Vehicle surface light guide

The surface light guide for vehicles addresses edge light leakage by using secondary groups of bent light injection elements to reinject light, enhancing luminance and efficiency without additional sources, suitable for vehicle lighting applications.

FR3167692A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-04-24VALEO VISION SA
View PDF 3 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
VALEO VISION SA
Filing Date
2024-10-23
Publication Date
2026-04-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing surface light guides for vehicles suffer from light leakage at their edges due to the lack of internal reflection, leading to reduced luminance and inefficient light utilization.

Method used

The surface light guide incorporates a main group of light injection elements coupled with a light source and secondary groups of bent light injection elements that form stacks with opposite free ends, allowing light to be reinjected and collected within the guide, eliminating edge light leaks and enhancing luminance without additional sources.

Benefits of technology

The solution effectively prevents light leakage, increases luminance, and allows for efficient light distribution across larger areas by reinjecting light within the guide, even when multiple guides are used side by side.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure 00000000_0001_ABST
    Figure 00000000_0001_ABST
  • Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
    Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The invention relates to a surface light guide (1) for a vehicle (2) comprising a light guide mat (11) and several groups of light injection elements (10.1, 10.2), including a primary group of light injection elements (10.1) arranged on one edge (1.1) of the light guide and coupled to a light source (20). The surface light guide also comprises at least one secondary group of light injection elements (10.2) arranged on another edge (1.2, 1.4) of the light guide. This secondary group of light injection elements forms a stack (103.2) with a free end (103.20) positioned opposite that of another secondary group (10.2), without being coupled to a light source. (See Figure 3 for abbreviations.)
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Title of the invention: Surface light guide for vehicle

[0001] The present invention relates to a surface light guide for a vehicle. It finds a particular but not limited application in motor vehicles.

[0002] A surface light guide known to those skilled in the art comprises at least one group of light injection elements and a light-guiding mat, said group being configured to be coupled to at least one light source. The light injection elements are folded to form a stack. The stack has an inlet surface configured to receive light rays emitted by said at least one light source. The light rays emitted by the light source enter through the inlet surface and propagate by total internal reflection through the light injection elements so as to bring light to the light-guiding mat.

[0003] One drawback of this prior art is that there is no internal reflection at the edges of the light guide. There is light leakage at the edges. Thus, light leaks occur over a large part of the periphery of the light guide.

[0004] In this context, the present invention aims to provide a light guide that makes it possible to resolve the aforementioned drawback.

[0005] To this end, the invention proposes a surface light guide for vehicles comprising a surface light guide for vehicles comprising a plurality of groups of light injection elements and a light guiding sheet. According to the invention, the light guide comprises: • a main group of light injection elements located on a first edge of said light guide, said main group being configured to be coupled with at least one light source, and • at least one secondary group of light injection elements located on a different edge from that of the main group whose light injection elements are bent to form a secondary stack with a secondary free end, said secondary free end being configured to be arranged opposite another secondary free end of a secondary stack of another secondary group of light injection elements, said at least one secondary group being coupled with no light source.

[0006] Thus, as will be seen in detail later, thanks to the secondary group which is configured to be positioned opposite another secondary group, the following is avoided: Light escapes from the edge of the first secondary group. The light flows between the two secondary groups and is reinjected into the light guide. This light, which remains within the light guide, is then collected and re-emitted through the light guide mat. There are no more light leaks, and the luminance of the light guide is thus increased without the need for an additional light source. This applies whether the other secondary group is part of the light guide or part of an adjacent light guide. In the latter case, when using several light guides side by side to illuminate large areas such as the front of a vehicle, the light passes from one light guide to the other and is reinjected into both.

[0007] According to non-limiting embodiments, said light guide may further comprise one or more additional features taken alone or in any technically possible combination, including the following: • the light injection elements of said main group of light injection elements are bent to form a main stack with a main free end, said at least one light source being arranged opposite said main free end; • the light injection elements of said main group of light injection elements include diffractive or refractive optical elements; • said other secondary group of light injection elements is part of said light guide and is located on the same edge of the light guide as said at least one secondary group; • said other secondary group of light injection elements is part of another adjacent light guide; • said light guide comprises three secondary groups of light injection elements, including: • two secondary groups that are located on the same edge and whose secondary free ends of the stacks formed by their injection elements are located opposite each other, • a third secondary group which is located on a different edge from that on which the other two secondary groups are located and whose secondary free end of the stack formed by its injection elements is configured to be located opposite a secondary free end of a secondary stack of another secondary group of light injection elements of another light guide; • said light guide further includes at least one retaining element configured to hold together two secondary free ends.

[0008] An object of the invention relates to a lighting device comprising the light guide shown above and at least one light source. By way of example, the lighting device is the front panel of a motor vehicle.

[0009] Another object of the invention relates to a lighting assembly comprising at least two surface light guides of which: • an initial lighting guide including: • a first main group of light injection elements located on a first edge, said first main group being configured to be coupled with at least one first light source, and • at least one first secondary group of light injection elements located on a different edge than the first edge, the light injection elements of which are folded to form a first secondary stack with a first free secondary end, said at least one first secondary group being coupled with no light source, • a second light guide comprising: • at least one second secondary group of light injection elements located on an edge of said second light guide, the light injection elements of which are bent to form a second secondary stack with a second secondary free end, the latter being arranged opposite said first secondary free end of the first secondary stack of light injection elements of said at least one first secondary group of the first light guide.

[0010] According to non-limiting embodiments, said lighting assembly may further comprise one or more additional features taken alone or in any technically possible combination, including the following: • the light injection elements of the main group of light injection elements of the first light guide are bent to form a main stack with a main free end, the first light source being arranged opposite said main free end; alternatively, the light injection elements of said main group of light injection elements comprise diffractive or refractive optical elements; said light assembly further includes a retaining element configured to hold together the first secondary free end of said at least one first secondary group of the first light guide and the second secondary free end of at least one second secondary group of the second light guide; said second light guide is coupled with no light source; said second light guide further includes a second main group of light injection elements located on a first edge, said second main group being coupled to at least one second light source; here, the second main group may have the same configuration as the first main group of light injection elements; thus, this simplifies the manufacture of the light assembly; The aforementioned first guide to light further includes: • a third secondary group of light injection elements located on a third edge, the light injection elements of which are folded to form a third secondary stack with a third secondary free end, said third secondary group being coupled with no light source, and • a fourth secondary group of light injection elements located on said same third edge, the light injection elements of which are folded to form a fourth secondary stack with a fourth secondary free end, the latter being arranged opposite said third secondary free end, said fourth secondary group being coupled with no light source; said second light guide further includes: • a fifth secondary group of light injection elements located on a second edge, the light injection elements of which are folded to form a fifth secondary stack with a fifth secondary free end, said fifth secondary group being coupled with no light source, and • a sixth secondary group of light injection elements located on said second edge, the light injection elements of which are folded to form a sixth secondary stack with a sixth secondary free end, the latter being arranged opposite said fifth secondary free end, said sixth secondary group being coupled with no light source; • said lighting assembly further includes: • a first additional retaining element configured to hold together said third secondary free end and said fourth secondary free end of the first light guide, • a second additional retaining element configured to hold together said fifth secondary free end and said sixth secondary free end of the second light guide; • said lighting assembly further includes a third light guide comprising: • a third main group of light injection elements located on a first edge of said third light guide, the light injection elements of which are folded to form a third main stack with a third main free end, said third main group being configured to be coupled with at least a third light source, and • at least one secondary group of light injection elements located on another edge of said third light guide, the light injection elements of which are bent to form a secondary stack with a secondary free end, said at least one secondary group of light injection elements being coupled to no light source; • said third light guide includes a secondary group whose secondary free end formed by the secondary stacking of its light injection elements is arranged opposite a secondary free end of a secondary group of said second light guide; • said third light guide comprises two further secondary groups of light injection elements whose secondary free ends of their secondary stack are arranged opposite each other.

