A light-emitting module that displays the illuminated surface of the light concentrator.

Abstract

The present invention relates to an optical module (2) particularly for an automatic vehicle, comprising a light source (4) capable of emitting light rays, a light concentrator (6) having a reflective surface (6.2) configured to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by the light source (4) to form a light beam along the optical axis (8) of the module, and an optical system (10) configured to project the light beam. [Solution] The light concentrator (6) is configured such that a portion of the light beam is parallel to the optical axis (8) or has an inclination angle α of 25° or less with respect to the optical axis in a vertical plane. The optical system (10) is configured to form an image of the reflective surface (6.2) of the light concentrator (6). The present invention also relates to an optical device comprising one or more such optical modules.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of lighting and signaling by means of light, and more particularly to the field of motor vehicles.

Background Art

[0002] It is generally known a practice of creating a lighting beam with a cut-off using one or more light modules having a deflector. Such light modules conventionally comprise a condenser with a rotating reflecting surface having an elliptical profile. The condenser has a cap shape within the half space bounded by the horizontal plane. A light-emitting diode type light source, which is essentially a point source, is located at the first focus of the reflecting surface and emits light into the half space in the direction of the surface. Thus, the light rays are reflected so as to converge towards the second focus of the reflecting surface. By means of another (generally flat) reflecting surface having a cut-off edge at approximately the same location as the second focus, an upward reflection of the light rays that do not precisely pass through the second focus is ensured. And these light rays are refracted towards the bottom of the lighting beam by a thick lens. This reflecting surface is generally called a "deflector" in that it "bends" those light rays (which would otherwise form the upper part of the lighting beam) towards the top of the projection lens.

[0003] Such light modules have the drawback of requiring a high accuracy in the positioning of the deflector and the cut-off edge. Thus, the projection lens has to be a thick lens due to its short focal length, which increases its weight and (especially in terms of sink marks) makes manufacturing difficult. Also, the condenser has a considerable height and accordingly a considerable volume in the height direction.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to mitigate at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art described above. More specifically, an object of the present invention is to provide a compact, more economically manufactured optical module capable of forming a light beam that may have a cutoff.

[0005] The subject of the present invention is an optical module, particularly for an automatic vehicle, comprising a light source capable of emitting light rays, a light concentrator having a reflective surface configured to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by the light source to form a light beam along the optical axis of the module, and an optical system configured to project the light beam, wherein the optical system is configured to form an image of the reflective surface of the light concentrator.

[0006] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the light concentrator is configured such that the rays of the light beam reflected from the rear portion of the reflective surface of the light concentrator are parallel to the optical axis or have an inclination angle α of 25° or less, preferably 10° or less, with respect to the optical axis in a vertical plane. It is advantageous that these rays account for at least 30%, preferably 40%, more preferably 50%, and even more preferably 80% of the rays of the light beam. It is advantageous that the rear portion of the reflective surface is the rear half of the surface.

[0007] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the light source is configured to emit light rays in a principal direction between 65° and 115° with respect to the optical axis, preferably a principal direction perpendicular to the optical axis. In one modification, the light source may be associated with a lens-type refractive component, which is used to adjust the distribution of light across the reflective surface of the concentrator, and in particular to create a change in light intensity.

[0008] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reflective surface of the light concentrator has a parabolic or elliptical profile. It is preferably a rotational surface of the profile. The rotation is advantageously around an axis parallel to the optical axis. According to one modification, the reflective surface is a free-form surface, a swept surface, or an asymmetric surface. The surface may include multiple parts.

[0009] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the optical system has a focal point located on the optical axis at approximately the same position as the light source, and positioned in front of or behind the light source with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam along the optical axis.

[0010] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the module further comprises a screen positioned in front of the light source and facing the surface of the light concentrator, with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam along the optical axis, so as to concentrate light rays emitted forward by the light source that are not reflected by the reflective surface of the concentrator.

[0011] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the screen is opaque and non-reflective so as to absorb the focused light rays.

[0012] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the optical system is a projection lens.

[0013] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the optical system includes a reflecting mirror (preferably on the optical axis).

[0014] According to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reflector of the optical system is a first reflector, and the optical system includes a second reflector located behind the first reflector and at a distance from the optical axis with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam, the first reflector being configured to reflect the light beam toward the second reflector, and the second reflector being configured to reflect the beam reflected by the first reflector in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis.

[0015] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the first reflector is flat or has a concave profile in the horizontal plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

[0016] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reflector or second reflector has a parabolic profile in the vertical plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

[0017] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reflective surface of the light concentrator is concave and has a front edge and a rear edge with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam, and when the module is oriented in a mounting position, the front edge defines the lower portion of the formed light image and the rear edge defines the upper portion of the image.

