Luminous device configured to perform at least two luminous lighting functions of "low beam" type

Abstract

The invention relates to a luminous device (1) comprising selectively addressable light sources (41, 42), at least one collimator (3) and a microlens-array device (2) with a mask (23) interposed between an entrance microlens array and an exit microlens array, the selectively addressable light sources (41, 42), the device being configured so that, in a light circulation channel (5), there are at least two zones (Z1, Z2) for focusing rays originating from the light sources that are distinct, with one ray-focusing zone specific to each light source, the mask portion present in the channel being provided with at least two openings (261, 262) through which light rays emitted by one of the light sources are able to pass, the openings being positioned such that each focusing zone is positioned on a cutting-off edge (32, 33) bounding one of the openings.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Title of the invention: Lighting device configured to perform at least two “low beam” type lighting functions

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of lighting devices, in particular those suitable for equipping a motor vehicle. The present invention relates more particularly to such lighting devices suitable for generating several lighting functions.

[0004] Vehicles, and in particular motor vehicles, are commonly equipped with headlamps for generating various lighting functions such as lighting the road or signalling the vehicle to other road users. These include, in particular, a main beam lighting function, which aims to illuminate the entire road in front of the vehicle, and a dipped beam lighting function, which must meet regulatory standards both in terms of light intensity and the shape of the projected beam, in order to generate a beam that is not dazzling for other road users. It is possible to have several types of dipped beam lighting functions, depending on where the function is activated, with, for example, an intensity and extent of the surface to be illuminated on the road that may be lower in towns than in rural areas.

[0005] In each of these cases, a light function is provided by the activation of a light source housed within an optical module fitted to the motor vehicle and by means of shaping the emitted rays to generate a light beam corresponding to the desired light function.

[0006] In some applications, light rays emitted by a light source are directed within a microlens array (MLA) to shape a beam to perform a light function.

[0007] The matrix device comprises an array of input microlenses, an array of output microlenses and a mask interposed between these arrays. The matrix device is configured to form light circulation channels between one of the input microlenses and one of the output microlenses, the mask comprising mask portions respectively arranged in one of the light circulation channels. Each mask portion is provided with at least one opening capable of allowing light rays to pass from the input microlens to the output microlens. The openings in the mask are configured to give a shape to the rays transmitted by the array of input lenses and to allow the array of output lenses to project this shape onto the road.

[0008] Furthermore, vehicles, and more particularly motor vehicles, have increasingly compact headlights in which a single light module is capable of generating several light functions.

[0009] In this context, it is sought to emit light beams specific to each of the light functions generated by the module through the same lighting surface. In other words, in a search for a visual identity for the lighting of a vehicle, it is desired that an observer outside the vehicle sees the same illuminated surface regardless of the light function provided by the projector.

[0010] The prior art microlens matrix devices are not suitable for such requirements, since a single light source is arranged in front of the input microlens matrix. However, the inventors wish to be able to implement such a microlens matrix device since these devices make it possible to give the functional illuminating surface a great deal of freedom of shape, and therefore freedom of style for the projector equipped with the matrix device, by means of discretization by the unit area of ​​the input and output microlenses.

[0011] In this context, the present invention proposes a light device comprising at least light emission means, a collimator and a microlens matrix device, the light emission means being configured to emit light rays towards the matrix device via the collimator, the matrix device comprising at least one input microlens matrix, one output microlens matrix and a mask, interposed between the two microlens matrices, the matrix device being configured to form light circulation channels respectively arranged along a main optical axis between at least one input microlens and at least one output microlens so that a portion of the light rays propagate towards at least one output microlens, the mask comprising mask portions respectively arranged in one of the light circulation channels,the light device being characterized in that the light emission means comprise a plurality of selectively addressable light sources, the device being further characterized in that at least one light circulation channel is arranged along the main optical axis, being delimited at one longitudinal end by at least one input microlens and at one longitudinal end by at least two output microlenses, the selectively addressable light sources, the at least one collimator and the at least one input microlens of a light circulation channel being configured so that there are at least two distinct ray focusing zones, with a ray focusing zone specific to each light source, the output microlenses of the same light circulation channel being configured to have object foci respectively arranged in the vicinity of one of the focusing zones,the portion of mask present in the channel being provided with at least two openings through which light rays emitted by one of the light sources are able to pass, the openings being positioned so that each focusing zone is positioned on a cut-off edge delimiting one of the openings, with a first focusing zone specific to a first light source which is positioned on a cut-off edge delimiting a first opening and with a second focusing zone specific to a second light source which is positioned on a cut-off edge delimiting a second opening.,

[0012] Each of the light sources can be a light-emitting diode, or a set of light-emitting diodes.

[0013] The light sources are said to be selectively addressable insofar as they can be activated independently of one another by an electronic control device. It is thus possible to activate only one of the light sources, the other or other light sources then being deactivated so that only one light source is able to emit light rays. Depending on the lighting function to be performed at a specific time, one and / or the other light sources are activated so that the light beam outputting the matrix device has a shape appropriate for performing the lighting function. For example, for a given lighting function, all the light sources can be switched on simultaneously, while for another lighting function, only one of the light sources, or only a set of light sources, can be switched on.

[0014] Each input and output microlens has an external face, partially concave or convex, forming a boundary with the exterior of the matrix device, and the thickness of material that extends from this external face to the mask, the mask forming the boundary between the input microlens array and the output microlens array. The channels are defined as a strip of the material of the matrix device formed by an input microlens and output microlenses arranged opposite the input microlens if the principal optical axis is considered, it being understood that there is no structural element within the matrix device, such as a partition for example, to generate a physical delimitation between two neighboring channels.

[0015] The dimensions of the constant section of a light circulation channel are defined in particular by the corresponding dimensions of the input microlens.

[0016] The mask comprises a plurality of mask portions respectively equipped with a plurality of openings, such that each of the light circulation channels comprises a mask portion with at least two openings.

[0017] If the light circulating in a circulation channel encounters one of the openings formed in the mask portion present across this circulation channel, the light can be propagated towards the matrix of output microlenses arranged opposite this opening, which allows the realization or participation in the realization of a light function. If this light comes from a first light source, a first light beam propagates specifically towards an output microlens and if this light comes from a second light source, a second light beam propagates specifically towards another output microlens, these two beams being able to combine if the two light sources are activated simultaneously to generate by combining these two beams a specific light function.In all these cases, the light participating in carrying out the luminous function comes out of a common illumination surface, formed by the matrix of output microlenses.

[0018] In the matrix device according to the invention, the collimator and the input microlenses are configured such that the light rays passing through the same input microlens are intended to pass through the same portion of mask within the light circulation channel downstream of this input microlens, essentially through a first opening when the rays are emitted by a first light source and essentially through a second opening when the light rays are emitted by a second light source.

[0019] The light device comprises a main optical axis, the light functions being emitted at the output of the matrix device generally along this main axis. In other words, the light beams of the first and second light functions each extend in a volume containing said main optical axis.

[0020] Both the input microlens array and the output microlens array can be perpendicular to the main optical axis. In this case the light circulation channels are respectively arranged along the main optical axis, i.e. parallel to this axis.

