Lighting device having a lighting module with a flexible guide sheet and arranged in front of an illumination module

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting device (300), such as one for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one illumination module (301.1; 301.2) suitable for projecting light rays in order to carry out a lighting function and also comprising a lighting module (400; 500; 600) comprising a flexible guide sheet suitable for receiving light rays and for reflecting the light rays in a direction substantially normal to a surface of the flexible guide sheet, at least one light injection element suitable for receiving light and distributing the light in the flexible guide sheet and at least one light source suitable for injecting light into the light injection element. The lighting module is arranged such that the light rays from the illumination module pass through the flexible guide sheet, and the light source is activated when the illumination module is deactivated.

Description

Description LIGHTING DEVICE WITH A LIGHT MODULE WITH A FLEXIBLE GUIDING CABLE, ARRANGED IN FRONT OF A LIGHTING MODULE

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of lighting devices comprising one or more lighting modules, particularly for motor vehicle headlights. The invention applies in particular, but not exclusively, to the external appearance of such headlights, especially when the vehicle is being driven during the day.

[0002] Lighting devices such as headlights generally exhibit a variety of lighting functions performed by one or more modules. The following lighting functions are commonly known: - a low beam type lighting function, or LB, for “Low Beam” in English; - a high beam (HB) lighting function, which can be performed by the same lighting module as the one in charge of the LB function, or by a separate module; - a daytime running light function, also called DRL, generally achieved by a separate light module from the LB / HB module; - a signaling function of the type “position light”, or PL for “Position Lighting” in English, which can be carried out by the light module which performs the DRL function, or by another light module.

[0003] The "signature" refers to the external appearance of a lighting system, which depends on the arrangement, number, and shape of the individual light modules. The signature is particularly noticeable when all the modules of the lighting system are activated.

[0004] Such a signature can be perceived differently during night driving and during day driving. Indeed, at night, the module(s) that perform lighting functions such as LB and HB are visible to an outside observer. A complete signature is thus obtained.

[0005] However, during the day, these lighting functions are generally not activated, resulting in one or more black areas in the lighting signature. The lighting signature is incomplete and differs from the nighttime signature to an observer outside the vehicle.

[0006] There is therefore a need to harmonize the signature of lighting devices for motor vehicles between daytime driving and nighttime driving.

[0007] To overcome this, it is known to use liquid crystal films, of the PDLC type, for “Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal” in English, to cover the dark areas corresponding to the lighting functions.

[0008] However, such a solution has the following drawbacks: - it is sensitive to temperature, especially negative temperatures, and does not work below -20°C; - it is based on an organic pigment which must be isolated from the outside, as it is sensitive to humidity and light; - it is difficult to integrate into lighting devices, especially when the outer surface is not flat.

[0009] There is therefore a need to harmonize the signature of lighting devices for motor vehicles, both day and night, while providing a robust, easy-to-integrate and inexpensive solution.

[0010] The present invention improves the situation.

[0011] To this end, a first aspect of the invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one module lighting capable of projecting light rays to perform a lighting function and further comprising a light module including:

[0012] a flexible guide sheet capable of receiving light rays by at least one edge of said flexible guide sheet and of reflecting the light rays in a direction substantially normal to a surface of the flexible guide sheet;

[0013] at least one light injection element capable of receiving light and distributing light in the flexible guide sheet;

[0014] at least one light source capable of injecting light into said at least one light injection element.

[0015] The flexible guide mat is transparent, the light module is arranged so that the flexible guide mat is traversed by the light rays from the lighting module and the light source is activated when the lighting module is deactivated.

[0016] Using a light module that activates when the main lighting module is deactivated allows for a more consistent lighting signature between nighttime and daytime driving conditions. Furthermore, the light module features a flexible guide strip, making it inexpensive, easy to manufacture, and simpler to integrate compared to prior art solutions. Finally, this solution is less sensitive to environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature.

[0017] According to embodiments, the flexible guide sheet may be able to reflect light rays according to at least one pattern engraved in said flexible guide sheet, and a luminous area of ​​the pattern may be arranged opposite an optical projection surface of the lighting module.

[0018] Thus, it is easy to reproduce the signature of the lighting device by engraving the flexible guide sheet, regardless of the shape of the optical projection surface of the lighting module for which we seek to avoid having a dark area when it is inactive.

[0019] According to embodiments, said at least one lighting module may be capable of performing a dipped beam lighting function or a main beam lighting function.

[0020] Such functions are generally deactivated during the day, and the modules that perform them are specifically designed to create dark areas in the signature of the lighting device.

[0021] In addition, the lighting module may be capable of performing a dipped beam lighting function and a main beam lighting function.

[0022] Thus, a single module can perform both functions, which limits the bulk associated with performing these functions in the lighting system.

