Optical module for motor vehicle, and position locking of a component of the module by means of an elastically deformable clamping element

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to vehicle lighting and assembly solutions for removably mounting components in headlights. More specifically, in the automotive field, the invention relates to an optical module provided with a removable functional component and the use of a clamping part for fixing such a component in an optical module.

[0002] Typically, such an optical module operates with a light source that has the disadvantage of emitting heat. It is therefore equipped with one or more components designed to absorb and / or dissipate this heat. This type of module is, for example, equipped with a radiator to keep the module's temperature at a relatively low level and a cooling component, typically in the form of a fan. In this way, the operation of the optical module is not affected by excessively high temperatures.

[0003] The functional components added to optical modules are most frequently fixed by several screws, as described for example in document WO2012 / 013591. Given the often difficult access constraints to these modules, the unscrewing and screwing operations prove to be delicate when it comes to replacing a component, for example a cooling component or another component likely to be replaced.

[0004] The invention aims to obtain an optical module, for example for lighting and / or signaling, making it possible to facilitate replacement operations of a component that can be mounted in a removable manner.

[0005] To this end, the invention relates to an optical module for a motor vehicle, as defined in claim 1 and comprising: a support which delimits a compartment accessible through an opening, a functional component being a fan, designed and arranged to be housed in the compartment in an operational configuration of the functional component, by insertion through the opening in a general insertion direction, which direction can make it possible to bring the component towards a bottom of the compartment opposite said opening and typically to engage the component against this bottom, a clamping element, distinct from the support and provided with two branches; and at least one engagement relief, fixed relative to the support and preferably formed directly on the support, and on which the clamping element is held in engagement by an elastic return effect of at least one of the two branches, the at least one engagement relief making it possible to clip the clamping element while maintaining it in a clipped position adjacent to the support, with the particularity that the clamping element is designed and arranged, when clipped, to retain and lock the functional component in the operational configuration, the clamping element having a flexible actuable portion to separate one of the two branches and allow unclipping in a separated conformation of the clamping element, whereby the functional component is extractable from the compartment.

[0006] These arrangements give the optical module the advantage of being more flexible in maintenance operations, as the fan can be quickly and easily attached to the optical module support, and can be removed at any time just as easily. The clamping element can be removed in one piece, which is easier than removing several screws.

[0007] In a preferred option, the clamping element is deformable by bending so as to be able to pass: from a resting conformation, in which the two branches are substantially parallel, to the spread conformation, in which the two branches are further apart from each other than in the resting conformation.

[0008] According to a feature, the at least one engagement relief comprises a projection formed on a side wall element of the compartment and which has a shoulder or abutment surface, preferably formed behind the engagement relief relative to the general direction of insertion, to retain an associated branch of the clamping element in the clipped position.

[0009] According to a particular feature, the at least one engagement relief comprises a projection formed on each of the two side wall elements, parallel to the direction of insertion, which delimit the compartment, each of the projections having a shoulder or a stop surface, preferably formed behind the engagement relief relative to the general direction of insertion, to retain an associated branch of the clamping element in the clipped position.

[0010] According to the invention, the support has two side wall elements which delimit between them a receiving space for the functional component, the opening extending transversely between the two side wall elements, the at least one engagement relief comprising a first outwardly projecting relief formed on one of the two side wall elements and a second outwardly projecting relief formed on the other of the two side wall elements, these two reliefs projecting radially outwards.

[0011] Each of the two branches of the clamping element ends with an inwardly bent portion and is respectively retained by one of the first and second reliefs in the clipped position, by engagement of the inwardly bent portion at the rear of the corresponding relief.

[0012] According to the invention, the clamping element has: two branches which are distributed on either side of the opening of the compartment in the clipped position, and an intermediate base connecting the first branch and the second branch so as to close or extend opposite the opening in the clipped position (the term "close" is here interpreted broadly and does not necessarily mean complete closure).

[0013] According to a particular feature, at least one of the two branches has a first portion, preferably substantially straight, extended, on the side opposite the intermediate base, by a blocking portion which connects to the first portion by defining, towards the inside of the clamping element, a determined angle less than or equal to 120°, preferably less than or equal to 90°. With this configuration, it is possible to form a portion of the branch which has an inward orientation substantially parallel to the intermediate base, well adapted to come into contact with a shoulder or a stop surface, formed on a side wall of the compartment.

