Lighting module for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting module (1) for a motor vehicle (2), the module comprising: - a set of light sources (41, 42, 43, 44, 45) comprising at least two light sources; - a set of optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) comprising at least two optical elements, each optical element co-operating with a separate light source so as to produce a light beam (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5); - a support (7) configured to hold the optical elements, characterised in that the optical elements are embedded in the support and in that they are configured and arranged so that each one produces a light beam comprising the same light distribution and the same orientation.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Lighting module for a motor vehicle

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a lighting module for a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a method for assembling such a lighting module.

[0005] State of the prior art

[0006] Motor vehicles include lighting modules intended to illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle, so as to enable driving in the dark. Such lighting modules are generally capable of producing a dipped beam and / or a high beam light beam. The light distribution of dipped beam and high beam headlights is defined in particular by automotive regulations such as UNECE R149 in Europe, GBT 30036 in China, or FMVSS 108 in the United States. For example, in the case of a dipped beam, the light beam must have a specific asymmetry aimed at avoiding dazzling other motorists traveling in the opposite direction.

[0007] Such a lighting module conventionally comprises a single light source cooperating with one or more optical elements adapted to shape a light beam according to the desired light distribution.

[0008] Lighting modules intended to produce dipped beam headlights are also known which comprise two separate light modules. A first light module comprises a first light source cooperating with a first optical element to produce a first part of a light beam. The first part of the light beam is a wide light beam with a horizontal upper cut-off. This first light beam is commonly referred to as a "fiat" beam. A second light module comprises a second light source cooperating with a second optical element to produce a second part of a light beam. The second part of the light beam is a narrower light beam with an upper cut-off provided with a projection. This second light beam is commonly referred to as a "kink" beam. Each light module is thus intended to illuminate specific areas of the space.The "kink" module is adjustable relative to the "fiat" module to allow adjustment of the position of the first part of the light beam and the second part of the light beam. For the manufacture and then installation of such a lighting module in a motor vehicle, a step of adjusting the relative positions of the light beams produced by each of the light modules is required, which is particularly complex and tedious. In addition, the introduction of a system for adjusting the position of the "kink" module relative to the "fiat" module is costly.

[0009] Presentation of the invention

[0010] The aim of the invention is to provide a lighting module and a method of assembling such a lighting module which overcomes the above drawbacks and improves the lighting modules and their assembly methods known from the prior art.

[0011] More specifically, an object of the invention is a lighting module comprising several light sources which is particularly simple to assemble and inexpensive. Summary of the invention

[0012] The invention relates to a lighting module for a motor vehicle, comprising:

[0013] - a set of light sources comprising at least two light sources,

[0014] - a set of optical elements comprising at least two optical elements, each optical element cooperating with a separate light source so as to produce a light beam,

[0015] - a support configured to hold the optical elements, the optical elements being fixedly mounted on the support, and the optical elements being configured and arranged so as to each produce a light beam comprising the same light distribution and the same orientation.

[0016] Said light distribution of the light beams may be a light distribution of a dipped beam or a main beam, the light beams preferably each having a luminous flux lower than the regulatory luminous flux required to perform a dipped beam function, or respectively a main beam function.

[0017] In particular, the superposition of the light distributions produced by all the optical elements makes it possible to produce a dipped beam function or a regulatory main beam function.

[0018] The lighting module may be configured to produce an overall light beam formed by the superposition of the light beams produced by each optical element, the light distribution of the overall light beam being identical to the light distribution of the light beams produced by each optical element.

[0019] The light beams produced by the optical elements and the overall light beam therefore have the same geometric shape. It is understood that the light beams produced by the optical elements overlap to form the overall light beam. In other words, the light beams produced by the optical elements are combined to form the overall light beam.

[0020] In particular, the light beams produced by the optical elements overlap or merge when they are projected onto a screen placed in front of the lighting module, for example 25 m in front of the lighting module.

[0021] By "the light beams produced by the optical elements overlap or are merged" is meant that the contours of the light distribution of each of the light beams produced by the optical elements overlap or are merged, in particular when they are projected onto a screen placed in front of the lighting module, for example 25 m in front of the lighting module.

[0022] Thus, the light distribution of the overall light beam includes the same contours as those of the light beams produced by the optical elements.

[0023] The light beams are therefore not juxtaposed to form the overall light beam.

