Lighting device for a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting device (100) for a vehicle, comprising an illuminable logo structure (10) with a logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15), each of which is designed in the form of a ring or a partial ring, light sources (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) for each logo body (11, ..., 15), and a light distribution device (20) with a light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) with the light exit surface (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) at the edge of the light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25), wherein each of the light exit surfaces (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) of the light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) of the light entry surface (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) of the associated logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) and the light entry surfaces (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) correspond in terms of their shape to the shape of the ring or partial ring of the logo body (11, 12, 13, 14,15) orthe shape of the light entry surface (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) of the logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) correspond to or are complementary to the shape, and wherein the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are arranged such that at least one light distribution body (22, 24) is arranged behind at least one other light distribution body (21, 23, 25) such that the light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) is opposite the rear side (21', 23', 25') of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25), wherein the light distribution bodies (21, ..., 25) are positioned relative to one another in such a way that light emerging from the at least one light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) passes through the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25) from the rear side (21', 23', 25') to the front surface (21", 23", 25"), emerges from the front surface (21", 23", 25") and illuminates the light entry surface (11a, 13a) of the opposite logo body (11, 13).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a lighting device for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, or for a vehicle lamp, in particular a motor vehicle lamp, comprising: an illuminable logo structure, wherein the logo structure comprises two or more logo bodies, which logo bodies can be connected to one another, preferably in one piece, wherein the logo bodies are each designed in the form of a ring or a partial ring, in particular a closed ring, and the logo bodies, which are formed, for example, from a translucent material, have a light entry surface and a light exit surface opposite the light entry surface, two or more light sources, wherein each light source is assigned to exactly one logo body, such that each logo body is illuminated by exactly one of the light sources with light emitted by this light source, a light distribution device comprising two or more light distribution bodies, wherein exactly one of the light distribution bodies is arranged between each of the light sources and the logo body assigned to it,wherein each light distribution body has a light coupling region on a rear side for coupling in light from the respective light source, and a light exit surface on a front surface opposite the rear side, wherein at least one light deflection section is provided in the light distribution body, which deflects the light coupled in from the light source to the light exit surface, wherein the light exit surface is arranged at the edge of the light distribution body, and wherein each of the light exit surfaces of the light distribution bodies is opposite the light entry surface of the associated logo body and the light entry surfaces correspond with respect to their shape of the shaped ring or partial ring of the logo body or the shape of the light entry surface of the logo body or are complementary to the shape.

[0002] Vehicle logos, also known as emblems or brand emblems, are important identifying features for automobile manufacturers. They serve not only as trademarks but also represent the company's image and values. The logos are often carefully designed to create a strong visual connection to the brand name.

[0003] Lighting plays an increasingly important role in vehicle logos, especially in modern automotive designs. For example, many vehicle logos are equipped with lighting, such as LED lighting or backlighting elements. This lighting can improve the visibility of the logo at night or in low-visibility conditions, while also creating an aesthetic effect.

[0004] Some vehicles feature special design details where the brand emblem or parts of it are illuminated during the day, e.g., in conjunction with or together with the daytime running lights, or at night. This can improve the vehicle's visibility and recognition.

[0005] Logos can also be animated, for example during the startup process or other specific events, to attract attention.

[0006] In some cases, lighting or an illuminated logo serves not only aesthetic purposes but also has a functional component. For example, certain elements of the logo could function as brake lights or as part of the adaptive vehicle lighting system.

[0007] The illumination of vehicle logos is not always just a design aspect, but can also affect safety-related aspects, as clearly visible logos can improve the recognition of vehicles in traffic.

[0008] Vehicle logos often consist of individual logo elements that, in order to be illuminated, are designed as so-called logo bodies. Such a logo body, which represents a logo element of the overall logo, is usually made of a translucent body made of, or encompassing, PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) or a thermoplastic such as PC (polycarbonate).

[0009] In some of these logos, which consist of two or more logo elements, the logo elements or logo bodies touch or intersect. A well-known example of such a logo is the Audi logo, which consists of four adjacent circular rings, each of which is closed in its own right. Two adjacent circular rings interlock and thus cross each other in two intersecting areas.