[0018] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the light rays reflected by the reflective surface along the rear edge are parallel to the optical axis or have an inclination angle of 25° or less, preferably 10° or less, with respect to the optical axis in a vertical plane.

[0019] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reflective surface of the light concentrator has two lateral edges extending from the rear edge on both sides of the optical axis, and these lateral edges lie in the horizontal plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

[0020] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the rear edge is in a horizontal plane, and the resulting optical image has a corresponding flat horizontal cutoff.

[0021] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the rear edge has a curve, and the resulting optical image has a corresponding curved horizontal cutoff.

[0022] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reflective surface of the light concentrator has two lateral edges on both sides of the optical axis, the lateral edges intersecting with a rear edge, and the resulting optical image has corresponding lateral cutoffs.

[0023] Another subject of the present invention is a light device for an automatic vehicle comprising a plurality of optical modules combined to form together an illumination and / or signaling beam, wherein at least one of the optical modules is an optical module according to the present invention.

[0024] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, in at least one of the optical modules, the reflective surface of the condenser has two lateral edges extending from the rear edge on both sides of the optical axis, the lateral edges are in the horizontal plane when the module is in the mounting orientation, the rear edge is in the horizontal plane, and the resulting optical image has a corresponding flat horizontal cutoff. In another at least one of the modules, the reflective surface of the condenser has two lateral edges extending from the rear edge on both sides of the optical axis, the lateral edges are in the horizontal plane when the module is in the mounting orientation, the rear edge is curved, and the resulting optical image exhibits a corresponding curved horizontal cutoff. The illumination beam has a curved horizontal cutoff.

[0025] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the number of at least one optical module reaches at least two, and the optical systems of each of these modules are common.

[0026] According to one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the common optical system has a focal point located behind the concentrator in the optical module, which can reach at least two numbers, with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam.

[0027] The means of the present invention is advantageous in that by projecting (imaging) the irradiated reflective surface of the condenser, a clear projected light image can be obtained, and thus a similarly clear cut-off can be achieved by the edge of said surface. More specifically, the edge of the reflective surface (particularly the rear edge) has dimensions (e.g., between 15 and 20 mm) considerably larger than the cut-off edge (e.g., 5 mm) of the light module with a prior art deflector. This makes the light module substantially more insensitive to positioning tolerances between the optical elements (particularly the light source relative to the condenser), and thus more robust against substantially unstable situations.

[0028] Also, the fact that under Gaussian conditions, i.e., rays that are not too inclined with respect to the optical axis and not far from said optical axis, has the consequence that the lenses forming the projection system may be thin lenses (e.g., with a thickness of less than 6 mm), enabling the production of said lenses by a single plastic injection.

[0029] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with the aid of the specification and drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0030] [Figure 1] Schematic representation of a light module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Perspective view of the condenser in the light module of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] View of the inner surface of the condenser in the light module of FIG. 1, seen from the outside along the optical axis. [Figure 4] Schematic representation of the light image of the illumination beam created by the light module of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] Schematic representation of a light module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Perspective view of the condenser in the light module of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] View of the inner surface of the condenser in the light module of FIG. 5, seen from the outside along the optical axis. [Figure 8]A schematic representation of the light image of the illumination beam produced by the optical module in Figure 5. [Figure 9] A perspective view of a light concentrator for an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 9 shows the inner surface of the light concentrator in the optical module, viewed from the outside along the optical axis. [Figure 11] A schematic representation of the light image of the illumination beam produced by the optical module in Figure 9. [Figure 12] A perspective view of an optical device equipped with an optical module according to the present invention, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] A perspective view of the optical device shown in Figure 12, seen from a different angle. [Figure 14] Schematic representations of the optical images of the illumination beams produced by a module with a curved cutoff and a group of modules with a flat cutoff, respectively, in the optical apparatus shown in Figures 12 and 13. [Figure 15] Schematic representation of the optical image in the optical apparatus shown in Figures 12 and 13. [Figure 16] A perspective view of an optical device equipped with an optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] A perspective view of the optical device shown in Figure 16, seen from a different angle. [Figure 18] Schematic representations of the optical images of the illumination beams produced by a module with a curved cutoff and a group of modules with a flat cutoff, respectively, in the optical apparatus shown in Figures 16 and 17. [Figure 19] Schematic representation of the optical image in the optical apparatus shown in Figures 16 and 17. [Figure 20] A perspective view of an optical device equipped with an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] Schematic representation of the optical image in the optical device shown in Figure 20. [Figure 22] A perspective view of an optical device equipped with an optical module according to the present invention, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] A side view of a modified embodiment of a light concentrator in an optical module according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031] Figures 1 to 4 show a first embodiment of the optical module according to the present invention.