[0023] Alternatively, the lighting device may include a first lighting module capable of performing a dipped beam lighting function and a second lighting module capable of performing a main beam lighting function, said lighting module being arranged so that the flexible guide mat is traversed by the light rays from the first lighting module or the second lighting module.

[0024] Thus, the lighting device may include two lighting modules, and the lighting module may be capable of concealing the dark areas associated with at least one of these two lighting modules.

[0025] In addition, the light module can be arranged so that the flexible guide mat is traversed by the light rays from the first lighting module and the second lighting module.

[0026] Thus, a single light module with a flexible guide rail can cover both lighting modules. Indeed, due to their Due to their flexibility and large surface area, with a low thickness, the light module can be easily integrated, by being arranged opposite two lighting modules, and without generating a significant bulk in the lighting device.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the light module may comprise a single flexible guide sheet, a first pattern being engraved in a first part of the flexible guide sheet and a second pattern being engraved in a second part of the flexible guide sheet, a light area of ​​the first pattern may be arranged opposite a first optical projection surface of the first lighting module and a light area of ​​the second pattern may be arranged opposite a second optical projection surface of the second lighting module.

[0028] Thus, the size and cost associated with the lighting module are reduced, with a single injection element and a single source to illuminate two light zones opposite two separate lighting modules. This embodiment is referred to as the second embodiment in the remainder of this description.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the lighting module may comprise a single flexible guide sheet, a first injection element, and a second injection element. The first injection element may be arranged to inject light into a first section of the edge of the flexible guide sheet, and the second injection element may be arranged to inject light into a second section of the edge of the flexible guide sheet. A first portion of the flexible guide sheet located opposite the first edge section is engraved according to a first pattern, and a second portion of the flexible guide sheet located opposite the second edge section is engraved according to a second pattern. A luminous area of ​​the first pattern may be arranged opposite a first optical projection surface of the first lighting module, and an area luminous of the second pattern can be arranged opposite a second optical projection surface of the second lighting module.

[0030] This variant, referred to as the third embodiment in what follows, advantageously allows for selective control of the lighting in the first and second light zones. It is thus possible to illuminate only one of the two light zones, particularly when only one of the lighting modules is deactivated.

[0031] Alternatively, the lighting device may include a first lighting module and a second lighting module, the first lighting module comprising a first flexible guide sheet, a first injection element and a first light source and the second lighting module comprising a second flexible guide sheet, a second injection element and a second light source, the first lighting module may be arranged so that the first flexible guide sheet is traversed by the light rays from the first lighting module, and the second lighting module may be arranged so that the second flexible guide sheet is traversed by the light rays from the second lighting module.

[0032] Thus, one light module per lighting module can be provided, which facilitates the positioning of the light module and therefore its integration into the lighting system. Such an embodiment is referred to as the first embodiment in the description that follows.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the light module can be arranged inside a lens of an optical system of the lighting module.

[0034] Thus, the light module is mechanically protected while facilitating its positioning, and therefore its integration into the lighting system.

[0035] According to other embodiments of the invention, the light module can be arranged on an external glass of the light device.

[0036] Lighting devices, such as headlights, have very significant space constraints. Here, the space required is limited by arranging the lighting module on the outside of the lighting device.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the lighting device may further include a signaling module capable of performing a signaling function.

[0038] Thus, the lighting system can perform lighting and signaling functions, and can have a complex signature.

[0039] In addition, the signaling module may be capable of performing a daytime signaling function or a position light function.

[0040] Such functions are generally necessary, and can therefore be integrated with lighting functions in a lighting device.

[0041] In addition, the signaling module may be capable of performing a daytime signaling function and a position light function.

[0042] Thus, a single module is capable of performing several signaling functions. In particular, such functions can vary solely by the intensity of the emitted light, and therefore by the power supply levels applied to the light sources of the signaling module.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the lighting device may further include a control unit capable of activating said at least one light source when the lighting module is deactivated.

[0044] Thus, a control unit can be integrated into the lighting device, which facilitates the control of the lighting module.

[0045] In addition, the control unit may also be able to activate and deactivate the lighting module based on control signals.

[0046] Thus, the control unit can control both the lighting module and the light module, which facilitates the harmonization of the signature between night and day driving situations.

[0047] In addition, the control unit may also be capable of controlling the signaling module.

[0048] Thus, a single control unit can manage all the modules of the lighting system. This enables centralized management of signaling and lighting functions.

[0049] In addition, the control unit may be capable of operating the signaling module which is capable of performing a daytime signaling function, and, upon activation of the daytime signaling function, the control unit may be configured to activate said at least one light source of the light module.

[0050] Indeed, since this signaling function is activated during the day, the lighting module is then activated when the lighting functions are deactivated. This facilitates the harmonization of the lighting system's signature.

