Method for resolution-optimized control of automotive illumination modules

Abstract

To provide a method that can further improve light radiation of an automobile irradiation module for radiating segmented light distribution.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to a method for resolution optimization of an automobile irradiation module. The automobile irradiation module is configured so as to radiate segmented light distribution. The automobile irradiation module includes a deflection unit, and inherent resolution of the automobile irradiation module can be visually increased by temporary light ray deflection with use of the deflection unit. This method includes: a step a) at which an image signal is received, provided that the image signal includes a target image of the light distribution; a step b) at which the target image received according to the step a) is converted to two images with lower resolution; a step c) at which the automobile irradiation module is controlled, provided that such control is performed so that both low-resolution images of an image pair are radiated by the automobile irradiation module sequentially in time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7d

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Related Application Description) This application claims priority from European Patent Application No. 22216976.5 (DAS access code: 56C7), filed December 28, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for resolution-optimized control of a vehicle lighting module, where the vehicle lighting module is configured to emit a segmented light distribution. [Background technology]

[0003] Methods for controlling vehicle lighting modules are known from the prior art, which allow the light emission of individual segments of a light distribution to be varied in time, with the resolution usually being limited by the resolution of the respective vehicle lighting module. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] German Patent Application Publication No. 102018220819 [Patent Document 2] German Patent Application Publication No. 102016223227 [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] SING MOLLY N ET AL: “Super resolution projection: leveraging the MEMS speed to double or quadruple the resolution”, SPIE PROCEEDINGS; [PROCEEDINGS OF SPIE ISSN 0277-786X], SPIE, US, Bd. 10932, 4. March 2019 (2019-03-04), pages 109320R-109320R, XP060119727, DOI: 10.1117 / 12.2512005 ISBN: 978-1-5106-3673-6 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] To improve light emission, up until now, components of the relevant automotive illumination modules have been modified, for example by using components that allow for higher resolution, improved contrast, increased light intensity, etc.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a method by which the light emission of a motor vehicle lighting module for emitting a segmented light distribution can be further improved. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The object is achieved by a method of the type mentioned at the beginning, in which the motor vehicle illumination module comprises a deflection unit, and by means of the deflection unit, the inherent resolution of the motor vehicle illumination module can be visually increased by at least temporary light beam deflection using the deflection unit, the method comprising the following steps: a) receiving an image signal, the image signal including a target image of a light distribution, the target image being a vehicle light having a resolution greater than the intrinsic resolution of the morphism module; b) converting the target image received according to step a) into two lower-resolution images that together form an image pair, wherein the lower-resolution images are selected such that they each have a native resolution of the vehicle illumination module, and the lower-resolution images are furthermore adjusted to one another in such a way that at least one of the two lower-resolution images is deflected using a deflection unit, so that the overlap of both lower-resolution images results in an image impression that is more similar to the target image than the imaging of both low-resolution images themselves; c) Automobile irradiation controlling the module such that both low-resolution images of the image pair are emitted by the vehicle illumination module in succession in time;