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the optical module and its operating principle. The optical module 2 essentially comprises a light source 4, a light concentrator 6 capable of reflecting the light rays emitted by the light source to form an optical beam along the optical axis 8 of the module, and a lens 10 for projecting the beam. Optical projection systems other than the projection lens, particularly one or more reflectors (as shown in Figures 16 and 17), can also be envisioned.

[0033] The light source 4 is advantageously a semiconductor light source, particularly a light-emitting diode. In the illustrated example, the light source 4 emits light rays in a principal direction perpendicular to the surface and the optical axis 8 within half of the space bounded by the principal surface of the light source. According to the present invention, the principal direction of emission can be between 65° and 115° with respect to the optical axis 8.

[0034] The light-gathering device 6 comprises a holder 6.1 in the shape of a shell or cap, and a reflective surface 6.2 on the inner surface of the holder 6.1. The reflective surface 6.2 is advantageous to have an elliptical or parabolic profile. It is advantageous that the surface is a plane of revolution about an axis parallel to the optical axis. Alternatively, it may be a free-form surface, a swept surface, or an asymmetric surface. The surface may also include multiple parts. The light-gathering device 6 in the shape of a shell or cap is advantageously made from a material exhibiting excellent heat resistance, such as glass, or a synthetic polymer compound such as polycarbonate PC or polyetherimide PEI. The expression "parabolic" generally applies to a reflector whose surface has a single focal point, i.e., a single point where light rays converge (i.e., a single point from which light rays emitted by a light source placed at this convergence point are reflected and projected over a long distance). Projection over long distances means that these rays do not converge toward a point located at least 10 times the size of the reflector. In other words, the reflected rays do not converge toward a single point of convergence, or if they do, this point of convergence is located at a distance of more than 10 times the size of the reflector. Therefore, a parabolic surface may or may not feature a parabolic portion. Reflectors with such surfaces are generally used to create a light beam on their own. Alternatively, the reflector may be used as a projection surface associated with an elliptical reflector. In this case, the light source of the parabolic reflector is the point of convergence of the rays reflected by the elliptical reflector.

[0035] The light source 4 is positioned at the focal point of the reflective surface 6.2 such that its rays are collected and reflected along the optical axis. At least some of these reflected rays have an inclination angle α of 25° or less, preferably 10° or less, with respect to the axis in the vertical plane. This is so as to be under the so-called Gaussian condition, which allows for astigmatism-free (i.e., sharpness of the projected image). It is advantageous that these rays are reflected by the rear portion of the reflective surface 6.2. It is advantageous for the projection lens 10 to be a plano-convex lens, that is, having a flat light-receiving surface 10.1 and a convex light-emitting surface 10.2. The lens 10 is considered thin (e.g., less than 6 mm) because the inclination of the light rays to be deflected is gentle. The lens 10 has a focal point 10.3 located along the optical axis 8 at approximately the same position as the light source 4, or behind the light source. In this case, the focal point 10.3 is located at approximately the same position as the reflective surface 6.2 of the light concentrator 6. It should be noted that this focal point can also be located behind or in front of the reflective surface 6.2, as long as it is in its vicinity (preferably within a range of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm).

[0036] The reflective surface, if elliptical, has a second focal point 6.3 located in front of lens 10 and at a distance from the optical axis 8. Note that this focal point may also be located behind the lens and / or on the optical axis to reduce the beam width on the lens's light-receiving surface, provided it is in the vicinity of the lens.

[0037] The optical module 2 may be equipped with a screen 12 positioned in front of the light source 4 and facing the reflective surface 6.2 of the light concentrator 6, so as to collect light rays emitted by the light source 4 that do not strike the reflective surface 6.2. Such a means is useful in avoiding the presence of parasitic rays that may be involved in the formation of the light beam (but not strictly imaged). These rays can then illuminate the upper portion of the light beam, which is undesirable in the case of illumination beams with cutoff. It is advantageous for the screen to be opaque and non-reflective in order to absorb these rays, but it is also possible to envision it reflecting those rays toward the distal absorption site.