[0051] According to embodiments, each flexible guide sheet can include a film comprising microstructures, each pattern can be engraved by ultraviolet printing of the film's microstructures.

[0052] Such microstructures make it possible to maintain a high level of transparency of the flexible guide sheet while projecting light into the illuminated area when the light source is activated.

[0053] In addition, for each flexible guide sheet, a surface density of microstructures can decrease with the distance from the edge of the guide sheet into which the light is injected.

[0054] The homogeneity of a pattern projected by the flexible guide sheet is thus improved.

[0055] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon examination of the detailed description below, and the accompanying drawings in which:

[0056] [Fig 1] illustrates a light module of a lighting device for a motor vehicle, according to the invention;

[0057] [Fig 2] illustrates an injection element of a light module according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0058] [Fig 3] illustrates a lighting device for a motor vehicle, according to embodiments of the invention;

[0059] [Fig 4] illustrates a light module of a lighting device for a motor vehicle, according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0060] [Fig 5] illustrates a light module of a lighting device for a motor vehicle, according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0061] [Fig 6] illustrates a light module of a lighting device for a motor vehicle, according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0062] The description focuses on the features that distinguish the interior equipment and lighting module from those known in the state of the art.

[0063] Figure 1 shows a light module 100 of a lighting device for a motor vehicle, according to the invention.

[0064] The light module 100 includes a flexible guide sheet 110 capable of receiving light rays through an edge 114 and of reflecting the light rays in a direction Z substantially normal to a surface of the flexible guide sheet which thus extends in an XY plane on the figure 1.

[0065] A guiding sheet is understood to be an optical guiding element in which one of the dimensions is much smaller than the other two dimensions in space, for example smaller by one or more orders of magnitude. As illustrated in Figure 1, we consider here a flexible guide sheet whose thickness along the Z axis is less than by at least two orders of magnitude its dimensions along the XY plane in which the flexible guide sheet 110 extends.

[0066] The flexible guide sheet 110 may include a flexible film 111 in its core comprising at least one edge 114, being able to guide light rays in an overall direction X, and comprising a set of microstructures 113 able to reflect the light rays guided in the flexible film 111 out of the flexible guide sheet 110, in particular in one or more directions substantially along the Z axis.

[0067] The flexible film 111 can be a substrate film made of polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TU P), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The flexible film 111 can have a thickness, or dimension along the Z-axis, from 12 to 1000 micrometers. More precisely, the thickness of the flexible film 111 can be from 50 to 1000 micrometers, for example, from 200 to 500 micrometers. Alternatively, the flexible guide sheet 110 has a thickness from 200 to 1000 micrometers.

[0068] The aforementioned materials, combined with a low thickness as described above, allow the production of a flexible film 111. Other materials may be used for the composition of the flexible film 111. However, according to the invention, it is preferable to use deformable and transparent materials.

[0069] A thin coating of microstructures 113 can be applied to one of the faces of the flexible film 111, or integrated into the flexible film 111. The coating of microstructures 113 can in particular have a thickness along the Z axis of less than 20 micrometers.

[0070] Such microstructures 113 may have a general bump shape, on which light rays are reflected in a direction substantially along the Z-axis. Such microstructures 113 may be adapted to cause the light rays exiting the flexible film 111 to form a pattern. For this purpose, the microstructures 113 may be etched by ultraviolet printing, according to the desired pattern.

[0071] Microstructures 113 are defined as structures, or irregularities, in the flexible film with dimensions smaller than a few micrometers. Microstructures thus also include nanometric structures. Such microstructure sizes 113 ensure high transparency of the flexible film 111. In particular, a transparency of around 97% can be practically achieved using microstructures 113. Alternatively, the flexible guide sheet can be semi-transparent or opaque.

[0072] Advantageously, the microstructures 113 can be distributed along the X-axis such that the linear density of microstructures 113 is proportional to the distance from the edge 114 through which the light rays injected by the injection element 120 are received. In other words, the further the microstructures 113 are from the edge 114, the more densely they are grouped. Such a distribution advantageously ensures a homogeneous distribution along the X-axis of the light intensity of the pattern emitted by the flexible guide sheet 110.

[0073] The flexible guide sheet 110 may further include one or two optional protective layers 112.1 and 112.2, which provide mechanical protection for the flexible film 111. In addition, at least one of the protective layers 112.1 and 112.2 may include a UV-resistant treatment, protecting the flexible film from UV radiation after the microstructures 113 have been etched. Without such UV protection, the pattern projected by the flexible guide sheet 110 is susceptible to degrade over time, especially when exposed to sunlight.

[0074] The flexible film 111 and the protective layers 112.1 and 112.2 are shown spaced apart in Figure 1 for illustrative purposes only. It should be understood, however, that the protective layers 112.1 and 112.2 can be bonded to the flexible film, for example by lamination.