[0011] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the retaining element is a reflective part that thus does not absorb light. In other non-limiting embodiments, it is a part made of aluminum or is white in color.

[0012] Another object of the invention relates to a lighting device comprising a lighting assembly as described above. By way of example, the lighting device is the front panel of a motor vehicle.

[0013] The invention and its various applications will be better understood upon reading the following description and examining the accompanying figures:

[0014] [Fig-1] is a schematic illustration of a surface light guide according to a first non-limiting embodiment of a first non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the light guide comprising a main group of light injection elements configured to be coupled with a light source, a light guide mat, and a set of two secondary groups of light injection elements according to a first non-limiting embodiment,

[0015] [Fig.2] is a schematic illustration of a surface light guide according to a second non-limiting embodiment of a first non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the light guide comprising a main group of light injection elements configured to be coupled with a light source, a light guiding sheet, and two sets of two secondary groups of light injection elements according to a second non-limiting embodiment,

[0016] [Fig.3] is a schematic illustration of a surface light guide according to a second non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the light guide comprising a main group of light injection elements configured to be coupled with a light source, a light guiding sheet, and a secondary group of light injection elements,

[0017] [Fig.4] is a schematic illustration of a surface light guide according to a third non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the light guide comprising a main group of light injection elements configured to be coupled with a light source, a light guiding sheet, and a set of two secondary groups of light injection elements and a third secondary group of light injection elements,

[0018] [Fig.5] is a view of the light guide of Figures 1, 2, 3 or 4 with the light injection elements of the same main group of light injection elements that are unfolded,

[0019] [Fig.6a] is an enlarged view of a portion of the light injection elements of the same main group of light injection elements of the light guide of Figures 1, 2, 3 or 4,

[0020] [Fig.6b] is a view of one face of the stack formed by the light injection elements of the previous figure, said face being positioned opposite a light source,

[0021] [Fig.7] is an enlarged view of a portion of the light injection elements of the same secondary group of light injection elements of the light guide of Figures 1, 2, 3 or 4,

[0022] [Fig.8] is a schematic illustration of a lighting assembly according to a first non-limiting embodiment, the lighting assembly comprising two light guides according to [Fig.3],

[0023] [Fig.9] is a schematic illustration of a lighting assembly according to a second non-limiting embodiment, the lighting assembly comprising two light guides according to [Fig.2],

[0024] [Fig. 10] is a schematic illustration of a lighting assembly according to a third, non-limiting embodiment, the lighting assembly comprising two light guides according to [Fig. 2] and a third light guide,

[0025] [Fig. 11] is a schematic illustration of a lighting assembly according to a fourth, non-limiting embodiment, the lighting assembly comprising two light guides according to [Fig. 2] and a third light guide,

[0026] [Fig. 12] is a schematic illustration of a non-limiting embodiment of a vehicle front end comprising a light assembly with two adjacent light guides according to [Fig.3].

[0027] Identical elements, by structure or by function, appearing on different figures retain, unless otherwise specified, the same references.

[0028] The light guide 1 according to the invention is described with reference to Figures 1 to 12. In a non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 is a light guide for a vehicle 2. In a non-limiting embodiment, the vehicle 2 is a motor vehicle. By motor vehicle, we mean any type of motorized vehicle. This embodiment is taken as a non-limiting example in the following description. In the following description, the vehicle 2 is thus otherwise referred to as motor vehicle 2. In a non-limiting variant, the vehicle 2 is a combustion engine vehicle, an electric vehicle, or a hybrid vehicle. The motor vehicle 2 has a vehicle axis Ox illustrated in [Fig. 12].

[0029] The light guide 1 is part of a lighting device 4. In a non-limiting embodiment, the lighting device 4 (illustrated in [Fig. 12]) is a front face of the motor vehicle 2, a headlight or a rear light of the motor vehicle 2.

[0030] The light guide 1 is a surface light guide. A surface light guide is defined as an optical guiding element in which one dimension is much smaller than the other two dimensions in space, for example, smaller by one or more orders of magnitude. Here, the thickness of the light guide 1 is much smaller than its length and width. In a non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 has a thickness between 10 and 1000 micrometers. In a non-limiting variant, the thickness is between 50 and 1000 micrometers. In a non-limiting example, the thickness is 50 micrometers. The light guide 1 is thus very thin.

[0031] The light guide 2 is a flexible light guide. Flexible means that it can bend without being damaged or breaking. Because it is flexible, it can adapt to flat or curved surfaces.

[0032] The light guide 1 is transparent. The term transparent indicates that the material from which it is made allows visible light to pass through, at least partially, and in particular the light emitted by one or more light sources 20 (illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, for example). The fact that the light guide 1 is transparent also makes it possible to see through said light guide 1 a pattern (called the manufacturer's pattern) integrated into the front end, headlight, or taillight of the motor vehicle 2, if these incorporate one, when the light guide 1 is off, i.e., when it is not emitting light. This also makes it possible to retain the color of the body of the motor vehicle 2 when the light guide 1 is off. At night, to illuminate the manufacturer's pattern, the light guide 1 includes a pattern 111 (described later) which may be identical to the manufacturer's pattern and which thus illuminates the manufacturer's pattern.

[0033] Thanks to its surface-like, flexible, and transparent nature, the light guide 1 is configured to be placed on the front of the motor vehicle 2 (as illustrated in [Fig. 12]) or in a headlight or taillight of the motor vehicle 2. In a first, non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 is glued. In a first, non-limiting variant, the surface (such as an outer lens of the front, headlight, or taillight) on which the light guide 1 is placed includes an adhesive surface for attaching the light guide 1. In a second, non-limiting variant, the rear face of the light guide 1 includes an adhesive surface and is glued behind a decorative piece. In a third, non-limiting variant, both faces of the light guide 1 are adhesive.In a second, non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 is not glued; it is sandwiched between the outer glass and the decorative piece.

[0034] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 is made of polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Such materials allow for a flexible and transparent light guide 1.