[0010] For the illumination of logos of this type, which are formed from at least two illuminable logo bodies that cross each other in intersection areas, there are solutions in the prior art in which the light sources with which the logo bodies are to be illuminated feed their light into the logo bodies via the individual intersection areas of the latter.

[0011] In order to be able to reduce the number of light sources used, for example in the case described above for the well-known Audi logo 8 light sources are necessary, six at six crossing areas and one on each side on the outside, there are also solutions in which only one light source is used per logo body, which is arranged essentially centrally in relation to the logo body.

[0012] Against this background, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved solution for an illuminable or luminous logo which comprises two or more logo bodies, wherein in particular individual logo bodies can cross one another in one or more crossing regions or can touch one another in one or more regions.

[0013] The object is achieved with a lighting device as described at the outset in that, according to the invention, the light distribution bodies are arranged in such a way that at least one light distribution body is arranged behind at least one other light distribution body in such a way that the light exit surface of the at least one rear light distribution body is opposite the rear side of the at least one front light distribution body, wherein the light distribution bodies are positioned relative to one another in such a way that light which exits from the at least one light exit surface of the at least one rear light distribution body traverses the at least one front light distribution body from the rear side to the front surface, exits from the front surface and illuminates the light entry surface of the opposite logo body.

[0014] This means, for example, that light from the light sources always moves within a light distribution body and only enters the air when it exits the logo body.

[0015] The individual light distribution bodies can be "individual parts"—however, the invention also allows for an advantageous one-piece design, which significantly simplifies handling, since no individual parts are required, but rather only an assembly comprising the light distribution bodies. This also allows for a compact design. In particular, with a one-piece design, the relative positioning of the individual light distribution bodies to one another, e.g., during assembly, is eliminated.

[0016] With individual components, refraction and, above all, loss of intensity generally occur, so to achieve the same luminous impression, the light sources, especially LEDs, must be coordinated with each other, for example, by appropriately dimming them. With a single-piece construction, there are no optical interfaces, so these disadvantages disappear when the light distribution bodies are made of one piece, which is made possible by the invention.

[0017] For example, the ring comprises a strip between two boundary curves that extend at a normal distance from each other. The normal distance can vary along the length of the ring; preferably, it is constant, i.e., the ring preferably has a constant width along its entire length.

[0018] Whenever a logo body is mentioned in this description, both in the general context and in the description of the figures, it can refer to independent bodies that are connected to each other and surrounded by air. In this case, the logo bodies can be made of a translucent material.

[0019] Essentially, a logo body is a translucent structure that, as mentioned above, can be designed as a standalone body, but can also be designed as a translucent area in an otherwise opaque material. For example, a logo body can be designed as a translucent insert in an otherwise opaque material. It is also possible to make those areas of an inherently transparent material that are not intended to glow opaque, so that only the transparent area—i.e., the logo body—glows when illuminated.

[0020] In all the cases described above, it is advantageous if the logo body is designed to scatter light or if its translucent areas have a light-scattering effect, so that the logo body creates the most homogeneous luminous impression possible.

[0021] The logo body can also be designed as a light-scattering area in an otherwise translucent element, whereby the logo body stands out in this case because the area of ​​the logo body is light-scattering or more strongly light-scattering than the rest of the translucent element. For example, the logo body can be applied as an insert or as a light-scattering or more strongly light-scattering layer on the translucent element.

[0022] The light-scattering effect can be achieved, for example, by the logo body being made of frosted glass or being designed in a frosted glass-like manner, in which the translucent material is provided with light-scattering particles, for example, or has a roughened surface or microstructures.

[0023] The logo body can also be designed as a recess in an opaque material.

[0024] Preferably, the light exit surface and / or the light entry surface of the logo body have an optical structure, e.g. a roughened surface, microstructures, etc., so that the light ultimately emerging from the logo body is better scattered, which can lead to a better distribution of the light emission and thus the resulting luminous impression.

[0025] Crystal-like surface structures, e.g. for glitter effects, can also be used for homogenization.

[0026] In general, the translucent area should advantageously be designed to be light-scattering or refractive, i.e. light-refracting, as described, whereby a homogeneous luminous impression can be achieved, which is also relatively independent of the viewing angle.