[0075] Since the guide sheet 110 is flexible, it is not necessarily contained in a plane but can be curved, depending on the position in which it is placed and the mechanical stresses applied to it.

[0076] The light module 100 illustrated in Figure 1 also includes a light injection element 120, also called a light bar, because it extends longitudinally along a Y direction, and is capable of injecting light in a direction normal to its longitudinal direction, for example along the X axis when arranged in the manner shown in Figure 1.

[0077] The light injection element 120 has a rectangular or square cross-section in Figure 1. However, the light injection element 120 can have a round, oval, or polygonal cross-section.

[0078] Thus, the light injection element 120 includes an exit surface 122 extending along the longitudinal direction and capable of injecting light in a direction substantially normal to the exit surface 122. The light injection element 120 further comprises an inlet surface 121, at one end of the light injection element 120, suitable for receiving light rays from a light source 130, and the light injection element 120 is suitable for guiding the light longitudinally along the Y axis by distributing it onto the outlet surface 122. The distribution of light by the outlet surface 122 will be better understood in light of the description in Figure 2.

[0079] No restrictions are attached to the light source 130. The light source 130 can be capable of generating light within a specific wavelength range. This range can be centered around a visible color, in order to generate colored light, for example, blue, red, or green. Alternatively, the light source 130 can emit light beams across the entire range of wavelengths visible to the human eye, so as to generate white light. A very narrow wavelength range can be produced by a laser-type light source 130.

[0080] The light source 130 can be capable of generating light in at least two distinct wavelength ranges, for example, corresponding to two distinct colors. It could, for example, be a light-emitting diode (LED), which has the advantages of small size, low energy consumption, and low heat generation, producing two different colors of light, and can be controlled by a control element (not shown). In particular, it could be an RGB diode, capable of producing red, green, and blue light. Thus, the light module according to the first embodiment can comprise a flexible guide rail 110, an injection element 120, and a light source 130 capable of generating light in at least two distinct wavelength ranges.

[0081] The light source 130 can be controlled by a control element not shown, but described later.

[0082] Alternatively, the light source 130 is not arranged directly opposite the inlet surface 121 of the injection element 120, but the light module 100 further includes an optical fiber placed between the source 130 and the injection element 120, which allows the source 130 to be offset from the assembly formed by the injection element 120 and the flexible guide sheet 110.

[0083] Figure 2 shows an injection element 120 of a light module according to embodiments of the invention.

[0084] The injection element 120 may include a plurality of injection guides 123 suitable for receiving light from the source 130 through the inlet surface 121 and guiding the light to a longitudinal position of the outlet surface 122, the longitudinal positions of the light guides being distinct so as to distribute the light to at least several longitudinal positions of the outlet surface 122.

[0085] It is thus made possible to inject light at different longitudinal positions along the Y axis of the edge 114. Each longitudinal position of the edge 114 can correspond to a guide line of the flexible film 111, capable of guiding the light along the X axis along such a guide line.

[0086] Such an association of a flexible guide sheet 110, an injection element 120 and a source 130 thus makes it possible to project light along the Z direction through a flexible, transparent or semi-transparent surface, with good surface homogeneity and according to a given pattern.

[0087] In practice, such a light module can emit a pattern with luminous areas with a brightness between 100 and 1000 Candelas per square meter, with a light extraction efficiency that can vary between 25% and 80%.

[0088] Details on the structure and arrangement of these elements 110, 120 and 130 are further described in the international patent application published under number WO2011130715A2.

[0089] A light module of a vehicle lighting device according to the invention comprises: - a guide sheet, such as the flexible guide sheet 110 illustrated in Figure 1, the assembly being capable of reflecting light according to the minus one reason; - at least one light injection element such as the injection element 120 described with reference to Figures 1 and 2; and - at least one light source such as the light source 130 previously described with reference to Figure 1, capable of injecting light into said at least one injection element.

[0090] The term “pattern” refers to any predefined spatial distribution or arrangement of the light intensity emitted by the light module. In particular, it refers to a two-dimensional or one-dimensional pattern. A pattern may thus include a two-dimensional shape or symbol obtained by contrasting the light intensities of different positions in the XY plane of the flexible guide sheet 110. The pattern may also include several shapes or symbols. Alternatively, a pattern encompasses a predefined, or intentional, spatial distribution of light intensity that does not exhibit an overall shape, such as a distribution that induces a cloud of light points. In the context of the present invention, a pattern is formed by injecting light into an injection element that is arranged relative to a flexible guide sheet so as to form the pattern on the flexible guide sheet.A flexible light guide sheet is thus capable of projecting light in at least one pattern, and a pattern can correspond to at least one shape or symbol. A flexible light guide sheet can also project light in at least two patterns when the flexible light guide sheet is combined with several injection elements. The shapes or symbols can be created by contrasting bright areas, from which light rays are emitted, and dark areas, from which no light rays are emitted.