[0038] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the light concentrator 6 in the optical module 2 of Figure 1. The shape of the shell or cap of the holder 6.1 and the fact that the reflective surface (not shown) has a front edge 6.2.1 and a rear edge 6.2.2 can be seen. The fact that the holder 6.1, and therefore the reflective surface 6.2, forms a shell of a symmetrical plane of rotation bounded by a plane, the plane containing the rear edge 6.2.2. The rear edge extends to the left and right on both sides of the axis of rotation within this plane. When the reflective surface 6.2 is illuminated by a light source, the entire surface is illuminated, but the surface is bounded by the front edge 6.2.1 and the rear edge 6.2.2.

[0039] Figure 3 shows the light intensity on the reflective surface 6.2 as viewed from the outside along the optical axis. Specifically, it represents the surface irradiance, i.e., the W / m² of electromagnetic radiation incident perpendicular to the direction of the surface. 2 This is the power per unit area represented by . The dark areas that cover most of the surface correspond to lower irradiance, while the brighter central areas correspond to higher irradiance. You can see that the dark areas are clearly demarcated by edges 6.2.1 and 6.2.2. In other words, the irradiated surface 6.2 inherently has a sharp edge that can form a cutoff within the projection illumination beam that reflects this surface.

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of the image projected by the optical module of Figure 1. The horizontal and vertical axes intersect on the optical axis of the optical module. Each curve is an isolitude curve, i.e., a curve corresponding to a portion of the light beam with the same luminance expressed in lux. The curve in the center corresponds to a higher luminance level than the curve at the periphery. It can be seen that the resulting light beam has a horizontal cutoff that is essentially at the same height as the horizontal axis. The cutoff is not perfectly straight, but has a curvature corresponding to the aberration of the resulting image. In any case, the horizontal cutoff is created by the edge 6.2.2 (Figure 3), which is the rear edge (Figure 2) of the reflective surface 6.2 of the light concentrator 6. It can also be seen that the resulting light beam has a sharp contour below the horizontal axis, corresponding to the front edge 6.2.1.

[0041] Figures 5 to 8 show an optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Reference numerals from the optical module of the first embodiment (Figures 1 to 4) are used to indicate elements that are the same or correspond to each other, but the numerals in these numerals have been increased by 100. Furthermore, the explanations of these elements in Figures 1 to 4 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, but differs in the following essential respects: the rear edge 106.2.2 of the reflective surface 106.2 is curved, and more generally, the wall forming the holder 106.1 of the light concentrator and the reflective surface 106.2 of the light concentrator have less downward spread in the direction of the light source 104. In other words, the rear edge 106.2.2 is not only curved, but also closer to the optical axis 108. This is for the desired beam configuration in which the maximum intensity is at the height of the optical axis 108. In another configuration of the light concentrator, it is possible to keep the rear edge away from the optical axis. The remainder is essentially the same as the optical module of the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 5, like Figure 1, is a schematic representation of the optical module and its operating principle. Similar to the first embodiment, an optical projection system other than the projection lens 110, particularly one or more reflectors (as shown in Figures 16 and 17), can be envisioned. It can be seen that the concentrator 106 is shorter, meaning that the spread toward the light source 104 is reduced.

[0044] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the light concentrator 6 in the optical module 102 of Figure 5, similar to Figure 2. You can see that the rear edge 106.2.2 of the reflective surface 106.2 of the light concentrator 106 is curved at the point where it intersects with the central vertical plane.

[0045] Figure 7, similar to Figure 3, shows the light intensity of the reflective surface 106.2 as viewed from the outside along the optical axis. In this figure, the curvature of the rear edge 106.2.2 is clearly visible.

[0046] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of the image projected by the optical module in Figure 5, similar to Figure 4. The shape of the horizontal cutoff corresponding to the contour of the rear edge 106.2.2 seen in Figures 6 and 7 can be observed.

[0047] Figures 9 to 11 show an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The reference numerals in the optical module of the first embodiment (Figures 1 to 4) are used to indicate elements that are the same or correspond to each other, but the numerals in these numerals have been increased by 200. The explanations of these elements in Figures 1 to 4 are also incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] This third embodiment differs from the previous two embodiments in that the light concentrator is trimmed laterally, meaning it now only forms part of the shell as seen in the first and second embodiments.

[0049] The structure of the module and its operating principle are the same as those of the two embodiments described above.

[0050] Figure 9 is a rear perspective view of the light concentrator of the optical module, similar to Figures 2 and 6. Unlike the two previous embodiments, it can be seen that the rear edge 206.2.2 of the reflective surface 206.2 has a limited lateral extension. In the present invention, the reflective surface 206.2 has two lateral edges 206.2.3 and 206.2.4 that intersect the rear edge 206.2.2 and the front edge 206.2.1.