[0035] As illustrated in [Fig. 5], in a non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 extends in its width La along a y-axis and in its length Lg along a z-axis substantially perpendicular to the x-axis. It should be noted that the width La and the length Lg can be equal.

[0036] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the light guide 1 comprises: - a plurality of groups 10 of light injection elements 100 including a main group 10.1 of light injection elements 100 and at least one secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100, and - a light guiding sheet 11.

[0037] The main group 10.1 of light injection elements 100 is otherwise referred to as main group 10.1 in the following description. A secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 is otherwise referred to as secondary group 10.2 in the following description.

[0038] As illustrated in [Fig. 5], the light guide sheet 11 extends along a first direction y and a second direction z. In the unfolded state, the light injection elements 100 extend primarily along the first direction y in a non-limiting embodiment. The dimension measured along this first direction y is thus considered to be the length Lg' of the light injection element 100. The width La of the light guide 1 corresponds to the width of the light guide sheet 11, and the length Lg of the light guide 11 corresponds to the length of the light guide sheet 11. The light guide sheet 11 comprises four edges, including a first edge 1.1, a second edge 1.2, a third edge 1.3, and a fourth edge 1.4. For simplicity, we will refer to the first edge 1.1, the second edge 1.2, the third edge 1.3 and the fourth edge 1.4 of the light guide 11.

[0039] The main group 10.1 is located on an edge 1.1 of the light guide 1. It is configured to be coupled with at least one light source 20. In the non-limiting example, this edge 1.1 is the first edge 1.1 of the light guide 1.

[0040] Said at least one light source 20 is configured to emit light rays R (illustrated in [Fig.6b]) which will propagate by total reflection in the light injection elements 100 of the main group 10.1 so as to bring light to the light guide sheet 11 which is adjacent to the light injection elements 100 and which will thus illuminate the region 110 of the light guide sheet 11.

[0041] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light source 20 is a semiconductor light source. In a non-limiting embodiment, the semiconductor light source is part of a light-emitting diode or a laser diode. By light-emitting diode, we mean any type of light-emitting diode, whether in non-limiting examples LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), OLEDs (Organic LEDs), AMOLEDs (Active-Matrix-Organic LEDs), or FOLEDs (Flexible OLEDs).

[0042] As illustrated in [Fig. 6b], a light injection element 100 of the main group 10.1, also called a coupling bar 100, or light bar 100, or simply bar 100, is configured to receive the light rays R emitted by the light source 20, which propagate and are fully reflected within said light injection element 100. A light injection element 100 has a rectangular or square cross-section. A light injection element 100 comprises a length Lg', a width La' (illustrated in [Fig. 5]), and a thickness e (illustrated in [Fig. 6b]). Its thickness e is that of the thickness of the light guide 1. The light injection element 100 comprises two ends 100.1, one of which (not shown) is directly adjacent to and attached to the light guide mat 11 and the other is configured to be opposite said light source 20. As illustrated in [Fig.6b], the light rays R emitted by the light source 20 enter through one end 100.1 and are transmitted to the other end 100.1 and then to the light guide mat 11. .

[0043] It should be noted that during the manufacturing process of the light guide 11, the light injection elements 100 and the light guide sheet 11 are manufactured from a large sheet which is sheared at one end to separate the different light injection elements 100 along the y-axis illustrated in [Fig. 5] and thus form the different light injection elements 100 and the light guide sheet 11. Thus, the light injection elements 100 remain attached to the light guide sheet 11 at one of their ends 100.1. Since such light injection elements 100 are known to those skilled in the art, they are not described in further detail.

[0044] As illustrated in [Fig. 6a], the light injection elements 100 of a main group 10.1 are composed of: - a main part 100.2 which extends along the y-axis, namely in the first direction of the light-guiding sheet 11 described later, and - an end portion 100.3 extending along the z-axis, namely in the second direction of the light guide sheet 11. The main portion 100.2 is connected to the light guide sheet 11. The two portions 100.2 and 100.3 are separated by a fold 100.4. The end portion 100.3 extends beyond the fold 100.4. In a non-limiting embodiment, the fold 100.4 is a right-angled fold. The length Lg' of a light injection element 100 is the sum of the dimensions of the main portion 100.2 and the end portion 100.3.

[0045] Fig. 6b illustrates the terminal parts 100.3 of ten light injection elements 100 of a main group 10.1 and a light source 20 coupled to said main group 10.1.

[0046] The light injection elements 100 of the same main group 10.1 have different lengths Lg'. For clarity, only the length Lg' of a Light injection element 100 has been referenced in [Fig. 5]. Thus, a light injection element 100 of a main group 10.1 has a length Lg' different from other light injection elements 100 of the same main group 10.1. This allows them to be folded so that their end portions 100.3 form a main stack 103.1. Each light injection element 100 thus comprises a fold 100.4.

[0047] As illustrated in [Fig. 6a], in the main group 10.1, the light injection elements 100 are bent so that their end portions 100.3 form a thickness E (illustrated in [Fig. 6b]) adapted to an emission surface of the light source 20. The thickness E is the sum of the thicknesses e of each light injection element 100 whose end portions 100.3 form the main stack 103.1. The main stack 103.1 has a main free end 103.10 (also called the main entrance surface 130.10) which is flat and which is formed by the ends of the end portions 100.3 of each of the light injection elements 100 of the main group 10.1, and which is configured to receive the light emitted by the light source 20.

[0048] As illustrated in [Fig. 6b], the light source 20 coupled to the main group 10.1 is arranged opposite the main entrance surface 103.10 of the main stack 103.1. The light rays R from the light source 20 enter through this main entrance surface 103.10 and thus propagate into the light injection elements 100. The light rays R are totally reflected inside the light injection elements 100 and are redirected via the folds 100.4 towards the light guide mat 11.

[0049] Said at least one secondary group 10.2 is located on an edge 1.2, 1.4 of the light guide 1 different from that 1.1 of the main group 10.1. It is not coupled to any light source 20.

[0050] It should be noted that Figures 5 and 6a also apply to secondary group 10.2 by replacing reference 10.1 with reference 10.2. Thus, the descriptions relating to [Fig.5] and [Fig.6a] also apply to secondary group 10.2.

[0051] Figure 7 illustrates the main parts 100.2 and the terminal parts 100.3 of light injection elements 100 of a secondary group 10.2 and the fold 100.4 that separates them. Figure 7 illustrates the terminal parts 100.3 of ten light injection elements 100 of a secondary group 10.2.

[0052] In the same way as for the main group 10.1, in the secondary group 10.2, the light injection elements 100 are folded so that their end portions 100.3 form a thickness E (illustrated in [Fig. 7]). The thickness E is the sum of the thicknesses e of each light injection element 100 whose end portions 100.3 form a secondary stack 103.2. The stack secondary 103.2 has a free end secondary 103.20 (also called secondary inlet surface 103.20) which is flat and is formed by the ends of the terminal parts 100.3 of each of the light injection elements 100 of the secondary group 10.2.