[0024] It will be understood that there may be a slight offset between the contours of the light beams, of the order of 1°, or even less than or equal to 0.5°, or even less than or equal to 0.4° without departing from the scope of the invention. Indeed, when projected onto the road, far in front of the vehicle and therefore far in front of the lighting module, this offset has no impact on the overall projected light beam. Indeed, the different light beams appear to the naked eye as being merged.

[0025] All optical elements can have an identical shape. The optical elements can be attached independently to the support.

[0026] Each optical element is thus fixed to the support.

[0027] All optical elements can be attached to the support exclusively by clipping.

[0028] The support may comprise first means for positioning each optical element parallel to an optical axis of the lighting module, the first positioning means each comprising a first stop and a first elastic tab configured to press an optical element against the first stop.

[0029] The support may comprise second means for positioning each optical element parallel to a first transverse axis, the first transverse axis being perpendicular to an optical axis of the lighting module, the second positioning means each comprising a second stop and a second elastic tab configured to press an optical element against the second stop. In particular, the support may comprise third means for positioning each optical element parallel to a second transverse axis, the second transverse axis being perpendicular to the optical axis of the lighting module and perpendicular to the first transverse axis, the third positioning means each comprising a third stop and a third elastic tab configured to press an optical element against the third stop.

[0030] The first elastic tab and the second elastic tab may form a single elastic tab, said single tab cooperating with an inclined surface of each optical element to press the optical element against the first stop and against the second stop.

[0031] The support may comprise means for locking the rotation of each optical element around an axis parallel to the optical axis of the lighting module and / or around an axis perpendicular to an optical axis of the lighting module.

[0032] Said light sources can be fixed on the same printed circuit board.

[0033] , and each optical element may comprise a reference surface bearing against the printed circuit board to ensure a non-zero distance between each optical element and the light source with which the optical element cooperates.

[0034] Each optical element may comprise a light projection surface extending substantially along a portion of a sphere, and the projection surface may be surrounded by a collar intended to diffuse light.

[0035] The light source set may include at least four light sources.

[0036] Each optical element may be a single-piece element, in particular made of transparent polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a first injection mold. The support may be a single-piece element, in particular made of opaque polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a second injection mold.

[0037] The invention also relates to a method of assembling a lighting module as defined above, the assembly method comprising:

[0038] - the provision of a support comprising a set of housings

[0039] - the supply of a set of optical elements, then

[0040] - the fixing of each optical element to the support exclusively by clipping each optical element into a housing in the support.

[0041] Presentation of figures

[0042] These objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be explained in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment made without limitation in relation to the attached figures among which:

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a motor vehicle equipped with a lighting module according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0044] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the projection of a light beam from the lighting module onto a screen arranged in front of the lighting module.

[0045] Figure 3 is a schematic top view of the projection of a light beam from the lighting module.

[0046] Figure 4 is an isometric perspective view of the lighting module. Figure 5 is an isometric perspective view of a support for the lighting module.

[0047] Figure 6 is an isometric perspective view of an optical element of the lighting module from a first point of view.

[0048] Figure 7 is an isometric perspective view of an optical element of the lighting module from a second viewpoint.

[0049] Figure 8 is an isometric perspective view of the lighting module with the bracket hidden.

[0050] Figure 9 is a front isometric perspective view of a holder housing. Figure 10 is a first side sectional view of an optical element in place in a holder housing.

[0051] Figure 11 is a second side sectional view of an optical element in place in a housing of the support.

[0052] Figure 12 is an isometric perspective view from behind of a housing of the support, without the optical element intended to be placed in this housing.

[0053] Figure 13 is identical to the view of Figure 12, but with the optical element in place in the housing.

[0054] Figure 14 is a front sectional view of an optical element in place in a housing of the support.

[0055] Detailed description

[0056] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a lighting module 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. The lighting module 1 is integrated into a motor vehicle 2 and is intended to produce a dipped beam. A dipped beam, sometimes referred to by the Anglicism "Low beam", is a light beam intended to illuminate the road in front of the vehicle to allow driving in the dark, without dazzling motorists traveling in the opposite direction. The light beam is configured to illuminate the road in front of the vehicle over several tens of meters.