[0051] Figure 10 shows the light intensity of the reflective surface 206.2 as viewed from the outside along the optical axis, similar to Figures 3 and 7. Four sharp edges can be seen, corresponding to the front 206.2.1, rear 206.2.2, and lateral 206.2.3 and 206.2.4 edges.

[0052] Figure 11 is a schematic representation of the image projected by the optical module of the third embodiment, similar to Figures 4 and 8. It can be seen that the optical image is cut off not only horizontally but also laterally (more specifically, vertically).

[0053] Figures 12 to 15 show an optical device for an automated vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0054] Figures 12 and 13 are two perspective views of the optical device. The optical device 14 comprises a plurality of optical modules according to the present invention. These optical modules are combined to form a downward, i.e., low-beam type optical beam with a curved horizontal cutoff.

[0055] Specifically, the optical device 14 includes a first optical module 102 consisting of the modules shown in Figures 5 to 8 (i.e., modules with a curved horizontal cutoff). Such functionality is generally referred to using the term "curved".

[0056] The optical device 14 also includes four optical modules 2 arranged side by side, which are the optical modules 2 shown in Figures 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with a flat, horizontal cutoff). Such functionality is generally referred to using the term "flat".

[0057] However, these optical modules 2 have a special feature in that their projection lenses form a common lens 10' which is an integrated unit. The common lens 10' generally has a curved horizontal profile and an incoming surface 10'.1 and an outgoing surface 10'.2. The lens has a focal line 10'.3 which is advantageously positioned behind each condenser 6 to create a sharp horizontal ("flat") cutoff by essentially projecting (imaging) the rear edge 6.2.2 of the reflective surface 6.2 of each condenser 6. Thus, the illuminated reflective surface 6.2 of each condenser 6 is essentially imaged vertically but not so much horizontally. This is to ensure good uniformity between the images of the optical modules 2 by achieving horizontally diffused illumination.

[0058] It is advantageous that the projection lens 110 of the optical module 102 is separate from the common lens 10. The focal point of the lens 10 is located in front of the rear edge 106.2.2 of the reflective surface 106.2 of the light condenser 106, so as to create a sharp "curved" cutoff by imaging the surface not only vertically but also horizontally.

[0059] A partition wall may be provided between optical module 102 and the optical module 2 closest to module 102. This is to allow the modules to be brought closer together without light rays leaking from one module interfering with the other. Such a partition wall essentially extends vertically when the optical device is mounted in the orientation shown in Figure 12. It is advantageous that the partition wall is light-absorbing.

[0060] Figure 14 shows the optical images produced by optical module 102 (Figures 12 and 13) ("KINK") and optical module 2 ("FLAT"). The upper optical image is produced by optical module 102. Its image is very sharp and corresponds to the optical image in Figure 8. The lower optical image is produced by two of the four optical modules 2 (Figures 12 and 13), i.e., optical module 102 for the ray paths shown in Figures 12 and 13. A sharp horizontal cutoff and a uniform horizontal blending of the optical images from the two modules are clearly visible. Note that the horizontal cutoff here is lower and particularly flatter than that seen in Figure 4 of the optical module of the first embodiment. This is because the reflective surface of each concentrator has a rear edge and side edges that are further away from the light source (similar to the optical modules in Figures 5 to 8), and the rear edge and side edges are in the exact same plane.

[0061] Figure 15 shows an optical image created by combining the "kink" and "flat" images from Figure 14. It should be understood that the two other optical modules 2, whose ray paths are not shown in Figures 12 and 13, complete the optical image on the right side in the same way as the images in Figure 14 of the two optical modules 2 whose ray paths are shown.

[0062] Figures 16 to 19 show an optical device for an automated vehicle according to the second embodiment.

[0063] Figures 16 and 17 are two perspective views of the optical device. Similar to the optical device of the first embodiment, the optical device 114 includes a first optical module 102 consisting of the modules shown in Figures 5 to 8 (i.e., modules with curved horizontal cutoffs). The optical device 114 also includes three optical modules 2 arranged side by side, consisting of the optical modules shown in Figures 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with flat horizontal cutoffs).

[0064] Optical device 114 is essentially distinguished from optical device 14 in Figures 12 and 13 in that the projection lenses of optical modules 2 and 102 are replaced with reflectors.

[0065] Specifically, module 102 comprises an optical projection system 110' including a first reflector 110'.1 and a second reflector 110'.2. The first reflector 110'.1 may have a flat or concave horizontal profile. This reflector directs the light rays emitted by the light concentrator of the optical module 102 to the second reflector 110'.2. This reflector is configured to form an image of the illuminated reflective surface of the optical module 102. For this purpose, the second reflector 110'.2 may have a concave parabolic vertical profile. Such a profile allows for magnified imaging of the illuminated reflective surface at the light concentrator of module 102. The second reflector 110'.2 may have a convex horizontal profile, especially if the first reflector 110'.1 has a concave horizontal profile. The first and second reflectors described above may be reversed. In this case, the optical apparatus would become bulkier (especially in the vertical direction) due to the fact that the first mirror for image formation would have to be located further forward.