[0053] As illustrated in [Fig. 7], a light injection element 100 of the secondary group 10.2, also called a coupling bar 100, or light bar 100, or simply bar 100, has a rectangular or square cross-section. A light injection element 100 comprises a length Lg', a width La' (illustrated in [Fig. 5], which applies) and a thickness e (illustrated in [Fig. 7]). Its thickness e is that of the thickness of the light guide 1. A light injection element 100 comprises two ends 100.1, one of which is directly adjacent to and attached to the light guide mat 11 and the other is configured to be opposite another secondary free end 103.2 of a secondary stack 103.2 of another secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100.

[0054] In a first non-limiting embodiment illustrated in [Fig.1] and [Fig.2], said other secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 is part of said light guide 1 and is located on the same edge 1.2 of the light guide 1 as said at least one secondary group 10.2.

[0055] In a first non-limiting embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], the light guide 1 comprises: - a secondary group 10.2 located on the second edge 1.2 of the light guide 1, different from the first edge 1.1 on which the main group 10.1 is located, said second edge 1.2 being adjacent to this first edge 1.1, - another secondary group 10.2 located on said second edge 1.2.

[0056] In a second, non-limiting embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 2], the light guide 1 comprises two secondary groups 10.2 located respectively on a second edge 1.2 and a third edge 1.3 of the light guide 1, different from the first edge 1.1 on which the main group 10.1 is located, and adjacent to this first edge 1.1. The second edge 1.2 and the third edge 1.3 are opposite each other. In this case, the light guide 1 also comprises two further secondary groups 10'.2 of light injection elements 100 located respectively on the second edge 1.2 and on the third edge 1.3. Thus, the secondary free end 103.20 of the secondary stack 103.2 formed by the light injection elements 100 of the secondary group 10.2 located on the second edge 1.2 is configured to be arranged opposite the secondary free end 103.20 of a secondary stack 103.2 of the other secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on the same second edge 1.2. And, the secondary free end 103.20 of the secondary stack 103.2 formed by the light injection elements 100 of the . secondary group 10.2 located on the third edge 1.3 is configured to be arranged opposite the secondary free end 103.20 of a secondary stack 103.2 of the other secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on the same third edge 1.3.

[0057] In a second, non-limiting embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], said other secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 is part of another adjacent light guide 1'. As can be seen, this other adjacent light guide 1' also includes, in a non-limiting embodiment, a main group 10.1 of light injection elements 100. In this second, non-limiting embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], the main group 10.1 of the light guide 1 is located on a first edge 1.1 and the secondary group 10.2 of the light guide 1 is located on a fourth edge 1.4 of the light guide 1 opposite the first edge 1.1. Similarly, the main group 10.1 of the other light guide 1' is located on a first edge 1.1 and the other secondary group 10.2 of this other light guide 1' is located on a fourth edge 1.4 of this other light guide 1' opposite to the first edge 1.1.

[0058] In a third, non-limiting embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 4], the light guide 1 comprises: - a main group 10.1 of light injection elements 100 located on a first edge 1.1 of the light guide 1 and coupled to a light source 20, - two secondary groups 10.2 which are located on the same edge 1.3 (here the third edge 1.3 different from the first edge 1.1 and adjacent to the first edge 1.1) and whose secondary free ends 103.20 of the secondary stacks 103.2 formed by their injection elements 100 are located opposite each other, the two secondary groups 10.2 being coupled to no light source 20, - a third secondary group 10.2 which is located on an edge 1.4 (here the fourth edge 1.4 different from the first edge 1.1 and opposite the first edge 1.1) different from the third edge 1.3 on which the two other secondary groups 10.2 are located and whose secondary free end 103.20 of the secondary stack 103.2 formed by its injection elements 100 is configured to be located opposite a secondary free end 103.20 of a secondary stack 103.2 of another secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 of another light guide 1'.

[0059] Thus, the third non-limiting embodiment of [Fig.4] is a combination of the first variant of the first non-limiting embodiment of [Fig.1] and the second non-limiting embodiment of [Fig.3]. It should be noted that on [Fig.4], the set of the two secondary groups 10.2 whose secondary free ends 103.20 are opposite each other and are arranged on the third edge 1.3 while in [Fig.1] it is arranged on the second edge 1.2. .

[0060] The light guide mat 11 is now described below.

[0061] As illustrated in figures 1 to 4, the light guiding sheet 11 comprises: - at least one region 110, - at least one light emission zone 111 integrated into said at least one region 110.

[0062] In the non-limiting examples of Figures 1 to 4, the light guiding sheet 11 comprises a single region 110 and a single light-emitting zone 111 integrated into the region 110. In another non-limiting example not shown, the light guiding sheet 11 comprises a plurality of regions 110 and a plurality of light-emitting zones 111 integrated respectively into each of the regions 110.

[0063] Since the light guide 1 is a flexible, transparent surface, the guide sheet 11 is consequently a surface, flexible, and transparent. Because the guide sheet 11 is flexible, it can be flat or curved depending on its position and the mechanical stresses applied to it. In particular, it adapts to the front panel, the headlight, or the rear light of the motor vehicle 2.

[0064] The light guide sheet 11 is adjacent to and attached to the light injection elements 100.

[0065] The light guide mat 11 further includes at least one light mixing region 112. The light emerging from the main group 10.1 of light injection elements 100 will be mixed in the light mixing region 112, which allows homogeneous illumination of the light emission area 111 of the corresponding region 110.

[0066] A light emission zone 111 is a zone through which the light generated by the light rays R from the light source 20 of the main group 10 emerges from the light guide mat 11. In particular, it emerges in the direction +x, namely substantially parallel to the vehicle axis Ox, towards the outside of the front face of the motor vehicle 2 in a non-limiting example taken.

[0067] In a non-limiting embodiment, said at least one light-emitting zone 111 forms at least one pattern, otherwise referred to as pattern 111. In a non-limiting example, pattern 111 has a size of 30 x 30 centimeters. In a non-limiting example, pattern 111 is a logo or part of a logo. Thus, in this case, an illuminated logo is obtained. In a non-limiting embodiment, the pattern is formed of nanostructures, which are nanometric structures. Such nanostructures may have a general bump or depression shape in non-limiting examples, on which the light rays R are reflected. In a non-limiting embodiment, pattern 111 is identical to the manufacturer's pattern seen previously. In this case, pattern 111 covers the manufacturer's pattern when The light guide 1 is placed on the front panel. This highlights the manufacturer's pattern when the light source(s) 20 are activated.

[0068] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 further comprises at least one retaining element 12 configured to hold together two secondary free ends 103.2 of two secondary stacks 103.2 formed by light injection elements 100 of two secondary groups 10.2. In a non-limiting embodiment, the retaining element 12 is a reflective part that thus does not absorb light. In non-limiting variants, it is a part made of aluminum or is white in color.