[0021] The input microlens array and the output microlens array may both be inclined relative to the main optical axis, i.e. the median virtual surfaces on which said microlens arrays respectively rest are inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to said axis. In a first configuration, each output microlens is laterally offset relative to the respective associated input microlens to define a light circulation channel, relative to the main optical axis. In this configuration, the light circulation channels are respectively inclined relative to the main optical axis.In another configuration, certain sets of input microlenses and output microlenses respectively associated to define a light circulation channel are respectively axially offset with respect to at least one of the adjacent sets, relative to the main optical axis. Thus, there are steps present on the external faces of the input microlens array and the output microlens array, these steps generating an overall inclination of these arrays. In this configuration, the light circulation channels are respectively arranged along the main optical axis, i.e., parallel to this axis. It should be noted that said median virtual surfaces may be flat or curved.The output microlenses of the same light circulation channel are configured to have object foci positioned differently on the mask portion present in this light circulation channel, an object focus of an output microlens being specifically associated with a cut-off edge delimiting an opening of the mask portion.

[0022] Thus, it is notable that according to the invention, it is possible to achieve the projection of several distinct light beams onto the same lighting surface, namely the matrix of output microlenses, by passing through certain openings of the mask the rays focused by the input microlenses when a particular light function is desired and by passing through other openings of the mask the rays focused by the input microlenses when another light function is desired. It should be understood that when talking about passing the rays focused through an opening, certain rays may at the margin not follow the theoretical path of the light rays and for example be blocked by an opaque portion of the mask.

[0023] More particularly, according to the invention, the matrix device is configured such that the light rays emitted by the light sources and passing through the collimator associated with the light sources are focused precisely on an edge of an opening of the mask, to perform a cut-off function in each of the light beams directed towards the output microlens matrix. Thus, for the implementation of a dipped beam type lighting function, for which it is desired to give the beam a shape that is different from that of the light spot, a portion of the light rays is cut. In the latter case, it should be understood that few light rays, other than those intended to be cut by the cut-off shape defined by the edges delimiting the specific opening in the mask, are blocked here.

[0024] The matrix device according to the invention thus makes it possible to easily and precisely perform a plurality of “low beam” type lighting functions, with a beam projected onto the road which is cut out in its upper part to avoid dazzling road users.

[0025] The input microlens array and the output microlens array are composed of microlenses whose dimensions are of the order of a millimeter, between 0.3 mm and 10 mm. More particularly, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the projection microlenses all have a size, in diameter, height and / or width, in front view, less than or equal to 10 mm. This makes it possible to limit the thickness of the microlenses, and thus to limit the mass of the part. Furthermore, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the projection microlenses all have a size, in diameter, height and / or width, in front view, greater than or equal to 0.3 mm. This makes it possible to manufacture the optical device by an injection process that is simple to implement. According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the projection microlenses all have a size, in diameter, height and / or width, in front view, between 0.5 and 5 mm.This allows the projection lenses to be small enough to be indistinguishable at the usual viewing distance.

[0026] According to a characteristic of the invention, the collimator is common to the plurality of light sources and configured to conform the light rays emitted by a light source into a beam of rays substantially parallel to each other and directed towards the matrix device, said beam of rays parallel to each other generally having an angle of inclination relative to the optical axis which is different depending on the activated light source.

[0027] By "substantially parallel", we understand that the rays within the beam exiting the collimator may have an angular shift linked in particular to the size of the light source which generates them.

[0028] The collimator is configured to redirect the rays passing through it so as to form at the output a beam of rays parallel to each other and thus to direct these light rays homogeneously towards the microlenses of the input microlens array. After passing through the collimator, the light rays emitted by one or other of the selectively addressable light sources are thus directed homogeneously onto each of the input microlenses. The collimator is configured to direct the rays into a beam of parallel rays which arrives at the input microlenses with an angle of incidence which is specific to the activated light source and therefore to the lighting function which it is desired to implement with the lighting device.

[0029] In other words, the collimator is configured to direct light rays emitted by a first light source toward the matrix device into a first beam of parallel rays and to direct light rays emitted by another light source toward the matrix device into another beam of parallel rays, the other beam of parallel rays having an inclination relative to the optical axis that is different from the corresponding inclination of the first beam of parallel rays.

[0030] According to an optional feature of the invention, at least one light circulation channel is arranged along the main optical axis, being delimited at one longitudinal end by a single input microlens and at the other longitudinal end by a plurality of output microlenses.

[0031] According to an optional feature of the invention, the single input microlens of a light circulation channel is configured to focus the beams of substantially parallel rays on the mask portion arranged in the light circulation channel, on different focusing zones depending on said angle of inclination of the beam of substantially parallel rays.

[0032] In this example, and in the rest of the description, mention is made of a collimator common to the light sources and interposed between these light sources and the matrix of input microlenses, the rays deflected by the collimator impacting each of the input microlenses of the matrix device. In this context, each light circulation channel is delimited by a single input microlens.

[0033] Alternatively, it is possible to have collimators arranged specifically in front of each light circulation channel, which implies that this light circulation channel has at one end a plurality of input microlenses, respectively associated with a collimator and a light source. It is thus possible to define within a light circulation channel two sub-channels respectively intended for the propagation of a first or a second light beam in the direction of a specific output microlens, in accordance with what is mentioned in the embodiment with a common collimator and a single input microlens.

[0034] According to an optional feature of the invention, the output microlenses arranged at a longitudinal end of a light circulation channel are adjacent. If appropriate, the adjacent output microlenses may extend in offset and parallel elongation planes to each other, with a step which is formed from one output microlens to the other. According to an optional feature of the invention, at least one dimension of an input microlens participating in delimiting a light circulation channel is a multiple of a corresponding dimension of the output microlenses participating in delimiting this light circulation channel.For example, when a light circulation channel extends between an input microlens and two output microlenses, a dimension of the input microlens, projected in the vertical and transverse elongation plane, is equal to the sum of the corresponding dimensions, projected in the same plane, of the two adjacent output microlenses.

[0035] According to an optional characteristic of the invention, within a light circulation channel, the number of openings different from each other within a mask portion is equal to the number of output microlenses present at a longitudinal end of this light circulation channel.

[0036] According to an optional characteristic of the invention, the number of openings different from each other within a mask portion is equal to the number of different light sources.

[0037] For example, if two light functions are provided, with two light sources facing a common collimator, two types of openings are made in the mask, with one opening of each of these types of openings being present in the same mask portion, i.e. in the same light circulation channel arranged between an input microlens and two output microlenses. When a first light source is activated, the light rays are focused by each input microlens within their associated circulation channel onto first zones of the mask portion present in this channel, the first zone corresponding to a cut-off edge of a first opening, or opening of the first type, formed in the mask portion.When the second light source is activated, the light rays are focused by each input microlens within their associated circulation channel, onto second zones of the mask portion present in this channel, the second zone corresponding to a cut-off edge of a second opening, or opening of the second type.

[0038] It is notable that each of the areas onto which the light rays are likely to be directed after passing through an input microlens is located at the edge of an opening so that the light rays can propagate in the direction of one of the output microlenses.

[0039] According to an optional characteristic of the invention, the openings present within the same portion of mask, in a light circulation channel, are of different shapes and / or dimensions from each other.

[0040] According to an optional characteristic of the invention, the edge of one of said openings, on which a focusing zone is positioned, is a straight cut-off edge and the edge of another of said openings, on which another focusing zone is positioned, is a stepped cut-off edge.