[0091] Figure 3 illustrates a 300 luminous device according to embodiments of the invention.

[0092] The lighting device 300 according to the invention comprises at least one lighting module as described above, and embodiments of which will be described in figures 4, 5 and 6, which is referenced 400, 500, 600 in figure 3. As will be better understood, the lighting device 300 may comprise several lighting modules.

[0093] The lighting device 300 further includes a lighting module 301.1; 301.2 capable of projecting light beams outwards from the lighting device 300 to perform at least one lighting function. Such a lighting function could, for example, be a low beam (LB) function or a high beam (HB) function. Alternatively, the lighting module 301.1; 301.2 is controllable, for example, by a control element 340, and can be operated to perform two different lighting functions, such as LB and HB. There are no restrictions on the technology associated with the lighting module. In particular, there are no restrictions on the light source of the lighting module 301.1; 301.2, which could be a source comprising one or more light elements, such as one or more LEDs.The light source of the lighting module can be a matrix source, including a DMD-type micromirror matrix, an LED matrix, or any other matrix source.

[0094] The lighting device 300 may optionally include one or more signaling modules 302.1, 302.2, and 302.3, capable of projecting light beams outwards from the lighting device to perform a signaling function. For example, the signaling module may be capable of performing a PL position light function or a DRL daytime running light function. Alternatively, the signaling module may be capable of performing both PL position light and DRL daytime running light functions, with only the light intensity emitted by the signaling module varying between the two functions. This variation in light intensity can be achieved by activating / deactivating light sources in the signaling module, or by powering the source(s). pulse width modulation lighting, by varying the duty cycle.

[0095] The 300 light device for motor vehicles is preferably a motor vehicle headlight, for example a motor vehicle headlight.

[0096] No restrictions are placed on the number of lighting modules, light modules, and signaling modules included in the lighting device 300, nor on their respective shapes and arrangements, which constitute the signature of the lighting device 300. As described above, a lighting device according to the invention comprises: - at least one lighting module; - at least one light module as described above; - optionally, at least one signaling module.

[0097] In the specific example shown in Figure 3, the lighting device 300 comprises: - a first lighting module 301.1 and a second lighting module 301.2. For example, the first lighting module 301.1 can perform a low beam lighting function LB while the second lighting module 301.2 can perform a high beam lighting function HB; - a first signaling module 302.1, in two upper and lower parts, a second signaling module 302.2, in two upper and lower parts, and a third signaling module 302.3, in two upper and lower parts. Each signaling module 302.1, 302.2 or 302.3 is capable of projecting light beams outwards from the lighting device to perform a signaling function. Each signaling module can perform its own signaling function, or alternatively, the signaling modules 302.1, 302.2 and 302.3 can perform the same signaling function(s), and thus be controlled together, for example by the control element 340; - one 400, 500, 600 light module, or two 400, 500, 600 light modules, depending on the embodiment considered.

[0098] The 340 control element can centralize the control of all modules, i.e., the lighting module(s), the light module(s), and the signaling module(s). The 340 control element can control the activation and deactivation of each module based on control signals received, for example, by a central control module of the motor vehicle, such as an electronic control unit (ECU).

[0099] The control element 340 may include a processor configured to communicate unidirectionally or bidirectionally, via one or more buses or via a wired connection, with memory such as Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), or any other type of memory (Flash, EEPROM, etc.). Alternatively, the memory may include several of the aforementioned types. Preferably, the memory is non-volatile. The processor is capable of executing instructions stored in the memory to control the modules of the lighting device 300 according to control signals. Alternatively, the processor may be replaced by a microcontroller designed and configured to implement module control based on received control signals.

[0100] Alternatively, each module includes a dedicated control element.

[0101] Figure 4 shows a luminous module 400 of a luminous device according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0102] The light module 400 includes a flexible guide sheet 410, an injection element 420 and a light source 430, similar to the flexible guide sheet 110, injection element 120 and light source 130 previously described.

[0103] The flexible guide sheet 410 is engraved according to a pattern including a luminous area 450, capable of reflecting the light rays injected by the injection element 420, following the activation of the light source 430.

[0104] The illuminated zone 450 is positioned opposite the optical projection surface of a lighting module. The illuminated zone 450 can also be shaped to overlap the optical projection surface of the lighting module. The illuminated zone 450 can thus have the same shape as a projection of the optical projection surface of the lighting module onto the plane of the flexible guide sheet.