[0069] Thus, in the case of the first non-limiting variant of the first non-limiting embodiment of the light guide 1 [Fig.1], the light guide 1 includes a retaining element 12 configured to hold together the two second secondary free ends 103.2 of the two secondary stacks 103.2 formed by the light injection elements 100 of the two secondary groups 10.2 located on the second edge 1.2.

[0070] Thus, in the case of the second non-limiting variant of the first non-limiting embodiment of the light guide 1 [Fig. 2], the light guide 1 comprises: - a first retaining element 12 configured to hold together the two second secondary free ends 103.2 of the two secondary stacks 103.2 formed by the light injection elements 100 of the two secondary groups 10.2 located on the second edge 1.2, and - a second retaining element 12 configured to hold together the two second secondary free ends 103.2 of the two secondary stacks 103.2 formed by the light injection elements 100 of the two secondary groups 10.2 located on the third edge 1.3.

[0071] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light guide 1 described is part of a light assembly 3 which includes at least two surface light guides of which a first light guide referenced 1 and a second light guide referenced 1' in Figures 8 to 10.

[0072] For clarity in the drawings, all elements of the second light guide 1' are referenced with a prime. Thus, the light guide sheet is referenced 11', the region is referenced 110', the light emission area is referenced 111', the edges are referenced l'.1, l'.2, l'.3 and l'.4, etc.

[0073] As illustrated in Figures 8 to 10, the light assembly 3 comprises: (a) a first light guide 1 comprising: - a first main group 10.1 of light injection elements 100 located on a first edge 1.1 of said first light guide 1, and - at least one first secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on another edge 1.4 of said first light guide 1 different from the first edge 1-1, (b) a second light guide 1' comprising: - at least a second secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on an edge 1'.4 of said second light guide 1'.

[0074] In a non-limiting embodiment, the other edge 1.4 is an edge (called the fourth edge 1.4) opposite the first edge 1.1.

[0075] In non-limiting embodiments, the two light guides 1 and 1' are on the same plane or on different planes. In a non-limiting variant, when they are on different planes, they may be arranged on superimposed planes. In this case, they are arranged one behind the other when viewed from the point of view of an external observer facing the lighting device 4, which includes the lighting assembly 3.

[0076] The first main group 10.1 of the first light guide 1 is configured to be coupled with at least one first light source 20. Its light injection elements 100 are folded to form a first main stack 103.1 with a first main free end 103.10. Thus, the first main free end 103.10 is located opposite said first light source 20. The light emitted by the first light source 20 will propagate by total internal reflection in the light injection elements 100 of the first main group 10.1 so as to bring light to the light guide mat 11 of the first light guide 1 and thus illuminate the region 110 of the light guide mat 11.

[0077] Said at least one first secondary group 10.2 of the first light guide 1 located on the other edge 1.4 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100 are folded to form a first secondary stack 103.2 with a first secondary free end 103.20.

[0078] The light injection elements 100' of said at least a second secondary group 10'.2 of the second light guide 1' are folded to form a second secondary stack 103'.2 with a second secondary free end 103'.20. The latter is arranged opposite said first secondary free end 103.20 of the first secondary stack 103.2 of the light injection elements 100 of said at least a first secondary group 10.2 of the first light guide 1. Thus, a portion of the light that is brought into the light guide sheet 11 will exit through the fourth edge 1.4 and propagate into said at least a first secondary group 10.2 of the first light guide 1 towards the second secondary group 10'.2 of the second light guide 1' to be thus brought into the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1'. There is thus no light leakage through this fourth edge 1.4 since the light is directed into the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1'.

[0079] As illustrated in Figures 8 to 10, the light assembly 3 further comprises a retaining element 12 configured to hold together the first secondary free end 103.20 of said at least one first secondary group 10.2 of the first light guide 1 and the second secondary free end 103'.20 of said at least one second secondary group 10'.2 of the second light guide 1'. In a non-limiting embodiment, the retaining element 12 holds the second secondary free end 103'.20 opposite the first secondary free end 103.20. Thus, in a non-limiting embodiment, the first secondary free end 103.20 and the second secondary free end 103'.20 are opposite each other and the first secondary stack 103.2 and the second secondary stack 103'.2 are arranged on the same plane.

[0080] In a first, non-limiting embodiment of the light assembly 3 illustrated in [Fig. 8], the second light guide 1' further comprises a second main group 10'.1 of light injection elements 100' located on a first edge l'.1 of said second light guide 1'. The second main group 10'.1 is coupled to at least one second light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are folded to form a second main stack 103'.1 with a second main free end 103'.10. Thus, the second main free end 103'.10 is located opposite said at least one second light source 20. In the non-limiting example of [Fig. 8], there is only one second light source 20.

[0081] The light emitted by the second light source 20 will propagate by total reflection in the light injection elements 100' of the second main group 10'. 1 so as to bring light to the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1' and thus illuminate the region 110' of the light guide sheet 11'.

[0082] Furthermore, part of the light that is brought into the light guide sheet 11' will exit through the fourth edge 1'.4 and propagate into said at least a second secondary group 10'.2 of the second light guide 1' towards the first secondary group 10.2 of the first light guide 1 to be brought into the light guide sheet 11 of the first light guide 1. There is thus no leakage of light through this fourth edge 1'.4 since the light is directed into the light guide sheet 11 of the first light guide 1.

[0083] Thus, the light propagates in the two light guides 1 and 1' and propagates between the two light guides 1 and 1' via the first secondary free end 103.20 and the second secondary free end 103'.20.

[0084] In this first non-limiting embodiment, the light assembly 3 comprises a single retaining element 12.

[0085] In a second, non-limiting embodiment of the luminous assembly 3 illustrated in [Fig.9]:

[0086] The first light guide 1 further comprises: - a third secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on a third edge 1.3 of said first light guide 1, said third edge 1.3 being adjacent to the first edge 1.1, and - a fourth secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on said same third edge 1.3.

[0087] The third secondary group 10.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100 are folded to form a third secondary stack 103.2 with a third secondary free end 103.20.

[0088] The fourth secondary group 10.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100 are folded to form a fourth secondary stack 103.2 with a fourth secondary free end 103.20. The latter is arranged opposite said third secondary free end 103.20.

[0089] Thus, part of the light that is brought into the light guide sheet 11 will exit through the third edge 1.3 and propagate into said third secondary group 10.2 towards the fourth secondary group 10.2 and vice versa, to be brought back into the light guide sheet 11 of the first light guide 1. There is therefore no light leakage through this third edge 1.3 since the light returns to said light guide sheet 11 of the first light guide 1. The luminance of the first light guide 11 is increased.

[0090] Furthermore, the second light guide 1' also comprises: - a second main group 10'. 1 of light injection elements 100' located on a first edge l'.l of said second light guide 1' as in the second non-limiting embodiment of [Fig.8], - a fifth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on a second edge 1'.2 of said second light guide 1', said second edge 1'.2 being adjacent to the first edge 1'.1, and - a sixth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said second edge 1'.2.