[0027] A non-closed light impression or a ring that is not continuously illuminated for a logo body can be achieved by the ring of the logo body, which, as described below, does not necessarily have to be circular, not being closed in itself, i.e., it is only a partial ring that is open, i.e., has - usually two - open ends. Another possibility is that the ring itself is closed (but also open), and one or more sections of the light exit surface (or the light entry surface) of the logo body are opaque, or a screen is arranged in front of these areas, which is not intended to appear illuminated, or the ring (partial ring) is interrupted by opaque areas.The aperture can be arranged at a distance from the logo body, either on the light entry side or preferably on the light exit side, or can be applied or formed directly on the light exit surface (or light entry surface).

[0028] It can be provided that the light distribution bodies are positioned such that the light emerging from the light exit surface of the at least one rear light distribution body emerges from regions of the front surface of the at least one front light distribution body, which regions are not occupied by the light exit surface of the at least one front light distribution body.

[0029] The light distribution bodies are thus arranged in at least two, for example, exactly two rows, which are offset in the light emission direction. The light distribution bodies are arranged alternately, i.e., alternately in these two rows at different "depths" or distances from the respective logo bodies.

[0030] The light sources are preferably arranged in one plane on a common circuit board; the light supply elements, preferably in the form of collimators, are in this case advantageously designed to be of different lengths in order to compensate for the depth differences between the individual light sources.

[0031] Furthermore, it can be provided that in areas of intersection of the logo bodies, opposite areas of the light distribution bodies, these are positioned in such a way that the at least one rear light distribution body emits light onto the rear side of the at least one front light distribution body in such a way that this light passes through the front light distribution body and exits from the light exit surface of the at least one front light distribution body.

[0032] The corresponding light rays thus emerge in areas of the light exit surfaces of the front light distribution bodies, which are opposite the crossing areas.

[0033] In principle, it should be noted that the shape and size of the light distribution bodies depend on the shape and size of the associated logo bodies, in particular on their light-emitting surfaces. For identical logo bodies, the light distribution bodies are preferably also identical.

[0034] It can be provided that the light exit surfaces and / or the front surfaces of the light distribution bodies are flat.

[0035] The light-emitting surfaces are preferably flat surfaces arranged at different heights in the direction of light emission. The logo bodies can be inclined toward the flat light-emitting surfaces.

[0036] In a specific embodiment, the front surfaces of the light distribution bodies can be circular and preferably the individual light distribution bodies can be rotationally symmetrical or symmetrical with respect to one or more planes of symmetry.

[0037] The rotational symmetry refers, for example, to a line of symmetry X, which corresponds to the main radiation direction, which preferably coincides with the optical axis of the light source or the main light emission direction of the light source.

[0038] It can be provided that the light source assigned to a light distribution body is arranged on a line of symmetry of the light distribution body and the main radiation direction of the light source coincides with the line of symmetry.

[0039] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the main radiation directions of the light sources run outside the crossing areas of the logo bodies.

[0040] For example, in the case of a rotationally symmetrical light distribution body, the main radiation direction of the light source advantageously penetrates the geometric center of the front surface of its light distribution body.

[0041] It can be provided that the rear sides of the light distribution bodies are at least partially flat, in particular at least in that region which lies opposite the light exit surface of the at least one rear light distribution body.

[0042] Furthermore, it can be provided that the, for example, flat, light exit surface of the at least one rear light distribution body rests against the rear side of the at least one front light distribution body, preferably in a flat region of its rear side, or is arranged at a distance from the rear side of the at least one front light distribution body.

[0043] It is preferably provided that a rear light distribution body or bodies and the light distribution body or bodies arranged in front of it contact each other so that there is no air gap between the light distribution bodies.

[0044] In particular, it can be provided that the light distribution bodies are formed integrally with one another, wherein the light distribution bodies are preferably connected to one another at least via the light exit surfaces of the at least one rear light distribution body and the regions of the rear side of the front light distribution body assigned to them.

[0045] The light distribution device is therefore a one-piece body.