[0009] That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, 1. A method for resolution-optimized control of an automotive illumination module, comprising: The vehicle illumination module is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, the vehicle illumination module includes a deflection unit, and by using the deflection unit, the inherent resolution of the vehicle illumination module can be visually increased by at least temporary light beam deflection using the deflection unit, and the method comprises the following steps: a) receiving an image signal, wherein the image signal includes a target image of a light distribution, the target image being a signal corresponding to the vehicle; light having a resolution greater than the intrinsic resolution of the morphism module; b) converting the target image received according to step a) into two lower-resolution images that together form an image pair, wherein the lower-resolution images are selected such that they each have the native resolution of the vehicle illumination module, and wherein the lower-resolution images are further adjusted to one another such that at least one of the two lower-resolution images is deflected using the deflection unit, so that the overlap of both lower-resolution images results in an image impression that is more similar to the target image (i.e. more similar) than the imaging of both low-resolution images themselves; c) the said vehicle irradiation controlling the module such that both low-resolution images of the image pair are emitted by the vehicle illumination module in temporal succession; A method is provided that includes: Further, according to a second aspect of the present invention, 1. An automotive illumination module, comprising: the automotive illumination module is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, the automotive illumination module includes a deflection unit, using which a visually perceptible resolution of the light distribution generated by the automotive illumination module can be increased compared to an intrinsic resolution of the automotive illumination module, and the automotive illumination module is configured to perform the method of the first aspect; An automotive illumination module is provided, comprising: It should be noted that the reference numerals used in the claims of this application are intended solely to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated forms. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention can have the following configurations. (Form 1) 1. A method for resolution-optimized control of an automotive illumination module, comprising: The vehicle illumination module is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, the vehicle illumination module includes a deflection unit, and by using the deflection unit, the inherent resolution of the vehicle illumination module can be visually increased by at least temporary light beam deflection using the deflection unit, and the method comprises the following steps: a) receiving an image signal, wherein the image signal includes a target image of a light distribution, the target image being a signal corresponding to the vehicle; light having a resolution greater than the intrinsic resolution of the morphism module; b) converting the target image received according to step a) into two lower-resolution images that together form an image pair, wherein the lower-resolution images are selected such that they each have the native resolution of the vehicle illumination module, and wherein the lower-resolution images are further adjusted to one another such that at least one of the two lower-resolution images is deflected using the deflection unit, so that the overlap of both lower-resolution images results in an image impression that is more similar to the target image than the imaging of both low-resolution images themselves; c) the said vehicle irradiation controlling the module such that both low-resolution images of the image pair are emitted by the vehicle illumination module in time succession. (Form 2) In the method according to form 1, the automotive lighting module has individually controllable illumination pixels, and segmentation of the light distribution is realized by the individually controllable illumination pixels, and the illumination pixels are arranged side by side with almost no gaps in a matrix having a resolution of at least 2 rows and 2 columns, and preferably, the maximum deflection performed by the deflection unit can be configured so that the deflected state has a vertical and horizontal offset of half a pixel width compared to the undeflected reference state, so that when there is a maximum amplitude of deflection, each deflected illumination pixel spatially overlaps with four of the undeflected illumination pixels by 25% each, except for edge pixels. (Form 3) In the method according to the first or second aspect, it is preferred that the deflection unit has a neutral position, which the deflection unit automatically assumes in case of failure of the current supply of the deflection unit or of a control variable provided for controlling the deflection unit, and preferably an algorithm is provided for checking the correct calculation and output of the control variable, and in case of a malfunction the deflection unit is guided to the neutral position. (Form 4) In the method according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, it is preferred that the following additional substeps are carried out before or during step b): I) receiving a target operational signal, wherein said target operational signal includes information regarding at least one of the following criteria: target energy efficiency; target temperature; target image clarity; target purity; offset correction; II) A substep of calculating control parameters derivable from that information and intended to act on control variables provided for controlling said deflection unit. (Form 5) In the method according to embodiment 4, substep II) is preferably followed by substep III), i.e. a substep of applying an image processing function to the target image and / or to one or both lower resolution images. (Form 6) In the method according to aspect 4 or 5, it is preferable that the time length between zero position crossings is manipulated to achieve the target energy efficiency derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), and that if the actual energy efficiency of the deflection unit is lower than the target energy efficiency, the time length between zero position crossings is increased. (Form 7) In the method according to any one of aspects 4 to 6, it is preferable that the target energy efficiency is preset such that the target energy efficiency is determined depending on the detected driving speed of a vehicle including the automotive illumination module together with the deflection unit, and that the required target energy efficiency increases as the vehicle speed decreases. (Form 8) In the method according to any one of aspects 4 to 7, it is preferred that the time length between zero position crossings is manipulated in order to achieve the target temperature derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), and that the time length between zero position crossings is manipulated so that if the actual temperature of the deflection unit or the vehicle illumination module exceeds the target temperature, the time length between zero position crossings is increased. (Form 9) In the method according to any one of aspects 4 to 8, it is preferred that the amplitude of the deflection is manipulated to achieve a target image clarity derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), and that the amplitude of the deflection is manipulated so that at the presetting of maximum clarity, a maximum amplitude is pre-set and the amplitude is reduced as the target image clarity decreases. (Form 10) In the method according to any one of aspects 4 to 9, it is preferred that the amplitude of the deflection is manipulated in order to achieve the target image clarity derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), and that the amplitude of the deflection is manipulated so that at the presetting of the maximum target image clarity, a maximum amplitude is pre-set and the amplitude is decreased as the target image clarity decreases, and / or that the temporal rate of change of the deflection is manipulated so that when the actual image clarity of the deflection unit is lower than the target image clarity, the temporal rate of change of the deflection is increased. (Form 11) In the method according to any one of aspects 4 to 10, it is preferred that the temporal rate of change of the deflection is manipulated in order to achieve a target purity of the deflection unit derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), and that if the target purity is not achieved, the temporal rate of change of the deflection is at least temporarily increased. (Form 12) In the method according to any one of aspects 4 to 11, it is preferred that in substep II), an optimal deflection of both low-resolution images of an image pair with respect to one another is further calculated depending on the target operating signal. (Form 13) In the method according to any one of the aspects 1 to 12, it is preferred that the vehicle illumination module is configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, typically between 60 Hz and 160 Hz, whereby different target images are input at a frequency of at least 30 Hz, converted into individual low-resolution images of each image pair at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and emitted in succession by the vehicle illumination module. (Form 14) In the method according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the deflection unit includes a glass plate, and the glass plate is configured to be rotatable or movable around at least one axis, preferably exactly one axis, or exactly two axes, and preferably the glass plate has a flat light incident surface and a light exit surface that is flat and parallel to the light incident surface, and the deflection unit has at least one electric coil for each of the axes along which the glass plate can be rotated, and the glass plate is provided with magnetic coupling means for magnetically coupling with each of the coils. and wherein the deflection units are arranged such that, by energizing each of the coils, a force can be applied to the corresponding magnetic coupling means, and the glass plate can be pivoted around the respective axis depending on the energization of the coils, and preferably the deflection units further comprise, for each of the axes along which the glass plate can be pivoted, a mechanical return element, in particular a spring element, for returning the glass plate to a neutral position, and the glass plate can be returned to a neutral position in the event of a loss of current supply to the deflection units or by a device provided for controlling the deflection units. system Preferably, said neutral position is automatically assumed in the event of a loss of control. (Form 15) 1. An automotive illumination module, comprising: The automotive lighting module is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, the automotive lighting module includes a deflection unit, and using the deflection unit, the visually perceptible resolution of the light distribution generated by the automotive lighting module can be increased compared to the inherent resolution of the automotive lighting module, and the automotive lighting module is configured to perform (implement) a method according to any one of aspects 1 to 14.

[0011] In this case, the expression "native resolution" is understood to mean the resolution given by the sum of the individually controllable segments for light emission. For example, if the segments are arranged in two rows and two columns and are individually controllable, this corresponds to a native resolution of 2x2, and each individually controllable segment can also be called an illumination pixel (light-emitting pixel). The automobile illumination module preferably has a native resolution of at least 2x2, and particularly preferred is a high-resolution automobile illumination module.

[0012] By at least temporary deflection of the light beam by means of a deflection unit, it is possible to increase the resolution perceived by the human eye compared to the intrinsic resolution.

[0013] The expression "wherein the image signal includes a target image of the light distribution" can be understood as meaning that the image signal includes information that makes it possible to reconstruct the target image in any case.

[0014] It should be noted that the target image can also be divided into more than two lower-resolution images. A division of the target image into a "section" of three or more images is also conceivable. In this way, multiple image pairs are formed. Furthermore, both lower-resolution images can be related to deflection by a deflection unit. With regard to the issue of image similarity, those skilled in the art know suitable algorithms for making the determination. In this case, for example, the amount of common information can be taken into account (see, for example, the entry "mutual information"; extensive information on this concept is also available online, for example, in the online encyclopedia "Wikipedia").

[0015] In particular, the automotive lighting module has individually controllable illumination pixels, wherein the segmentation of the light distribution is realized by the individually controllable illumination pixels, which are arranged next to each other almost without gaps in a matrix having a resolution of at least 2 rows and 2 columns.

[0016] Furthermore, the maximum deflection performed by the deflection unit can be configured so that the deflected state has a vertical and horizontal offset of half a pixel width compared to the undeflected reference state, so that at the maximum deflection amplitude, each deflected illuminated pixel, excluding edge pixels, spatially overlaps with four undeflected illuminated pixels by 25% each. This allows the perceived resolution to be four times the intrinsic resolution. In this case, edge pixels are understood to be illuminated pixels that are not surrounded on all sides by other illuminated pixels and that have no adjacent illuminated pixels on at least one side. This therefore refers to the edge region of the image to be projected.

[0017] In particular, the deflection unit can have a neutral position, which the deflection unit automatically assumes when the current supply to the deflection unit or the control variable provided for controlling the deflection unit is absent. The neutral position is understood to be the position of the deflection unit when no voltage is applied to the deflection unit. This position can, but does not have to, differ from the zero position, in which the deflection unit does not substantially deflect the light passing through the deflection unit. This ensures that the output of the light function continues even when the actuator is not needed or has to be switched off.