[0057] The invention which will be described may also be transposed to any other lighting module for a motor vehicle, in particular to a lighting module intended to produce a main beam, or "high beam", that is to say a light beam more powerful than the light beam of a dipped beam, and which is intended to be used in the absence of motorists traveling in the opposite direction.

[0058] The optical axis X is defined as an axis parallel to a central axis of the overall light beam F produced by the lighting module 1. The optical axis may be substantially parallel to the direction in which the vehicle 2 is moving in a straight line or inclined downwards and forwards relative to the direction in which the vehicle 2 is moving in a straight line. It is assumed that the vehicle 2 is resting on horizontal ground. The Z axis, or first transverse axis Z, is defined as the axis parallel to the vertical direction. The Z axis is therefore perpendicular to the optical axis X. Finally, the Y axis, or second transverse axis Y, is defined as the axis both perpendicular to the optical axis X and to the Z axis. The X axis is oriented from the front to the rear of the vehicle 2. The Z axis is oriented from bottom to top. The Y axis is oriented from left to right according to the point of view of a driver of the vehicle 2. Note the terms "first", "second" etc.do not determine any ordering relationship regarding the elements to which they refer. These terms are simply intended to distinguish different elements. Thus the Y axis could also be referred to as the first transverse axis and the Z axis could be referred to as the first transverse axis.

[0059] Figure 2 schematically illustrates the overall light beam F produced by the lighting module 1 in projection onto a plane perpendicular to the optical axis X. Figure 3 schematically illustrates the overall light beam F produced by the lighting module 1 in projection onto the road 3 on which the vehicle 2 is traveling, that is to say in projection into the plane parallel to the optical axis X and to the axis Y.

[0060] With reference to Figure 1, the lighting module 1 comprises a set of light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, and a set of optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, each optical element cooperating with a separate light source so as to produce a light beam. The lighting module 1 comprises as many optical elements as there are light sources. The light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 may for example each be formed by one or more light-emitting diodes. The light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 are fixed on the same printed circuit board 6. The lighting module further comprises a support 7 configured to hold the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55.

[0061] According to the embodiment presented, the lighting module 1 comprises five light sources and five optical elements. Alternatively, this number could be equal to any number greater than or equal to two. For example at least three, at least four, at least five or at least six light sources and associated optical elements.

[0062] According to the embodiment presented, the light sources and the optical elements are distributed vertically, that is to say arranged one above the other along the Z axis. Alternatively, the spatial distribution of the light sources and the optical elements could be different. The light sources and the optical elements could be distributed along an axis parallel to the Y axis, or any other axis in space, in particular an axis comprising a non-zero component along the optical axis X. The light sources and the optical elements could be distributed along a zigzag line, along a circle or an oval, or along a polygon such as a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a parallelogram or even a rhombus.

[0063] The optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 are configured and arranged so as to each produce a light beam respectively referenced F1, F2, F3, F4, F5. The overall light beam F produced by the lighting module 1 results from the sum of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 produced by each of the pairs comprising a light source and an optical element. The light intensity of the overall light beam F is the sum of the light intensities of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5. Each of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 comprises the same light distribution and the same orientation. The light distribution of a light beam F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 represents the spatial distribution of the light rays of this light beam. In other words, the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 have the same geometric shape.The light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 are oriented in the same direction and this direction corresponds to the optical axis X.

[0064] Figure 2 illustrates each of the five light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 in projection in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis X. These five projections have an identical shape. Considered individually, each of the five light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 has a light distribution identical to the light distribution of the overall light beam produced by the lighting module 1.

[0065] Furthermore, none of the five light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 provides all the luminous flux necessary to produce sufficient illumination to perform a regulatory lighting function. However, the superposition of the light distributions produced by all the optical elements makes it possible to provide the flux necessary for the overall light beam F produced by the lighting device to perform a regulatory lighting function.

[0066] In the example illustrated, the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 each make it possible to produce a light beam F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 whose light distribution corresponds to that of a dipped beam. It is thus understood that the geometric shape, or in other words the contours, of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 and possibly the light distribution within these light beams, correspond to that of a dipped beam. In addition, the luminous flux of each of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 is less than the luminous flux necessary to perform a regulatory dipped beam function. However, thanks to the flux contribution of each of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 to the flux of the overall light beam F, the luminous flux of the overall light beam F is regulatory.