[0105] This makes it possible to illuminate the light zone 450 by activating the light source 430 when the lighting module, on which the light module 400 is mounted, is deactivated. Therefore, an external observer does not see a dark area at the level of the lighting module when it is deactivated, as is generally the case during the day. The invention thus makes it possible to homogenize the signature of the lighting device comprising a light module 400 mounted on a lighting module.

[0106] The light module 400 can for example be used in the example of figure 3, by being arranged opposite the lighting module 301.1 or the lighting module 301.2. Alternatively, the light device 300 comprises a first light module identical to the light module 400 arranged opposite the first lighting module 301.1, and a second light module identical to the light module 400 arranged opposite the second lighting module 301.2.

[0107] Thus, several 400 light modules can be advantageously used in a lighting system comprising several lighting modules. When the lighting modules have optical surfaces of different shapes, the luminous areas 450 of the 400 light modules vary so as to be identical to the optical surfaces. respective to the lighting modules they cover. This makes it possible to homogenize complex signatures between day and night periods.

[0108] Advantageously, the light source 430 is controlled by the control element 340 described above. The control element 340 can also control the lighting module opposite which the light module 400 is positioned. Thus, the control element 340 is able to activate the light source 430 when it deactivates the lighting module.

[0109] In the example in Figure 3, the control element 340 can activate a first light module 400 arranged opposite the first lighting module 301.1, when the first lighting module 301.1 is deactivated, and the control element 340 can activate a second light module 400 arranged opposite the second lighting module 301.2, when the second lighting module 301.1 is deactivated.

[0110] Alternatively, with reference to Figures 5 and 6, two embodiments are presented in which a single luminous module 500 or 600 can be arranged opposite at least two lighting modules of a luminous device.

[0111] Figure 5 illustrates a luminous module 500 of a lighting device according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0112] According to the second embodiment, the light module 500 comprises a flexible guide sheet 510, an injection element 520 and a light source 530 similar to the flexible guide sheet 110, the injection element 120 and the light source 130 previously described.

[0113] The flexible guide sheet 510 is engraved according to a pattern comprising a first luminous zone 550.1 and a second luminous zone 550.2, capable of reflecting the light rays injected by the injection element 520, following the activation of the light source 530.

[0114] The first luminous zone 550.1 is positioned opposite a first optical projection surface of a first lighting module, and the second luminous zone 550.2 is positioned opposite a second optical projection surface of a second lighting module. The first and second luminous zones 550.1 and 550.2 can also be shaped to overlap the optical projection surfaces of the first and second lighting modules. The first and second luminous zones 650.1 and 650.2 can thus have the same shapes as projections onto the plane of the flexible guide sheet 510 of the optical projection surfaces of the lighting modules.

[0115] This makes it possible to illuminate the light zones 550.1 and 550.2 by activating the light source 530 when the first and / or second lighting modules, on which the light module 500 is placed, are deactivated. Thus, an external observer does not see a dark area at the level of the lighting modules when at least one of the lighting modules is deactivated, as is generally the case during the day. The invention therefore makes it possible to homogenize the signature of the lighting device comprising a light module 500 arranged on several lighting modules, using a single flexible guide rail 510, a single injection element 520, and a single light source 530. This reduces both the size and the cost.

[0116] The 500 light module can, for example, be used in the example in Figure 3, by being arranged opposite the lighting modules 301.1 and 301.2.

[0117] Thus, a single light module 500 can be advantageously used in a lighting system comprising several lighting modules. When the lighting modules have optical surfaces of different shapes, the light zones 550.1 and 550.2 have different shapes so as to be identical to the respective optical surfaces of the lighting modules they cover. This makes it possible to homogenize complex signatures between day and night periods.

[0118] Advantageously, the light source 530 is controlled by the control element 340 described above. The control element 340 can also control the lighting modules opposite which the light module 500 is positioned. Thus, the control element 340 is able to activate the light source 530 when it deactivates at least one of the lighting modules of the lighting device.

[0119] In the example in Figure 3, the control element 340 can activate the light module 500 arranged opposite the first lighting module 301.1 and the second lighting module 301.2, when the first lighting module 301.1 is off, when the second lighting module 301.1 is off, or when the first and second lighting modules 301.1 and 301.2 are off.

[0120] Figure 6 illustrates a luminous module 600 of a lighting device according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0121] According to the third embodiment, the light module 600 comprises a flexible guide sheet 610, a first injection element 620.1, a second injection element 620.2, a first light source 630.1 and a second light source 630.2, similar to the flexible guide sheet 110, the injection element 120 and the light source 130 previously described.

[0122] The flexible guide rail 610 is engraved with a pattern comprising a first luminous zone 650.1 located in a first part of the flexible guide rail 610, and a second luminous zone 650.2 located in a second part of the flexible guide rail 650.2. Alternatively, it can be considered that a first pattern is engraved in the first part of the flexible guide rail 610, comprising the first luminous zone 650.1, and that a second pattern is engraved in the second part of the flexible guide sheet 610, including the second luminous area 650.2.

