinal section. It can be seen that the feedthrough 20 has been inserted into a designated opening in the side wall 50 of the vehicle, with the connecting cable 22 being guided into the interior of the vehicle via the feedthrough 20. The side marker light 14 comprises the lens 16 with the insert 48 and the rear housing 18. Inside the side marker light 14, the first circuit board 36 with the first LEDs 40 and the second circuit board 42 with the second LEDs 44, which are preferably designed as high-power LEDs, can be seen, arranged at an angle of approximately 70° to 90° to it. The first LEDs 40 are designed to generate light which, after passing through the yellow-orange colored light disc 16, emerges as yellow-orange light at the first light exit area 28.

[0087] The one or more secondary LEDs 44 are designed to generate a second light, preferably white light, which is emitted downwards or obliquely downwards through the transparent insert 48. The secondary LEDs 44 are designed to provide the functionality of an additional headlight provided on the side marker light 14, which serves in particular for contour lighting of the vehicle.

[0088] The second set of LEDs 44 can be switched separately from the first set of LEDs 40. The connecting cable 22 is a multi-core cable, comprising, for example, a first core with a positive supply voltage for the first set of LEDs 40, a second core with a positive supply voltage for the second set of LEDs 44, and a third core with a common ground. The first supply voltage for the first set of LEDs 40 and the second supply voltage for the second set of LEDs 44 can be switched on and off independently. During normal driving, the yellow-orange signal light is on, while the headlight is off. The headlight can then be switched on for shunting. For this purpose, the power supply for the headlight can be connected, for example, to the circuit for the reversing light.The multi-core connecting cable 22 can also include further conductors that serve to transmit the first supply voltage, the second supply voltage, and the common ground to adjacent side marker lights. For example, the multi-core connecting cable 22 can include a fourth conductor for the first supply voltage, a fifth conductor for the second supply voltage, and a sixth conductor for the common ground, with the fourth, fifth, and sixth conductors being routed to an adjacent side marker light.

[0089] In the Fig. 6A and Fig. Figure 6B shows the emission characteristic for the yellow-orange light. Fig. Figure 6A shows a side view of the side marker light 14 mounted on the vehicle wall 50. It can be seen that the yellow-orange light is emitted into a first solid angle range oriented substantially perpendicular to the lens of the side marker light 14. The vertical angle of this light emission is specified such that angles directed upwards relative to the horizontal 52 are given a positive sign and angles directed downwards relative to the horizontal 52 are given a negative sign. The side marker light 14 is designed to emit yellow-orange light in a vertical angle range of at least -10° to +10°. This is in accordance with the relevant provisions in ECE R48, where section 6.18.5 (Geometric Visibility) states that the vertical angle must encompass 10° above and below the horizontal.

[0090] In Fig. Figure 6B shows the beam pattern of the yellow-orange light emitted by the side marker lamp 14 from above. The horizontal angular range of the emitted yellow-orange light is specified such that horizontal angles directed towards the front of the vehicle relative to the perpendicular 54 to the vehicle wall 50 are given a positive sign, and horizontal angles directed towards the rear of the vehicle relative to the perpendicular 54 are given a negative sign. The horizontal angular range of the emitted yellow-orange light then extends at least from -45° to +45°. More preferably, the horizontal angular range extends from -60° to +60°. This is in accordance with the corresponding regulations in ECE R48, where section 6.18.5 (Geometric Visibility) states that the horizontal angle must be 45° forwards and backwards.

[0091] In the Fig. 7A and Fig. Figure 7B shows the beam pattern for the white light emitted by the additional headlight. Fig. Figure 7A shows the radiation pattern from the side, with angles directed downwards relative to the horizontal 52 indicated by a negative precursor. Fig. Figure 7A shows that the white light is emitted within a vertical angular range extending from -50° to -80°. More preferably, the vertical angular range extends from -45° to -90°.

[0092] In Fig. Figure 7B shows a top view of the side marker light 14. Within the solid angle in which the emission occurs, the emitted white light has a horizontal angle range of -45° to +45° relative to the direction 54 perpendicular to the vehicle wall 50. Preferably, the horizontal angle range extends from -60° to +60° relative to the direction 54 perpendicular to the vehicle wall 50.