[0067] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate the case where the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 have a dipped beam light distribution, it being understood that the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 could have a main beam distribution without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0068] It is understood that according to the invention, the optical element makes it possible to shape the light rays emitted by the light source associated with it, and to produce a light beam with a low beam or high beam distribution for example, without any other optical part. In other words, the optical element alone makes it possible to shape the light rays emitted by the light source associated with it to produce a light beam with a low beam or high beam light distribution.

[0069] In the present case, since the light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 are distributed along the Z axis, the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, which have the same light distribution and the same orientation, are also offset along the Z axis. The offset of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 is substantially equal to the offset of the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 on the lighting module 1, to which are added any possible positioning and / or orientation defects of each optical element. In Figure 2, this offset is exaggerated and can in practice be of the order of a few centimeters. Such a shift turns out to be invisible to the naked eye if the light beams are projected onto a plane perpendicular to the optical axis X located several meters from the lighting module 1, for example onto a screen located 25 m in front of the lighting module 1.In practice, the different light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 appear to the naked eye as being merged. Precise positioning and orientation of each optical element within the lighting module are nevertheless very important to achieve good spatial overlap of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4, F5. As we will see later, the invention also proposes an assembly making it possible to achieve particularly precise positioning and orientation of each light beam F1, F2, F3, F4, F5.

[0070] The greater the number of pairs of a light source and an optical element, the less visible and pronounced the shifts between the different light beams are. Thus, it has been found that it is preferable to use at least four pairs of a light source and an optical element to produce a dipped beam that meets the various automotive legislations. To produce a main beam that meets the various automotive legislations, only two pairs of a light source and an optical element may be sufficient.

[0071] Such an architecture has several advantages: it makes it possible to obtain a particularly powerful overall light beam F using moderately powerful light sources. The light intensity of the overall light beam F can be easily controlled by electronically controlling the switching on or off of certain light sources. If a light source fails, it is still possible to maintain a lighting function, although less efficient, but nevertheless preferable to the total switching off of a light module which would only include a single light source. Alternatively, it is possible to provide for the total switching off of the light module. Finally, such a light module also makes it possible to envisage more varied shapes of light modules and the creation of an original light signature.

[0072] Figure 4 illustrates the light module 1 in more detail. The support 7, or housing 7, comprises a generally rectangular shape. The optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 are arranged one above the other on a front face of the support 7. The support 7 is intended to hold each of the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, but also to fix the light module to the vehicle 2. For this purpose, the support 7 comprises fixing interfaces intended to cooperate with a structure of the vehicle 2. In this case, these fixing interfaces comprise threaded openings 76 cooperating with fixing screws. In addition, the support 7 is also intended to hold and protect the printed circuit board 6 on which the light sources are fixed. The light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 are therefore also fixed to the support 7, in particular by means of the printed circuit board 6.An electrical connector, electrically connected to the printed circuit board 6, is arranged through a side face of the support 7.

[0073] In addition, the light module 1 also comprises means for cooling the light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45. The cooling means are positioned at the rear of the support 7 so as to remain invisible when the lighting module is integrated into the vehicle 2. These cooling means comprise in particular a cooling plate 81 extending against the printed circuit board 6, on the side of the printed circuit board 6 opposite the side on which the light sources 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 are installed. The cooling means also comprise cooling fins 82 fixed against the cooling plate 81. The support 7 is illustrated in isolation in FIG. 5. The support 7 comprises a set of housings 71, 72, 73, 74, 75. Each housing is intended to accommodate an optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55.Each housing 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 comprises several positioning means configured to position and orient an optical element precisely during its attachment to the support 7.

[0074] Preferably, the support 7 is a single-piece element, preferably obtained by injection into an injection mold. Such a manufacturing method makes it possible to obtain very precise and very reproducible dimensions. The support 7 may, for example, be made of an opaque polycarbonate or an opaque polymethyl methacrylate.

[0075] Each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 is a component configured to produce a light beam F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 of predetermined light distribution and orientation from the light produced by the associated light source. Preferably, the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 all comprise an identical shape. Each optical element is preferably a single-piece element. Each optical element can for example be obtained by injection into an injection mold. The same injection mold can therefore be used to manufacture all the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 of the lighting module 1. Each optical element can for example be made of a transparent polycarbonate or a transparent polymethyl methacrylate.