[0123] The first light source 630.1 is suitable for injecting light into the first injection element 620.1, which is itself suitable for injecting, or distributing, light into the first part of the flexible guide sheet so as to illuminate the first light zone 650.1. For this purpose, the first injection element 620.1 is arranged opposite a first section of the edge 114 of the flexible guide sheet 610.

[0124] The second light source 630.2 is able to inject light into the second injection element 620.2 which is itself able to inject, or distribute, the light into the second part of the flexible guide sheet 610 so as to illuminate the second light zone 650.2. For this purpose, the second injection element 620.2 is arranged opposite a second section of the edge of the flexible guide sheet 610, distinct from the first section.

[0125] The first luminous zone 650.1 is positioned opposite a first optical projection surface of a first lighting module, and the second luminous zone 650.2 is positioned opposite a second optical projection surface of a second lighting module. The first and second luminous zones 650.1 and 650.2 can also be shaped to overlap the optical projection surfaces of the first and second lighting modules. The first and second luminous zones 650.1 and 650.2 can thus have the same shapes as projections onto the plane of the flexible guide sheet 610 of the optical projection surfaces of the lighting modules.

[0126] This makes it possible to illuminate the light zones 650.1 and 650.2 by selectively activating the light sources 630.1 and 630.2. When the first lighting module is deactivated, the first light source 630.1 can be activated. When the second lighting module is deactivated, the second light source 630.2 can be activated. Thus, the Sources 630.1 and 630.2 can be controlled separately, for example by control element 340.

[0127] Alternatively, the control element 340 simultaneously activates the sources 630.1 and 630.2, and the first and second light zones 650.1 and 650.2 are thus illuminated when at least one of the first and second lighting modules is deactivated.

[0128] Thus, an external observer does not see a dark area at the lighting modules when at least one of the lighting modules is deactivated, as is generally the case during the day. The invention therefore makes it possible to harmonize the signature of the lighting device comprising a light module 600 arranged on several lighting modules, using a single flexible guide rail 610, and allowing the first and second light zones 650.1 and 650.2 to be selectively illuminated.

[0129] The 600 light module can, for example, be used in the example in Figure 3, by being arranged opposite the lighting modules 301.1 and 301.2.

[0130] Thus, a single 600 light module can be advantageously used in a lighting system comprising several lighting modules. When the lighting modules have optical projection surfaces of different shapes, the 650.1 and 650.2 light zones have different shapes so as to be identical to the respective optical surfaces of the lighting modules they cover. This makes it possible to harmonize complex signatures between day and night periods.

[0131] Advantageously, the light sources 630.1 and 630.2 are controlled by the control element 340 described above. The control element 340 can also control the lighting modules opposite which the light module 600 is positioned. Thus, the control element 340 is capable of selectively activating the light sources 630.1 and 630.2. when it deactivates at least one of the lighting modules of the lighting device.

[0132] In the example in Figure 3, the control element 340 can illuminate the first light zone 650.1 arranged opposite the first lighting module 301.1 when the first lighting module 301.1 is off, and can illuminate the second light zone 650.2 arranged opposite the second lighting module 301.2 when the second lighting module 301.1 is off.

[0133] In the embodiments described above, the illuminated zone(s) can be controlled based on the activation of one of the signaling modules. The control element 340 can, in particular, control the light module(s), the lighting module(s), and also one or more signaling modules, such as those shown in Figure 3. Specifically, the control element 340 can advantageously activate the light source(s) of the light module 400, 500, or 600 when the daytime running light (DRL) function is activated on at least one of the signaling modules responsible for this function. Since such a function is activated during the day, it is thus ensured that the light sources of the light modules are activated during the day, thereby homogenizing the signature of the lighting system 300 between daytime and nighttime driving situations.

[0134] A luminous zone is a portion of the flexible guide sheet pattern capable of reflecting light rays guided within the flexible guide sheet outwards. The light intensity within a luminous zone can vary. Thus, luminous and dark zones are distinguished within a pattern. Advantageously, according to the invention, the luminous zones are positioned opposite optical surfaces of lighting modules and can have the same shape as these optical surfaces.

[0135] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above by way of example; it extends to other variants.

Claims

Demands

1. A lighting device (300) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one lighting module (301.1; 301.2) capable of projecting light beams to perform a lighting function and further comprising a lighting module (400; 500; 600) comprising: - a flexible guide sheet (110; 410; 510; 610) capable of receiving light rays by at least one edge (114) of said flexible guide sheet and of reflecting the light rays in a direction substantially normal to a surface of the flexible guide sheet; - at least one light injection element (120; 420; 520; 620.1; 620.2) capable of receiving light and distributing light in the flexible guide sheet; - at least one light source (130; 430; 530; 630.1; 530.2) capable of injecting light into said at least one light injection element; - in which the flexible guide sheet is transparent, in which the light module is arranged so that the flexible guide sheet is traversed by the light rays from the lighting module, and in which the light source is activated when the lighting module is deactivated.