[0018] Furthermore, an algorithm can be provided for checking the correct calculation and output of the control variables, whereby if a malfunction is detected, the deflection unit is brought to a neutral position.

[0019] In particular, the following additional substeps can be carried out before or during step b) above: I) receiving a target operational signal, the target operational signal including information regarding at least one of the following criteria: target image clarity; target energy efficiency; target temperature; target purity; offset correction; II) A substep of calculating control parameters derivable from said information and intended to act on control variables provided for controlling the deflection unit.

[0020] In some cases, it is also possible to consider adapting the calculation of the low-resolution images so that, for example, if the amplitude is reduced, the offset of the low-resolution images from each other becomes smaller and the ambient conditions at the overlap of both images thereby change.

[0021] The target image information may also include information about the target light intensity of each image point (image pixel) of the image, which information is transferred to and realized by the light source of the vehicle illumination module.

[0022] Furthermore, partial step II) can be followed by partial step III), i.e., by a partial step of applying an image processing function to the entire light image or target image and / or to one or both lower-resolution images. This means that partial step II) is followed by partial step III), which involves applying an image processing function to the entire light image in order to change the overall impression of this light image. Such an image processing function can, for example, aim to make the intensity transitions contained in the light image appear softer, which can be achieved, for example, by applying a Gaussian blur to the light image.

[0023] In particular, the time length between zero-position crossings can be manipulated to achieve the target energy efficiency derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), and the time length between zero-position crossings can be manipulated so that if the actual energy efficiency of the deflection unit is below the target energy efficiency, the time length between zero-position crossings is increased. The higher the frequency at which the deflection unit is controlled, the higher the energy consumption and the lower the energy efficiency. A reduction in frequency allows for a more economical operation of the irradiation device, which in turn contributes to energy savings and an increase in the lifespan of the actuator and the deflection device provided therefor.

[0024] Furthermore, the target energy efficiency can be preset such that it is determined depending on the detected driving speed of the vehicle including the vehicle illumination module together with the deflection unit, and the required target energy efficiency can be preset such that it increases as the vehicle speed decreases, for example, depending on measurements from the vehicle speed sensor. For example, during stationary operation, a lower frequency can be selected for the welcome projection than during moving operation, because a lower frequency selection during moving operation may cause undesired strobe-like effects.

[0025] In particular, the length of time between zero position crossings can be manipulated to achieve the target temperature derived from the target operating signal according to partial step I), and the length of time between zero position crossings can be manipulated so that if the actual temperature of the deflection unit or vehicle illumination module exceeds the target temperature, the length of time between zero position crossings is increased.

[0026] It should also be noted here that the individual functions or optimization tasks can be weighted or divided hierarchically. For example, if the function of the deflection unit is endangered due to reaching high temperatures, the temperature requirement would be weighted higher than the requirement determined depending on the driving speed. In this case, all safety-related requirements can be weighted highest. For example, if the target temperature is to be reduced (e.g., by reducing the deflection frequency or amplitude) and at the same time dust / dirt exceeding the permissible limit is detected (which can be overcome by increasing the deflection frequency), the requirement for the target temperature will be weighted higher, since in this case a temperature that is too high could lead to an irreparable failure of the deflection unit.

[0027] Furthermore, in order to achieve the target image sharpness derived from the target operating signal according to substep I), the amplitude of the deflection can be manipulated, such that at the preset maximum sharpness, the maximum amplitude is preset and the amplitude is reduced as the target image sharpness decreases. This does not necessarily mean an increase in frequency, but can be achieved by making the slope connecting two end positions steeper so that these end positions can be maintained for a longer period of time over a constant length of the entire working cycle. The faster the actuator movement or the position change of the deflection element of the deflection unit is performed, the sharper the image will be; the slower it is performed, the more the transition between the first and second frames will be "blended" together.

[0028] For example, in a low beam light distribution, it can be advantageous for the light distribution to have blurring, i.e. a visually perceptible smoothing between the lights of adjacent pixels, and if necessary, the deviation angle can be reduced. Bluring can also be advantageous when transitioning from a standard light distribution to another light distribution.

[0029] In particular, the amplitude of the deflection can be manipulated to achieve the target image resolution derived from the target operating signal according to partial step I), and the amplitude of the deflection can be manipulated so that when the maximum target image resolution is preset, the maximum amplitude is preset and the amplitude is reduced as the target image resolution decreases.

[0030] Also, in substep II), it is possible to calculate the optimal deflection of both low-resolution images of the image pair relative to one another, further depending on the target operating signal.

[0031] In particular, the vehicle illumination module can be configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, typically between 60 Hz and 160 Hz, whereby different target images are input at a frequency of at least 30 Hz, converted into individual low-resolution images of each image pair at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and emitted successively by the vehicle illumination module, whereby the deflection unit can be controlled at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, or the deflection unit is configured to start from any starting position and assume a desired deflection position within a maximum of 1 / 60 seconds.

[0032] Furthermore, the deflection unit may include a glass plate, which is configured to be pivotable or movable about at least one axis, preferably exactly one axis, or exactly two axes.

[0033] In particular, the glass plate can have a flat light entrance surface and a flat light exit surface parallel to the light entrance surface, and the deflection unit has at least one electric coil for each axis along which the glass plate can be pivoted, and the glass plate is provided with a magnetic coupling means for each coil, so that when each coil is energized, a force can be applied to the corresponding magnetic coupling means, and a force can be applied to the corresponding magnetic coupling means so that the glass plate can be pivoted around the respective axis depending on the energization of the coil, and preferably, the deflection unit further has a mechanical return element, in particular a spring element, for each axis along which the glass plate can be pivoted to a neutral position, and the glass plate automatically assumes the neutral position if the deflection unit is not supplied with current or if a control variable provided for controlling the deflection unit is not supplied with current, and the glass plate is arranged in a light path of the automotive illumination module. The deflection of the light beam is achieved by refraction of the light upon entering and exiting the glass plate.Of course, more than one return element per axis can be provided.

[0034] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an automobile illumination module, wherein the automobile illumination module is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, wherein the automobile illumination module includes a deflection unit, and by means of the deflection unit, the inherent resolution of the automobile illumination module can be visually increased by at least temporary light beam deflection using the deflection unit, and wherein the automobile illumination module is configured to perform the method according to the present invention.

[0035] All device components described in the present method, unless otherwise specified, can also form part of a vehicle illumination module. Conversely, all device components described in relation to a vehicle illumination module can also form part of the above-mentioned method. The vehicle illumination module can relate to both a signal light and a vehicle floodlight. The vehicle illumination module is preferably configured for use in a vehicle lamp, in particular a signal light or a vehicle floodlight. The vehicle illumination module can therefore be part of the above-mentioned device.