[0076] It is thus understood that the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 are separate elements. They must each be fixed individually to the support 7, and in particular in the housing 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 which is associated with it. The optical element 51 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, knowing that the other optical elements 52, 53, 54, 55 have a shape identical to the optical element 51.

[0077] The optical element 51 comprises an entry surface 51 1 or entry diopter 51 1 , and a projection surface 512 or exit diopter 512 . The light rays emitted by the light source 41 are intended to enter the optical element 51 via the entry surface 51 1 , to propagate in a body 513 of the optical element 51 and possibly to undergo internal reflections against the walls of the body 513 of the optical element 51 , before being projected by the projection surface 512. The reflections of the light rays against the walls of the optical element 51 are preferably total internal reflections.

[0078] The optical element 51, which could also be called a dioptric element 51, also comprises a collimation member 514 configured to produce a reflection of light rays received by the entry surface 511 within the optical element.

[0079] In order to produce the projection R characteristic of the light beam of a dipped beam, the optical element 51 also comprises a folder 515 configured to intercept certain light rays produced by the light source 41. The folder 515 comprises a crest line having two cut-off lines 516, 517 joining at an inflection point 518. The folder 515 shapes the light beam F1 so as to produce a cut-off whose line is defined by the cut-off lines 516 and 517. To produce a projection, or in other words a bent shape, characteristic of a dipped beam, an angle is present between the cut-off line 516 and the cut-off line 517, at the inflection point 518. The distance separating the folder 515 and the exit diopter 512 may be equal to the focal length of the exit diopter 512. The point inflection 518 can be positioned on the optical axis of the optical element 51.

[0080] The projection surface 512 comprises the shape of a portion of a sphere. A ray passing through the center of the portion of the sphere defines the optical axis of the optical element 51. The projection surface 512 is surrounded by a collar 519 intended to diffuse light. The collar 519 in this case has a substantially square shape in the plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical element 51. Alternatively, the shape of the collar could be different. The collar of a given optical element can be attached to the collar of neighboring optical elements. This makes it possible to provide luminous continuity of the lighting module 1. When the lighting module emits light, each projection surface 512 is not individually distinguished, but a continuous or quasi-continuous luminous surface. This makes it possible to produce an original luminous signature.

[0081] An external face of the collar 519 has a surface structure, in particular a set of panels 5110 slightly inclined relative to each other, so as to diffuse light in various directions. This improves the aesthetic appearance of the lighting module.

[0082] As a note, the entry surface 511, the projection surface 512 and the external face of the collar 519 are transparent in order to allow the light rays to enter the optical element and then to exit. On the other hand, the lateral faces of the body 513 of the optical element 51 may possibly be opaque and / or grained in order to avoid unwanted light leaks.

[0083] Figure 8 illustrates the lighting module 1 without the support 7. It can be seen that the different optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 extend parallel to each other. They therefore have the same orientation. Their respective optical axes are parallel. Furthermore, the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 are distributed regularly along the same axis.

[0084] Advantageously, each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 comprises a reference surface 51 1 1 bearing against the printed circuit board 6 to guarantee a minimum distance between each optical element and the light source with which the optical element cooperates. The reference surface 51 1 1 may be arranged at the end of a pin 51 12 projecting from the collimation member 514. This minimum distance may be, for example, of the order of 0.5 mm. This prevents burning of the optical element due to the high power radiated by each light source while securing the position of the optical elements relative to the light sources.

[0085] Each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 is fixed exclusively by clipping to the support 7. Clipping designates a method of fixing in which two parts are fitted into each other after a transient deformation of at least one elastic portion of one of the two parts. Clipping is a particularly simple operation to carry out since it does not require any specific tool or auxiliary fixing means. The relaxation of the elastic portion generally produces a characteristic sound which makes it possible to ensure that the two parts are properly fitted together. In addition, fixing by clipping makes it possible to obtain a very good position and a very good relative orientation of the two assembled parts.

[0086] Each optical element 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 is therefore fitted respectively in a housing 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 of the support. The fixing of the optical element 51 in the housing 71 is now described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 14, knowing that the fixing of the optical elements 52, 53, 54 and 55 respectively in the housings 72, 73, 74 and 75 is carried out in the same manner.