[0066] Similar to optical module 102, optical module 2 is equipped with an optical projection system 10" which includes a first reflector 10.1 and a second reflector 10.2. The principle of operation is the same as that of the optical system 110' described above. Therefore, the statements presented above also apply to the optical system 10".

[0067] Figure 18 shows the optical images produced by optical module 102 ("KINK") and optical module 2 ("FLAT") in Figures 16 and 17. The statements made with respect to Figure 14 of the optical apparatus of the first embodiment apply to Figure 18.

[0068] Figure 19 shows an optical image created by combining the "kink" and "flat" images from Figure 18. The statements made regarding Figure 15 of the optical device of the first embodiment apply to Figure 19.

[0069] Figure 20 shows an optical device for an automated vehicle according to the third embodiment.

[0070] Figure 20 is a front perspective view of the optical device as seen from above. The optical device 314 comprises a plurality of optical modules according to the present invention. These optical modules are combined to form a high-beam type illumination beam.

[0071] Specifically, the optical device 314 comprises a first group of two optical modules 302, similar to the modules in Figures 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with a flat horizontal cutoff). However, the vertical orientation of these modules is reversed compared to the first embodiment. This is because most of the light forming the high-beam is above the horizontal line. Therefore, according to the angle viewed in Figure 20, each light concentrator 306 faces upward. For the sake of simplification, the individual light sources are not shown. The function of this first group is to achieve horizontal (or otherwise) spread of the high beam. The optical modules 302 share a common projection lens 310.

[0072] The optical device 314 also includes a second group of optical modules 302' arranged side by side, similar to the modules in Figures 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with a flat horizontal cutoff) (in this case, also rotated 180° vertically). Therefore, according to the angle viewed in Figure 20, each concentrator 306' faces upward. The function of this second group is to create the frontal range of the high beam, i.e., the central portion with maximum intensity. However, these optical modules 302' have the special feature that their projection lenses form a common lens 310'. The common lens 310' generally has a curved horizontal profile and an incoming surface 310'.1 and an outgoing surface 310'.2. In this case, the incoming surface 310'.1 is structured to improve the uniformity of the high beam.

[0073] A partition wall 320 may be provided between optical module 302 and the optical module 302' closest to module 302. This is to allow the modules to be brought closer together without light rays leaking from one module interfering with the other. As shown in the figure, such a partition wall 320 extends essentially vertically when the optical device is in the mounting position. It is advantageous that the partition wall is light-absorbing.

[0074] Figure 21 shows the combined light image of the concentrators 302 and 302' in Figure 20 when all light sources are illuminated. In this figure, the light distribution of the high beam can be easily recognized.

[0075] Figure 22 shows an optical device for an automated vehicle according to the fourth embodiment.

[0076] Figure 22 is a view of the optical device from above. The optical device 414 comprises a plurality of optical modules according to the present invention. These optical modules are combined to form a segmented high-beam illumination beam. The illumination beam consists of a group of lateral light segments shaped like a ship's sail (when viewed on a screen) and a group of central segments shaped like a vertical strip.

[0077] Specifically, the optical device 414 comprises a first subgroup 502 of six optical modules. The four central modules are similar to the modules in Figures 9 to 11 (i.e., modules with vertical cutoffs). However, the vertical orientation of these modules is reversed compared to the first embodiment. This is because most of the light forming the high-beam is above the horizontal line. Therefore, according to the angle viewed in Figure 22, each concentrator 406 faces upward. The function of these central modules is to form a rectangular central segment group of the segmented high beam. The modules at both ends are similar to those in Figures 1 to 4, where one side of their concentrator is truncated, or similar to those in Figures 9 to 11, where one side is extended into a shell. In this case as well, the vertical orientation is rotated by 180° so that the concentrators 506, 506' are viewed from above. The function of these lateral modules is to form sail-shaped side-end segments in the segmented high beam. For the sake of simplification, each light source is not shown. Note that in this case, the concentrators 406, 506, 506' are assembled on a repeating annular pattern and arranged side by side, with the aforementioned surface extensions for the lateral modules 506, 506', and the optical focal points of the concentrators lie on an arc.