[0046] As mentioned above, it is also possible to have an air gap between the light distribution bodies. In this case, it is advantageous if the light exit surface of the rear light distribution body(s) runs parallel to the rear of the front light distribution body(s) or to that area of ​​the rear through which the light enters the front light distribution body(s). In this case, the light distribution bodies can be connected to each other in other areas or connected via a separate connecting element.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be provided that the light entry surfaces of the logo bodies are flat and preferably lie in a common first plane, or are curved and preferably lie in a common, for example curved, first surface.

[0048] For example, it is provided that the light exit surfaces of the logo bodies are flat and preferably lie in a second, common plane which is different from the first plane, or are curved and preferably lie in a common, for example curved second surface which is different from the first surface.

[0049] The first plane and the second plane can run parallel to each other. If the light entry surfaces lie on a common, e.g., curved surface, and the light exit surfaces lie on a curved surface, these curved surfaces can also run parallel to each other.

[0050] It can be provided that the light exit surfaces of the light distribution bodies lie parallel to a third plane or parallel to a third curved surface.

[0051] It can also be provided that the light entry surfaces of the logo bodies run parallel to the third plane / third surface or are inclined to the third plane / surface.

[0052] It may be provided that the ring or partial ring formed by a logo body is circular or partially circular or is symmetrical with respect to one or more planes of symmetry.

[0053] A logo body preferably has a self-contained shape ("ring"), but the shape can also be open ("partial ring"). The shape of the ring can preferably be circular, as this shape allows for homogeneous illumination with the respective associated light distribution body. However, the logo body can also have a different shape, e.g., an elliptical shape. The ring or partial ring can also have a square or rectangular shape, or generally be angular, with the "corners" preferably having a rounded contour in this case. The ring can also have a more complex shape, for example, an "8," where in the case of a ring, the "8" is closed, while in the case of a partial ring, it is not. In general, all of the described shapes can form a ring or even just a partial ring.By superimposing two elliptical partial rings with their main axes twisted relative to each other, a heart-shaped outline is created as another example of a complex shape.

[0054] The shape of the light exit surfaces of the light distribution bodies follows or essentially corresponds to the shape of the ring or partial ring of the logo body assigned to the respective light distribution body.

[0055] Furthermore, it can be provided that adjacent logo bodies merge into one another and / or have crossing areas, for example two crossing areas in each case, in which the adjacent logo bodies penetrate one another.

[0056] For example, it is provided that, in order to form the logo structure, the logo bodies are connected to one another in one piece, wherein the logo bodies are preferably connected to one another in one piece in the areas in which they merge into one another and / or in the crossing areas.

[0057] The invention further relates to a vehicle lamp for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising one or more lighting devices described above.

[0058] Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising one or more lighting device(s) described above or one or more motor vehicle lights described above.

[0059] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing, which shows Fig. 1 a roughly schematic perspective view of parts of a lighting device according to the invention from an angle from the front, Fig. 2 the lighting device Figure 1 in a roughly schematic view from above, Fig. 3 a schematic view of the lighting device from Figure 1 from the front, Fig. 4 a section through the lighting device Figure 1along plane AA Figure 1 or Figure 3 , Fig. 5 the cut from Figure 4 with exemplary beam paths, Fig. 6 an exemplary side view of a lighting device according to the invention, Fig. 7 an exemplary side view of a further lighting device according to the invention, and Fig. 8 analogous to the representation from Figure 3 another lighting device according to the invention.

[0060] Figures 1 to 5 show, in a roughly schematic manner, components of a lighting device 100 for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, with an illuminable logo structure 10. The logo structure 10 has two or more, in the example shown five, so-called logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. The logo bodies 11-15 can be connected to one another, for example in one piece.

[0061] When in this description, both in the general context and in the description of the figures, a logo body is mentioned, it can actually be, as in Figure 1 and Figure 2 suggested to be independent bodies that are connected to each other and surrounded by air.

[0062] Essentially, a logo body is a translucent structure that, as mentioned above, can be designed as a standalone body, but can also be designed as a translucent area in an otherwise opaque material. For example, a logo body can be designed as a translucent insert in an otherwise opaque material. It is also possible to make those areas of an inherently transparent material that are not intended to glow opaque, so that only the transparent area—i.e., the logo body—glows when illuminated.

[0063] In all the cases described above, it is advantageous if the logo body is designed to diffuse light, so that the logo body creates the most homogeneous luminous impression possible.