2. A lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible guide sheet is capable of reflecting light rays according to at least one pattern engraved in said flexible guide sheet (110; 410; 510; 610), and wherein a luminous area (450; 550.1; 550.2; 650.1; 650.2) of the pattern is arranged opposite an optical projection surface of the lighting module (301.1; 301.2).

3. A lighting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one lighting module is capable of performing a low beam lighting function or a high beam lighting function.

4. Lighting device according to claim 3, wherein the lighting module (301.1; 301.2) is capable of performing a low beam lighting function and a high beam lighting function.

5. A lighting device according to claim 3, comprising a first lighting module (301.1) capable of performing a low beam lighting function and a second lighting module (301.2) capable of performing a high beam lighting function, said lighting module (400; 500; 600) being arranged so that the flexible guide mat is traversed by the light rays from the first lighting module or the second lighting module.

6. Lighting device according to claim 5, wherein the lighting module is arranged so that the flexible guide sheet (110; 410; 510; 610) is traversed by the light rays from the first lighting module (301.1) and the second lighting module (301.2).

7. A lighting device according to claim 6, wherein the lighting module (500) comprises a single flexible guide sheet (510), a first pattern being engraved in a first part of the flexible guide sheet and a second pattern being engraved in a second part of the flexible guide sheet, wherein a luminous area (550.1) of the first pattern is arranged opposite a first optical projection surface of the first lighting module (301.1) and wherein a luminous area (550.2) of the second pattern is arranged opposite a second optical projection surface of the second lighting module (301.2).

8. A lighting device according to claim 6, wherein the lighting module (600) comprises a single flexible guide sheet, a first injection element (620.1) and a second injection element (620.2), wherein the first injection element is arranged in in a manner of injecting light into a first section of the edge of the flexible guide sheet (610) and wherein the second injection element is arranged to inject light into a second section of the edge of the flexible guide sheet, a first part of the flexible guide sheet located opposite the first section of the edge being engraved according to a first pattern and a second part of the flexible guide sheet located opposite the second section of the edge being engraved according to a second pattern, wherein a luminous area (650.1) of the first pattern is arranged opposite a first optical projection surface of the first lighting module (301.1) and wherein a luminous area (650.2) of the second pattern is arranged opposite a second optical projection surface of the second lighting module (301.2).

9. A lighting device according to claim 5, comprising a first lighting module (301.1) and a second lighting module (301.2), the first lighting module comprising a first flexible guide sheet (410), a first injection element (420) and a first light source (430) and the second lighting module comprising a second flexible guide sheet, a second injection element and a second light source, wherein the first lighting module is arranged so that the first flexible guide sheet is traversed by the light rays from the first lighting module, and the second lighting module is arranged so that the second flexible guide sheet is traversed by the light rays from the second lighting module.

10. A lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light module (400; 500; 600) is arranged inside a lens of an optical system of the lighting module (301.1; 301.2). [Claim 1 1] Lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lighting module (400; 500; 600) is arranged on an external glass of the lighting device (300).

12. A lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a signaling module (302.1; 302.2; 302.3) capable of performing a signaling function.

13. A lighting device according to claim 12, wherein the signaling module (302.1; 302.2; 302.3) is capable of performing a daytime signaling function or a position light function.

14. A lighting device according to claim 13, wherein the signaling module (302.1; 302.2; 302.3) is capable of performing a daytime signaling function and a position light function.

15. A lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit (340) capable of activating said at least one light source (430; 530; 630) when the lighting module (301.1; 301.2) is deactivated.

16. Lighting device according to claim 15, wherein the control unit (340) is further capable of activating and deactivating the lighting module (301.1; 301.2) according to control signals.

17. A light device according to claim 15 or 16, and according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the control unit (340) is further capable of controlling the signaling module (302.1; 302.2; 302.3).

18. A lighting device according to claim 17, wherein the control unit (340) is capable of driving the signaling module (302.1; 302.2; 302.3) which is capable of performing a daytime signaling function, and wherein, upon activation of the daytime signaling function, the control unit is configured to activate said at least one light source (430; 530; 630).

19. A lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each flexible guide sheet (110; 410; 510; 610) comprises a film (111) comprising microstructures (113), in which each pattern is etched by ultraviolet printing of the film's microstructures.

20. A lighting device according to claim 19, wherein, for each flexible guide sheet (110; 410; 510; 610), a surface density of microstructures (113) decreases with the distance from the edge of the guide sheet into which the light is injected.

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