[0078] The optical device 314 also comprises a second subgroup with six optical modules similar to the first group, except that the two end condensers (the central condenser 406'' adjacent to the right-side condenser 506''') are sequentially shifted forward relative to the optical focus of the other condensers 506'' and 406 to the left of those two condensers. In other words, there is a step between the condensers. This configuration has the advantage of reducing optical aberrations at the cutoff height, making it possible to obtain an optical segment with a vertical cutoff that is as vertical as possible when projected onto a screen. If necessary, those skilled in the art can create different configurations of modules in which the condensers are shifted in steps relative to each other (for example, all sequentially in one direction, or even by shifting the condensers at both ends relative to the central condenser).

[0079] The beams of the small groups 502 and 502' are superimposed to generate segmented high beams.

[0080] A partition wall 420 may be provided between the first subgroup 502 and the second subgroup 502'. This is to allow the subgroups to be brought closer together without light rays leaking from one subgroup interfering with the other. As shown in the figure, such a partition wall 420 extends essentially vertically when the optical device is in the mounting position. It is advantageous that the partition wall is light-absorbing.

[0081] Furthermore, it is advantageous to have a screen 421 installed between the light concentrator and the projection lens. This makes it possible to block parasitic rays coming from the end light concentrators 506', 506''' and improve the clarity of the lateral segments.

[0082] Generally, various optical projection systems can be envisioned for various embodiments of optical modules and optical devices, as long as they can project (image) the reflective surface of the light condenser in question. In the case of the pair of mirrors described above with reference to Figures 16 to 19, the first mirror and / or the second mirror may form an integrated unit with the associated light condenser (which is advantageous in terms of the relative alignment of these elements).

[0083] Figure 23 shows an embodiment of one modified example of a light concentrator. According to this modification, the light concentrator 6 may be made as a solid refractive component made of a synthetic polymer compound such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate, glass, or silicone. This solid refractive component has an incoming surface 6'.4, an outgoing surface 6'.5, and a cap-shaped reflective surface 6'.1 for light rays emitted by the light source 4. The reflective surface 6'.1 is metallicized to create a reflective surface 6'.2 according to the present invention.

[0084] Furthermore, although the optical modules of the present invention have been described herein as forming an optical device for producing illumination beams such as low beams, high beams, or linear array-type segmented high beams with parallel vertical strips, it goes without saying that these modules can also be designed to perform signaling functions such as turn signals, daytime running lights, or position lights. They have the aesthetic advantage of allowing the optical device to encompass multiple modules that are aesthetically similar when switched off, or to perform several or all of the specified illumination and signaling functions of an automatic vehicle at the front of the automatic vehicle. Thus, it is possible to combine a first optical device that produces a low beam and another optical device that produces a high beam (which may also be segmented) within the exact same automatic vehicle headlamp.

[0085] Furthermore, it is advantageous to note the numerous advantages of the optical module and optical device according to the present invention. Specifically, the fact that the illuminated reflective surface of the condenser is projected under Gaussian conditions makes it possible to obtain a sharp optical image, and thus create a variety of varied cutoffs by shaping the corresponding edges of the reflective surface. Another notable advantage is that the presence of Gaussian conditions to obtain a minimum level of sharpness results from the fact that the dimensions of the condenser are limited, particularly in height (e.g., less than 30 mm). Yet another notable advantage is that the presence of Gaussian conditions, i.e., the advantageous fact that the projection lens may be a thin lens (e.g., less than 6 mm), makes it possible to manufacture the lens in a single plastic injection without the problem of sink marks. Thin lenses have other advantages, such as requiring shorter injection cycle times, leading to a reduction in the weight of the optical module, and producing little to no chromatic aberration. This last advantage makes it possible to use inexpensive, standard-quality synthetic polymer materials for optically high-quality materials that produce only minimal color defects.

[0086] Finally, the fact that the lens is thin makes it possible to envision a specific embodiment, namely, an embodiment in which the casing of the light condenser 6 and the projection lens 10 are formed as a single piece by injection molding, and the front end of the light condenser and the lens are connected by a bridging of material.

Claims

1. In particular, optical modules for automated vehicles (2;102;202), - A light source capable of emitting light rays (4;104), - A light concentrator (6;106;206) having a reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) configured to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by the light source (4;104) to form a light beam along the optical axis (8;108) of the module, - An optical system configured to project the aforementioned light beam (10, 10', 10''; 110, 110'), In an optical module (2;102;202) equipped with, The optical module (2;102;202) is characterized in that the optical system (10, 10', 10''; 110, 110') is configured to form an image of the reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) of the light concentrator (6;106;206).