[0041] Specific shapes of beams to be projected onto the road are thus defined, each with a cut-off to form a non-glare lighting beam, but which has a particular cut-off shape depending on the conditions in which the lighting beam is projected. The straight cut-off edge can, for example, make it possible to define a basic shape of an overall lighting beam, namely a lower beam shape which is common to the two non-glare lighting beams and which makes it possible, in particular, to provide sufficient lighting in town. The stepped cut-off edge can, for its part, make it possible to define a specific shape in an overall beam, which forms an upper part of the beam having a step.

[0042] According to an optional feature of the invention, the pattern formed in a mask portion by the openings of different shapes and / or dimensions is identical for each mask portion. In other words, the different openings are arranged alternately on the mask in at least one main elongation direction.

[0043] According to an optional feature of the invention, the apertures comprise two types of apertures, with the first apertures and the second apertures being arranged alternately on the mask along at least one main elongation direction. The matrix device extends mainly in a plane depending on two main elongation directions, perpendicular to the main optical axis of the optical axis, and each microlens matrix, input or output, is formed of microlenses arranged in rows and columns along these two main elongation directions. An alternation of the apertures of the different types can be done along one of the elongation directions or along both directions.According to an optional characteristic of the invention, each mask portion comprises first openings, respectively second openings, associated with a first focusing zone, respectively a second focusing zone, and at least one of the first openings, respectively at least one of the second openings, has a shape and / or a dimension different from the other first openings, respectively from the other second openings.

[0044] In this way, it is understood that the invention also covers cases where the windows formed by the openings can differ from one portion of the mask to another for the performance of the same function, for example to have more precise control within the globally generated light beam. For example, windows of different widths allow good precision on the evolution of the photometric values ​​on a horizontal section of the beam.

[0045] According to an optional feature of the invention, the first light source and the second light source are at a distance from each other, being distributed on either side of a defined plane, one of the light sources being closer to said defined plane than the other light source. The closest light source may, if necessary, be arranged partly on this defined plane. The defined plane considered is a plane substantially perpendicular to one and / or the other of the microlens matrices and it comprises the main optical axis of the light device. This defined plane may in particular be a median plane, if necessary a plane of symmetry, of the collimator.By distance from each other, it should be understood that the light sources are not in contact with each other and are sufficiently separated, for example with a space between them of the order of 0.5 to 2 times the size of the light source, so that the rays can have a different inclination at the exit of the collimator depending on whether they are emitted by one or the other of the light sources.

[0046] According to an optional feature of the invention, the mask is formed by a glass slide comprising at least one opaque layer deposited on one face of the glass slide, the openings being formed by cutouts in this opaque layer. More particularly, the opaque layer is deposited on the face of the glass slide which is opposite the matrix of input microlenses. According to a feature of the invention, the output microlenses arranged at a longitudinal end of a light circulation channel have different shapes.

[0047] According to a characteristic of the invention, in a given section plane, the shape of the output microlens which is arranged opposite the opening having a stepped cut-off edge is a convergent and focused lens portion and the shape of the output microlens which is arranged opposite the opening having a straight cut-off edge is a complex lens portion having a divergent portion and at least one convergent portion.

[0048] In particular, this given section plane is a horizontal section plane, substantially parallel to the road on which the vehicle equipped with this lighting device is traveling.

[0049] The invention also relates to a method for controlling a lighting device as described above, allowing the implementation of two dipped beam type lighting functions, during which a first dipped beam type lighting function is selectively activated, by the simultaneous switching on of a first light source configured to illuminate a matrix device of the lighting device and a second light source configured to illuminate the same matrix device, and a second dipped beam type lighting function, by switching on only the second light source.

[0050] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one lighting device in accordance with what has just been described previously.

[0051] Other characteristics, details and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows on the one hand, and examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the appended schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0052] [Fig.l] represents a light device according to the present invention, making light sources visible, a collimator common to these light sources and a matrix device, comprising in particular a matrix of input microlenses, a mask and a matrix of output microlenses;

[0053] [Fig.2] schematically represents an overall light beam that the light device according to the invention is capable of generating, with a first portion of the beam forming a base part which is generated by the activation of a first light source, and with a second portion of the beam forming an upper part which is generated by the activation of a second light source,

[0054] [Fig.3] represents in perspective the components of the matrix device of figure 1, with the mask arranged between the microlens matrices;

[0055] [Fig.4] represents a detailed view of a portion of the mask of the matrix device of figure 1, making visible two openings of distinct shapes and / or dimensions within this portion of mask;

[0056] [Fig.5] represents a general view of the operation of the light device according to the invention when a first light beam is generated by the activation of a first light source;

[0057] [Fig.6] represents a local view of the matrix device, centered on a light circulation channel between an input microlens and two adjacent output microlenses, when the first light beam of Figure 5 propagates in the light device;

[0058] [Fig.7] represents a general view of the operation of the light device according to the invention when a second light beam is generated by the activation of a second light source;

[0059] [Fig.8] represents a local view of the matrix device, centered on the light circulation channel illustrated in Figure 6, when the second light beam of Figure 7 propagates in the light device;

[0060] [Fig.9] schematically represents a light circulation channel with a glass plate forming a mask which is interposed between an input microlens and two output microlenses;

[0061] [Fig.10] represents a top view of one of the output microlenses of the light circulation channel of figure 9, with a ray trace illustrating in a horizontal plane the divergence of the rays produced by a central portion of this microlens and the convergence of the rays illustrated by lateral portions of the microlens; [Fig.11] illustrates an alternative embodiment of the output microlenses illustrated in figure 10.

[0062] It should first be noted that although the figures set out the invention in detail for its implementation, these figures can of course be used to better define the invention, where appropriate. It should also be noted that these figures only set out examples of embodiments of the invention.

[0063] The features, variants and different embodiments of the invention may be combined with each other in various combinations, provided that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be conceived comprising only a selection of features described below in isolation from the other features described, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the art.

[0064] In the figures, elements common to several figures retain the same reference.

[0065] In the following description, reference will be made to an orientation that is a function of the Longitudinal, Vertical and Transverse axes as defined by the trihedron L, V, T shown in Figures 1 to 7, with the longitudinal axis L corresponding to the general direction of propagation of the light rays and the vertical and transverse axes V, T participating in defining a main elongation plane of the microlens matrix device forming part of the light device, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. More particularly, the vertical axis V and the transverse axis T correspond respectively to the height and width of windows made in a mask as will be described in more detail below, these windows having a width dimension greater than that of the height.The choice of names for these axes does not limit the orientation that the lighting device can take, particularly when it is installed in a motor vehicle.

[0066] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a light device 1 comprising a matrix device 2 of microlenses, a collimator 3 and light emission means 4.

[0067] The light emitting means 4 comprise a plurality of light sources which, in the embodiment shown, are two in number, including a first light source 41 and a second light source 42. As will be discussed later, the number of light sources may vary provided that the matrix device is configured accordingly. Each of the light sources is selectively addressable. Here, each of the first and second light sources 41, 42 is thus capable of being switched on and off independently of one another, for example by means of an electronic control device.