[0036] The invention will now be explained in more detail on the basis of illustrative, non-limiting embodiments specifically illustrated in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1a] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of one automotive illumination module for use in connection with the present invention in side view. [Figure 1b] 2 shows a side view of FIG. 1 with the deflection unit in a tilted position; FIG. [Figure 1c] FIG. 1b shows a top view of the automotive lighting module in the position shown in FIG. [Figure 2a] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a deflection unit; [Figure 2b] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a deflection unit. [Figure 2c]FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a deflection unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the static relationship between coil current and deflection for a typical deflection unit that can be used for the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 shows two light distributions that can be emitted one after the other in time using an automotive lighting module according to the invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of individual possible components of the present invention. [Figure 6a] 3 shows a first time course of the deflection of a deflection unit that can be used in the present invention; FIG. [Figure 6b] FIG. 2 shows a second time course of the deflection of a deflection unit that can be used in the present invention. [Figure 6c] FIG. 10 shows a third time course of the deflection of a deflection unit that can be used in the present invention. [Figure 7a] FIG. 1 shows a portion of a representation of a target image, as well as an image with lower resolution calculated for it. [Figure 7b] FIG. 1 shows a portion of a representation of a target image Ssoll, as well as a calculated image S_low with lower resolution for it. [Figure 7c] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of overlapping of two low-resolution images. [Figure 7d] FIG. 10 shows another example of overlapping of two low-resolution images containing gray surfaces. [Figure 7e] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of application of a Gaussian blur filter. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows an example of deflection of a light beam using a glass plate, as well as the corresponding mathematical formula for calculating the degree of deflection. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 shows one possibility for adapting the brightness of individual light pixels. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary flow chart for a method according to the present invention. [Example]

[0038] In the accompanying drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements unless otherwise specified.

[0039] FIG. 1a shows a schematic side view of an automotive illumination module 1 for use in connection with the present invention. The automotive illumination module 1 is configured to emit a segmented light distribution. To this end, the automotive illumination module 1 includes a light source 4, for example, a matrix of individually controllable LEDs, each LED being assigned to one segment of the radiable light distribution and constituting one illumination pixel 3 of the light distribution. Of course, other light sources or light source systems suitable for generating a segmented light distribution can also be used. The light source 4 is typically arranged on a circuit carrier 5, in particular a PCB (printed circuit board). The light emitted from the light source 4 can pass through, for example, optical components 6, such as a widening optic, before entering the deflection unit 2. The number of individually controllable light areas of the light source 4 typically determines the native resolution. If the light source 4 has, for example, 100 individually controllable LEDs arranged in a matrix of 10 rows and 10 columns, this results in a native resolution An of 100 segments, or 10 × 10. The deflection unit 2 is configured to deflect the light beam L1 emitted by the light source 4. To this end, the deflection unit 2 can comprise a glass plate 2a, which is configured to be pivotable or movable about at least one axis. More detailed information on this is explained further in the following paragraphs in connection with Figures 2a to 2c.

[0040] In Figures 1a to 1c it can be seen that the deflection of light rays by the deflection unit 2 is achieved, for example, by refraction of light upon entry into and exit from the deflection unit 2. More precisely, the light is refracted at the light entrance surface 2a' of the glass plate 2a as well as at the light exit surface 2a". As a result, the exiting light is shifted with respect to the optical path of the incoming light, i.e., the light ray L1 is deflected. In the present invention, this deflection is used to visually increase the intrinsic resolution An of the automotive illumination module 1 by at least temporary deflection of the light ray using the deflection unit 2. This is achieved by temporally variable deflection using the deflection unit 2, i.e., at a speed that is typically selected such that the light distributions emitted successively, which differ from one another at least in terms of the position of the individual segments due to different positions of the deflection unit 2, are perceived by the human eye as a common light distribution with a correspondingly higher resolution. The frequency here is preferably at least 60 Hz.

[0041] For the sake of clarity of the drawings, some figures are shown in a Cartesian (orthogonal) coordinate system, chosen so that the x-axis coincides with the main direction of emission (typically the forward travel direction of the vehicle in the case of a vehicle floodlight), the y-axis is perpendicular thereto and oriented horizontally, and the z-axis is oriented vertically and thereby perpendicular to the plane fixed by the x- and y-axes. In the example shown here according to Figures 1a to 1c, the glass plate 2a is pivotable about two axes, namely the y-axis (see Figure 1b) and the z-axis (see Figure 1c).

[0042] 1a shows the glass plate 2a in an undeflected reference state P0, which in this example corresponds to the neutral position Pn. However, these two positions may also differ from one another. That is, the deflection unit 2 may have a neutral position Pn, which the deflection unit 2 automatically assumes when the current supply of the deflection unit 2 is lost or when the control variable 2_s provided for controlling the deflection unit 2 is lost. The amplitude of deflection 2_A_ist is equal to zero in the position according to FIG. 1a.

[0043] As mentioned above, the segmentation of the light distribution can be achieved by individually controllable illumination pixels 3. Preferably, these illumination pixels 3 are arranged next to each other with almost no gaps in a matrix with a resolution of at least 2 rows and 2 columns. The maximum amplitude of the deflection 2_Ay_max (see FIG. 1b) and / or 2_Az_max (see FIG. 1c) is selected so that the deflected state P1 has a vertical and horizontal offset of half a pixel width compared to the undeflected reference state P0, so that at the maximum amplitude of the deflection, each deflected illumination pixel 3 (seen after passing through the deflection unit 2) spatially overlaps with four undeflected illumination pixels by 25% each (except for the edge pixels).

[0044] Figure 1b shows a side view of Figure 1a, with the deflection unit 2 in a tilted position, where the deflection unit 2 or glass plate 2a is tilted around the y-axis at an angle α y 4. The deflection amplitude 2_Ay_ist is thus obtained. The value of 2_Ay_ist is somewhat smaller than the maximum deflection in this direction, i.e., 2_Ay_max, so that the maximum perceptible increase in resolution has not yet occurred, as can be seen from FIG. 4. The displacement P of one illuminated pixel 3 in the subsequently arranged image (or corresponding light distribution) or in the subsequently arranged segmented light radiation is v is the side length P of one illuminated pixel 3 l The displacement of the illuminated pixel 3, P v(both upper and side) is the side length P of one illuminated pixel 3 l Only when values half as large as .gamma. are taken, is the maximum increase in perceptible resolution achieved.