[0064] The logo body can also be designed as a light-scattering area in an otherwise translucent element, whereby the logo body stands out in this case because the area of ​​the logo body is light-scattering or more strongly light-scattering than the rest of the translucent element. For example, the logo body can be applied as an insert or as a light-scattering or more strongly light-scattering layer on the translucent element.

[0065] The light-scattering effect can be achieved, for example, by the logo body being made of frosted glass or being designed in a frosted glass-like manner, in which the translucent material is provided with light-scattering particles, for example, or has a roughened surface or microstructures.

[0066] The logo body can also be designed as a recess in an opaque material.

[0067] In the example shown, the individual logo bodies 11, ..., 15 are each designed in the form of a closed ring, wherein the closed ring has a circular shape.

[0068] The logo bodies 11, ..., 15 can, as described above, be formed from a translucent material (e.g. from a thermoplastic plastic, PC, PMMA).

[0069] The logo bodies 11 - 15 each have a light entry surface 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a and a light exit surface 11b, 12b, 13b, 14b, 15b opposite the light entry surface 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a.

[0070] The light entry surfaces 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a and the light exit surfaces 11b, 12b, 13b, 14b, 15b can be flat and can run parallel to one another or be inclined to one another, as will be explained further below.

[0071] Each logo body 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 is assigned a light source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, which illuminates the logo body 11, ..., 15 assigned to it when the light source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 emits light.

[0072] The light sources 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 are preferably LEDs or each light source comprises one or more LEDs.

[0073] For illuminating the logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, a light distribution device 20 is arranged between the light sources 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and the logo structure 10, see in particular Figure 2 and Figures 4 and 5 . The light distribution device 20 comprises light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, specifically for each logo body 11, ..., 15, exactly one light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, which is assigned to this logo body 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and is arranged between the light source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 of the logo body 11, ..., 15 and the logo body.

[0074] For the sake of clarity, the schematic diagram shows Figure 2 all 5 logo bodies 11 - 15, but only three of the five light distribution bodies, namely the light distribution bodies 22, 23, 24, which are assigned to the logo bodies 12, 13, 14.

[0075] The Figures 4 and 5show a section along the plane AA from Figure 1 or 2, so that in these two Figures 4 and 5 only the logo bodies 12, 13, 14 and the associated light distribution bodies 22, 23, 24 can be seen.

[0076] The front surfaces 21", 22", 23", 24", 25" of the light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are, following the shape of the logo bodies, preferably circular and preferably the individual light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are each rotationally symmetrical.

[0077] The rotational symmetry refers, for example, to a line of symmetry X on which the light sources 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 are arranged. The main radiation direction of the light sources coincides with the line of symmetry X.

[0078] Each light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 has on its rear side 21', 22', 23', 24', 25' a light coupling region 21a, 22a, 23a, 24a, 25a for coupling in light from the respective light source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Each light coupling region 21a, 22, 23a, 24a, 25a is preferably designed as a collimator or comprises a collimator 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, with which the light emerging from the light source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 is directed in parallel, so that the light coupled into the light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 propagates in the form of a parallel beam S1 (see Figure 5 ).

[0079] The light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are preferably, not limited to the embodiment described here, a solid body on a translucent material, e.g. made of a thermoplastic, PC or PMMA.

[0080] Each light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 has a light exit surface 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c on a front surface 21", 22", 23", 24", 25" opposite the rear side 21', 22', 23', 24', 25'.

[0081] Furthermore, two light deflection sections 21b, 22b, 23b, 24b, 25b, 21b', 22b', 23b', 24b', 25b' are provided in the light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25. Initially, the light S1 coupled in by the light source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and directed in parallel by the collimator 221, 222, 223, 224, 225 strikes a first light deflection section 21b, 22b, 23b, 24b, 25b, where it is totally reflected, in particular by 90°, then propagates radially outwards, parallel to the front surface 21", 22", 23", 24", 25" in the light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 (light rays S2), until it strikes the second light deflection section 21b', 22b', 23b', 24b', 25b', which totally reflects the light again, in particular by 90°, so that the again deflected Light rays S3 emerge over an area of ​​the front surface 21", 22", 23", 24", 25", the so-called light exit surface 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c, and illuminate the associated logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or shine through them.