[0068] The light sources 41, 42 are arranged on either side of a defined plane comprising a main optical axis 10 of the light device. In the example illustrated, the first light source 41 and the second light source 42 are distributed on either side of this defined plane, the distance of each of the light sources from the defined plane being able to vary according to the light function that these light sources participate in achieving. As will be described below, the distance of the light sources from the defined plane is to be determined according to the angle from the main optical axis 10 that it is desired to give to the light rays leaving the collimator when one or other of the light sources is activated.Thus, the light sources are distant from each other, in the vertical direction as illustrated in Figure 1 in particular, but also in the transverse direction depending on the number and arrangement of the light sources. By distant from each other, we understand that the emitting surfaces of these light sources are not in contact with each other.

[0069] The collimator 3 and the light emission means 4 are positioned relative to each other so that the light rays emitted by each of the light sources 41, 42 pass through the collimator 3. This collimator 3 is configured to capture light rays emitted by each of the light sources, here the first light source 41 or the second light source 42, and to orient them substantially parallel to each other and to direct them towards the matrix device 2, and more specifically towards an array of input microlenses 21.

[0070] The collimator 3 is more particularly configured to form beams of rays that are parallel or substantially parallel to each other, these beams being suitable for activating each of the light sources. By “substantially parallel” it is understood that the rays may have an angular offset related to the size of the light source that generates them. In other words, the collimator 3, which has the shape of a lens, is configured to generate at the output, in the direction of the matrix device 2, a first beam of parallel rays visible in FIG. 5 when a first light source 41 is made active, the rays mainly having an angle of inclination relative to the optical axis of a first value, as will be explained below with reference to FIG. 5.And this collimator 3 is configured to generate at the output a beam of parallel rays, but completely different, that is to say with a different inclination, if the activated light source is changed. The collimator is then able to generate at the output, in the direction of the matrix device 2, another beam of parallel rays when another light source is made active, the rays all or almost all having an angle of inclination relative to the optical axis of another value, different from the first value, as will be explained below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0071] The microlens matrix device 2 comprises said input microlens matrix 21, an output microlens matrix 22 and a mask 23 interposed between the input microlens matrix 21 and the output microlens matrix 22. In the illustrated example, each microlens matrix 21, 22 and the mask 23 extend mainly along a vertical and transverse plane, perpendicular to a longitudinal direction L along which the main optical axis 10 of the light device 1 extends. Alternatively, the matrix device can take an inclined position relative to the main optical axis, in particular to adapt to a curve of the vehicle in which it is to be integrated. This inclined position can be taken by tilting the matrix device as a whole or by forming steps at the output surface of the matrix device formed by an external surface of the output microlens matrix.

[0072] The output surface of the matrix device, i.e. the external surface of the matrix of output microlenses 22, forms a lighting surface of the lighting device 1, i.e. a surface through which the light rays exit to generate a light beam outside the vehicle, which is common to each of the lighting functions capable of being performed by the lighting device.

[0073] Each microlens array, input or output, has an external surface, facing away from the mask, and an internal volume, formed by the thickness of material which extends from the external surface to the mask, the mask forming the boundary between the input microlens array and the output microlens array. The input microlens array 21 is formed of a plurality of input microlenses 20 juxtaposed next to each other, both in the vertical direction, as seen in Figure 1, and in the transverse direction, as seen in Figure 3.These input microlenses each have an external face whose juxtaposition, where appropriate with a longitudinal offset which generates a step from one external face to the other, forms the external surface of the matrix of input microlenses, and they each have a thickness of material extending between the external face and the mask to be able to propagate the light from one to the other.

[0074] It is notable in the figures representing the matrix device that only the external surface of the input and output microlenses is shown schematically, but it should be noted that each microlens is not just formed by the curved surface but includes the thickness of material which goes from this curved surface to the mask, or to the mask support when there is one.

[0075] Each input microlens 20 is configured within the matrix device 2 such that it has an image focus on the mask 23. The light rays coming from the collimator 3 and passing through an input microlens 20 converge towards a focal point present on the mask 23. In the example illustrated, the input microlenses 20 are identical to each other.

[0076] In projection in a plane perpendicular to the main optical axis 10, the input microlenses 20 all have a size, in diameter, height and / or width, in front view, less than or equal to 10 mm and greater than or equal to 0.3 mm. More particularly, input microlenses may be provided which all have a size, in diameter, height and / or width, in front view, of between 0.5 and 5 mm.

[0077] In accordance with the arrangement of the input microlens array 20, the output microlens array 22 is formed of a plurality of output microlenses 24 juxtaposed next to each other, both in the vertical direction, as seen in FIG. 1, and in the transverse direction, as seen in FIG. 3.

[0078] These output microlenses each have an external face whose juxtaposition, where appropriate with a longitudinal offset which generates a step from one external face to the other, forms the external surface of the matrix of output microlenses, i.e. the output surface of the matrix device, and they each have a thickness of material extending between the mask and the external face to be able to propagate the light from one to the other.

[0079] It should be noted that in some of the figures, and in particular figure 1 and figures 5 to 8, the output microlenses all have an external face which is schematically curved and convex, but that in practice, the output microlenses may have a different configuration from one output microlens to another, as illustrated in particular in figure 2 or in figures 9 and 10.

[0080] Each output microlens 24 is configured within the matrix device 2 such that it has an object focus on the mask 23. The light rays propagating within the matrix device and passing through this object focus are reoriented by the corresponding output microlens 24 into a light beam to be projected towards the outside of the vehicle to participate in forming a lighting beam on the road scene or a signaling beam.

[0081] In projection in a plane perpendicular to the main optical axis 10, the output microlenses 24 have, in a vertical direction, a height and, in a transverse dimension, a width of between 0.3 and 10 mm. It is notable that the height value of an input microlens is a multiple of the height value of an output microlens and that the width of an input microlens is similar to that of an output microlens. In the example illustrated, the height value of an input microlens is more particularly twice the height value of an output microlens. In other words, there is an input microlens which is opposite two output microlenses. And in this context, without departing from the context of the invention, it is possible to have the height of an output microlens which is different from the height of an adjacent output microlens.

[0082] Furthermore, especially if the arrangement of the light sources is on either side of a plane defined in a transverse direction, the value of the width of an input microlens could be a multiple of the value of the width of an output microlens.

[0083] It follows from the above that each input microlens 20 has at least one dimension along a direction which is greater than the corresponding dimension of the output microlenses 24. In the example illustrated, for example and without this being limiting of the invention, it is the height of an input microlens along the vertical axis V which is greater than the height of an output microlens along the same axis, the widths being equivalent.

[0084] The matrix device 2 according to the invention is configured to comprise within it light circulation channels 5, extending respectively, in a direction parallel to that of the main optical axis 10, between an input microlens 20 and several adjacent output microlenses 24. The number of adjacent output microlenses 24 participating in delimiting the same light circulation channel depends on the number of different light sources capable of being activated opposite the same collimator. In the example illustrated, where two light sources are provided, each light circulation channel 5 extends between an input microlens 20 and two adjacent output microlenses 24, among which a first output microlens 241 and a second output microlens 242 can be distinguished.It is understood that the dimension of the input microlens greater than that of the output microlenses has the effect of covering the entire light circulation channel with a single input microlens 20 while the latter opens onto two output microlenses 241, 242.