[0014] According to a feature, the blocking portion is an intermediate portion between the first portion and a second portion having a C or J shape and defining a free end of the branch.

[0015] According to a feature, the intermediate base of the clamping element has a change in curvature and is arched inwards, so as to define an inwards arched portion.

[0016] According to a particular feature, the intermediate base is connected to one and / or the other of the two branches by a rounded angle iron, the intermediate branch and / or the rounded angle iron being elastically deformable to allow the branch connected to the angle iron to be reversibly moved apart.

[0017] An optical module according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics: the angle iron has a passage hole, whereby the angle iron defines the flexible actuable portion in order to spread the corresponding branch, the spacing being obtained in response to the introduction of one end of a disassembly tool, such as a screwdriver, through the passage hole between a side wall element of the compartment and the branch (the local action through the passage hole, against the return effect, with passage of a tool between a branch of the clamping element and the side wall, is well suited to spreading the branch radially outwards, thanks to the angle iron). the clamping element is actuable by a push / pressure exerted along the direction of insertion to obtain the spacing of one and / or the other of the two branches then the clipped position.the clamping element has two rounded angles and, in a cross-section of the clamping element, the intermediate base has a curvature opposite that of the two rounded angles. the optical module comprises a light source placed in an optical cavity at least partly delimited by the support and optical means for converting radiation from a light source into an outgoing light beam. the fan is separate from the optical means and the compartment is separate from the optical cavity. the clamping element is made of a single piece, preferably metal. the fan is a cooling component, the functional component comprises a control circuit in connection with all or part of the light source. the light source comprises at least one light-emitting diode. the optical module comprises a support provided with a one-piece part for defining the compartment.the optical module is provided with a radiator, preferably made of folded sheet metal, with pure aluminum having good thermal conduction, which improves the performance in terms of temperature regulation). the optical module has a lens defining an optical axis and making it possible to transmit an outgoing beam, the direction of introduction being substantially parallel to the optical axis.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to propose a headlight for a motor vehicle, comprising a headlight housing and an optical module according to the invention in order to perform a lighting and / or signaling function.

[0019] It is intended to use, in an optical module for a motor vehicle, a clamping element, preferably made of a single piece, in order to lock a fan in a mounting position for which the fan is fixedly attached to a support of the optical module, knowing that it is permitted, once the fan has been introduced in a general direction of introduction into a receiving compartment defined by the support, through an opening in this compartment: to engage and clip the clamping element, separate from the support and provided with two branches, against at least one engagement relief which is fixed relative to the support and preferably formed directly on the support, so that the clamping element occupies a position adjacent to the support to lock the mounting position and is held in engagement against the engagement relief(s) by an elastic return effect of at least one of the two branches, to unlock the mounting position of the fan, by actuating at least one flexible actuating portion formed in the clamping element in order to separate at least one of the two branches and allow unclipping in a separated conformation of the clamping element.

[0020] It is also provided, according to options, to use the clamping element to lock the mounting position of a functional component other than a fan, for example a control circuit or a plate with a lighting function. It is understood that the clamping element can allow insertion and removal of the functional component in the manner of a drawer.

[0021] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear during the following description of several of its embodiments, given as non-limiting examples, with reference to the attached drawings in which: there figure 1 is a perspective view showing parts of an optical module according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, during the introduction of a functional component into a receiving compartment of the optical module; figure 2 is an exploded perspective view, reversed compared to that of the figure 1 , showing the receiving compartment formed in a support part belonging to the module, before the introduction of the functional component; the figure 3 a perspective view illustrating the same elements as those shown on the figure 2 , in an assembled state with the component locked in the receiving compartment; the figure 4 is a top view illustrating the introduction of the functional component before its locking by the clamping element; figure 5 is a perspective view showing a superimposed configuration in the optical module, between a heat exchanger and a fan removably mounted in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, during a phase of unclipping the clamping element.

[0022] In the various figures, the same references designate identical or similar elements.

[0023] In reference to the figures 1 And 2, the optical module 1 makes it possible, for example, to perform a lighting and / or signaling function towards the exterior of a motor vehicle. For this, the module 1 comprises, in a manner known per se, a support 2, a light source (not shown), reflector means including a fixed reflection surface 3 formed in the support 2 and other optional elements for shaping the optical beam and an optical lens 4 formed at an output end of the module 1. The support 2 may have two complementary parts 2a, 2b, which may facilitate assembly with the optical lens 4 being held between these two parts 2a, 2b and / or facilitate the prior assembly of the light source and certain reflective parts on one of the two parts 2a, 2b.