[0045] Figure 1c shows a top view of the automotive lighting module 1 in the position of Figure 1b, where the glass plate 2a is rotated around the z axis at an angle α z 2_Az_max, so that here too the maximum perceptible increase in resolution has not yet occurred.

[0046] 2a shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a deflection unit 2. Here, the deflection unit 2 comprises the aforementioned glass plate 2a as well as two mechanical return elements 2d, in particular torsion springs, which are arranged along the y-axis and allow the glass plate 2a to pivot about the y-axis. Two electrical coils 2b are arranged perpendicular to the y-axis, i.e., along the z-axis, and form part of the deflection unit 2. The coils 2b are electrically conductive and are configured to apply a magnetic force to magnetic coupling means 2c, e.g., magnetic means, which are arranged correspondingly to the glass plate 2a.

[0047] In other words, the glass plate 2a has a flat light incident surface 2a' and a light exit surface 2a" (see FIG. 1a) that is flat and parallel to the light incident surface 2a', and the deflection unit 2 has at least one electric coil 2b for each axis along which the glass plate 2a can be rotated, and the glass plate 2a is provided with magnetic coupling means 2c for each coil 2b, respectively, for magnetically coupling with the respective coil 2b, so that by energizing the respective coil 2b, a force can be applied to the corresponding magnetic coupling means 2c, and the glass plate 2a can be rotated around each axis depending on the energization of the coil 2b. A force can be applied to the corresponding magnetic coupling means 2c so that the glass plate 2a is pivoted, in particular rotated, about an axis. For each axis along which the glass plate 2a can be pivoted, a mechanical return element 2d, in particular a spring element, is provided for returning the glass plate 2a to the neutral position Pn, which the glass plate 2a automatically assumes in the event of a loss of current supply to the deflection unit 2 or of a control variable 2_s (see FIG. 5) provided for controlling the deflection unit 2. In addition to or instead of this type of electromechanical force transmission, suitably coupled piezo actuators can also be used.

[0048] Figure 2b shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the deflection unit 2. In contrast to Figure 2a, the glass plate 2a can now be pivoted around two axes, namely the y-axis and the z-axis. Here too, return elements 2d are arranged along the pivoting axes. Between the return elements 2d (of Figure 2a) are respectively arranged coils 2b and magnetic coupling means 2c. In this embodiment, pivoting with two degrees of freedom is achieved, i.e. deflection around the y-axis is independent of deflection around the z-axis and vice versa. Thus, deflection around both axes also achieves oblique deflection.

[0049] 2c shows a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the deflection unit 2. Here, the suspension of the glass plate 2a is selected so that the deflection is already oblique to the y-axis and the z-axis, i.e. the deflection axis lies transverse to both of these axes y and z. Despite the fact that the number of degrees of freedom of deflection is now only one, this choice of deflection axis allows for a deflection that allows a visually perceptible increase in resolution relative to the intrinsic resolution by a factor of four.

[0050] 3 shows a graph illustrating the static relationship between the coil current and the deflection (or amplitude) of a typical deflection unit 2 that can be used for the present invention. In this graph, a linear relationship between current and deflection can be seen in the static case. The deflection 2_A_ist is proportional to the current I applied to the coil 2b. In dynamic operation, the mass inertia of the glass plate 2a, the possible inertia of the return element 2d, the inductive effect of the coil 2b, etc., must of course be taken into account. A person skilled in the art can then implement a suitable control algorithm for controlling the coil 2b in order to achieve the desired position of the glass plate 2a of the deflection unit 2 at any given time.

[0051] 4 shows a diagram of two light distributions LV1 and LV2 that can be emitted successively in time using the vehicle lighting module 1 according to the invention, each of which comprises 5x5 pixels arranged vertically and horizontally together to form a square, the square allocated to the second light distribution LV2 being 5x5 pixels in length both horizontally and vertically relative to the square allocated to the first light distribution LV1. l1. It can be seen that the illuminated pixels overlap each other and that in the overlapping areas of the squares the impression is now given that the number of illuminated pixels has increased by a factor of four, since each illuminated pixel is divided into four different overlapping areas. The direct temporal succession of the light distributions LV1 and LV2 thereby gives the visual impression of a clearly increased resolution compared to the inherent resolution of the automotive illumination module (here 5x5). The impression of increased resolution is given by the fact that the offset (displacement Pv) of the illuminated pixels is proportional to the pixel length P l It is at its maximum when it takes a value of 1 / 2 of .

[0052] FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of possible individual components of the present invention. It can be seen that illumination pixels 3 are assigned to light sources 4, which are controlled by a control unit 7. The control unit 7 includes a calculation unit 7a, which, for example, controls the light source 4 depending on an input image signal S1, so that the segments or illumination pixels 3 correspond to an image preset by the image signal S1, also called a target image Ssol, so that the image preset by the image signal S1 is formed as faithfully as possible. Based on the overlap of different light distributions, a visual impression as similar as possible to the preset target image Ssol can be created by appropriate calculation of different light distributions LV1 and LV2 and the adaptation / calculation of the corresponding deflection positions, e.g., Pn, P0, P1, respectively, based on the overlap of different light distributions. The image signal S1 can be supplied to the control unit 7 via a data source 8.

[0053] The control of the deflection unit 2 has a certain degree of freedom. Essentially, an increased frequency of deflection of the glass plate 2a, as well as a larger deflection amplitude, entails increased energy consumption and wear of the electromechanical components involved. Depending on how accurately the target image Ssoll should be reproduced and whether additional functions, such as blurring, should possibly be applied to the target image Ssoll, targeted intervention can be made in the calculation of the deflection using the deflection unit 2, as will be explained in more detail in connection with FIGS. 6a to 6c. To this end, the control unit 7 is provided with a target operating signal 2_ss, which provides information on how accurately the target image Ssoll should be imaged, whether other ambient conditions, such as target energy efficiency Esoll, target temperature Tsoll, target image resolution Rsoll, target image sharpness Csoll, target purity Msoll, and / or presets for offset correction Osoll, should be taken into account, and, if so, with what hierarchical weighting the individual presets should be taken into account.

[0054] Figure 6a shows a first time course of the deflection of the deflection unit 2. More precisely, there (as well as in Figures 6b and 6c) the time course of the deflection (or amplitude) 2_Ay_ist can be seen along the course of the rotation (pivot) of the glass plate 2a about the y-axis. Everything that has been said about the deflection about the y-axis can of course also be done correspondingly in the case of a separate or additional deflection about the z-axis.