[0085] The light rays shaped by the collimator which are caused to pass through an input microlens 20 propagate essentially in the light circulation channel 5 associated with this input microlens 20 and they emerge from the matrix device 2 essentially through one of the output microlenses 24 associated with this light circulation channel, once they have been able to pass through the mask 23 arranged across the light circulation channel 5.

[0086] As has been mentioned and will be described in more detail below, the output microlenses 24 may have a different configuration within the same light circulation channel 5, in particular due to the different lighting function that they participate in achieving. Furthermore, the output microlenses may have different configurations depending on the light circulation channel 5 in which they are arranged. In particular, certain output microlenses 24 may have, relative to the light circulation channel specific to them and to the light function that they must participate in generating, a symmetrical or asymmetrical configuration, or more particularly centered or off-centered, with an optical axis of the output microlens that is coincident with or offset relative to a median axis of the associated light circulation channel, as will be detailed in particular with reference to FIG. 11.

[0087] Each light circulation channel 5 comprises a portion of the mask 23 extending across the matrix device between the input microlens matrix 21 and the output microlens matrix 22, the mask 23 consisting of a plurality of mask portions 231 juxtaposed with each other and respectively arranged in a light circulation channel 5 of their own.

[0088] Each mask portion 231 associated with a light circulation channel comprises a plurality of openings 26, visible in FIGS. 3 and 4 in particular, through which the rays deflected by the input microlens 20 associated with this light circulation channel are able to pass to continue their propagation through the matrix device 2 in the direction of one of the output microlenses, the light rays passing through one of the openings being directed towards one of the output microlenses while the light rays passing through another of the openings are directed towards another of the output microlenses.

[0089] Each mask portion 231 thus comprises respectively an opaque part 233, which blocks the propagation of light rays when they encounter this opaque part, and a transparent part 234, formed by the openings 26 and allowing the propagation of light rays brought to encounter this transparent part.

[0090] For a given light circulation channel, each output microlens 24 is configured to have an object focus positioned at one of the openings 26 forming the transparent part 234 of the mask portion 231. More particularly, for a light circulation channel in which the output microlenses are arranged side by side in a first direction, here the vertical direction, the openings 26 formed in the same mask portion 231 are spaced apart from each other in this same first direction.By defining, in this vertical direction which corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the ground when the matrix device is mounted on the vehicle, a lower edge of each opening as the edge closest to the ground and an upper edge as the opposite edge, each output microlens 24 is more particularly configured to present an object focus positioned on a lower edge of the opening formed opposite this output microlens.In the previously mentioned context of input microlenses 20 focused on the mask, it is understood that if the light rays focused by the input microlens 20 of a light circulation channel 5 are directed onto an edge of a first opening 261 participating in forming the transparent part 234 of the mask portion 231 arranged across this light circulation channel, the light is directed towards a first output microlens 24 arranged opposite this first opening, whereas if the light rays focused by the input microlens 20 of this light circulation channel 5 are directed onto an edge of a second opening 262 participating in forming the transparent part 234 of the same mask portion 231, the light is directed towards a second output microlens 24 arranged opposite this second opening. This will be more particularly described below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8.

[0091] The matrix device is made of a transparent material, with here the mask 23 which is formed by a glass slide surrounded by a plastic material, the glass slide comprising at least one opaque layer deposited on one face of the glass slide, the opaque layer being cut, for example by a laser cutting operation, to produce each of the openings 26 within each of the mask portions. The cut parts thus form the transparent part 234 of the mask portions 231 and the remainder forms the opaque part 233.

[0092] The position of the mask 23 within the matrix device 2, as illustrated in Figure 1 and repeated in Figures 5 and 7, is given here for information purposes.

[0093] The position of the mask takes into account the thickness, i.e. the dimension along the longitudinal axis L, of the input microlens array and that of the output microlens array. The thickness of the input microlenses can be at least twice that of the output microlenses since for each channel there are two output microlenses for one input microlens. In other words, the value of the input focal length, i.e. the distance between the focal point and the external face of the input microlens, is at least twice the value of the output focal length, i.e. the distance between the focal point and the external face of an output microlens.

[0094] As mentioned, and as can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, a portion of mask

[0095] 231 comprises a plurality of openings 26, arranged at a distance from each other so that an opaque part 233 is interposed between them. The openings formed within the same portion of mask are offset from each other in the same direction as are the output microlenses delimiting the light circulation channel in which said portion of mask is arranged. Furthermore, the openings can be distinguished from each other by their shape and / or their dimensions.

[0096] In the illustrated example, a mask portion 231 comprises two openings arranged vertically at a distance from each other, with a first opening 261 and a second opening 262. The mask portion 231 has a vertical dimension Dv which is equal to half the vertical dimension of the light circulation channel, and therefore substantially equal to half the vertical dimension of the input microlens 20 delimiting a longitudinal end of this light circulation channel. The mask portion 231 extends vertically between an upper vertical edge 28 and a lower vertical edge 30.

[0097] In the following, arbitrarily, the first opening 261 is arranged closer to the lower vertical edge 30 than to the upper vertical edge 28, the second opening 262 being for its part arranged closer to the upper vertical edge 28.

[0098] As previously mentioned, the first opening 261 is delimited vertically between a first border, or upper border, extending at a first distance DI from the upper vertical edge 28 of this mask portion and a second border, or lower border, extending at a second distance D2 from this upper vertical edge 28, and the second opening 262 is delimited between a first border, or upper border, extending at a third distance D3 from the upper vertical edge 28 of this mask portion and a second border, or lower border, extending at a fourth distance D4 from this upper vertical edge 28. In order for the openings to be vertically offset from each other, the value of the first distance DI is greater than the value of the fourth distance D4.

[0099] The mask 23 is formed by a juxtaposition of mask portions 231, with a lower vertical edge 30 of a mask portion which is merged with an upper vertical edge 28 of a neighboring mask portion as regards the juxtaposition in the vertical direction and with lateral edges which merge as regards the transverse juxtaposition not shown here. Other arrangements could be implemented without departing from the context of the invention, for example with a staggered distribution of the input microlenses, and a corresponding distribution of the mask portions, so that a mask portion and its plurality of openings are arranged in the light circulation channel defined downstream of an input microlens.

[0100] As mentioned, it is notable that the number of openings 261, 262 formed in the same portion of mask is equal to the number of different light sources 41, 42 associated with the same collimator 3, and equal to the number of light functions capable of being emitted through the same output surface, namely the matrix of output microlenses 22 or the same optical surface of a projector at the output of the matrix device 2.

[0101] In the illustrated example, two types of openings 26 are present and two light functions are provided by the light device 1 of the invention with the first light source 41 which participates, when it is activated, in generating a first light function and with the second light source 42 which participates, when it is activated, in generating a second light function.

[0102] More particularly, according to the invention, the two lighting functions are dipped beam type lighting functions which differ in the minimum intensity and the extent of the illuminated surface which they must ensure when these functions are activated. A first lighting function is a standard dipped beam type lighting function, which must ensure lighting of the road in front of the vehicle with a distant but non-blinding range for users facing the vehicle.A beam generated to perform this first lighting function is the overall beam shown in Figure 2, this beam having an asymmetry in its upper part 101, an upper right part (or left depending on the direction of travel with which the vehicle is associated) intended to illuminate the road in the distance, and more particularly the signs arranged along the traffic lane, and an upper left part (or right depending on the direction of travel with which the vehicle is associated) being unlit to avoid dazzling people traveling on an opposite lane. A second lighting function is a city dipped beam type lighting function, which must also provide lighting of the road in front of the vehicle without blinding users facing the vehicle, but which must meet less demanding standards due to city lighting which ensures good visibility.The emission intensity of the light source activated to perform this second light function can be reduced, and a beam generated to perform this second light function corresponds to a lower part 104 of the beam shown in FIG. 2, this beam not having an upper part.