[0082] The Figures 4 and 5 show the logo structure 10, which is formed in an opaque element 10', and wherein the logo structure comprises the five logo bodies as described above, of which only three logo bodies 12, 13, 14 can be seen in the section shown. The logo bodies 12, 13, 14 each form a closed ring in the shape of a circle, the ring having the width b.

[0083] The light exit surfaces 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c are located at the edge of the light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and form a circular strip whose size (diameter, width of the strip) and shape (closed circle) correspond to the size and shape of the logo body associated with the light distribution body. In other words, a projection of the logo body or the light entry surface of the logo body onto the front surface 21", 22", 23", 24" of the light distribution body 21, 22, 23, 24 would essentially cover the light exit surface 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c.

[0084] The size or width of the light exit surfaces 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c is, as shown in Figure 5 As can be seen, the size of the second light deflection sections 21b', 22b', 23b', 24b' is defined. The light exit surfaces 21c - 25c have a width b like the logo bodies.

[0085] It should be noted at this point that the relationships described, unless they obviously refer to the specific embodiment, also apply to any other form of the logo body and the corresponding light distribution body.

[0086] The arrangement is such that each of the light exit surfaces 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c of the light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 is opposite the light entry surface 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a of the associated logo body 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and, as already mentioned, the light entry surfaces 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c correspond in terms of their shape to the shape of the ring of the logo body 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or the shape of the light entry surface 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a of the logo body 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 correspond to or are complementary to the form.

[0087] As can be seen in the figures, the logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 penetrate each other in crossing areas 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117.

[0088] In order to optimally illuminate or illuminate such a logo structure 10, it is provided that the light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are arranged such that the light distribution bodies 22, 24 are arranged behind other light distribution bodies 23, such that the light exit surfaces 22c, 24c of the rear light distribution bodies 22, 24 are opposite the rear side 23' of the front light distribution bodies 23 arranged in front of them. This situation is in Figure 2 and in detail in the Figures 4 and 5 shown, whereby it should be noted that due to the sectional view only one front light distribution body, namely body 23, and only two rear bodies 22, 24 can be seen in the illustration.

[0089] The light distribution bodies are positioned relative to one another in such a way that light emerging from the light exit surfaces 22c, 24c of the rear light distribution bodies 22, 24 passes through the upstream light distribution body(s) 23 from the rear side 23' to the front surface 23", emerges from the front surface 23" and illuminates the light entry surface 13a of the opposite logo body 13.

[0090] Light exiting the light exit surface 22c, 24c of the rear light distribution bodies 22, 24 and passing through a front light distribution body 23 exits from areas of the front surface 23" of the respective front light distribution body 23, which areas are not occupied by the light exit surface 23c of the front light distribution body 23.

[0091] It should be noted at this point that in the example shown - and this also applies quite generally regardless of the example - in which the light distribution bodies are formed integrally with one another, in particular from the same material, the light exit surfaces 22c, 24c in that transition or connection area are actually virtual light exit surfaces, since in this transition or connection area the rear bodies 22, 24 merge directly into the light distribution body 23 located in front of them, so that in the transition area there is no real, but only a virtual light exit surface of the rear bodies 22, 24.

[0092] Only in the crossover areas 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 of the logo bodies 11, ..., 15 opposite areas of the light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, the rear light distribution bodies 22, 24 emit light onto the rear side 23' of the front light distribution body 23 in such a way that this light crosses the front light distribution body 23 and exits in an area of ​​the light exit surface 23c of the front light distribution body 23, which area is opposite the crossover area.

[0093] The light distribution bodies are thus arranged in at least two rows, which are offset in the light exit direction. The light sources 2, 3, 4 can, as shown, be arranged in a common plane on a support. This can be achieved by using collimators 222, 224; 223 of different lengths for feeding light into the light distribution bodies, as shown.

[0094] Preferably, the light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are integrally connected to one another and form the light distribution device 20, wherein the rear light distribution bodies 22, 24 are connected via their light exit surfaces 22c, 24c to the rear side 23' of the front light distribution bodies 22, 24.