[0093] Fig. 8 shows the one again in Fig. 1 depicted truck 2, wherein in Fig. 8 The downward or obliquely downward emission of white light can be seen. From each of the side marker lights 10-1 to 10-5, white light is emitted in a second solid angle area 56-1 to 56-5 directed downward or obliquely downward. This light emission illuminates the lower area of ​​the vehicle wall as well as the area of ​​the ground 13 along the vehicle, so that the contour of the vehicle is illuminated over its entire length.

[0094] Fig. Figure 9 shows a longitudinal section of a side marker light 58 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The side marker light 58 comprises a lens 60 with a light optic 62 provided at the first light emission area and a transparent insert 64 arranged on the underside of the lens 60, which serves as a second light emission area for the white light. The lens 60 is connected to a housing rear section 66 and can be attached to the side wall of the vehicle by means of the feedthrough 68.

[0095] In contrast to the previously described embodiment, in the side marker light 58 both the one or more first LEDs 70 and the one or more second LEDs 72 are arranged on a common circuit board 74. The first LEDs 70 emit light that emerges as yellow-orange light from the first light emission area of ​​the lens 60. To direct the light emitted by the second LEDs 72 downwards or obliquely downwards, a reflector element 76 is provided, which can, for example, be a plastic part with a mirrored surface. The white light emitted by the second LEDs 72 is reflected by the reflector element 76 and emitted downwards or obliquely downwards through the transparent insert 64. The second embodiment of the side marker light offers the particular advantage that all LEDs 70, 72 can be mounted on a common circuit board 74.

[0096] In Fig. Figure 10 shows a side marker light 78 according to a third embodiment of the invention in longitudinal section. The side marker light 78 comprises a lens 80 and a housing rear 82, the lens 80 being connected to the housing rear 82. The lens 80 has a first light emission area from which the yellow-orange light is emitted. A light optic 84 is provided at this first light emission area. A transparent insert 86 is arranged on the underside of the lens 80, which serves as a second light emission area for the white light. The side marker light 78 can be mounted on the side wall of the vehicle by means of a feedthrough 88.

[0097] The side marker light 78 comprises a common circuit board 90 on which both the one or more first LEDs 92 and the one or more second LEDs 94 are mounted. The first LEDs 92 are mounted on the side of the circuit board 90 facing the light lens 80, whereas the second LEDs 94 are located on the opposite side of the circuit board 90, facing the rear housing 82. The first LEDs 92 emit light through the first light emission area of ​​the light lens 80. The one or more second LEDs 94 emit white light towards the rear housing 82. A reflector element 96 is arranged on the side of the circuit board 90 facing the rear housing 82. This reflector element is designed to redirect the white light emitted by the one or more LEDs 94 and shine it downwards or obliquely downwards through the transparent insert 86.The reflector element 96 can, for example, be designed as a plastic part with a mirrored coating.

[0098] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, the claims and the drawings can be important for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. Reference symbol list 2 trucks 4 Driver's cab 6 cargo space 8 wheels 10-1 to 10-5 side marker lights 12 meters above ground 13 Floor 14 Side marker light 16 Light disc 18 Rear housing 20 Implementation 22 connection cables 24 first mounting holes 26 second mounting holes 28 first light emission area 30 retroreflective surfaces 32 Light optics 34 prisms molded onto the light disk 36 first circuit board 38 fastening screws 40 first LEDs 42 second circuit board 44 second LEDs 46 Exclusion 48 deployment 50 Side wall of the vehicle 52 Horizontal 54 Direction perpendicular to the vehicle wall 56-1 to 56-5 second solid angle regions 58 Side marker light 60 Light disc 62 Light optics 64 deployment 66 Rear housing 68 Implementation 70 first LEDs 72 second LEDs 74 common circuit boards 76 Reflector element 78 Side marker light 80 Light lens 82 Rear housing 84 Light optics 86 deployment 88 Implementation 90 shared circuit boards 92 first LEDs 94 second LEDs 96 Reflector element