[0103] In other words, the beam ensuring the first light function is a global beam formed from the beam ensuring the second light function and an additional beam which ensures that the upper part 101 of said global beam 100 is produced. In other words, the light source associated with the second light function is also activated when the first light function is desired, and the light source associated with the first light function is activated only when the first light function is desired. It is thus understood that it is possible to switch from the first light function to the second light function by cutting off the emission of the additional beam, that is to say by cutting off the activation of the light source specifically associated with the first light function.

[0104] The choice of the light functions to be provided by the light device results in characteristics concerning the light sources 41, 42 and concerning the openings 26 formed in the mask portions 231.

[0105] The light source associated with the realization of this or that type of light function is thus chosen according to the light intensity that this light function must or must not provide in order to comply with automotive regulations. Furthermore, as mentioned previously, the position of a light source relative to a defined plane comprising the main optical axis may depend on the light function to be achieved and in particular on the sharpness of the contours of the light beam to be provided.

[0106] In particular, in the exemplary embodiment where the first light function is a “standard dipped beam” type lighting function and where the second light function is a “city dipped beam” type lighting function, the activation of the first light source 41 is dedicated to the formation of a first light beam specific to the realization of the first light function and the activation of the second light source 42 is dedicated to the formation of a second light beam which is common to both light functions. In this case, the second light source 42 may be further from the defined plane than the first light source 41 allowing the realization of a first light beam whose profile must be very clear.

[0107] The openings 26 may have a different positioning on their common mask portion and they have shapes distinct from each other.

[0108] In particular, the first light function being a lighting function of the “standard dipped beam” type, the first openings 261, which allow the formation of the first light beam emitted by the activation of the first light source 41, are delimited by a cut-off edge 32 having a projection, as is notably visible in FIG. 4. This cut-off edge 32 aims to define in the light beam projected at the output of the matrix device an additional shape, namely the upper shape 101 of the overall lighting beam 100 which has a step 102, corresponding to the projection of the projection, as illustrated in FIG. 2, this upper shape 101 making it possible both to increase the illuminated surface in front of the vehicle while avoiding dazzling road users who are likely to cross the vehicle equipped with the light device.This cut-off edge 32 is the second border extending at a second distance D2 from the upper vertical edge 28 of the corresponding mask portion 231.

[0109] In particular, the second light function being a “city dipped beam” type lighting function, the second openings 261, which allow the formation of the second light beam emitted by the activation of the second light source 41, which is the only implementation when it comes to performing this second light function, are delimited by a straight cut-off edge 33, without projection unlike the first openings. This straight cut-off edge 33 aims to define in the overall light beam 100 projected at the output of the matrix device a basic shape 104, namely a lower beam shape which is common to the two light functions, and which allows sufficient lighting in the city. This flat cut-off edge 33 is the second border of the second opening, extending at a fourth distance D4 from the upper vertical edge 28 of the corresponding mask portion 231.It should be noted that the basic shape 104 here comprises an over-intensified zone 106, the production of which will be described in more detail below.

[0110] The light device 1 according to the invention is particular in that the light emission means 4 comprise a plurality of selectively addressable light sources 41, 42, in that the collimator common to these light sources reorients the emitted light rays into a beam of parallel rays which impacts each input microlens 20 with an angle of incidence specific to the activation of such or such light source and in that the openings 26 provided in the mask portion 231 arranged downstream of an input microlens 20 are arranged to be selectively on the path of the rays transmitted by the input microlens according to the activation of such or such light source at the origin.

[0111] More particularly, several selectively addressable light sources 41, 42 are configured to illuminate the same matrix of input microlenses 21 via a common collimator 3. Each light source is arranged at a theoretical position relative to the collimator and to a defined plane, and the rays emitted by each light source are shaped into a beam of parallel rays specific to the activation of such or such light source, so that the rays emitted by a first light source arrive at an input microlens with a first angle of incidence and the rays emitted by a second light source arrive at this same input microlens with a second angle of incidence.

[0112] As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, it results from this arrangement that when a first light source 41 is active, the light rays arrive at the input microlenses with a first angle of incidence and the input microlenses 20 focus the light rays on a first zone ZI of the mask portion 231 which corresponds to them. In other words, an input microlens 20 associated with a light circulation channel 5 focuses the light rays emitted by the first light source 41 on a first zone ZI of the mask portion 231 arranged in this light circulation channel, and another input microlens associated with another light circulation channel focuses the light rays emitted by the first light source on a first zone of the mask portion arranged in this other light circulation channel.The first zone Z1 is located on the mask portion with a first spacing E1 (visible in FIG. 6) relative to the upper vertical edge 28 of this mask portion. The openings are configured so that one of the openings, here the first opening 261, is arranged in this first zone Z1. More particularly here, the first opening 261 is formed in the mask portion so that the raised cut-off edge 32 of this first opening is arranged on this first zone Z1.

[0113] It is understood that in the case where the first openings are arranged in a staggered manner such that with columns of mask portions which comprise openings in an inverted arrangement, the corresponding input microlenses are configured to focus the light emitted by the first light source in a first alternative zone, corresponding to the position of a first opening.

[0114] In this context, when the first light source 41 is activated, the light rays successively pass through the collimator and each of the input microlenses to propagate in each of the light circulation channels and to pass through the mask at each of the first openings 261.

[0115] As can be seen in Figures 7 and 8, when the second light source 42 is activated instead of the first light source 41, due to the different position of these two light sources relative to the collimator 3 and the different angle of incidence with which the rays shaped by the collimator arrive at the input microlenses 20 of the matrix device 2, the input microlenses 20 focus the light rays on a second zone Z2 of the mask portion which corresponds to them.In other words, an input microlens 20 associated with a light circulation channel 5 focuses the light rays emitted by the second light source 42 onto a second zone Z2 of the mask portion 231 arranged in this light circulation channel 5, and another input microlens associated with another light circulation channel focuses the light rays emitted by the second light source onto a second zone of the mask portion arranged in this other light circulation channel. The second zone Z2 is located on the mask portion with a second spacing E2 (visible in FIG. 8) relative to the upper vertical edge 28 of this mask portion. The openings are configured so that one of the openings, here the second opening 262, is arranged in this second zone Z1.More particularly here, the second opening 262 is formed in the mask portion such that the second zone Z2 is arranged on the flat cut-off edge 33, i.e. the second edge, or lower edge, of the second opening 262. Here again, it is understood that in the case where the second openings are arranged in a staggered manner, with columns of mask portions which comprise openings in an inverted arrangement, the corresponding input microlenses are configured to focus the light emitted by the second light source into a second alternative zone, corresponding to the position of a second opening.

[0116] In this context, when the second light source 42 is activated, the light rays successively pass through the collimator and each of the input microlenses to propagate in each of the light circulation channels and to pass through the mask at each of the second openings 262.