[0055] The rotation (swivel) can take values ranging from a few tenths of a degree to several degrees, for example. The deviation or deviation amplitude can then take a maximum value 2_Ay_max, as shown, for example, in Figures 6a and 6b. In contrast, in Figure 6c, the maximum deviation 2_Ay_max is reduced, as can be seen by comparing the value 2_Ay_max shown in Figure 6c with the value 2_Ay_max shown in Figure 6a / 6b.

[0056] FIG. 6b shows a variation in which the time length 2_tp_ist between the zero position crossings is shortened compared to FIG. 6a. In particular, both the frequency of the deflection and the slope (flank) gradient between the deflection positions 2_Ay_max and -2_Ay_max to be achieved are increased. The slope time length 2_tf is thus also shortened in FIG. 6b compared to FIG. 6a. The emission of light by the light source 4 can be time-controlled so that this emission occurs only within the time length between the slopes, i.e., outside 2_tf. In this way, for example, blurring of the emission is avoided, and therefore the image clarity can be further increased.

[0057] 7a shows a portion of the representation of the target image Ssoll and the corresponding calculated lower resolution image S_low. Unlike the present invention, the target image Ssoll in the example of FIG. 7a is resolved only into the low resolution image S_low.

[0058] FIG. 7b shows an example target image Ssol1, two lower resolution images S_low1, S_low2 calculated for it, and the overlap of both low resolution images S_low1, S_low2 towards the successively emitted image pair S_res.

[0059] The present invention relates to a method for resolution-optimized control of an automobile illumination module 1, as shown in FIG. 7b. light The vehicle illumination module 1 is configured to emit a segmented light distribution. The vehicle illumination module 1 includes a deflection unit 2, and the deflection unit 2 is used to deflect the vehicle. light The intrinsic resolution An of the projection module 1 can be visually increased by at least temporary ray deflection using a deflection unit 2. The method comprises the following steps: a) receiving an image signal S1, where the image signal S1 includes a target image Ssoll of a light distribution, the target image Ssoll being a light having a resolution Asoll that is greater than the intrinsic resolution An of the morphism module 1; b) converting the target image Ssol1 received according to step a) into two lower-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 which together constitute an image pair S_res, wherein the lower-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 are selected such that they each have a resolution An specific to the vehicle illumination module 1, and the lower-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 are furthermore adjusted to one another in such a way that at least one of the two lower-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 is deflected by means of a deflection unit 2, so that the overlap of both lower-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 results in an image impression that is more similar to the target image Ssol1 (i.e. more similar) than the imaging of both low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 themselves, c) Automobile irradiation controlling the module 1, such that both low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 of the image pair S_res are emitted by the vehicle illumination module 1 in succession in time.

[0060] 7b, it can be seen that not only does the appearance of the low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 affect the appearance of the image pair S_res, which is depicted by the overlap of these images, but also the degree of deflection of the two low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 relative to one another affects the appearance of the image pair S_res. Advantageously, this allows the calculation of the low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 to take into account the degrees of freedom obtained by vertical and / or horizontal movement of the low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 relative to one another. This means that the low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 can be calculated in such a way that they together produce an ideal image impression with a predetermined movement (displacement) relative to one another.

[0061] Figure 7c shows another example of overlap of two low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2, where these low-resolution images have illuminated pixels 3 arranged in a matrix with a resolution of 4x5.

[0062] Figure 7d shows 2 1 shows another example of the overlap of two low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2, where the image pair S_res behaves as if it has a significantly higher intrinsic resolution than in the low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2.

[0063] Figure 7e shows an example of the application of a Gaussian blur filter, where the unfiltered image on the left is sharply defined, while the image processed with the Gaussian blur function, shown on the right, appears noticeably blurred or softened.

[0064] 1a to 6c, it is noted that the following additional substeps can be performed before or during step b) of the method according to the invention: I) receiving a target operating signal 2_ss, the target operating signal 2_ss including information on at least one of the following criteria: target image sharpness, target energy efficiency; target temperature; target purity; offset correction; II) calculating control parameters which can be derived from said information and which act on a control variable 2_s provided for controlling the deflection unit 2. Also in particular, substep II can be followed by a substep III which involves the application of an image processing function to the total light image.

[0065] Furthermore, the time length 2_tp_ist between zero position crossings can be manipulated to achieve the target energy efficiency Esoll derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to substep I), and if the actual energy efficiency Eist of the deflection unit 2 is lower than the target energy efficiency Esoll, the time length 2_tp_ist between zero position crossings can be manipulated so that the time length 2_tp_ist between zero position crossings is increased.

[0066] In particular, the target energy efficiency Esoll can be preset such that the target energy efficiency Esoll is determined depending on the detected driving speed Vist of the vehicle including the illumination module 1 together with the deflection unit 2, and the target energy efficiency Esoll can be preset such that the required target energy efficiency Esoll increases as the vehicle speed Vist decreases.

[0067] Furthermore, the time length 2_tp_ist between zero position crossings can be manipulated in order to achieve the target temperature Tsoll derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to partial step I), and if the actual temperature Tist of the deflection unit 2 or the vehicle illumination module 1 exceeds the target temperature Tsoll, the time length 2_tp_ist between zero position crossings can be manipulated so that the time length 2_tp_ist between zero position crossings is increased.

[0068] Furthermore, the deflection amplitude 2_A_ist can be manipulated to achieve the target image clarity Csoll derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to partial step I), and the deflection amplitude 2_A_ist can be manipulated so that at the presetting of maximum clarity, maximum amplitudes 2_Ay_max, 2_Az_max are preset, and the amplitude 2_A_ist is reduced as the target image clarity Csoll decreases.

[0069] In order to achieve the target image resolution Rsoll derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to partial step I), the amplitude of deflection 2_A_ist can be manipulated, and further, when the maximum target image resolution is preset, the maximum amplitudes 2_A_max, 2_Az_max are preset, and the amplitude 2_A_ist can be manipulated so that it decreases as the target image resolution Rsoll decreases.

[0070] Furthermore, the deflection amplitude 2_A_ist can be manipulated to achieve the target energy efficiency Esoll derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to substep I), and if the actual energy efficiency Eist of the deflection unit 2 is lower than the target energy efficiency Esoll, the deflection amplitude 2_A_ist can be manipulated so that the deflection amplitude 2_A_ist is reduced.

[0071] In particular, the zero position of the deflection 2_0_ist can be manipulated to achieve an offset correction derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to substep I).