[0024] In some options, the support 2 may be of the type described in document WO2012 / 013591. For the sake of brevity, it will therefore not be described how the light source, reflectors can be mounted and associated with the support 2, nor illustrated the method of fixing a folder or other similar reflective element intended to deflect and diaphragm the beam.

[0025] Behind the optical lens 4, preferably on the side of a rear end of the optical module 1 opposite the front end, there is also provided a functional component mounted in a removable manner, here a fan 5, as well as a heat exchanger 6, such as for example a radiator provided with one or more heat dissipating surfaces 36. The support 2 comprises means 20 for positioning and fixing the optical lens 4 on the support 2. These means cooperate with positioning and fixing means provided on the optical lens 3. The optical lens 4 is thus supported by the support 4. Preferably, the optical lens 4 is supported directly by the support 2.

[0026] In reference to the figure 5 , the support 2 may comprise or support a connection assembly for positioning and fixing the heat exchanger 6 on the support 2, so that the heat exchanger 6 is made integral with the support 2 in a mounted state. Preferably, the fan 5 and the heat exchanger 6 are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the module 1 and superimposed on each other, so as to co-act to effectively lower the temperature of the optical module 1. In particular, the fan 5 produces an air flow sent onto the heat dissipating surface(s) 36 provided in the optical module 1.

[0027] On the figures 1 And 2in particular, it can be seen that the support 2 defines a compartment L provided for receiving the fan 5. This compartment L has a bottom 9 opposite an opening 8 through which the fan 5, here of substantially parallelepiped format, can be introduced. The side of the opening 8 thus forms an entrance to the compartment L. Of course, the format of the fan 5 can be modified, for example with a more circular or rounded format, or by being polygonal with more than four sides, or a combination mixing a polygonal format and one or more curved faces. In such variants, the compartment L can also have a shape matching the external delimitations of the fan 5, while allowing an introduction by sliding.

[0028] In reference to the figure 5 , an electrical connector 40 may optionally be provided near the fan 5, for example on a lateral side distinct from the side of the opening 8. The fan 5 may have a power supply connection 41 connecting to a rear face 5c of the fan 5, formed by the stator 23 and oriented towards the side of the opening 8.

[0029] In the optical module 1, a light source can be placed in an optical cavity C3 or emit radiation into such an optical cavity C3, at least partly delimited by the support 2. Optical means of a type known per se, provided in the cavity C3, make it possible, for example, to convert the radiation from the light source into an outgoing light beam. The compartment L is separated from such an optical cavity C3.

[0030] Compartment L shown on the figures 1 And 2is delimited between two parallel elements 21, 22, called in the following side wall elements 21, 22, which join a transverse wall which defines the bottom 9. In order not to hinder the circulation of air in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation X of a bladed rotor R of the fan 5, the opposite main faces (typically forming the bottom and the top) of the compartment L can be perforated. The chassis forming the stator 23 of the fan 5 can define a frame surrounding the rotor R, with four external faces including two lateral external faces 23a, 23b which are adapted to allow the guidance of the fan 5, by cooperation with corresponding internal surfaces formed in the side wall elements 21, 22.

[0031] In reference to the figure 1 , one or two guide tabs 21a, 22a may project inwardly relative to the inner surfaces of the side wall elements 21, 22, here on the top side, to guide and hold the fan 5 pressed against a perforated bottom wall of the compartment L. Such tabs 21a, 22a may replace a top wall, which allows air to enter the compartment L through the entire top face of the compartment. A similar arrangement may be adopted for the bottom face delimiting the compartment L.

[0032] As clearly visible on the figures 2 And 3, the bottom wall may have several large passage openings 24 for the air set in motion by the rotor R of the fan 5. On the side of the opening 8, there is no obstacle to the introduction of the fan 5 when the latter is oriented so that its axis of rotation X is parallel to the elements 21, 22 of the side wall and perpendicular to a predefined direction of introduction D. However, a foolproof system may optionally be provided to allow the reception of the fan 5 only if it has a shape complementary to a specific member provided in the compartment L and, possibly, only if the fan 5 is turned in a particular direction with always the same face oriented towards the top of the compartment L.