[0087] The housing 71 comprises means for positioning the optical element 51 in the three directions of space, thus ensuring precise and reproducible positioning of the optical element 51.

[0088] The housing 71 is illustrated in Figure 9. It comprises a front opening through which the optical element is inserted into the housing, and through which the projection surface 512 emerges. The housing 71 also comprises a rear opening through which the entry surface 511 emerges. The housing 71 therefore comprises a through opening bordered by lateral faces enveloping the body 513 of the optical element 51. The through opening is positioned opposite the light source 41.

[0089] The optical element 51 comprises two lateral ribs 51 12 extending substantially parallel to the optical axis X from an internal face of the collar 519. These lateral ribs 51 12 are placed in two lateral compartments 713 of the housing 71.

[0090] Each lateral compartment 713 comprises four bosses 7131, 7132, 7133, 7134 projecting towards the inside of the lateral compartment considered. The first boss 7131 projects parallel to the optical axis X and towards the front. The second boss 7132 projects parallel to the axis Z and upwards. The third boss 7133 is opposite the second boss 7132: it projects parallel to the axis Z and downwards. The fourth boss 7134 projects parallel to the axis Y and towards the left or towards the right depending on the lateral compartment considered.

[0091] The housing 71 firstly comprises first means for positioning the optical element 51 parallel to the optical axis X. The first positioning means comprise a first stop and a first elastic tab 712 configured to press the optical element 51 against the first stop.

[0092] The first stop is formed by the first bosses 7131 of each lateral compartment 713. As is clearly visible in FIG. 10, these first bosses 7131 bear against the rear end of the lateral ribs 51 12.

[0093] The first elastic tab 712 is formed in a lower face of the housing 71. The first elastic tab 712 is connected to the support 7 by its front edge and has a free rear end. As can be seen in FIG. 11, the first elastic tab 712 cooperates with a beak 5113 forming a downward projection from the body 513 of the optical element 51 so as to press the rear end of the lateral ribs 5112 against the first bosses 7131. The beak 5113 is arranged at a lower face of the optical element 51, at the front of the collimating member 514.

[0094] The beak 51 13 comprises an inclined surface 51 14 extending upwards and forwards, and against which the rear end of the first elastic tab 712 bears. The reaction force Fr1 of the first elastic tab 712 on the inclined surface 5114 therefore tends to push the optical element 51 backwards and upwards. The component of this reaction force Fr 1 which is oriented towards the rear therefore makes it possible to press the rear end of the lateral ribs 51 12 against the first bosses 7131. The position of the optical element relative to the support along the optical axis X is thus well defined.

[0095] The housing 71 also comprises second means for positioning the optical element parallel to the Z axis. The second positioning means comprise a second stop and a second elastic tab configured to press the optical element against the second stop.

[0096] The second stop is formed by fifth bosses 7141 arranged on an upper face 7142 of the housing 71. The fifth bosses 7141 bear on two upper faces of the body 513 of the optical element 51. Advantageously, the upper face 7142 of the housing 71 comprises an excess thickness 7143 (visible in particular in FIG. 12) in order to make it particularly rigid and non-deformable under the effect of the force exerted by the second elastic tab. This provides a stable reference for positioning the optical element 51 along the Z axis. Alternatively, the upper face of the housing could be stiffened by any other means, for example by means of stiffening ribs.

[0097] According to the embodiment presented, said second elastic tab actually corresponds to the first elastic tab 712 previously described. Indeed, the first elastic tab 712 previously described serves not only to define the position of the optical element 51 relative to the support 7 along the optical axis X, but also to define the position of the optical element 51 relative to the support 7 along the axis Z. Indeed, the reaction force Fr1 of the first elastic tab 712 against the inclined surface 51 14 also comprises an upwardly oriented component. This component tends to push the optical element 51 upwards, and therefore to press the optical element 51 against the second stop, that is to say against the fifth boss 7141.

[0098] The housing 71 also comprises third means for positioning the optical element 51 parallel to the Y axis. The third positioning means comprise a third stop and a third elastic tab configured to press the optical element 51 against the third stop.