[0117] According to the invention, it is thus possible to project two distinct light beams onto the same lighting surface, by passing the rays focused by the input microlenses 20 through the first openings 261 of the mask 23 to obtain a first light beam and by passing the rays focused by the input microlenses 20 through the second openings 262 of the mask 23 to obtain a second beam.

[0118] As mentioned previously, the first light function is a “standard dipped beam” type lighting function and it is formed by the combination of the two beams, that is to say following the activation of the two light sources 41, 42.

[0119] The second lighting function is a “city dipped beam” type lighting function and is formed by the second beam alone, i.e. with the sole activation of the second light source, which allows substantial energy savings when performing this second lighting function.

[0120] We will illustrate what has just been mentioned by describing more precisely the propagation of light rays emitted by the first light source, with reference to figures 5 and 6, then in a second step the propagation of light rays emitted by the second light source, with reference to figures 7 and 8.

[0121] Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the lighting device when the first light source 41 is made active by appropriate control of an electronic control device associated with the lighting device. As mentioned, this is implemented only when it is desired to carry out the first lighting function and in combination with the implementation of the second light source which will be described in a similar manner below.

[0122] The first light source 41 emits rays towards the collimator 3, and the latter collects these rays and directs them into a beam of rays parallel to each other towards the input microlens matrix of the matrix device 2.

[0123] The collimator 3 is configured such that, when the light rays come from the first light source 41, these light rays emerge from the collimator 3 with a main inclination of a first angle al relative to the main optical axis 10, taking into account, as previously specified, a slight divergence of the rays due to the fact that the source is not point-like. This results in a first angle of incidence of the light rays arriving at each of the input microlenses. In this context, the light rays are deflected by each input microlens 20 to be focused on a first zone ZI of the portion of the mask 231 arranged across the light circulation channel 5 and visible in FIG. 6. This first zone ZI corresponds to the presence of a first opening 261, such that the rays focused on this first zone ZI are able to pass through the mask 23 towards the matrix of output microlenses.The output microlens arranged opposite the first opening 261 has an object focus located on this first zone Z1, so that the rays which propagate through the first opening in the direction of this output microlens 24, here the first output microlens 241, exit from the matrix device substantially parallel to the optical axis of the output microlens, parallel to the main optical axis 10 of the light device.

[0124] As can be seen in Figure 6 in particular, the first zone Z1 is located on the mask portion with a first spacing E1 relative to the upper vertical edge 28 of this mask portion. The first zone Z1 corresponds to the presence of a first opening 261 insofar as, considering the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 associated with this first opening 261 and previously mentioned, the value of the first spacing E1 is between the value of the first distance D1 and the value of the second distance D2 which define the dimension of the first openings. More particularly here, the value of the first spacing E1 is substantially equal to the value of the second distance, so that the first zone Z1, on which the light rays are focused when the first light source 41 is active, is located substantially on the second edge of the first opening which forms the cut-off edge 32 previously mentioned.

[0125] It follows from the above that the light rays emitted by the first light source 41 propagate within the matrix device 2 in each of the light circulation channels 5 to pass through the first openings 261 provided in each mask portion 231. The output microlenses arranged downstream of these first openings 261 are configured to deflect the light rays in the direction of the road on which the vehicle is traveling to form a non-dazzling lighting beam.

[0126] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the lighting device when the second light source 42 is made active by appropriate control of an electronic control device associated with the lighting device. As mentioned, this is implemented both when it is desired to carry out the first lighting function, in combination with the implementation of the first light source, and when it is desired to carry out the second lighting function.

[0127] The second light source 42 emits rays towards the collimator 3, and the latter collects these rays and directs them into a beam of rays parallel to each other towards the input microlens matrix of the matrix device 2.

[0128] The collimator 3 is configured such that, when the light rays come from the second light source 42, these light rays emerge from the collimator 3 with a main inclination of a second angle a2 relative to the main optical axis 10, again taking into account, as specified, a slight divergence of the rays due to the fact that the source is not point-like. This results in a second angle of incidence of the light rays arriving at each of the input microlenses. In this context, the light rays are deflected by each input microlens 20 to be focused on a second zone Z2 of the portion of the mask 231 arranged across the light circulation channel 5 and visible in FIG. 8. This second zone Z2 corresponds to the presence of a second opening 262, such that the rays focused on this second zone Z2 are able to pass through the mask 23 towards the output microlens matrix.The output microlens arranged opposite the second opening 262 has an object focus located on this second zone Z1, so that the rays which propagate through the second opening in the direction of this output microlens 24, here the second output microlens 241, exit from the matrix device substantially parallel to the optical axis of the output microlens, parallel to the main optical axis 10 of the light device.

[0129] As can be seen in Figure 8 in particular, the second zone Z2 is located on the mask portion with a second spacing E2 relative to the upper vertical edge 28 of this mask portion. The second zone Z2 corresponds to the presence of a second opening 262 insofar as, considering the third distance D3 and the fourth distance D4 associated with this second opening 262 and previously mentioned, the value of the second spacing E2 is between the value of the third distance D3 and the value of the fourth distance D4 which define the dimension of the second openings.More particularly here, the value of the second spacing E2 is substantially a value equidistant from the values ​​of the third and fourth distances, so that the second zone Z2, on which the light rays are focused when the second light source is active, is situated substantially at the center of the second opening 262, or at two-thirds as mentioned previously, that is to say at a distance from the edge so that the majority of the rays which must pass through the opening are not blocked at the margin.

[0130] It follows from the above that the light rays emitted by the second light source 42 propagate within the matrix device 2 in each of the light circulation channels 5 to pass through the second openings 262 provided in each mask portion 231. The output microlenses arranged downstream of these second openings 262 are configured to deflect the light rays into a signaling beam substantially parallel to the direction of the main optical axis 10.

[0131] The shape of the output microlenses will now be described in more detail, the matrix device being particular according to the invention in that two adjacent output microlenses, or those associated with the same light circulation channel, have a different shape, as can be seen in particular with reference to figure 9.

[0132] The first input microlens 241 forms an output microlens of a first type which is arranged opposite the first opening 261. This microlens is a focused converging lens, that is to say a plane convex lens, with the convex shape which forms the external face of the output microlens, facing the outside of the matrix device. More particularly, the output microlens of the first type is a portion of a complete focused converging lens, cut substantially in two.

[0133] The output microlens of the first type is associated with a focal point, which is arranged locally on the stepped cut-off edge of the opening, and more particularly arranged on this step.

[0134] The second output microlens forms a microlens of a second type, which has a more complex shape than that of the first output microlens, and in particular a shape whose profile is different depending on whether one considers a view in a horizontal section plane, that is to say a section plane parallel to the optical axis of the matrix device and perpendicular to the direction of superposition of the two adjacent output microlenses, or a view in a vertical section plane, that is to say a section plane parallel to the optical axis of the matrix device and parallel to the direction of superposition of the two adjacent output microlenses.

[0135] In the vertical section plane, the shape is convex over the entire dimension of the second output microlens. In this, it has a shape equivalent to that of the first output microlens.