[0033] By way of non-limiting example, a guide member 9a may be provided on the side of the bottom 9 to index in translation the end of the movement of insertion of the fan 5 into the compartment L, and also to form a foolproof device when it is desired that the fan 5 have a well-defined orientation.

[0034] In the example illustrated, the fan 5 is a functional component mounted on a part 2a of the support 2 by insertion through the opening 8 following an insertion direction D, bringing it closer to the bottom 9 until it possibly comes into abutment on this bottom 9. This insertion direction D can be straight as in the example illustrated in the figure 1 . However, in variants, the functional component to be inserted may be introduced with changes in direction and / or a relative defined displacement clearance, for example by translation in two spatial directions perpendicular to each other and to the insertion direction D.

[0035] The engagement of the fan 5 is illustrated here only as an example, and it should be understood that the mode of insertion of the fan 5 which is described is a specific case. The same applies to the locking mode which will be described below.

[0036] In reference to the figures 2 , 3 And 4, the optical module 1 comprises a clamping element 10 typically formed by a part separable from the support 2, here an elastically deformable metal part of low thickness. The clamping element 10 has for example a thickness less than or equal to 2 mm, at least in the bending zones of this element. As clearly visible on the figure 4 , the clamping element 10 has two branches 11, 12 which can be symmetrical with respect to each other. A plane of symmetry PS of the clamping element 10 separates two halves which can be identical. It is thus possible to use the clamping element 10 without risk of making a mistake in position, unlike an arrangement with asymmetrical branches.

[0037] During assembly, the fan 5 may be retained by friction, for example by using internal ribs N, when it is fully inserted into the compartment L along the insertion direction D. More generally, if there is relative rotational and / or translational movement play at the start of insertion into the compartment L, such play may advantageously be reduced during the subsequent feeding of the fan 5 (or other functional component / module) towards the bottom 9, for example in an increasing manner until the relative translational and / or rotational movement play disappears or is reduced to a minimal residual relative movement play, at the latest when the operating position is reached.

[0038] If necessary, the power supply connection 41 can be engaged in a groove defined by the guide GF formed on the side of a face of the stator 23 which defines a rear face in the direction of introduction D. This guidance can make it possible to place the power supply connection 41 in a lowered or raised position which avoids any interference with the approach and engagement of the clamping element 10 to cover the opening 8.

[0039] In reference to the figure 4 , the first branch 11 and the second branch 12 each have a free end E1, E2 having, thanks to one or more flexible zones, a certain clearance in a radial direction perpendicular to the plane of symmetry PS. Each of the two branches 11, 12 ends here with a portion (11a, E1; 12a, E2;) folded inwards in order to perform a retaining function, by engagement on corresponding projecting engagement reliefs 20a, 20b provided on the side wall elements 21, 22. Each engagement relief 20a, 20b, formed for example directly on the support 2, may have a rear face 24a, 24b, resulting for example from a shoulder in the side wall element 21, 22.

[0040] The minimum distance D2 between the branches 11, 12 is measured, here perpendicular to the plane of symmetry PS, between the portions folded inwards. The maximum distance D1 between the branches 11, 12, measured in the same direction, may correspond to the distance between two first portions, here rectilinear and parallel to each other, which are directly connected to the angles 15a, 15b. These distances D1 and D2 are of course those measured in the resting, non-spread conformation of the clamping element 10. The following relationship may be satisfied: 9 mm < D1 - D2 < 35 mm.

[0041] As clearly visible on the figure 3 , after mounting the fan 5, the clamping element 10 can be retained by the two engagement reliefs 20a, 20b, and held in engagement by an elastic return effect, here by each of the two branches 11, 12. The clamping element 10 has an intermediate base 14 between the branches 11, 12, intended to come against the rear face 5c of the fan 5 in a mounted and locked functional position of the fan 5 in the compartment L. In this non-limiting example, the intermediate base 14 is connected to one and the other of the two branches 11, 12 by a rounded angle iron 15a, 15b, elastically deformable to allow a hinge effect around an axis perpendicular to the insertion direction D. The intermediate base 14 extends transversely to the plane PS.In certain variants, this intermediate base 14 may be shorter or even eliminated, for example if the rear face 5c is significantly narrower than the width of the fan 5 or curved or if it has chamfers in a direction transverse to the plane PS.