[0072] Furthermore, the temporal rate of change of the deflection 2_dt_ist (see FIG. 6a) can be manipulated to achieve the target image clarity Csoll derived from the target operating signal 2_ss according to substep I), and the temporal rate of change of the deflection 2_dt_ist can be manipulated so that if the actual image clarity Cist of the deflection unit 2 falls below the target image clarity Csoll, the temporal rate of change of the deflection 2_dt_ist is increased. For this increase in the temporal rate of change, only the duration 2_tf of the slope (flank) can be taken into account. For example, a steeper slope allows the end position 2_Ay_max to be maintained longer at a constant frequency. Achieving a steeper slope usually entails a higher electromechanical demand or load on the deflection unit 2. In other words, this does not necessarily mean an increase in frequency, but rather means that a steeper slope can be provided between two end positions. The faster the actuator movement towards the desired position is performed, the sharper the image will be, and the slower the desired position is reached, the more the transition between the first and second frames will "blend" together.

[0073] Furthermore, in partial step II, it is possible to calculate the mutually optimal deflections of both low-resolution images S_low1, S_low2 of the image pair S_res depending on the target operating signal 2_ss.

[0074] In particular, the vehicle illumination module 1 can be configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, typically between 60 Hz and 160 Hz, whereby different target images S_receive at a frequency of at least 30 Hz and are converted into individual low-resolution images S_receive at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and the vehicle illumination module 1 can be configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, whereby different target images S_receive at a frequency of at least 30 Hz and are converted into individual low-resolution images S_receive at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and the vehicle illumination module 1 can be configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and the vehicle illumination module 1 can be configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and the vehicle illumination module 1 can be configured to emit different low-resolution images S_receive ...30 Hz and are converted into individual low-resolution images S_receive at a frequency of at least 60 Hz, and the vehicle illumination module 1 can be configured to emit different low-resolution images S_receive at a frequency of at least light The beams are emitted in succession by the beam module 1.

[0075] 8 shows an example of the deflection of a ray L1 using a glass plate 2a, as well as the corresponding formula for calculating the degree (or amplitude) of the deflection (in this formula, Δy is the offset of the ray L1 in the vertical direction, t is the thickness of the glass plate 2a, n is the refractive index of the material of the glass plate 2a, and θ is the angle between the normal to the direction of travel of the ray L1 and the plane of incidence of the glass plate 2a).

[0076] Figure 9 shows one possibility for adapting the brightness of the individual light pixels (3). There, it can be seen that the resulting illuminated pixels in the overlapping light images become correspondingly darker or brighter when they overlap. In the background, the undeflected light image can be seen. In addition, in the center, two deflected illuminated pixels can be seen. In the areas where the illuminated pixels overlap, the intensity is determined by the intensity values of the overlapping pixels. The intensity of the individual illumination elements of the light source is determined by the control of the light source. The more current is supplied to the light source, the more brightly the individual illumination elements illuminate (emit light).

[0077] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary flow chart for a method according to the present invention.

[0078] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an automobile lighting module 1, which is configured to emit a segmented light distribution and which includes a deflection unit 2, by means of which the inherent resolution of the automobile lighting module 1 can be visually increased by at least temporary light beam deflection using the deflection unit 2, and which is configured to perform the method according to the present invention. Of course, the automobile lighting module 1 can include components such as the above-mentioned control unit 7, light source 4, optical components 6, possible projection optics, etc.

[0079] The present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but is defined by the entire scope of protection of the claims. Individual features of the invention or embodiments can also be taken and combined with each other. Reference signs added to the claims are exemplary and do not limit the claims, but merely serve to make the claims easier to understand.

[0080] The disclosures of the above-mentioned patent and non-patent documents are incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention (including the scope of the claims), modifications and adjustments to the embodiments are possible based on the basic technical concepts thereof. Furthermore, within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention, various combinations and selections of the various disclosed elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and alterations that would be possible by a person skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure and technical concepts, including the scope of the claims. In particular, with regard to the numerical ranges described herein, any numerical value or subrange included within the range should be construed as being specifically described, even if not otherwise specified. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 1 Automotive Illumination Module 2 deflection units 2a Glass plate 2a' Light incidence surface 2a” light exit surface 2b Electrical Coil 2c Magnetic coupling means 2d return element 3 illuminated pixels 4 light source 5 Circuit support 6 Optical Components 7. Control Unit 7a Computational Unit 8 Data Sources L1 ray xx axis yy axis zz axis P0 reference state P1 Deflected state Pn neutral position α y angle α z angle I coil current LV1 Light Distribution LV2 Light Distribution P l Side length of illuminated pixel 3 P v Displacement of illuminated pixel 3 S1 image signal Ssoll goal image Vist vehicle speed 2_ss Target operation signal Osoll offset correction Tsoll target temperature Csoll target image clarity Esoll Target Energy Efficiency Rsoll target image resolution Msoll target purity 2_s Control amount Oist Offset Correction Test actual temperature Cist Actual image clarity Eist Actual Energy Efficiency Rist actual image resolution Mist Actual Purity Asoll resolution An intrinsic resolution S_low Images with lower resolution S_low1 Lower resolution image S_low2 Lower resolution image S_res image pair t Time (horizontal axis) 2_Ay Amplitude (vertical axis) 2_A_ist amplitude 2_Ay_ist amplitude 2_Az_ist amplitude 2_Ay_max Maximum amplitude 2_Az_max Maximum amplitude 2_0_ist Zero position 2_tp_ist Time length between zero position crossings 2_dt_ist Time rate of change 2_tf Slope time length

Claims

1. 1. A method for resolution-optimized control of an automotive illumination module, comprising: The vehicle illumination module (1) is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, the vehicle illumination module (1) comprising a deflection unit (2), by means of which the intrinsic resolution (An) of the vehicle illumination module (1) can be visually increased by at least temporary light beam deflection using the deflection unit (2), the method comprising the following steps: a) receiving an image signal (S1), wherein the image signal (S1) comprises a target image (Ssoll) of a light distribution, the target image (Ssoll) having a resolution (Asoll) greater than the intrinsic resolution (An) of the vehicle illumination module (1); b) converting the target image (Ssoll) received according to step a) into two lower-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) which together constitute an image pair (S_res), wherein the lower-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) are selected such that they each have the intrinsic resolution (An) of the vehicle illumination module (1), and the lower-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) are furthermore adjusted to one another in such a way that at least one of the two lower-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) is deflected using the deflection unit (2), so that the overlap of both lower-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) results in an image impression more similar to the target image (Ssoll) than the imaging of both low-resolution images themselves, c) controlling the vehicle illumination module (1) in such a way that both low-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) of the image pair (S_res) are emitted by the vehicle illumination module (1) in succession in time; A method characterized by:

2. the vehicle illumination module (1) has individually controllable illumination pixels (3), the segmentation of the light distribution being achieved by the individually controllable illumination pixels (3), the illumination pixels (3) being arranged next to each other with almost no gaps in a matrix having a resolution of at least 2 rows and 2 columns; The method of claim 1 ,

3. the deflection performed at maximum by the deflection unit (2) is configured such that the deflected state (P1) has a vertical and horizontal offset of half a pixel width compared to the non-deflected reference state (P0), so that at the maximum amplitude of deflection, each deflected illumination pixel (3) spatially overlaps with four non-deflected illumination pixels (3) by 25% each, except for edge pixels; The method of claim 2 , wherein

4. the deflection unit (2) has a neutral position (Pn), which the deflection unit (2) automatically assumes in the event of a loss of current supply to the deflection unit (2) or a loss of a control variable (2_s) provided for controlling the deflection unit (2); The method of claim 1 ,

5. an algorithm is provided for checking the correct calculation and output of the control variable (2_s), and in the event of a malfunction, the deflection unit (2) is guided to the neutral position (Pn); The method according to claim 4, characterized in that

6. Before or during step b), the following additional substeps are carried out: I) a substep of receiving a target operation signal (2_ss), said target operation signal (2_ss) including information on at least one of the following criteria: target energy efficiency (Esoll); target temperature (Tsoll); target image clarity (Csoll); target purity (Msoll); offset correction (Osoll); II) a substep of calculating control parameters derivable from said information and for influencing a control quantity (2_s) provided for controlling said deflection unit (2); The method of claim 1 ,

7. Substep II) is followed by substep III), i.e. a substep of applying an image processing function to the target image (Ssoll) and / or to one or both lower-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2), The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

8. the time length (2_tp_ist) between zero-position crossings is manipulated in order to achieve a target energy efficiency (Esoll) derived from the target operating signal (2_ss) according to substep I), and if the actual energy efficiency (Eist) of the deflection unit (2) is lower than the target energy efficiency (Esoll), the time length (2_tp_ist) between zero-position crossings is manipulated in such a way that the time length (2_tp_ist) between zero-position crossings is increased; The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

9. the target energy efficiency (Esoll) is preset in such a way that it is determined as a function of the detected driving speed (Vist) of a vehicle including the vehicle illumination module (1) together with the deflection unit (2), and the target energy efficiency (Esoll) is preset in such a way that the required target energy efficiency (Esoll) increases with a decrease in the vehicle speed (Vist); The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

10. the time duration (2_tp_ist) between zero-position crossings is manipulated in order to achieve the target temperature (Tsoll) derived from the target operating signal (2_ss) according to substep I), and the time duration (2_tp_ist) between zero-position crossings is manipulated in such a way that if the actual temperature (Tist) of the deflection unit (2) or the vehicle illumination module (1) exceeds the target temperature (Tsoll), the time duration (2_tp_ist) between zero-position crossings is increased; The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

11. the amplitude of the deflection (2_A_ist) is manipulated in order to achieve the desired image clarity (Csoll) derived from the desired operating signal (2_ss) in accordance with substep I), and the amplitude of the deflection (2_A_ist) is manipulated in such a way that, at the preset maximum clarity, maximum amplitudes (2_Ay_max, 2_Az_max) are preset, and as the desired image clarity (Csoll) decreases, the amplitude (2_A_ist) is reduced; The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

12. the amplitude (2_A_ist) of the deflection is adjusted in order to achieve the desired image clarity (Csoll) derived from the desired operating signal (2_ss) in accordance with substep I), and the amplitude (2_A_ist) of the deflection and / or the time rate of change (2_dt_ist) of the deflection is adjusted in such a way that, at the preset maximum desired image clarity (Csoll), a maximum amplitude (2_A_max) is preset and, as the desired image clarity (Csoll) decreases, the amplitude (2_A_ist) is decreased, and, if the actual image clarity (Cist) of the deflection unit (2) falls below the desired image clarity (Csoll), the time rate of change (2_dt_ist) of the deflection is adjusted in such a way that the time rate of change (2_dt_ist) of the deflection is increased, The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

13. the time rate of change of the deflection (2_dt_ist) is manipulated in order to achieve a target purity (Msoll) of the deflection unit (2), derived from the target operating signal (2_ss) in accordance with substep I), and if the target purity (Msoll) is not reached, the time rate of change of the deflection (2_dt) is manipulated in such a way that the time rate of change of the deflection (2_dt_ist) is at least temporarily increased, The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

14. in substep II), furthermore, an optimal deflection of both low-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) of the image pair (s_res) relative to one another is calculated as a function of the target operating signal (2_ss), The method according to claim 6, characterized in that

15. the vehicle illumination module (1) is configured to emit different light images at a frequency of at least 60 Hz or between 60 Hz and 160 Hz, whereby different target images (Ssoll) are input at a frequency of at least 30 Hz and converted at a frequency of at least 60 Hz into individual low-resolution images (S_low1, S_low2) of each image pair (S_res) and emitted successively by the vehicle illumination module (1); The method of claim 1 ,

16. the deflection unit (2) comprises a glass plate (2a), which is configured to be rotatable or movable about at least one axis, or exactly one axis (y), or exactly two axes (y, z); the deflection unit (2) has at least one electric coil (2b) for each axis along which the glass plate (2a) can be rotated; the glass plate (2a) is provided with a magnetic coupling means (2c) for each of the coils (2b) for magnetically coupling with the respective coils (2b), so that by energizing each of the coils (2b), a force can be applied to the corresponding magnetic coupling means (2c); and the glass plate (2a) can be rotated about the respective axes (y, z) depending on the energization of the coils (2b). The method of claim 1 ,

17. The glass plate (2a) has a flat light incident surface (2a') and a light exit surface (2a'') that is flat and parallel to the light incident surface (2a'); The method of claim 16, wherein:

18. the deflection unit (2) further comprises, for each of the axes (y, z) along which the glass plate (2a) can be pivoted, a mechanical return element (2d) for returning the glass plate (2a) to a neutral position (Pn), the glass plate (2a) automatically assuming the neutral position (Pn) in the event of a loss of the current supply of the deflection unit (2) or of a loss of a control variable (2_s) provided for controlling the deflection unit (2); The method of claim 16, wherein:

19. 1. An automotive illumination module, comprising: the vehicle illumination module (1) is configured to emit a segmented light distribution, the vehicle illumination module (1) comprises a deflection unit (2) by means of which the visually perceptible resolution of the light distribution generated by the vehicle illumination module (1) can be increased compared to the intrinsic resolution (An) of the vehicle illumination module (1), the vehicle illumination module (1) being configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, 1. An automotive illumination module comprising:

Images