2. The optical module (2;102;202) according to claim 1, characterized in that the light ray reflected from the rear portion of the reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) of the light ray is parallel to the optical axis (8;108) or has an inclination angle (α) of 25° or less, preferably 10° or less, with respect to the optical axis in a vertical plane.

3. The optical module (2;102;202) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the light source (4;104) is configured to emit light rays in a principal direction between 65° and 115° with respect to the optical axis, preferably a principal direction perpendicular to the optical axis (8;108).

4. The optical module (2;102) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) of the light concentrator (6;106;206) has a parabolic or elliptical profile.

5. The optical module (2;102;202) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the optical system (10, 10', 10''; 110, 110') has a focal point (10.3, 10'.3; 110.3) located in front of or behind the light source (4;104) on the optical axis (8;108) with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam along the optical axis (8;108).

6. The optical module (2;102;202) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a screen (12;112) positioned in front of the light source (4;104) and facing the surface, with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam along the optical axis, to collect light rays emitted forward by the light source (4;104) that are not reflected by the reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) of the light concentrator (6;106;206).

7. The optical module (2; 102; 202) according to claim 6, characterized in that the screen (12; 112) is opaque and non-reflective so as to absorb the focused light rays.

8. The optical module (2; 102; 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the optical system is a projection lens (10, 10'; 110).

9. The optical module (2; 102) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the optical system (10''; 110'') comprises a reflecting mirror (10''.1; 110''.1).

10. The optical module (2;102;202) according to claim 9, wherein the reflector (10.1;110'.1) of the optical system (10'';110') is a first reflector, the optical system comprises a second reflector (10.2;110'.2) located behind the first reflector (10.1;110'.1) and at a distance from the optical axis with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam, the first reflector (10.1;110'.1) is configured to reflect the light beam toward the second reflector (10.2;110'.2), and the second reflector is configured to reflect the beam reflected by the first reflector in a direction parallel to the optical axis.

11. The optical module according to 10 (2; 102), characterized in that the first reflector (10.1; 110'.1) is flat or has a concave profile in the horizontal plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

12. The optical module (2; 102) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the reflector (10.1; 110'.1) or the second reflector (10.2; 110'.2) has a parabolic profile in the vertical plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

13. The optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 12 (2;102;202), characterized in that the reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) of the light concentrator (6;106;206) is concave and has a front edge (6.2.1;106.2.1;206.2.1) and a rear edge (6.2.2;106.2.2;206.2.2) with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam, the front edge defines the lower portion of the formed light image, and the rear edge defines the upper portion of the image.

14. The optical module (2;102;202) according to claim 13, characterized in that the light rays reflected by the reflective surface (6.2;106.2;206.2) along the rear edge (6.2.2;106.2.2;206.2.2) are parallel to the optical axis (8;108) or have an inclination angle (α) of 25° or less, preferably 10° or less, with respect to the optical axis in a vertical plane.

15. The optical module (2; 102) according to any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein the reflective surface (6.2; 106.2) of the light concentrator (6; 106) has two lateral edges on both sides of the optical axis that extend from the rear edge (6.2.2; 106.2.2), and the lateral edges are in the horizontal plane when the module is in the mounting orientation.

16. The optical module (2) according to claim 15, characterized in that the rear edge portion (6.2.2) is in a horizontal plane and the formed optical image has a corresponding flat horizontal cutoff.

17. The optical module (102) according to claim 15, characterized in that the rear edge portion (106.2.2) is curved, and the formed optical image has a corresponding curved horizontal cutoff.

18. The optical module (202) according to any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein the reflective surface (206.2) of the light concentrator (206) has two lateral edges (206.2.3, 206.2.4) on both sides of the optical axis, the lateral edges intersect with the rear edge (206.2.2), and the formed optical image has a corresponding lateral cutoff.

19. An optical device (14;114) for an automatic vehicle comprising a plurality of optical modules (2;102) combined to form an illumination or signaling beam, wherein at least one of the optical modules (2;102) is an optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. The optical apparatus (14; 114) according to claim 19, characterized in that at least one (2) of the optical modules (2; 102) is the optical module according to claim 13, and at least one other (102) of the modules is the optical module according to claim 14, wherein the optical beam has a curved horizontal cutoff.

21. The optical apparatus (14) according to claim 20, characterized in that the number of at least one optical module (2) according to claim 13 reaches at least two, and the optical system (10') of each of the modules is common.

22. The optical apparatus (14) according to claim 21, characterized in that the common optical system (10') has focal lines (10'.3) located behind the concentrators (6) in the optical modules (2), numbering to at least two, with respect to the overall propagation direction of the light beam.

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