[0042] In the illustrated case, the hinge effect is achieved around an axis parallel to the axis of rotation X and allows the clamping element 10 to be opened more widely. In other words, it is possible to obtain between the inwardly folded portions a minimum spacing distance between the branches 11, 12 which is significantly increased, for example increased by at least (D1-D2) / 2, for a distance measured here again perpendicular to the plane of symmetry PS or comparable median plane.

[0043] On the figure 4 , we can clearly see that the distance D2 is too short to allow the clamping element 10 to come into the locking position visible on the figure 3 , so that the installation of the clamping element 10 requires a deformation of the two branches 11, 12. In order to facilitate this installation, the free ends E1, E2 are formed at an angle to define oblique ramps, which deviate from the plane PS from the folding zone where the minimum distance D2 is defined. This configuration makes it possible to gradually separate the branches 11, 12, each ramp acting as a cam follower upon contact against a fixed axial surface (similar to a cam surface) defined by the relief 20a, 20b opposite. The separation is allowed by a deformation of the angles 15a, 15b and / or of the intermediate base 14, which makes it possible to convert the advance of each ramp in the direction of introduction into a rotation / outward separation movement of the branches 11, 12.

[0044] On the figures 1 à 3 , it can be seen that the intermediate base 14 can be narrowed in width, at least in part, relative to the angles 15, 15b, which increases the flexibility in this area of ​​the clamping element 10 and facilitates obtaining a significant spacing between the branches 11, 12.

[0045] The folded portion 11a, E1 of a first branch 11 and the folded portion 12a, E2 of the second branch 12 can slide by contact against the corresponding relief 20a, 20b, in a configuration spaced apart from the clamping element 10. At least one longitudinal guide tab 20c can be provided in a position adjacent to the relief 20a, 20b or in a margin portion of this relief 20a, 20b. Such a tab 20c is here projecting and provided on each of the opposite reliefs 20a, 20b, in order to prevent or limit relative play in rotation of the clamping element 10 when one and / or other of the branches 11, 12 are spaced apart. This makes it possible to center the clamping element 10 relative to the opening 8 to be closed and to maintain a centered position of its plane of symmetry PS, or similar median plane, such that this plane PS remains parallel to the axis of rotation X of the fan 5 in the illustrated case.

[0046] The two branches 11, 12 are described here as being parallel to each other in a resting conformation and further apart from each other in the spaced conformation. More generally, the branches 11, 12, parallel or non-parallel to each other at rest, can advantageously have the same capacity to move from a resting position which allows a clamping to be carried out, with axial blocking on the side of the ends of the branches 11, 12, to a more spaced position which allows axial movement in the direction of introduction D and in the opposite direction.

[0047] The sliding of the clamping element 10, on either side of the compartment L stops as soon as the folded portions of the branches 11, 12 have passed the corresponding relief 20a, 20b. By a spring effect, the angles 15a, 15b then resume their initial shape and these folded portions 11a, E1 and 12a, E2 engage behind the reliefs 20a, 20b, against the faces 24a, 24b. In this way, the clamping element 10 then closes the opening 8 and a locking of the functional position of the fan 5, mounted in the compartment L, is obtained. For example, the initial conformation of the clamping element can be found, in which the minimum distance D2 between the branches 11, 12 is the same as in the figure 4 . It is understood that the locking can result from an essentially linear movement of the clamping element 10, the latter being able to be pushed only at the level of its intermediate part or base 14, for example on a slightly concave face F14 of this intermediate base 14, oriented in the opposite direction relative to the direction of introduction D as illustrated in the figures 1 And 4 .

[0048] In the non-limiting example illustrated, each inwardly folded portion of a branch 11 or 12 includes a radial locking section 11a, 12a transverse to the plane PS of symmetry of the clamping element 10. Such a radial section 11a, 11b engages against a rear face 24a, 24b of the relief 20a, 20b at the end of the positioning of the clamping element 10, in a clipped position of this clamping element 10. The general U-shape of this clamping element 10 allows retention as close as possible to the support 2, along three lateral sides of the compartment L.