[0099] The third stop is formed by a sixth boss 7144 arranged on a first lateral face 7145 of the housing 71. The sixth boss 7144 bears on a first lateral face of the body 513 of the optical element 51. Advantageously, the first lateral face 7145 of the housing from which the sixth boss 7144 extends comprises an excess thickness 7146 in order to make it particularly rigid and non-deformable under the effect of the force exerted by the third elastic tab. This provides a stable reference for positioning the optical element 51 along the Y axis. Alternatively, this lateral face of the housing could be stiffened by any other means, for example by means of stiffening ribs.

[0100] The third elastic tab is formed by a second lateral face 7147 of the housing 71, opposite the first lateral face 7145. The second lateral face 7147 has a lower rigidity than the first lateral face 7145. The second lateral face 7147 is provided with a seventh boss 7148 by means of which it exerts a support against a second lateral face of the body 513 of the optical element 51. The sixth boss 7144 and the seventh boss 7148 are substantially positioned opposite each other.

[0101] Finally, thanks to the cooperation of the first, second and third positioning means, the optical element 51 is positioned precisely relative to the support 7 in the three directions of space defined by the axes X, Y and Z.

[0102] In addition, the support 7 also comprises means for locking the optical element in rotation around the optical axis X, around the axis Y, and around the axis Z. The rotation locking means make it possible in particular to prevent the optical element from tilting due to the fact that the various stops previously described are relatively far from a center of gravity of the optical element.

[0103] As illustrated in Figure 14, the rotational locking of the optical element around the optical axis X is ensured by the cooperation of the lower and upper faces of the lateral ribs 5112 respectively with the second bosses 7132 and third bosses 7133. The points of contact between the right lateral rib 5112 and the bosses 7132 and 7133 of the right compartment 713 are spaced along the Y axis from the points of contact between the left lateral rib 5112 and the bosses 7132 and 7133 of the left compartment 713. This prevents rotation of the optical element around the optical axis X.

[0104] The rotational locking of the optical element around the Y axis is ensured on the one hand by the cooperation of the lower and upper faces of the lateral ribs 51 12 respectively with the second bosses 7132 and third bosses 7133, and on the other hand by the cooperation of the end of the elastic tab 712 with the inclined surface 51 14. Indeed, the points of contact between the lateral ribs 51 12 and the bosses 7132 and 7133 are positioned towards the front of the optical element 51 while the points of contact between the inclined surface 5114 and the rear end of the first elastic tab 712 are positioned further towards the rear of the optical element 51. These different points of contact are thus offset along the optical axis X, which makes it possible to lock the rotation of the optical element 51 relative to the support 7 around the Y axis.

[0105] The rotational locking of the optical element around the Z axis is ensured on the one hand by the cooperation of the lateral ribs 51 12 with the fourth bosses 7134, and on the other hand by the cooperation of the lateral faces of the body 513 of the optical element respectively with the sixth boss 7144 and with the seventh boss 7148. Indeed, the points of contact between the lateral ribs 51 12 and the bosses 7134 are positioned towards the front of the optical element 51 while the points of contact between the lateral faces of the body 513 and the bosses 7144 and 7148 are positioned further towards the rear of the optical element 51. These different points of contact are thus offset along the optical axis X, which makes it possible to lock the rotation of the optical element 51 relative to the support 7 around the Z axis.

[0106] Finally, once clipped to the support 7, each optical element is thus locked in position in the three directions of space and locked in rotation around the three directions of space. Each optical element is thus fixedly mounted on the support 7. In other words, each optical element is fixed to the support 7 in a non-adjustable manner. Indeed, once an optical element is mounted on the support, this optical element cannot be moved relative to the support 7. The positioning and orientation of each optical element are defined in a precise and easily reproducible manner, which makes it possible to avoid having to provide adjustment elements in the position of the optical elements relative to the support to be reached, while allowing for great precision in the orientation of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5 produced by each optical element.The support thus defined makes it possible to achieve a dispersion of the orientation of the light beams F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5 which is less than or equal to 1°, or even less than or equal to 0.5°, or even less than or equal to 0.4°.

[0107] Thus, thanks to the positioning means, it is possible to correctly and precisely position the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 on the support 7, and relative to each other, so that the light beams that they produce overlap, and those, without subsequent position adjustment.

[0108] The overall light beam formed by the lighting module and resulting from the superposition of all the light beams produced by the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 thus has the same light distribution, that is to say the same geometric shape as the light beams produced by the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, 55.