[0095] The light entry surfaces 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a of the logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 can be flat and then preferably lie in a common first plane E1, see e.g. Figures 5 , 6 and 7 The logo structure 10 can also be bent or curved in the vertical and / or horizontal direction. In this case, the light entry surfaces 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a preferably lie in a common, for example curved, first surface F1.

[0096] Analogously, the light exit surfaces 11b, 12b, 13b, 14b, 15b of the logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 can be flat and preferably lie in a second, common plane E2, which is different from the first plane E1, or can be curved and preferably lie in a common, for example curved second surface F2, which is different from the first surface F1.

[0097] First level E1 and second level E2 can run parallel to each other, see Figure 6 . If the light entry surfaces lie in a common, e.g. curved surface F1, as well as the light exit surfaces in a curved surface F2, these curved surfaces F1, F2 can also run parallel to each other.

[0098] It can also be provided that the first plane E1 / surface F1 and the second plane E2 / surface F2 do not run parallel to each other, see Figure 7 .

[0099] The light exit surfaces 21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c of the light distribution bodies 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 can be parallel to a third plane E3 or parallel to a third curved surface F3.

[0100] It can also be provided that the light entry surfaces 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a of the logo bodies 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 run parallel to the third plane E3 / third surface F3 (as an example see Figure 7 ) or inclined to the third plane E3 / surface F1.

[0101] Figure 8Another example of a possible design of logo bodies 11-14, which in this case again form a closed ring, although this ring deviates from the circular shape and is square in this case, with rounded corners. The logo bodies 11-14 intersect in intersection areas 110-115. The above statements can be directly applied to this embodiment. The logo bodies shown here and, accordingly, the light distribution bodies not shown, can be designed symmetrically with respect to one or more planes of symmetry SE1, SE2, SE3, SE4, as in the example from Figure 8 shown.

[0102] A logo body preferably has a self-contained shape ("ring"), but the shape can also be open ("partial ring"). The shape of the ring can preferably be circular, as this shape allows for homogeneous illumination with the respective associated light distribution body. However, the logo body can also have a different shape, e.g., an elliptical shape. The ring or partial ring can also have a square or rectangular shape, or generally be angular, with the "corners" preferably having a rounded contour in this case. The ring can also have a more complex shape, for example, an "8," where in the case of a ring, the "8" is closed, while in the case of a partial ring, it is not. In general, all of the described shapes can form a ring or even just a partial ring.

[0103] The shape of the light exit surfaces of the light distribution bodies follows or essentially corresponds to the shape of the ring or partial ring of the logo body assigned to the respective light distribution body.

Claims

1. Lighting device (100) for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, or for a vehicle light, in particular a motor vehicle light, comprising: - an illuminable logo structure (10), wherein the logo structure (10) comprises two or more logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15), which logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) can be connected to one another, preferably in one piece, wherein the logo bodies (11, ..., 15) are each designed in the form of a ring or a partial ring, in particular a closed ring, and the logo bodies (11, ..., 15), which are formed, for example, from a translucent material, have a light entry surface (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) and one of the light entry surfaces (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) have opposite light exit surfaces (11b, 12b, 13b, 14b, 15b), - two or more light sources (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), each light source (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) being assigned to exactly one logo body (11, ..., 15),such that each logo body (11, ..., 15) is illuminated by exactly one of the light sources (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) with light emitted by this light source (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), - a light distribution device (20) which comprises two or more light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25), wherein between each of the light sources (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) and the logo body (11, ..., 15) assigned to it, exactly one of the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) is arranged, • wherein each light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24) has a rear side (21', 22', 23', 24', 25') Light coupling area (21a, 22a, 23a, 24a, 25a) for coupling in light of the respective light source (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), • has a light exit surface (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) on a front surface (21", 22", 23", 24", 25") opposite the rear side (21', 22', 23', 24', 25'), • wherein in the light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) at least one light deflection section (21b, 22b,23b, 24b, 25b; 21b', 22b', 23b', 24b', 25b') is provided, which deflects the light coupled in from the light source (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) to the light exit surface (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c), • wherein the light exit surface (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) is arranged at the edge of the light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25), and wherein each of the light exit surfaces (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) of the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) of the light entry surface (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) of the associated logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) and the light entry surfaces (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) correspond in terms of their shape to the shape of the ring or partial ring of the logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) or the shape of the light entry surface (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) of the logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) or are complementary to the shape, and wherein the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are arranged such that at least one light distribution body (22,24) is arranged behind at least one other light distribution body (21, 23, 25) in such a way that the light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) is opposite the rear side (21', 23', 25') of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25), wherein the light distribution bodies (21, ..., 25) are positioned relative to one another in such a way that light emerging from the at least one light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) illuminates the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25) from the rear side (21', 23', 25') to the front surface (21", 23", 25") traverses, exits the front surface (21", 23", 25") and illuminates the light entry surface (11a, 13a) of the opposite logo body (11, 13)., 2. Lighting device according to claim 1, wherethe light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are positioned such that the light emerging from the light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) emerges from regions of the front surface (21", 23", 25") of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25), which regions are not occupied by the light exit surface (21c, 23c, 25c) of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25).

3. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein crossover regions (110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117) of the logo bodies (11, ..., 15) opposite regions of the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25), these are positioned such that the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) emits light onto the rear side (21', 23', 25') of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25) such that said light traverses the front light distribution body (21, 23, 25) and exits from the light exit surface (21c, 23c, 25c) of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25).

4. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the light exit surfaces (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) and / or the front surfaces (21", 22", 23", 24", 25") of the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are flat.

5. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherethe front surfaces (21", 22", 23", 24", 25") of the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are circular and preferably the individual light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are rotationally symmetrical, or are symmetrical with respect to one or more planes of symmetry (SE1, SE2, SE3, SE4).

6. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the light source (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) assigned to a light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) is arranged on a straight line of symmetry (X) of the light distribution body (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) and the main radiation direction of the light source (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) coincides with the straight line of symmetry (X).

7. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the main radiation directions of the light sources (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) run outside the crossing areas (111 - 117) of the logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15).

8. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the rear sides (21', 22', 23', 24', 25') of the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are at least partially flat, in particular at least in that region which lies opposite the light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24).

9. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the, for example flat, light exit surface (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) rests against the rear side (21', 23', 25') of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25), preferably in a flat region of its rear side (21', 23', 25'), or is arranged at a distance from the rear side (21', 23', 25') of the at least one front light distribution body (21, 23, 25).

10. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are formed integrally with one another, wherein the light distribution bodies (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are preferably connected to one another at least via the light exit surfaces (22c, 24c) of the at least one rear light distribution body (22, 24) and the regions of the rear side (21', 23', 25') of the front light distribution body (21, 23, 25) assigned thereto.

11. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the light entry surfaces (11b, 12b, 13b, 14b, 15b) of the logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) are flat and preferably lie in a common first plane (E1), or are curved and preferably lie in a common, for example curved, first surface (F1).

12. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherethe light exit surfaces (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 15a) of the logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) are flat and preferably lie in a second, common plane (E2), which is different from the first plane (E1), or are curved and preferably lie in a common, for example curved second surface (F2), which is different from the first surface (F1).

13. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the light exit surfaces (21c, 22c, 23c, 24c, 25c) of the light distribution bodies lie parallel to a third plane (E3) or parallel to a third curved surface (F3).

14. Lighting device according to claim 13, where the light entry surfaces (11b, 12b, 13b, 14b, 15b) of the logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) run parallel to the third plane (E3) / third surface (F3) or are inclined to the third plane (E3) / surface (F3).

15. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where the ring or partial ring formed by a logo body (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) is circular or partially circular or is symmetrical with respect to one or more planes of symmetry (SE1, SE2, SE3, SE4).

16. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, where adjacent logo bodies (11, ... , 15) merge into one another and / or have crossing regions (110, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117), for example two crossing regions in each case, in which the adjacent logo bodies penetrate one another.

17. Lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, whereto form the logo structure (10), the logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) are connected to one another in one piece, wherein preferably the logo bodies (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) are connected to one another in one piece in the regions in which they merge into one another and / or in the crossing regions (110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117).

18. Vehicle lamp for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising one or more lighting devices according to one of the preceding claims.

19. Vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 17 and / or comprising a motor vehicle lamp according to claim 18.

Images