[0049] As clearly visible on the figure 4 , each radial blocking section 11a, 12a extends intermediately between the first portion, here rectilinear, of the branch considered and the free end E1 or E2 of the branch defined in the form of a second portion having a C or J shape. The first portion of each branch, forming the portion closest to the angle iron 15a, 15b, can be parallel to the plane of symmetry PS and is typically oriented in the direction of introduction D when the clamping element 10 is approaching and about to engage externally against the side walls 21, 22 of the compartment L.

[0050] The clamping element 10, preferably metallic, is for example made in one piece. It has a shape memory and has sufficient reversibility so that the distances D1 and D2 remain substantially the same after several deformation operations to obtain a spaced conformation of the clamping element 10. Of course, it is possible to provide that only a part of the clamping element 10 is metallic, for example one and / or the other of the branches 11, 12 with the associated angle iron 15a, 15b.

[0051] The unlocking operation will now be described in more detail with reference to the figures 1 , 3 And 5 .

[0052] In reference to the figure 3 in particular, it can be seen that each angle iron 15a, 15b has a passage orifice O1, O2 which opens into a contact zone between a wall element 21, 22 and the first portion, here rectilinear, of one of the branches 11, 12. The passage orifice O1, O2 is oriented and accessible from the same side as the intermediate base 14, that is to say from the rear. However, the passage orifice O1, O2 can be formed in a corner zone, so as to be able to modify the orientation of a straight working part of a dismantling tool which is inserted through this orifice O1, O2. This can in particular allow lateral movement, going from the intermediate base 14 towards the nearest branch 11, 12 or in the other direction. For this, the passage orifice O1, O2 can typically be elongated in a direction away from the intermediate base 14.

[0053] The passage orifice O1 allows the assembly constituted by the angle iron 15a and the associated branch 11 to define a flexible actuable portion PA, which can deviate from the plane PS during the installation of the clamping element 10. More precisely, the introduction of one end of a disassembly tool, such as a screwdriver, through the passage orifice O1 and between the side wall element 21 and the branch 11, allows the branch 11 to be moved radially outwards. This has the effect of unclipping the clamping element 10 as clearly visible in the figure 5 , the corresponding folded portion 11a, E1 being able to disengage from the relief 20a formed laterally on the support 2.

[0054] Of course, another passage orifice O2 can also be provided, allowing the assembly constituted by the angle iron 15b and the associated branch 12 to define another flexible actuable portion. It is understood that the introduction of one end of a disassembly tool, such as a screwdriver, through the passage orifice O2 and between the side wall element 22 and the branch 12, makes it possible to move the branch 12 radially outwards. As in the case previously described where the passage orifice O1 is used, this has the effect of unclipping the clamping element 10 by disengaging the corresponding relief 20b formed externally on the side wall element 22.

[0055] In reference to the figure 5, it is possible to deform and unclip the clamping element 10 without tedious screwing movements, by a simple lever effect exerted by means of a conventional tool, typically a flat-head screwdriver. By passing through a spaced conformation, the deformed clamping element 10 is unclipped at least on one side and unlocking is obtained.

[0056] After complete removal of the clamping element 10, the fan 5 can be removed from the compartment L, by simply pulling in the opposite direction to the insertion direction D. In its functional position, the fan 5 can optionally protrude relative to the side wall elements 21, 22 on the side of the opening 8, to facilitate gripping of a rear end of the fan 5 during a removal operation.

[0057] The optical module 1 may be part of a motor vehicle headlight, for example by being housed in a headlight housing, in order to perform at least one lighting and / or signaling function.

[0058] One of the advantages of the module 1 is that it allows the optical module 1 to be assembled and disassembled easily, and in a manner compatible with installation locations that are difficult to access, for example from the rear of the projector in a vehicle. Such an optical module 1 facilitates the replacement of a functional component that may need to be changed.

[0059] The design of the clamping element 10 with a general U shape, without covering the main faces of the compartment L, makes it possible not to degrade the cooling performance, in the case of locking in position of a fan 5. A metal blade can constitute the clamping element 10 and produce a spring effect which facilitates the engagement at the rear of the reliefs 20a, 20b during locking.

[0060] It should be obvious to those skilled in the art that the present invention allows embodiments in many other specific forms without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed.