[0091] The second main group 10'.1 of the second light guide 1' is configured to be coupled with at least one second light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are folded to form a second main stack 103'.1 with a second main free end 103'.10. Thus, the second The main free end 103'. 10 is located opposite said second light source 20. The light emitted by the second light source 20 will propagate by total internal reflection in the light injection elements 100' of said second main group 10'. 1 so as to bring light to the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1' and thus illuminate the region 110' of the light guide sheet 11'.

[0092] The fifth secondary group 10'.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are bent to form a fifth secondary stack 103'.2 with a fifth secondary free end 103'.20.

[0093] The sixth secondary group 10'.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are folded to form a sixth secondary stack 103'.2 with a sixth secondary free end 103'.20. The latter is arranged opposite the fifth secondary free end 103'.20.

[0094] Thus, some of the light that is brought into the light guide sheet 11' will exit through the second edge l'.2 and propagate into the said fifth secondary group 10'.2 towards the sixth secondary group 10'.2 and vice versa, to be thus returned to the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1'. There is therefore no light leakage through this second edge l'.2 since the light returns to the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1'. The luminance of the second light guide 11' is increased.

[0095] As illustrated in [Fig. 9], in a non-limiting embodiment, said lighting assembly 3 further comprises: - a first additional retaining element 12 configured to hold together said third secondary free end 103.20 and said fourth secondary free end 103.20 of the first light guide 1, - a second additional retaining element 12 configured to hold together said fifth secondary free end 103'.20 and said sixth secondary free end 103'.20 of the second light guide 1'.

[0096] In a non-limiting embodiment, the third secondary free end 103.20 and the fourth secondary free end 103.20 of the first light guide 1 are not opposite each other. The third secondary stack 103.2 and the fourth secondary stack 103.2 are in edge-to-edge contact and on different planes. The first additional retaining element 12 allows them to be held in contact and on different planes. Thus, one of the secondary stacks is in the background with respect to the other.

[0097] In a non-limiting embodiment, the fifth secondary free end 103'.20 and the sixth secondary free end 103'.20 of the second light guide 1' are not opposite each other. The fifth secondary stack 103.2 and The sixth secondary stack 103.2 are in edge-to-edge contact and on different planes. The first additional retaining element 12 allows them to be held in contact and on different planes. Thus, one of the secondary stacks is in the background relative to the other.

[0098] Maintaining two secondary stacks 103.2 on different planes allows a secondary stack 103.2 to be integrated into grooves in the front face in a non-limiting example.

[0099] In this second non-limiting embodiment, the light assembly 3 thus comprises three support elements 12.

[0100] In a third, non-limiting embodiment of the light assembly 3 illustrated in [Fig. 10], said light assembly 3 comprises the first light guide 1, a second light guide 1', and a third light guide 1'. Thus, it also comprises the same three retaining elements 12 as described for the second embodiment in [Fig. 9]. For clarity in the drawings, all elements of the third light guide 1'' are referenced with a prime second. Thus, the light guide sheet is referenced 11', the region is referenced 110', the light-emitting area is referenced 111', the edges are referenced 1'.1', 1'.2', 1'.3', and 1'.4', etc.

[0101] As in the case of the second embodiment of [Fig.9], the first light guide 1 comprises: - a third secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on a third edge 1.3 of said first light guide 1, said third edge 1.3 being adjacent to the first edge 1.1, and - a fourth secondary group 10.2 of light injection elements 100 located on said same third edge 1.3.

[0102] As in the case of the second embodiment of [Fig.9], the second light guide 1' comprises: - a second main group 10'. 1 of light injection elements 100' located on a first edge l'.l of said second light guide 1', - a fifth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on a second edge 1'.2 of said second light guide 1', said second edge 1'.2 being adjacent to the first edge 1'.1, and - a sixth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said second edge 1'.2.

[0103] In this third, non-limiting embodiment, the second light guide 1' further comprises: - a seventh secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on a third edge 1'.3 of said second light guide 1', - an eighth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said third edge 1'.3, - a ninth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said fourth edge l'.4 opposite the first edge l'.1. Thus, the second light guide 1' comprises two secondary groups 10'.2 located on this fourth edge l'.4.

[0104] The seventh secondary group 10'.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are folded to form a seventh secondary stack 103'.2 with a seventh secondary free end 103'.20. For clarity of the figure, the reference numerals 100' and 103.2' are not shown.

[0105] The eighth secondary group 10'.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are folded to form an eighth secondary stack 103'.2 with an eighth free secondary end 103'.20. The latter is arranged opposite the seventh free secondary end 103'.20. For clarity of the figure, the reference numerals 100' and 103.2' are not shown. Thus, some of the light that is brought into the light guide sheet 11 will exit through the third edge 1'.3 and propagate into the seventh secondary group 10'.2 towards the eighth secondary group 10'.2 and vice versa, to be thus returned to the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1'. Thus there is no leakage of light through this third edge l'.3 since the light returns in the said light guiding sheet 11'.

[0106] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light assembly 3 includes a third additional retaining element 12 for holding together the eighth secondary free end 103'.20 and the seventh secondary free end 103'.20. In a non-limiting embodiment, the seventh secondary free end 103'.20 and the eighth secondary free end 103'.20 of the second light guide 1' are not opposite each other. The seventh secondary stack 103'.2 and the eighth secondary stack 103'.2 are in edge-to-edge contact and on different planes. The third additional retaining element 12 allows them to be held in contact and on different planes. Thus, one of the secondary stacks is in the background with respect to the other.

[0107] The ninth secondary group 10'.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100' are bent to form a ninth secondary stack 103'.2 with a ninth secondary free end 103'.20.

[0108] The third 1” light guide comprises: - a third main group 10”. 1 of 100” light injection elements located on a first edge 1”. 1 of said third 1” light guide, and - at least one secondary group 10.2 of 100" light injection elements located on another edge 1.4 of said third light guide 1".

[0109] In a non-limiting embodiment, the other edge 1”.4 is a fourth edge 1”.4 opposite to the first edge 1”.1.

[0110] The third main group 10”.1 is configured to be coupled with at least one third light source 20. Its light injection elements 100” are folded to form a third main stack 103”.1 with a third main free end 103”.10. The light emitted by the third light source 20 will propagate by total internal reflection in the light injection elements 100” of the third main group 10”.1 so as to bring light to the light guide mat 11” of the third light guide 1” and thus illuminate the region 110” of the light guide mat 11”.

[0111] Said at least one secondary group 10”.2 is coupled with no light source 20. Its light injection elements 100” are bent to form a secondary stack 103”.2 with a secondary free end 103”.20.