[0109] Advantageously, to assemble the lighting module 1 as previously described, it is sufficient to proceed as follows. First of all, the support 7 and the optical elements 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 are provided. As mentioned previously, these elements can be simply manufactured by plastic injection. Then, each optical element is fixed to the support exclusively by clipping. Each optical element is inserted respectively into a housing 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 from the front face of the support.

[0110] When an optical element is pushed into the support 7, the first elastic tab 712 flexes under the effect of the lower end of the beak 5113 pressing on it. When the optical element is pushed in sufficiently, the end of the first elastic tab 712 passes in front of the lower end of the beak 5113, which allows it to partially relax. The first elastic tab 712 then bears on the inclined surface 5114. The reaction force Fr1 of the end of the first elastic tab 712 then makes it possible to press the optical element against the first stop and the second stop. In parallel, the reaction force Fr2 exerted by the second lateral face 7147 on the body of the optical element makes it possible to press the optical element against the third stop. The operation of assembling the optical elements to the support is particularly simple to carry out. This operation does not require any specific tool or adjustment step.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Lighting module (1) for a motor vehicle (2), comprising: - a set of light sources (41, 42, 43, 44, 45) comprising at least two light sources, - a set of optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) comprising at least two optical elements, each optical element cooperating with a separate light source so as to produce a light beam (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5), - a support (7) configured to hold the optical elements, characterized in that the optical elements are fixedly mounted on the support, and in that they are configured and arranged so as to each produce a light beam comprising the same light distribution and the same orientation.

2. Lighting module (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said light distribution of the light beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F4, F5) is a light distribution of a dipped beam or a main beam, the light beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) preferably each having a luminous flux lower than the regulatory luminous flux required to perform a dipped beam function, or respectively a main beam function.

3. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is configured so as to produce an overall light beam (F) formed by the superposition of the light beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) produced by each optical element (51, 52, 53, 54, 55), the light distribution of the overall light beam (F) being identical to the light distribution of the light beams (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) produced by each optical element.

4. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all the optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) have an identical shape.

5. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all the optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) are fixed to the support (7) exclusively by clipping.

6. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support comprises first means for positioning each optical element parallel to an optical axis (X) of the lighting module, the first positioning means each comprising a first stop (7131) and a first elastic tab (712) configured to press an optical element against the first stop.

7. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support comprises second means for positioning each optical element parallel to a first transverse axis (Z), the first transverse axis being perpendicular to an optical axis (X) of the lighting module, the second positioning means each comprising a second stop (7141) and a second elastic tab (712) configured to press an optical element against the second stop, and in particular in that the support comprises third means for positioning each optical element parallel to a second transverse axis (Y), the second transverse axis being perpendicular to the optical axis (X) of the lighting module and perpendicular to the first transverse axis (Z), the third positioning means each comprising a third stop (7144) and a third elastic tab (7147) configured to press an optical element against the third stop.

8. Lighting module (1) according to claim 6 and according to claim 7, characterized in that the first elastic tab and the second elastic tab form a single elastic tab (712), said single tab cooperating with an inclined surface (51 14) of each optical element to press the optical element against the first stop and against the second stop.

9. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (7) comprises rotation locking means (7131, 7132, 7133, 7134) of each optical element around an axis parallel to the optical axis of the lighting module and / or around an axis perpendicular to an optical axis of the lighting module.

10. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said light sources are fixed on the same printed circuit board, 1 1. Lighting module (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each optical element comprises a reference surface bearing against the printed circuit board to guarantee a non-zero distance between each optical element and the light source with which the optical element cooperates.

12. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each optical element comprises a light projection surface (512) extending substantially along a portion of a sphere, and in that the projection surface is surrounded by a collar (519) intended to diffuse light.

13. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the set of light sources (41, 42, 43, 44, 45) comprises at least four light sources.

14. Lighting module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each optical element (51, 52, 53, 54, 55) is a single-piece element, in particular made of transparent polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a first injection mold, and / or in that the support (7) is a single-piece element, in particular made of opaque polycarbonate, preferably obtained by injection into a second injection mold.

15. Method for assembling a lighting module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises: - the provision of a support (7) comprising a set of housings (71, 72, 73, 74, 75) - the supply of a set of optical elements (51, 52, 53, 54, 55), then - the fixing of each optical element to the support exclusively by clipping each optical element into a housing in the support.

Images