[0061] Thus, although the figures illustrate a symmetrical shape of the clamping element 10 which corresponds to a preferred option, this clamping element 10 may have a different or shorter branch than the other. Similarly, one of the branches 11, 12 may, if necessary, not engage on the rear of a relief 20a, 20b by moving away for unclipping, but cooperate in a different way to allow the clamping element 10 to be held in position. If necessary, such a branch may be held in a fixed position by magnetic attachment, friction or shape cooperation, optionally by being guided in position along the side wall of the compartment L.

Claims

1. Automotive vehicle optical module (1), comprising: - a support (2), which delimits a compartment (L) that is accessible through an opening (8), - a functional component, which is designed and arranged so as to be housed in a receiving space of the compartment (L), when the functional component is in an operational configuration, by being inserted through the opening (8) in a general direction of insertion (D), the functional component being a fan (5) comprising an axis of rotation (X) of a vane rotor (R) and a frame forming the stator (23) of the fan, - a clamping element (10), which is provided with two arms (11, 12) and designed and arranged, when it is clipped on, so as to retain and lock the fan (5) in the operational configuration, the two arms (11, 12) being distributed on either side of the opening (8) of the compartment (L) in the clipped-on position, - a light source, characterized in that it has at least one engaging protrusion (20a, 20b), which is fixed with respect to the support (2) and preferably formed directly on the support, and on which the clamping element (10) is held in engagement by an elastic return effect of at least one of the two arms (11, 12), said at least one engaging protrusion (20a, 20b) enabling the clamping element (10) to be clipped on by holding the latter in a clipped-on position adjacent to the support (2), in that the clamping element (10) is separate from the support (2), in that the optical module (1) has a reflection assembly defined by a plurality of reflector elements, the light source being placed opposite a reflector element (3) of the reflection assembly that is formed by a part of said support (2), in that the support (2) has two side-wall elements (21, 22), which delimit the receiving space for the fan between them, the opening (8) extending transversely between the two side-wall elements (21, 22), so as to allow the fan (5) to be inserted when it is oriented so that its axis of rotation (X) is parallel to the side-wall elements (21, 22) and perpendicular to the general direction of insertion (D), said at least one engaging protrusion (20a, 20b) comprising a first outwardly projecting protrusion (20a) formed on one of the two side-wall elements (21) and a second outwardly projecting protrusion (20b) formed on the other of the two side-wall elements (22), these two protrusions projecting radially outwardly, each of the two arms (11, 12) of the clamping element (10) terminating in an inwardly bent portion and being retained in the clipped-on position by one of the first and second protrusions (20a, 20b), respectively, by way of the inwardly bent portion engaging behind the corresponding protrusion, in that the clamping element (10) has an intermediate base (14) connecting the first arm (1) and the second arm (12) so as to block or extend facing the opening (8) in the clipped-on position, and in that the clamping element (10) has a flexible actuatable portion (PA) for moving one of the two arms (11, 12) outwards and for enabling the clamping element (10) to be unclipped when it is in an outwardly-moved configuration.

2. Module according to Claim 1, wherein the clamping element (10) is flexurally deformable so as to be able to pass: - from a rest configuration, in which the two arms (11, 12) are substantially parallel, - to said outwardly-moved configuration, in which the two arms (11, 12) are further apart from one another than in the rest configuration.

3. Module according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate base (14) is connected to one and / or to the other of the two arms (11, 12) by a rounded corner (15a, 15b), the intermediate arm and / or the rounded corner (15a, 15b) being elastically deformable in order to enable the arm (11, 12) to which the corner is connected to be reversibly moved outwards.

4. Module according to Claim 3, wherein the corner (15a, 15b) has a through-hole (01, 02), by virtue of which the corner (15a, 15b) and the adjacent arm define said flexible actuatable portion (PA) so as to move the corresponding arm (11, 12) outwards, the outwards movement being performed in response to an end of a disassembly tool, such as a screwdriver, being inserted through the through-hole (01, 02) between a side-wall element (21, 22) of the compartment (L) and the arm.

5. Module according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a light source placed in an optical cavity (C3) at least partially delimited by the support (2) and optical means for converting radiation from a light source into an outgoing light beam, the fan being separate from the optical means and the compartment (L) being separated from the optical cavity (C3).

6. Module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping element (10) is produced as a single part, preferably made from metal.

7. Automotive vehicle headlight, comprising a headlight housing and an optical module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims in order to perform a lighting and / or signalling function.