[0112] The third light guide 1” thus comprises a secondary group 10”.2 whose secondary free end 103”.2, formed by the secondary stacking 103”.2 of its light injection elements 100”, is arranged opposite a secondary free end 103'.20 of a secondary group 10'.2 of said second light guide 1'. In the non-limiting example of [Fig. 10], the secondary free end 103”.2 is arranged opposite the ninth secondary free end 103'.20. Thus, some of the light that is brought into the 11" light guide sheet will exit through the fourth edge 1.4" and propagate into said at least one secondary group 10.2" of the third 1" light guide towards the ninth secondary group 10.2" of the second 1" light guide, to be brought into the 11" light guide sheet of the second 1" light guide. There is therefore no light leakage through this fourth edge 1".4 since the light is directed into the light guide sheet 11' of the second light guide 1'. .

[0113] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light assembly 3 includes a fourth additional retaining element 12 to hold together the secondary free end 103”.2 and the ninth secondary free end 103'.20.

[0114] In a non-limiting embodiment, this additional fourth retaining element 12 allows the secondary free end 103”.2 to be held opposite the ninth secondary free end 103'.20. Thus, the secondary stack 103”.2 and the ninth secondary stack 103'.2 are arranged on the same plane.

[0115] In a non-limiting embodiment, the third 1” light guide further comprises two additional secondary groups 10”.2 of 100” light injection elements located on a 1”.2 edge different from the first 1”.1 edge, here the second edge 1” .2 adjacent to the first edge 1’ ’. 1 and whose secondary free ends 103”.2 of their secondary stacking 103”.2 are arranged opposite each other. These two other secondary groups 10”.2 are called the tenth secondary group 10”.2 and the eleventh secondary group 10”.2.

[0116] In a non-limiting embodiment, the light assembly 3 includes a fifth additional retaining element 12 to hold together the two secondary free ends 103”.2 of these two other secondary groups 10”.2, namely the tenth secondary free end 103”.2 and the eleventh secondary free end 103”.2.

[0117] In a non-limiting embodiment, the tenth secondary free end 103'.20 and the eleventh secondary free end 103'.20 of the third 1" light guide are not opposite each other. The tenth secondary stack 103".2 and the eleventh secondary stack 103".2 are in edge-to-edge contact and on different planes. The fifth additional retaining element 12 allows them to be held in contact and on different planes. Thus, one of the secondary stacks is in the background with respect to the other.

[0118] Thus, the light assembly 3 comprises a total of six support elements 12.

[0119] This fourth, non-limiting embodiment is advantageous in the case of a very large front panel, which is, for example, curved. It should be noted that the three light guides 1, 1' and 1" are on the same plane or on different planes.

[0120] In a fourth, non-limiting embodiment of the light assembly 3 illustrated in [Fig. 11], said light assembly 3 comprises the first light guide 1, the same third light guide 1” as in [Fig. 10], and a second light guide 1'. The difference between the second light guide 1' of [Fig. 10] and that of [Fig. 11] is that in [Fig. 11], the second light guide 1' is not coupled to any light source 20.

[0121] Thus, the second light guide 20 does not include a second main group 10'. 1 of light injection elements 100' located on a first edge l'.l of said second light guide 1'.

[0122] On the other hand, the second light guide 20 includes all the other secondary groups described in the case of [Fig. 10], namely: - the fifth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on the second edge l'.2, - the sixth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said second edge 1'.2, - the seventh secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on the third edge 1'.3 of said second light guide 1', - the eighth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said third edge 1'.3, - the ninth secondary group 10'.2 of light injection elements 100' located on said fourth edge l'.4 opposite the first edge l'.1. Thus, the second light guide 1' comprises two secondary groups 10'.2 located on this fourth edge l'.4.

[0123] The description for [Fig. 10] made for these different secondary groups 10'.2 thus also applies to [Fig. 11].

[0124] Thus, the second light guide 1', located between the first light guide 1 and the third light guide 1”, is supplied with light by the other two light guides 1 and 1”. In this case, the first light source 20 and the third light source 20 will have greater power than in the case of [Fig. 10] where there are three light sources 20 (one coupled to each of the three light guides 1, 1', and 1”). This fourth, non-limiting embodiment is advantageous in the case of a very large front panel, which is, for example, curved, but where there is not necessarily space to integrate a light source 20 in the center of the front panel.

[0125] In non-limiting embodiments, the three light guides 1, 1' and 1" of [Fig. 10] or [Fig. 11] are on the same plane or on different planes. In a non-limiting variant, when they are on different planes, they may be arranged on superimposed planes. In this case, they are arranged one behind the other when viewed from the perspective of an external observer facing the lighting device 4, which comprises the lighting assembly 3.

[0126] Thus, the light assembly 3 described in Figures 8 to 11 can be integrated into a light device 4 of a motor vehicle 2. The light device 4 thus comprises the light assembly 3 and at least one light source 20. In a non-limiting embodiment, the light device 4 comprises a plurality of light sources 20. In a non-limiting embodiment, the light device 4 is a front panel of said motor vehicle 2, or a headlight or a rear light of the motor vehicle 2. [Fig. 12] illustrates a non-limiting example of a front panel of a motor vehicle 2 comprising two light sources 20 and a light assembly 3 according to the first embodiment of [Fig. 8].

[0127] Of course, the description of the invention is not limited to the embodiments and the scope described above. Thus, in the case of [Fig. 9], in another non-limiting embodiment, the first light guide 1 may include two other secondary groups 10.2 located on the second edge 1.2 and whose secondary free ends 103.2 are opposite each other. The same applies to the second light guide 1', which may include two other secondary groups 10'.2 located on the third edge 1.3 and whose free ends The secondary 103.2 groups are opposite each other. Thus, in the case of [Fig. 10], in another non-limiting embodiment, the first light guide 1 may include two other secondary groups 10.2 located on the second edge 1.2, whose free secondary ends 103.2 are opposite each other. The same applies to the third light guide 1'', which may include two other secondary groups 10.2 located on the third edge 1.3, whose free secondary ends 103.2 are opposite each other. Thus, in the case of [Fig. 10], in another non-limiting embodiment, the second light guide 1' may not include secondary groups 10'2 on its second edge 1.2 and on its third edge 1.3. In other words, there would be no fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth secondary groups 10'.In another non-limiting embodiment, the second light guide 1' may not include secondary groups 10'2 on its second edge l'.2 or on its third edge l'.3 opposite the second edge l'.2. In other words, there would be no fifth and sixth secondary groups 10'.2, or seventh and eighth secondary groups 10'.2. Thus, in another non-limiting embodiment, three or more light guides can be used with any possible combinations of the various non-limiting embodiments of a light guide shown in Figures 1 to 4. Thus, in yet another non-limiting embodiment, two secondary stacks of two secondary groups located on the same edge of the same light guide can be arranged on the same plane and their secondary free ends be opposite each other.

[0128] Thus, the described invention has the following advantages in particular: - it reduces light leakage around the perimeter of a light guide, - it allows the use of several light guides for the front, headlight or rear light of a vehicle which extend over a large area while limiting light leakage, - It allows adaptation to any surface using a single light guide, or several light guides, while limiting light leakage.