[0136] In the horizontal section plane, the shape is both convex and concave, so as to present on the one hand a divergent zone ZD, which has the function of spreading the light beam at the output of the matrix device and thus obtaining a large diffusion cone, and one or more convergent zones ZC arranged at one end of the divergent zone and which have the function in particular of straightening the light rays and preventing them from undergoing total internal reflection on the divergent zone and thus being lost.

[0137] In the example illustrated, and as is notably visible in Figure 10, the presence of this divergent zone and two convergent zones, arranged on either side of the divergent zone, results in a saddle shape, with the central divergent zone ZD, which is concave and lateral convergent zones ZC, which are convex.

[0138] The output microlens of the second type is associated with a focus line, which is substantially merged with the right cut-off edge of the opening arranged opposite this microlens. Figure 10 schematically illustrates the path of some of the light rays which pass through the second opening 262 of the mask portion, and by the object focus line of the second output microlens 242, located on the right cut-off edge 33 of this second opening, shown in dotted lines in the figure. The rays impacting the external face of the second output microlens 242 at the central diverging zone ZD are split to move away from the optical axis Ax of this microlens, and the rays impacting the external face of the second output microlens 242 at a converging zone ZC are straightened and brought back in the direction of said optical axis Ax.

[0139] The lateral dimension of the diverging zone ZD, i.e. the dimension of this zone between the two lateral converging zones, is defined in such a way that at least 95% of the rays impacting the diverging zone, after passing through a point of intersection of the focus line on the cut-off edge and the optical axis, are refracted and instead of being totally reflected.

[0140] H results from the straightening of the rays by the converging zones an over-intensification 106 of the light beam associated with this second output microlens, that is to say the light beam forming the “city dipped beam” type lighting beam and forming the base of the overall “standard dipped beam” type lighting beam, as can be seen in Figure 2.

[0141] In this embodiment, converging zones are arranged symmetrically on either side of the diverging zone and the latter is centered on the optical axis which is arranged in a plane of symmetry of this diverging zone.

[0142] Alternatively, the second-type microlenses may be asymmetrical with an optical axis that is closer to one lateral edge of the diverging zone than to the other lateral edge, and with, where appropriate, a single converging zone ZC arranged in the extension of the lateral edge of the diverging zone ZD closest to the optical axis. It is understood that in this case, the second-type microlenses of the matrix device as a whole are distributed into a first group G1 of output microlenses whose asymmetry is generated with an offset of the optical axis to the right and a second group G2 of output microlenses whose asymmetry is generated with an offset of the optical axis to the left. This may in particular allow for simpler production of the output microlenses, by avoiding too many transitions from a concave shape to a convex shape.This results in a beam forming the second light function which is obtained by a first sub-beam and a second sub-beam which are superimposed, as shown in Figure 11 with a first sub-beam SF1 generated by the first group of second output microlenses and a second sub-beam SF2 generated by the second group of second output microlenses.

[0143] The invention as just described makes it possible to meet the aim it set for itself, namely to enable the same light module to produce at least two different light functions, and more particularly two dipped beam type lighting functions, by proposing the same lighting surface, namely a surface through which the light rays emerge which has the same extent regardless of the light function implemented.

[0144] It is understood that the configuration of the matrix device proposed as an example could be different, since it allows for the same illuminated surface to be provided for two “dipped beam” type lighting functions, regardless of the “dipped beam” type lighting function implemented.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Luminous device (1) comprising at least light emission means (4), a collimator (3) and a microlens matrix device (2), the light emission means (4) being configured to emit light rays towards the matrix device (2) via the collimator (3), the matrix device (2) comprising at least one input microlens matrix (21), one output microlens matrix (22) and a mask (23), interposed between the two microlens matrices, the matrix device (2) being configured to form light circulation channels (5) respectively arranged along a main optical axis (10) between at least one input microlens (20) and at least one output microlens (24) so ​​that a portion of the light rays propagate in the direction of F at least one output microlens, the mask (23) comprising mask portions (231) respectively arranged in one of the light circulation channels (5), the light device being characterized in that the light emission means (4) comprise a plurality of selectively addressable light sources (41, 42), the device being further characterized in that at least one light circulation channel (5) is arranged along the main optical axis (10) being delimited at one longitudinal end by at least one input microlens (20) and at one longitudinal end by at least two output microlenses (24), the selectively addressable light sources (41, 42),the at least one collimator (3) and the at least one input microlens (20) of a light circulation channel (5) being configured so that there are at least two distinct ray focusing zones (Zl, Z2), with a ray focusing zone specific to each light source (41, 42), the output microlenses (24) of the same light circulation channel (5) being configured to have object foci respectively arranged in the vicinity of one of the focusing zones, the mask portion present in the channel being provided with at least two openings (261, 262) through which light rays emitted by one of the light sources are able to pass, the openings (261, 262) being positioned so that each focusing zone (Zl, Z2) is positioned on a cut-off edge (32, 33) delimiting one of the openings (261, 262), with a first focusing zone (Zl) specific to a first light source, (41) which is positioned on a cut-off edge (32) delimiting a first opening (261) and with a second focusing zone (Z2) specific to a second light source (41) which is positioned on a cut-off edge (33) delimiting a second opening (262).

2. Lighting device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the collimator (3) is common to the plurality of light sources (41, 42) and configured to conform the light rays emitted by a light source into a beam of substantially parallel rays directed towards the matrix device (2), said beam of rays parallel to each other generally having an angle of inclination relative to the optical axis which is different depending on the activated light source.

3. Lighting device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the at least one light circulation channel is arranged along the main optical axis (10) being delimited at one longitudinal end by a single input microlens (20), onto which the beam of rays exiting the collimator is directed, and at the other longitudinal end by a plurality of output microlenses (24).

4. Lighting device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the single input microlens of a light circulation channel is configured to focus the beams of substantially parallel rays on the mask portion (231) arranged in the light circulation channel, on different focusing zones (Z1, Z2) as a function of said angle of inclination of the beam of substantially parallel rays.

5. Luminous device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, within a light circulation channel (5), the number of openings (261, 262) different from each other within a mask portion (231) is equal to the number of output microlenses (234) present at a longitudinal end of this light circulation channel (5).

6. Luminous device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the openings (261, 262) present within the same portion of mask (231), in a light circulation channel (5), are of different shapes and / or dimensions from each other.

7. Luminous device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the edge of one of said openings (261), on which a focusing zone is positioned, is a straight cut-off edge and the edge of another of said openings, on which another focusing zone is positioned, is a stepped cut-off edge.

8. Lighting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the output microlenses (24) arranged at a longitudinal end of a light circulation channel have different shapes.

9. Luminous device (1) according to the preceding claim, in combination with claim 7, characterized in that, in a given section plane, the shape of the output microlens which is arranged opposite the opening (261) having a raised cut-off edge (32) is a convergent and focused lens portion and the shape of the output microlens which is arranged opposite the opening (262) having a straight cut-off edge (33) is a complex lens portion having a divergent portion and at least one convergent portion.

10. Method for controlling a lighting device according to one of the preceding claims, allowing the implementation of two dipped beam type lighting functions, during which a first dipped beam type lighting function is selectively activated, by the simultaneous switching on of a first light source (41) configured to illuminate a matrix device of the lighting device and a second light source (42) configured to illuminate the same matrix device, and a second dipped beam type lighting function, by switching on only the second light source (42).

11. Motor vehicle comprising at least one light device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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