Claims

Demands

1. A surface light guide (1) for a vehicle (2) comprising a plurality of groups (10) of light injection elements (100) and a light guide mat (11), characterized in that said light guide (1) comprises: - a primary group (10.1) of light injection elements (100) located on a first edge (1.1) of said light guide (1), said primary group (10.1) being configured to be coupled with at least one light source (20), and - at least one secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) located on an edge (1.2, 1.4) different from that (1.1) of the primary group (10.1), the light injection elements (100) of which are folded to form a secondary stack (103.2) with a secondary free end (103.20), said secondary free end (103.20) being configured to be arranged opposite another secondary free end (103.20) of a secondary stack (103.2) of another secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100), said at least one secondary group (10.2) being coupled with no light source (20).

2. Light guide (1) according to claim 1, wherein the light injection elements (100) of said main group (10.1) of light injection elements (100) are bent to form a main stack (103.1) with a main free end (103.10), said at least one light source (20) being disposed opposite said main free end.

3. Light guide (1) according to claim 1, wherein the light injection elements of said main group of light injection elements comprise diffractive or refractive optical elements.

4. Light guide (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said other secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) forms part of said light guide (1) and is located on the same edge (1.2) of the light guide (1) as said at least one secondary group (10.2).

5. Light guide (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said other secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) is part of another adjacent light guide (1').

6. Light guide (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said light guide (1) comprises three secondary groups (10.2) of light injection elements (100), of which: - two secondary groups (10.2) which are located on the same edge (1.3) and whose secondary free ends (103.20) of the stacks (103.2) formed by their injection elements (100) are located opposite each other, - a third secondary group (10.2) which is located on an edge (1.4) different from that on which the other two secondary groups (10.2) are located and whose secondary free end (103.20) of the stack (103.2) formed by its injection elements (100) is configured to be located opposite a secondary free end (103.20) of a secondary stack (103.2) from another secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) of another light guide (1').

7. Light guide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said light guide (1) further comprises at least one retaining element (12) configured to hold together two secondary free ends (103.20).

8. A light assembly (3) comprising at least two surface light guides (1, 1') of which: (a) a first light guide (1) comprising: - a first primary group (10.1) of light injection elements (100) located on a first edge (1.1), said first primary group (10.1) being configured to be coupled with at least one first light source (20), and - at least one first secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) located on another edge (1.4) different from the first edge (1.1), the light injection elements (100) of which are folded to form a first secondary stack (103.2) with a first secondary free end (103.20), said at least one first secondary group (10.2) being coupled with no light source (20), (b) a second light guide (1') comprising: - at least one second secondary group ( 10'.2) of light injection elements (100') located on an edge (1'4) of said second light guide (1') whose light injection elements (100') are folded to form a second secondary stack. (103'.2) with a second secondary free end (103'.20), the latter being arranged opposite said first secondary free end (103.20) of the first secondary stack (103.2) of the light injection elements (100) of said at least one first secondary group (10.2) of the first light guide (1).

9. Light assembly (3) according to the preceding claim, wherein said light assembly (3) further comprises a retaining element (12) configured to retain together the first secondary free end (103.20) of said at least one first secondary group (10.2) of the first light guide (1) and the second secondary free end (103'.20) of at least one second secondary group (10'.2) of the second light guide (1').

10. Light assembly (3) according to any one of claims 8 or 9, wherein said second light guide (1') is coupled with no light source (20).

11. Light assembly (3) according to any one of claims 8 or 9, wherein said second light guide (1') further comprises a second main group (10'.1) of light injection elements (100') located on a first edge (1'.1), said second main group (10'.1) being coupled to at least one second light source (20).

12. A light assembly (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein said first light guide (1) further comprises: - a third secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) located on a third edge (1.3), the light injection elements (100) of which are folded to form a third secondary stack (103.2) with a third secondary free end (103.20), said third secondary group (10.2) being coupled with no light source (20), and - a fourth secondary group (10.2) of light injection elements (100) located on said same third edge (1.3), the light injection elements (100) of which are folded to form a fourth secondary stack (103.2) with a fourth secondary free end (103.20), the latter being disposed opposite said third secondary free end (103.20), said fourth group secondary (10.2) being coupled with no light source (20).

13. A light assembly (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein said second light guide (1') further comprises: - a fifth secondary group (10'.2) of light injection elements (100') located on a second edge (1'.2), the light injection elements (100') of which are folded to form a fifth secondary stack (103'.2) with a fifth secondary free end (103'.20), said fifth secondary group (10'.2) being coupled to no light source (20), and - a sixth secondary group (10'.2) of light injection elements (100') located on said second edge (1'.2), the light injection elements (100') of which are folded to form a sixth secondary stack (103'.2) with a sixth secondary free end (103'.20), the latter being disposed opposite said fifth secondary free end (103'.20), said sixth secondary group (10'.2) being coupled with no light source (20).

14. Light assembly (3) according to the preceding claim, wherein said light assembly (3) further comprises: - a first additional retaining element (12) configured to hold together said third secondary free end (103.20) and said fourth secondary free end (103.20) of the first light guide (1), - a second additional retaining element (12) configured to hold together said fifth secondary free end (103'.20) and said sixth secondary free end (103'.20) of the second light guide (1').

15. A light assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims 10 or 11, or 12 to 14, wherein said light assembly (3) further comprises a third light guide (1”) comprising: - a third main group (10”.1) of light injection elements (100”) located on a first edge (1”.1) of said third light guide (1”), the light injection elements (100”) of which are folded to form a third main stack (103”.1) with a third main free end (103”.10), said third main group (10”.1) being configured to be coupled with at least one third light source (20), and - at least one secondary group (10”.2) of light injection elements (100”) located on another edge (1”.4) of said third light guide (1”) whose light injection elements (100”) are bent to form a secondary stack (103”.2) with a secondary free end (103”.20), said at least one secondary group (10”.2) of light injection elements (100”) being coupled to no light source (20).

16. Light assembly (3) according to the preceding claim, wherein said third light guide (1”) comprises a secondary group (10”.2) the secondary free end (103”.2) of which, formed by the secondary stacking (103”.2) of its light injection elements (100”), is arranged opposite a secondary free end (103’.20) of a secondary group (10’.2) of said second light guide (1’).

17. Light assembly (3) according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein said third light guide (1”) comprises two further secondary groups (10”.2) of light injection elements (100”) of which the secondary free ends (103”.2) of their secondary stack (103”.2) are arranged opposite each other.

18. Light device (4) of vehicle (2), said light device (4) comprising a light guide (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and at least one light source (20).

19. Light device (4) of vehicle (2), said light device (4) comprising a light assembly (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 17 and a plurality of light sources (20).

20. Light device (4) according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein said light device (4) is a front face of said vehicle (2).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Flexible surface light guide for vehicles

    FR3142791A1

  • Sign comprising a film-based lightguide

    US20110277361A1

  • Method of manufacturing a display using a film-based lightguide and diffusely reflective release liner

    US20210294021A1